Poland briefs
Bond with books
The Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County will Baby Brilliant program for babies 6-23 months Wednesdays in July at 10 a.m. The program features developmentally appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger play and other activities to help children become successful readers. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
A similar program for children 2-3 years old will be offered July 7 at 10 a.m. and for children 4-5 July 7 at 1 p.m.
Explore ancient Egypt
Children of all ages can explore ancient Egypt with games, crafts and activities July 14 at 2 p.m. at the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.
See what’s in the suitcase
Join an educator from the Mahoning Valley Historical Society July 26 at 2 p.m. at the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County to learn about the lives and cultures of settlers of the valley from 1795-1830. A suitcase will feature tools, toys, and early appliance used during that time.
Poland library hosts puppet show
Come to the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County July 28 at 2 p.m. to see a positively preposterous puppet show.
Harry Potter party correction
The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County’s TeenXTreme librarians are hosting a “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” party July 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Poland library for teens in grades 7-12. A previous article mistakenly listed the program was open to children ages 7-12.
Interested teens can register for the party through Thursday by calling 330-744-8636 or by visiting www.libraryvisit.org/Potter or the Poland library.
LaFrance Cleaners offers free flag cleaning
LaFrance Cleaners wants to help local residents honor America, its soldiers and veterans by providing free dry cleaning services of American flags.
The company’s “True Colors” program allows customers to bring in flags to any LaFrance location and have them cleaned at no charge.
LaFrance Cleaners has been providing dry cleaning services to the Youngstown community for more than 65 years with locations in Boardman, Canfield, Poland, Liberty and Youngstown, as well as free pick-up and delivery service to homes and offices throughout the Mahoning Valley.
Additional information on LaFrance is available at www.LaFranceCleaners.com.
New store at Shops at Boardman Park
Five Below will join the tenant lineup at The Shops at Boardman Park, opening in August.
Five Below is a leading retailer of trend-right, extreme-value merchandise to the teen and preteen market, all for $1 to $5.
Five Below’s merchandise includes everything from sporting goods, games, fashion accessories and jewelry, to hobbies and collectibles, bath and body, candy and snacks, room d cor and storage, stationery and school supplies, video game accessories, books, DVDs, iPhone accessories, novelty and “gag,” and seasonal items.
Hear monkey tales
Visit the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County July 22 at 2 p.m. as actors from World of Difference, Ltd. presents Monkey Tales From Around the World.
Have herbal tea at garden party
The Holborn Herb Growers Guild will host a Garden Tea Party July 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Western Reserve Village at the Canfield Fairgrounds.
Participants can sample herbal teas and delicacies, tour historic buildings and listen to garden music. There will be demonstrations with herbs and herbs for sale.
The cost for the event is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. Tickets are sold in advance only by calling Diane at 330-533-3802 or Sue at 330-702-0444.
Have Christmas in July
All Christmas books, including crafts and magazines will be half off at the Friends of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County Bookstore located in the Poland library July 25-29.
Learn about business start up
The library is partnering with SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business July 9 at 10 a.m. for a seminar for people considering beginning a business. Members of SCORE will address key topics regarding beginning a new business and business and marketing plans, finances and technology. The Business and Investment Center librarian will discuss the library’s resources and services for business start-up and beyond.
To register, call 330-744-8636 and ask for information services.
Calling card players, let the games begin
It’s time for the monthly card game at Shepherd of the Valley-Poland, 301 W. Western Reserve Road.
Card players of all kinds are invited to play Wednesday between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Refreshments will be served and no reservations are needed.
For information call 330-726-7110, extension 0.
Former resident Dean of Students
Kathy M. Shellogg was appointed Dean of Students at Capital University in Columbus. Shellogg is a former resident of Poland and has been a student affairs educator for most of her professional career. She is involved as a private consultant working in the organizational change, leadership and community development in higher education, communities and not-for-profit organizations.
Shellogg has served in numerous leadership capacities for the American College Personnel Association, was a charter member of the Educational Leadership Foundation and presented more than 100 higher education organizations, government agencies and community organizations. She completed post-master’s work in higher education at the University of Notre Dame and a Bachelor’s of Arts with honors from Wittenberg University.
Shellogg is the daughter of Charles and Bette Shellogg of Poland. She is married to Dr. Robert C. Oberst and has a son, Alexander.
High honors for Poland student
Ryan Storkel, a freshman in the Mylan School of Pharmacy, was named to the spring Dean’s List of Duquesne University.
The Dean’s List recognizes full-time students who have maintained at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale, with no grade lower than a “C”.
Storkel is the son of Bill and Teri Storkel of Poland.
Tour the farm with the family
Enjoy a tractor-wagon ride and guided tour of MetroPark Farm every Thursday in July at 10 a.m.
