Austintown Community Briefs

Souper Supper to be March 4

The Austintown Council of PTAs and the Fitch Art Department will present the seventh annual Souper Supper event on March 4 from 5-7 p.m. at the Austintown Fitch Cafeteria. The cost is $7 for a light meal of soup, roll, dessert and beverage (handmade ceramic bowl included) or $5 for a meal only or bowl only. A bowl is guaranteed to the first 300 paid RSVP’s only. Reservations can be made by mailing a reservation notice and money for which order you would like to Charisse Smith, 1912 Old Farm Trail, Austintown, OH 44515. Make checks payable to Austintown Council of PTAs. You will get a confirmation by email or phone, so list both if you have it. Your name will be on the reservation list at the check in table. Contact Charisse Smith at kola2boy@aol.com or 330-651-2829 with any questions. The event will also feature entertainment, a 50/50 raffle and a basket raffle. All proceeds from this event go to benefit needy families of students of the ALSD. RSVP by Feb. 27.

Legacy Dog Rescue to have treat sale

Legacy Dog Rescue will be hosting a Valentine “treat” sale on Feb. 7 at Family Video in Austintown from 12-4 p.m. Choose from a variety of Valentines Day themed cookies, cupcakes and treats for all of your loved ones, including dog treats. Proceeds will help Legacy Dog Rescue, a local nonprofit group, save dogs that have been abandoned, abused or neglected, and place them into loving homes. For more about the sale, contact Legacy_Paula@aol.com or follow the organization on Facebook.

Pre-Kindergarten story time

This program is for 4- and 5-year-olds to help develop pre-literacy and kindergarten readiness skills. Use books, stories, rhymes, music, movement and crafts to help your child get ready for kindergarten at Austintown library 11:30 a.m. Feb. 11, 18 and 25.

Bonding with babies and books

For caregivers and their little ones who are 6 to 23 months. Twenty minutes of language enrichment including rhymes, songs, and stories, followed by time to play and socialize. Children must be accompanied by an adult at Austintown library 10 a.m. Feb. 10, 17 and 24.

Tales and talk for 2s and 3s

Join the Austintown library at 10 a.m. Feb. 11, 18 and 25 for developmentally appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger plays and other activities that will help your child (ages 2-3) become a successful reader. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Feb. 11 will be a holiday program.

Gotta Move story time

Story time for children ages 2-5 who are accompanied by a caregiver. Join the Austintown library for a variety of musical and movement activities that appeal to the “young and restless,” stimulate brain development and motivate language learning. Adults and children, get ready to act out stories and rhymes, dance to songs and play at 10 a.m. Feb. 12, 19 and 26.

Trim a tree for February

Decorate an ornament for Austintown library’s all-season tree for Feburary during regular library hours. Children of all ages are welcome.

Blingin’ out my sock monkey

Decorate your very own sock monkey at the Austintown library on Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. The library will provide the naked monkeys and the bling (markers, ribbon, buttons, jewels, etc.). You provide the design and creativity. This event is for those in grades 7-12.

Family story time

Have the winter blues? Join the Austintown library for a family story time at 6 p.m. on Feb. 25. There will be winter stories, activities, a craft and maybe a surprise. This event is for all ages.

TAB (teen advisory board) meeting

Check out the monthly TAB (Teen Advisory Board) meeting on Feb. 7 at 3 p.m. Help plan and support teen activities at the Library. Meet new people and have fun. Newcomers are always welcome. This event is for teens in grades 7-12.

Scrapbooking club

Scrapbook a page and share your scrapbooking ideas at Austintown library at 11 a.m. on Feb. 10. Pre-register for this event by calling 330-744-8636. This event is for adults.

Sit ‘n Stitch

Join the Austintown library for a morning to knit, crochet, embroider, sew or other lap needlework on Feb. 13 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Bring in your current project, make new friends and learn from one another. This event will be facilitated by a librarian.

Stamping with Cindy

Learn to create your own handmade cards using stamps, punches and other fun tools at the Austintown library on Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. and Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. Each participant will create a greeting card with a matching envelope and 3-D item. Class size is limited and registration is required. This event is for adults.

Movie matinee

Join the Austintown library for a movie matinee on Feb. 21 at 2:30 p.m. Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the movie. Children age 7 and under must be with an adult. The movie will be a newly released DVD rated PG-13 to G.

Using the ancestry database

In this program the Genealogy and Local History Librarian will demonstrate the power of the Ancestry database and show how it can be used effectively for genealogical research on Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m at the Austintown library. This event is for adults. Registration is required by phoning 330-744-8636 or online via the library’s events calendar.

Finding foundation support for your education

Learn about tools and techniques for seeking financial support for higher education on Feb. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Austintown library. To register, call 330-744-8636 and ask for the Information Services Department or register online using the Events Calendar. This event is for adults.

Basic computer class

Learn how easy it is to set up your own email account at the Austintown library on Feb. 17 at 11 a.m. This is a beginner’s class that will cover setting up an Internet-based email account and how to use it. Some knowledge of computers and Internet is required. Space is limited to three. Call to register 330-744-8636 and specify Basic Computer Class at Austintown: E-mail. This event is for adults.

