Poland Community Briefs

Christmas cookie walk

A Christmas cookie walk will be offered from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Dec. 7 at Struthers Parkside Church, located at 110 Poland Ave. A variety of cookies will be sold for $5 per pound. This event is sponsored by the youth groups of Parkside, Struthers and Poland United Methodist Churches.

Memories of Christmas Past

Memories of Christmas Past opens Nov. 23 and runs through Jan. 5. Admission for the exhibit is $6 for adults, $5 for Senior Citizens and $4 for Children ages 3-18 (under 3 free). Hours for the museum are Tuesday-Sunday, 1-5 p.m. and Thursdays 1-8 p.m. The Museum is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day. Proceeds from the event help fund the educational and exhibit programs sponsored by the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. Sponsors of the event include the Anne Kilcawley Christman Foundation, The Frank and Pearl E. Gelbman Foundation, Charlotte Gelhaar, WFMJ, The Youngstown Vindicator, Denise DeBartolo York, Fred Martin Ford, Packer Thomas, Virginia Dineen, CR Electric, YPS Integrated Systems and V&D Painting.

Blue Christmas service will be Dec. 8

A Blue Christmas service will be offered Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. at Lane Family Funeral Homes (Anstrom Chapel), located at 8387 Tod Ave. in Boardman. For more information or to RSVP, call Western Reserve United Methodist Church at 330-792-5805. This service will be for anyone who has experienced a loss.

Gamblers Anonymous to meet

Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-Step fellowship of compulsive gamblers who want to recover from their gambling addictions, will meet twice a week in the Youngstown-Warren area. A GA meeting will be offered on Friday at Westminster Church, located at 119 Stadium Drive in Boardman, and another will be offered on Sunday at Christ Church Presbyterian, located at 3425 Hopkins Road in Youngstown (Cornersburg). Both meetings begin promtly at 7:30 p.m. and are closed meetings - only those suffering from gambling addictions are allowed to attend. Meetings usually last until 8:45-9:15 p.m. For more information, call 330-505-5060.

Combined Christmas party to be Dec. 10

Area chapters of the American Business Women’s Association announce their first combined Christmas party, beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 10 at the Holiday Inn, located at 7410 South Ave. in Boardman. The Mill Creek, Tri-Gold and Youngstown Charter chapters will host a full-course dinner and an optional $15 gift exchange. Entertainment will be provided by Canfield High School’s all-female chorus, “One Octave Higher,” led by choral director Kelly Scurich. All members and their guests are required to reserve their dinners by calling Shirley Pappagallo at 330-270-9779. The cost is $26 per person and reservations are due by Dec. 1 with checks payable to Network Council of ABWA.

Olde Fashioned Christmas at the Mill

Bring the whole family to Lanterman’s Mill Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 for this holiday tradition. There will be musicians and artisans demonstrating their crafts. Enjoy a taste of roasted chestnuts and a visit with Santa. The mill will be festively dressed in fresh greenery and ribbons. If you wish to share the holiday spirit with others, bring a hat, scarf or mittens to decorate a “Giving Tree” for children in need this winter. Call Ford Nature Center at 330-740-7107 for details.

Santa’s wintertime barn will be Dec. 1

Santa will be visiting the MetroParks Farm Dec. 1. There will be animals from around the world and an opportunity to pose for pictures in Santa’s sleigh. Children can make a craft to celebrate the holidays.

Winter garden conservatory will be Dec. 7-Jan. 5

The D.D. and Velma Davis Education and Visitor Center at Fellows Riverside Gardens will be showcasing holiday color and festivities with floral displays and decorated trees in a special built conservatory starting Dec. 7 through Jan. 5 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Children can walk through the greenhouse and take a plant home. The Davis Center is closed on Mondays except Dec. 30 and Wednesdays, Dec. 25. and Jan. 1.

Winter nights in the gardens

Fellows Riverside Gardens will have extended evening hours Dec, 15, 22 and 29 from 5-7 p.m. for the festivities of Winter Celebration. There will be cookies, hot cocoa and entertainment. Support the Second Harvest Food Bank with a donation of a non-perishable food item.

Garden Cafe breakfast on Dec. 20

Start your morning with a walk in Fellows Riverside Gardens followed by breakfast and an opportunity to learn about trees Dec. 20 from 8:30-10 a.m. Registration is required. There is a $9 fee; FFRG members $7.