Families can visit the animals and learn in the playroom. Reservations are suggested because space is limited. The tour is approximately 75 minutes. Pack a lunch and have a picnic after the tour. To register, call the farm at 330-533-7572.
See a movie under the stars
Bring a chair or blanket and MetroPark Farm will provide the popcorn during a family-approved movie July 16 at 8:30 p.m. Lawn seating will be available and the farm will use its barn door as a movie screen.
Get wedding ideas at the gardens
Meet area bridal vendors and discover wedding and reception ideas during Fellow Riverside Gardens Bridal Fair - A Garden Wedding July 10 from noon to 4 p.m. Visitors can register for door prizes and attend a 3 p.m. wedding fashion show.
Party at Prairie Nights
Join Friends at Fellows Riverside Gardens for its annual fundraiser and garden party July 29 at 6:30 p.m.
This year’s party is inspired by the Bison American Icon exhibit and will include a themed dinner, drinks and music by Redline. The cost for the event is $65. To make reservations, call the gardens at 330-740-7116.
Players perform Shakespeare in the park
The Mahoning Valley Players will perform Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” July 29 and 30 at the Judge Morley Pavilion at 6 p.m.
The free performance is a romantic comedy with star-crossed lovers, mistaken identity and happy ending. Lawn seating is available, bring a chair or blanket.
Hike during Sunfest
Meet at the kiosk near the tennis courts at Wick Recreation Area July 31 at 11 a.m. for a one-mile, easy-rated exploration of nearby trails.
Sculpt sand at Sunfest
Sculpt a one-ton pile of sand into a masterpiece and perhaps win a prize July 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wick Recreation Area.
Sand and water will be provided. Participants should bring tools and creativity. To reserve a pile of sand for $5, call 330-740-7107.
Warm up America with afghans
All helping hands are welcome to make afghans and other projects to donate locally with A Loose Knit Group Friday and July 15 from 10 a.m. to noon at Fellows Riverside Gardens.
Donations of yarn and needles are appreciated at any time. For details, call the gardens at 330-740-7116.
Walk for health and wellness
Health and wellness walks are scheduled Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. throughout July.
Meet July 6 at the Ford Nature Center for a moderately-difficult, four-mile hike, July 12 at the Golf Course overflow parking lot for an easy one or three-mile walk, July 20 at MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead at MetroParks Farm for an easy-rated, two or four-mile walk and July 26 at MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead at Kirk Road for a two or four-mile walk.
Cruise in a kayak
All skill levels are invited to join kayak-escorted trips throughout July at East Newport Boat Launch.
Relax July 9 during an evening kayak trip on Lake Newport from 7-9 p.m. when wildlife is most active or explore the summer beauty of the Newport wetlands July 30 from 2-4 p.m.
Single and tandem kayaks are available; age restrictions apply. Reservations are necessary and must be made 36 hours prior to program. The fee is $12 a per person for residents and $15 for nonresidents. Second person in tandem kayak is half price.
Experienced kayakers can bring their kayaks and a safety light July 15 for a dusk to dark paddle from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Participants must register by July 14.
Kayakers 18 years and older can take a Thunder Moon kayak July 22 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. This trip is not for first-time kayakers.
For information or to register, call the Ford Nature Center at 330-740-7107.
Meetings set for LPDC
The Poland Local Professional Committee will meet Aug. 25 at 11 a.m., and in 2012, on Jan. 19 at 3:15 p.m., March 22 at 3:15 p.m. and May 17 at 3:15 p.m. at Poland Middle School.
The purpose of the committee is to review and approve course work and CEU’s to be completed by educators within the district.
Work on your writing skills
Join Karen Schubert July 13 and 27 for a writing workshop at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The fee for the class is $10 and participants may register before the beginning of class.
Help make 1,000 doves
Children of all ages can help fold 1,000 paper doves to decorate the Poland library during regular library hours through August. Japanese legends says that anyone who folds 1,000 paper cranes will be granted a wish.
Free summer fitness program offered
Ted Suzelis will start a free summer fitness program to help motivate people to get in shape. The program is appropriate for people of all fitness levels, as long as they are physically able to walk.
The summer fitness program will be a weekly walk/run on Saturday mornings at 7:30 a.m. and ending Aug. 20. The group will meet at the Mill Creek MetroParks Bikeway at Kirk Road between state Route 46 and Taylor Road.
For information or to register, call Stephanie at 330-729-1350 or visit www.OhioND.com.
Curves offers Silver Sneakers classes
Free Silver Sneakers classes are offered for eligible women over 65 at Curves in Poland during regular hours.
For information, call or 330-757-8800 or visit Curves at 3040 Center Road.
See concerts in the park
The Judge Morley Pavilion will host free, lawn seating 7UP Summerfest Spectacular concerts throughout June at 7 p.m.
Wednesday the music of Jack Vasko and Del Sinchak can be heard.
Space available for sale
Spaces are available for the Ursuline Center Car Trunk and Treasure Sale July 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the center on Shields Road.
