SIGNS OF SPRING: We’ve already reported on Canada geese flying north, flocks of robins in hay fields and red-winged blackbirds returning to bird feeders in our area before the latest cold snap.

Now, we have our first floral proof that spring is near. Carol Ball of Smethport says she’s had crocuses blooming in her yard since March 8. That was a week ago, when it was much warmer.

“I think last year I reported it even earlier, but we had really warm weather then,” she says.  

This year’s white and yellow first bloomers closed up their petals this week, Carol reports.  They must be waiting for the “official” start of spring on Wednesday, or at least for the recent snow to melt.

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