Loose Knit Group to meet Dec. 6 and 20

Help create blankets for organizations that give to those in need Dec. 6 and 20 from 10 a.m. until noon in the Antonucci Library at Fellows Riverside Gardens. All are welcome, experienced or wanting to learn. Donations of yarn and needles are appreciated. Registration not required.

Wreath of Greens to be Dec. 10 and 14

Create your own holiday wreath with instructor Pam Baytos at Fellows Riverside Gardens Dec. 10 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. or Dec 14 from 10 a.m. until noon. Registration is required. There is a $24 fee; FFRG member $20.

Make a Christmas Hurricane Centerpiece

Join florist Marie Borocz at Fellows Riverside Gardens Dec. 19 as she guides you through the process of creating a Christmas table centerpeice. The centerpieces will include fresh red carnations, white mums, boxwood, ornaments, red berries and a red candle. Registration is required with a $39 fee; FFRG members $30.

Tea tasting will be Dec. 12

Come to Fellows Riverside Gardens Dec. 12 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for a tea tasting led by Dr. YT Chiu. Tapas and a variety of four teas will be provided. Proceeds benefit the Family Garden. Registration is required. The cost is $24; FFRG members $20.

Winter nights dinners

The Garden Cafe will be offering its Prix Fixe Dinner again this year Dec. 15, 22 and 29 starting at 5:30 p.m. by registration only. A holiday dinner will be provided after viewing the garden lights. To make a reservation or for more information, call 330-740-7074.

Yoga basics classes

Learn the basics of yoga taught by Karres Cvetkovich Dec. 1, 8 and 15 at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 9-10:30 a.m. Bring a mat and small blanket. Pre-registration is not required. There is a $10 fee per class.

Pilates basics classes

Join instructor Angela Lubonovich Dec. 2, 9 and 16 from 6:30 -7:30 p.m Dec. 2, 9 and 16 to work on toning, shaping, core strength, alignment, and breathing. Bring a mat and water. Pre-registration is not required. There is a $10 fee per class.

Yoga in the gardens

Join Marina Perdos from 9:30-11 a.m. and Karres Cvetkovich from 5:30-7 p.m. for a blend of yoga styles. All levels are welcome. Bring a mat and small blanket. Pre-registration is not required. There is a $10 fee per class.

T’ai Chi in the Gardens

Join Marie Lew from noon until 1 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 and 18 in warm-ups, breathing exercises and selected movements from a classic Chen T’ai Chi form. Pre-registration is not required. There is a $10 fee per class.

Pilates Sculpt will be Dec. 4, 11 and 18

Join Angela Lubonovic Dec. 4, 11 and 18 from 6:30-7:30 p.m to learn how to use hand weights to tone the body with an emphasis on core strength and control. Bring a mat, water and two pound weights if you have them. Pre-registration is not required. There is a $10 fee per class.

Tales for Tots: Mice!

Toddlers (2-3 years-old) will learn about mice through storytelling and a holiday craft Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. There is a $2 fee; $3 if not registered. Call Ford Nature Center to pre-register/pay. An adult must accompany each child. Only bring the participating children.

Children’s nature hour: time to sleep

Through a story, craft and activity, children ages 3-6 are invited Dec. 6 and 7 at 10 a.m. to learn about animals that go into a very deep sleep for the winter. There is a $2 fee; $3 if unregistered. Call Ford Nature Centure to pre-register/pay. An adult must accompany each child. Only bring the participating children.

Sunny lesson

Children ages 3-5 are invited to Fellows Riverside Gardens Dec. 19 from 1-2 p.m. or Dec. 21 from 11 a.m. until noon to learn about how the sun warms the earth and makes plants grow. A sunny snack, story and sunshine art will be provided. Registration is required. There is a $6 fee; FFRG member $4. An adult must accompany each child. Only bring the participating children.

Nature’s holiday style

Children ages 6-12 are invited to Birch Hill Cabin on Dec. 21 from 10-11:30 a.m to create gifts, decorations and wrappings using natural materials. Pre-register at Ford Nature Center by Dec. 16. There is a $7 fee; $10 if unregistered. An adult must accompany each child. Only bring the participating children.

Natural holiday decorations

Children ages 6-11 are invited to Fellows Riverside Gardens Dec. 21 from 10-11:30 a.m. to decorate a holiday Norfolk Island pine tree with pine cones and berries and make ornaments from natural materials. Registration is required. There is a $15 fee; FFRG members $12. An adult must accompany each child. Only bring the participating children.