Kindle class

Bring your Kindle to the Austintown library and the librarians show you how to download eBooks from the Library’s Digital Catalog on our website on Feb. 9 at 6 p.m. Don’t forget your Amazon account and email information. Space is limited. Call 330-744-8636 and ask for the branch by name to register. This event is for teens and adults.

Cookbook club

Join the Austintown library on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. to share your favorite recipes for dips and dressings. Bring a dish to share with friends (food waiver must be signed). This event is for adults.

Page turners book club

Hear what others are reading and share your favorite read at the Austintown library on Feb. 18 from 6-7 p.m., or just join the fun. This event is for adults.

Blood drive

The Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross will host a blood drive on Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Austintown library to serve the needs of St. Elizabeth Hospital. For appointments, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Blood pressure check

Salem Area Visiting Nurse Association will host a blood pressure check at the Austintown library from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Feb. 24

Blind date with a book

An exciting, single book is seeking a fun-loving reader. Meet at the Austintown library anytime in February. Will be wearing a plain book jacket and sitting out on display. Rate the book once you have read it. This event is for adults.

Coupon swap at the library

Do you have coupons you don’t need or need coupons you don’t have? Drop in at the Austintown library during regular library hours through the month of Feburary to stretch your shopping dollars by swapping coupons. This event is for adults.

Friends of the Austintown library meeting and program

Keith Kaiser, Horticulture Director at Mill Creek MetroParks will present “Fellows Riverside Gardens-Spring is Here.” This event is for adults at Austintown library 10 a.m. Feb. 23.

Local students named to Deans’ List

Rosalie Sepesy and Emily Wirtz of Austintown were named to Dean’s List for Ashland University’s Fall 2014 Semester. Sepesy is majoring in environmental science and is a 2011 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School. Wirtz is majoring in psychology and is a 2013 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School. To be eligible for this honor, a student must be enrolled full time at Ashland University and achieve at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

Rothbrust named to Dean’s List

Taylor Rothbrust of Austintown was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2014 semester at the University of Mount Union. To be eligible for Dean’s List, students must have completed at least 12 credit hours of traditionally graded coursework while achieving a grade point average of 3.550 or better with no grade below a B.

Mercy College of Ohio announces Youngstown Campus Honors List

The following students from Austintown were awarded honors for the fall 2014 semester at Mercy College of Ohio. Jason Miller, AS Nursing Youngstown, Sophomore, Honors List, Sabrina Nacarato, AS Nursing Youngstown, Sophomore, Dean’s List, Amanda Rouan, AS Nursing Youngstown, Freshman, Honors List, Lindsay Velez, AS Nursing Youngstown, Freshman, Honors List, Patricia Yannerella, AS Nursing Youngstown, Freshman, Honors List. To be named on the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.3 or higher and be enrolled for 12 or more credit hours. To be named on the Honor’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.3 or higher and be enrolled for 6-11 credit hours. To be named on the President’s List, a student must achieve a 4.0 GPA and be enrolled for 14 or more credit hours.

Vinkler added to Mercy College of Ohio Toledo Campus Honors List

Susan Vinkler of Austintown was awarded honors for the fall 2014 semester at Mercy College of Ohio. Vinkler is studying Healthcare Administration and is in her senior year. To be named on the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.3 or higher and be enrolled for 12 or more credit hours. To be named on the Honor’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.3 or higher and be enrolled for 6-11 credit hours. To be named on the President’s List, a student must achieve a 4.0 GPA and be enrolled for 14 or more credit hours.

First Oratorical Contest in Austintown

Austintown Middle School has partnered with the Optimist of Austintown to host the inaugural Oratorical Contest on February 9 at 7:00 p.m. at Austintown Middle School (AMS). Supplied with a writing prompt and the assistance of Language Arts teachers, several 8th grade students at AMS have written a five minute paper. The students will present their writing to a panel of judges during the Optimist event. The winning students will receive prizes from the Optimist and the winning student from each division will continue to the “Zone” competition in March and represent Austintown Middle School.

Polish Carnival to be Feb. 14

A Polish Carnival Celebration will take on a love-inspired air this year when the doors open on Feb. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at The B&O Station Banquet Hall in Youngstown. Ticket prices are $40 per person. Hosted by the energetic PolishYoungstown organization, this Slavic-inspired Pre-Lenten Celebration includes samples of elite Polish alcohols imported for the event and not normally available in Ohio - complimented with a buffet, music, dancing, gift baskets, beads, games and a trivia contest, as well as a paczki parade, royalty and prizes.

MCCTC is now accepting applications for 2015-2016

Students interested in attending the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center for the 2015-2016 school year can now apply. The application is available for sophomore students on the school’s website. Current students do not need to reapply. The school offers 22 programs and has a limited number of seats per program. If you are interested in applying, visit the school website at www.mahoningctc.org.