The cost for the space is $20. For information, call 330-533-3831.
Blood pressure screening Tuesday
The Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross will perform blood pressure screenings Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.
See three little pigs
The Youngstown Playhouse Youth Theater will perform the True Story of the Three Little Pigs Thursday at 2 p.m. at the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.
Be park pals at Mill Creek
Children entering grades first through third can become Park Pals as they learn about Mill Creek Park and the animals and plants that call it home July 13-14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Activities include hikes, crafts games and more. The cost for the camp is $30 for residents and $35 for nonresidents. Registration and fee are due at Ford Nature Center by July 5.
Italian Fest scheduled
The Italian Fest is set for July 29-31 in downtown Youngstown.
Festivities will begin July 29 at 5 p.m. with opening ceremonies, followed by the Miss Italian Youngstown Pageant at 7 p.m. The Miss Italian Youngstown beauty and talent pageant has become a tradition at the Greater Youngstown Italian Fest. The pageant includes modeling, speaking about Italian heritage and performing a talent.
There will be continuous entertainment and fun activities, including Morra and a pasta eating contest. A little King and Queen will also be crowned.
For information, contact pageant chairman Anthony Julian at 330-799-8184 or 330-207-0515.
Camp for Kinder Kritters
Fun activities are planned for indoor and outdoor during the Kinder Kritters summer camp July 20-21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Campers will go on short walks to learn about nature, have story time and make crafts. The cost for the camp is $25 for residents and $30 for nonresidents. Registration and fee are due at Ford Nature Center by July 11.
Free tennis camp for kids
Children 6 to 12 can learn the fundamentals of tennis during a free tennis camp July 11-12 from 10 a.m. to noon at Yellow Creek Park. To register, call 330-740-7100.
Monday meetings set for conservation district
Mahoning Soil and Water Conservation District Board meetings for 2011 will be at 7 p.m. the second Monday each month at the District Office, 850 Industrial Road in Youngstown.
Anyone interested in being contacted regarding special meetings or changes to regular meetings can call 330-740-7995.
T’ai Chi in the garden
Ease stress, improve health and increase vitality with breathing exercises and selected movements from a classic Chen T’ai Chi form taught by Marie Lew Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens.
The costs is $10 per class. For information, call the gardens
Take home a prairie plant
Robert Kehres of the Ohio Prairie Plant Nursery will describe how to use prairie plants in home landscape and talk about the history of prairies as seen in the current exhibit “The Bison” Wednesday at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Each participant will be given a plant to take home. The fee is $10. To register, call the gardens at 330-740-7116.
Travel to Ohio gardens
On July 21, travel to garden author Tracy DiSabato-Aust’s private garden “Hiddenhaven” in Sunbury, Ohio, when perennials are at their peak and then travel to Columbus for lunch and to visit the Ohio Heritage Garden at the Governor’s Residence. Tour the Dawes Arboretum before enjoying a dinner at the Buxton Inn in Granville.
The cost for the tour is $105 for garden members and $145 for nonmembers. For information, call the gardens at 330-740-7116.
Take the low and the high road
Join Naturalist Emeritus Bill Whitehouse Sunday for an easy rated, 1 Ω- mile exploration of the Lily Pond from both the low road (path along the shore) and the high road (One-Way Drive) from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Meet at the Lily Pond.
Walk for health and wellness
Health and wellness walks are scheduled for Tuesday at 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 9 a.m.
Meet Tuesday at the Main Golf Course overflow parking lot on West Golf Drive for a 1 or 3-mile walk and Wednesday at the Ford Nature Center for a moderately-difficult, 3-mile walk.
Have family garden fun
Visit the Family Garden on fair weather Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays to dig, plant, water or read a book. The Friendly Garden Greeter at the Discovery Cart will tell about plants and will offer many free hands-on activities.
For information, call the gardens at 330-740-7116.
Family tours are back at the farm
Every Thursday at 10 a.m. throughout summer families can join MetroParks Farm for a 60-70 minute guided tractor-wagon tour of the facility.
The playroom will be open. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy after the tour. Reservations are suggested. For information, call the farm at 330-533-7572.
Grocery stores help Wounded Warriors
Three local Nemenz IGA’s will participate in a national cause marketing initiative to raise money for Wounded Warrior Project.
Locations include 2980 McCartney Road, Youngstown; 8 N. Broad St., Canfield; and 655 Creed St., Struthers.
During this national promotion, through Sept. 5, IGA will donate 10 cents from the sale of every specially-marked case of IGA brand water to Wounded Warrior Project, an organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors.
Historical society meets
The Poland Historical Society will host regular meetings the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Little Red School House, 4515 Center Road.
The society is actively seeking new and previous members who would like to be involved in future events, including a Tour of Homes and Gardens. For information, call Joan Madej at 330-707-0692.