Learn about a mountain

Join Ford Nature Center Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. for a reading followed by a discussion of author John D’Agata’s investigation into topics such as the Las Vegas water supply, suicide, politics and the controversial disposal of nuclear waster at Yucca Mountain.

Glass by James Michael

Join Ohio artist James Michael and his students Nov. 15 through Jan. 12 in Weller Gallery at Fellows Riverside Gardens as they assimilate a variety of metals and alloys into clear and colored glass to produce freeform sculptures. Entrapped air bubbles produce abstract forms within the glass.

Let’s be friends

This exhibit in the Melnick museum, runs throughout December 2013 to celebrate the 25 anniversary of the Friends of Fellow Riverside Gardens.

Hiking in evergreens

This hike will meet at Ford Nature Center Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. to look at some of the evergreens. This hike is a moderate rating of three miles.

It’s a winter!

Celebrate the arrival of winter Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. with a hike through the rocks. Meet at Bears Den Cabin. Participants are invited to the Ford Nature Center after the hike for hot chocolate. Tricky footing on rocks. The hike has a moderate rating of three miles.

Calorie burner

Meet at Newport Wetlands Dec. 29 at 1:30 p,m, for the final hike of 2013. Burn up to 1,000 calories. The hike has a moderate-difficult rating of five miles.

Christmas at the Mill hike

Meet at Scholl Recreation area Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. to take a walk to visit Christmas at the Mill. The hike has a moderate rating of two miles.

Health and wellness walks

Meet at Ford Nature Center Dec. 4 at 9 a.m. for a moderate hike of 2-4 miles and at the overflow parking lot on West Golf Drive Dec. 18 at 9 a.m. for a hike with an easy rating of 1-2 miles.

Winter solstice hike

Meet at Fellows Riverside Gardens Dec. 21 at 5:30 p.m. for a moderate hike of 1-2 miles.

Youngstown Christmas bird count

Volunteers are invited Dec. 14 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. to help census birds seen within the count circle with a 15 mile diameter. The count is administered by the National Audubon society and organized locally through the Mahoning Valley chapter. All abilities are welcome and you can devote as much time as you want. You may even focus on your own yard. Contact Gary Meiter at 234-564-7900 or Wild Birds Unlimited at 330-629-2473

MetroMutts: jingle hike

Bring your canine companion to the MetroParks bikeway trailhead at MetroParks Farm in Canfield Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. for this holiday hike on the MetroParks Bikeway. Dogs will receive a jingle bell collar. Humans will be given hot cider and treats in the barn after the hike. The hike is an easy rating of two miles, weather permitting.

Where are all the wolves?

Join Ford Nature Center Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. for a presentation to learn about wolves. Attendance will also count as a hike.

Local author, artist and musician event

The Poland library will host local authors, artists and musicians to an evening of sales and autographs on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Friends PLYMC. Those wanting to participate should contact the Development Office at 330-740-6086.

Connect with your eReader

Bring your eReader to the Poland library Dec. 7 from 10-11 a.m. and Dec. 23 from 6-7 p.m. and learn how to download eBooks from the Library’s Digital Catalog on the website. Space is limited. Call 330-744-8636 and ask for the branch by name to register.

Adult appy hour

Adults can join the Poland library Dec. 9 from 6-7 p.m to learn all about popular apps for smartphones and mobile devices. Registration is recommended. To register, call 330-744-8636 and ask for Poland.

Blood drive to be Dec. 11

The Poland library will host a Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross blood drive to serve the needs of St. Elizabeth Hospital on Dec. 11 from 12:30-6:30 p.m. For appointments, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Pajama jam

Join the Poland library Dec. 16 from 6:30-7 p.m. for a pajama night with stories and family fun. This event is for the whole family.

Trim a tree for December

Children of all ages are invited to join the Poland library throughout December during library hours to decorate an ornament for the all-seasons tree. .

Lego my library

Children ages 6 and up are invited to join the Poland library Dec. 17 from 6-7 p.m to create Lego designs. Legos will be provided.

Gingerbread house holiday program

Children in grades K-6 can stop by for some holiday cheer on Dec. 14 from 3-4 p.m. at the Poland library. Use graham crackers, icing, gumdrops and more to build and decorate a miniature gingerbread house. Registration is required. Register online or call 330-744-8636 and ask for the Poland Library.

Library hosts Fun for 4s and 5s

Join the Poland library for developmentally-appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger plays and other activities that will help your child (ages 4-5) become a successful reader Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 1 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tales for toddlers set for Thursdays

Join the Austintown library for developmentally-appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger plays and other activities that will help your child (ages 2-3) become a successful reader every Thursday in December at 10 and 11 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Babies and books set at library

Babies ages 6-23 months can join the Poland library for developmentally-appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger plays and other activities that will help your child become a successful reader every Dec. 4, 11 and 18 at 10 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Lighting of the Village at the Poland Library

Stop by the Poland Library as you’re taking part in the Lighting of the Village on Dec. 7. They will have Christmas crafts from 5:30-7 p.m., songs and stories from 7-7:30 p.m. This event will be fun for the whole family. Kravitz Deli is celebrating with free hot chocolate and cookies for children from 5:30-7:30 p.m.. Kravitz will also be making fire-roasted chestnuts and offering specials (dine-in or carryout) for $8.99 of spit-roasted chicken dinners all day and the Poland Library Friends bookstore will be open from 10 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. that day.

“Thunder Dog” author to visit

Hear Michael Hingson, author of “Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero,” describe his escape from the 78th floor of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11 at the Poland library Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. This event is for the entire family.

Non-profit organizations can now sell admission buttons

First Night Youngstown is the premier New Year’s Eve event in downtown Youngstown. To be admitted into First Night entertainment venues during this New Year’s Eve event, attendees must purchase an admission button. Area non-profit organizations may sell admission buttons and keep a portion of the proceeds. The more the organization sells, the more it earns.

Organizations may begin selling now, and through Dec. 21. For more information, email infofirstnightyoungstown@netzero.net or call 330-744-9966.

Carlozzi Financial Services to host food and funds drive

Carlozzi Financial Services is again helping fill the shelves of the Second Harvest Food Bank. The public is invited to help feed hungry families this holiday season with donations of non-perishable food items or monetary donations, which can be dropped off at Carlozzi Financial Services, locates at 831 Southwestern Run, Suite 1 in Poland.

For information, visit www.CarlozziFinancialServices.com.

Holiday Open House

Join the staff of Poland Veterinary Centre on Dec. 7 from 2-4 p.m. to benefit Second Chance Animal Rescue and Friends of Fido. Bring unused cat and dog toys, Milkbone dog treats, paper towels, sturdy trash bags, laundry soap (without bleach), white vinegar, Dawn dish soap, new large litter boxes, Acana cat food, dog beds or gently-used blankets and towels. Cash donations will also be gladly accepted. For your donation, receive a free picture of your dog or cat with Santa. Photos will be available to pick up in the office on Dec. 9, or the file can be e-mailed. After your pet’s photo, enjoy snacks and refreshments, tour the hospital, create a special paw imprint ornament and holiday bandana and learn about preventative dental care (and take home some goodies) from the technicians.

Friends and relatives are also invited to bring their well-socialized pets. Be sure to keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier for its safety.

Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child, a function of Samaritan’s Purse, is busy collecting shoebox gifts to send to hurting children around the world, most of them have never received a gift in their lives. Everyone is invited to help, all you need is a heart for children.

If you or your group are interested in helping and want more information, contact Sandy at 330-565-8057 or Nancy at 330-565-4221. If you are familiar with Operation Christmas Child and you are looking for a ‘Relay Center’ (drop off area), this year National Collection week is Nov. 18-25 and Tabernacle EPC, located at 2432 South Raccoon Road. The Hours of Operation are Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. and Nov 25. (last day) from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Give them a call or visit www.samaritanspurse.org to find out how to help a needy child.

Poland lights up village

For the fifth consecutive year, the Village of Poland will celebrate the Christmas season with the Lighting of the Village Celebration on Dec. 7. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and features holiday carols, cookies and cocoa, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa’s arrival in Poland and the lighting of the village Christmas tree and decorations. The evening will end when every child has had a chance to talk to Santa.

The lighting of the village celebration is free and open to the public, and is run solely on donations from generous businesses and individuals. Donations are welcome and can be mailed to the Poland Junior Women’s Club in care of Carolyn Fender, 8651 Hilltop Drive Poland, OH 44514. For more information, or to volunteer, call 330-716-1705.