Local benefit to be Feb. 8

The Mahoning Valley Ulster Project will be hosting its Wine and Beer Tasting Benefit on Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at Drake’s Landing Banquet Center, located at 2177 West Western Reserve Road in Canfield. Tickets are $25 per person and includes light appetizers and tickets for wine or beer sampling. There will be a Chinese Auction, 50/50 raffle and giveaways. For tickets or more information, contact Jenette at 330-518-5290 or Carrie at 330-565-2900. Each year the Ulster Fundraising committee works to raise $20,000, which is the amount necessary to cover expenses for the host teens and Northern Irish teens. Visit www.ulsterprojectmv.com for more information.

Third Annual Valentine’s Day Walk-In Weddings

The Chapel of the Friendly Bells at Trinity United Methodist Church (UMC) in downtown Youngstown once again will be the site for walk-in weddings on Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14), Clergy couple Rev. Jerry Krueger of Trinity UMC and Rev. Susan Brown of Canfield UMC will offer a simple, Christian wedding service including traditional wedding vows, exchange of rings, scripture and a blessing of the couple. Wedding vow renewal services will also be offered. The fee for each wedding is $50, which will be donated to the Good Shepherd Kitchen in Youngstown and Canfield Community Care Net. Weddings will be performed in the order that couples arrive. Couples must bring their wedding license, identification and the $50 fee in cash. Weddings will not be performed for participants who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Attendants and guests are welcome to come. The event will take place at Chapel of the Bells at Trinity UMC from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Feb. 14. The Chapel is located at 30 West Front Street. Contact Trinity UMC at 330-744-5032 for more information.

Wintertime tea

Enjoy some southern charm with a fundraiser for the Antonucci Horiculture library at Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 1 from 2-4 p.m. Treats, entertainment, tea and conversation will be provided. Hats are admired, but not required. Call FRG to register. The cost is $35 per person.

Nourishing soup fest

Join Fellows Riverside Garden for an afternoon of demonstrating and tasting soup while learning how to prepare Provencal vegetable soup in one hour that you can enjoy for the rest of the week with Karen Cvetkovich on Feb. 15 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. The cost is $30 to register (FFRG $26). Register and pay by Feb. 13.

All about hearts

There will be an event for ages 3-5 on Feb. 19 from 1-2 p.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Enjoy a heart-felt story, a heart ornament craft and a heart healthy snack. The cost is $5 to enter.

Open studio-garden design

Planning your own ornamental garden and need some help with your garden design challenge? Bring your design problems or questions to Fellows Riverside Gardens on Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. and a staff member can help you and offer some suggestions. Basic sketching tools are provided or bring your own.

Orchid walk-about

Join one of Fellows Riverside Garden’s experts on an orchid walk highlighting the main varieties of orchids displayed throughout the Davis Center on Feb. 7 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Orchid clinic

Stop by Fellows Riverside Gardens with your orchid questions for orchid experts Dave Miller and Jackie Land on Feb. 18 from 2-4 p.m. Bring any problem orchids you may have and they will help you get them back on track. Orchid bark mix and orchid pots will be available for sale for a nominal fee.

Botanical mornings

Appreciate the structural beauty of the Gardens during this wintertime stroll with Lynn Zocolo on Feb. 20 from 9-10 a.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Look for witch hazels and perhaps some early bloooming bulbs. The cost is $5 to enter.

Botany for beginners

Have you ever been stumped by a botanical name? Are you confused by differences between xylem and phloem? If you answered yes to either questions then perhaps a refresher in botany with Mandy Smith on Feb. 25 from 9:30-11 a.m. will help out. The cost $8 to enter and the event will take place at Fellows Riverside Gardens.

Love rocks project

Stop by this love rock gathering on Feb. 14 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens and learn the story of how rocks came to be and create your own to give to others. Donations are appreciated and all proceeds benefit the Family Garden.

Cabin fever fest

Bum off the winter blues at Cabin Fever Fest on Feb. 21 from 12-2 p.m. at the Wick Recreation Area. A chili cook-off, outdoor games, sled riding and other activities will be provided. Enter the snow sculpting competition (weather permitting) and participate in winter crafts. Sample chili and vote for your favorite for a small donation. There is a $10 fee to enter the chili cook-off. Call FNC for chili cook-off registration, rules, or general event details. This event is presented by the Metroparks police and recreation departments.

Souper bowl II

Look for signs of wildlife and see if the falls are frozen on this 3 mile hike around Lake Cahasset on Feb. 8 from 2-4:30 p.m. Warm up afterwards with some homemade soup. Bring a bowl and a big spoon with you. Register at FNC by Feb. 6. The hike begins at Pioneer Pavillion.

Hunger moon

Although the weather outside is frightful, a winter 2 mile hike on Feb. 13 from 7-8 p.m. can be delightful. Learn why Native Americans gave this month’s moon such a strange name. Call FNC for details. Meet at Lanterman’s Mill parking lot.

Lily pond in winter

The lily pond has plenty of visitors during the warmer months, but it is a lonely place when it is cold. Explore nature in and around the pond in winter for this 2 mile walk at Ford Nature Center 2-4 p.m. on Feb. 15.

Volunteer-led recreational hikes

Meet at Golf Course overflow parking lot on West Golf Drive for this easy 1 or 3 mile hike at 9 a.m. on Feb 11. You can also meet at MetroParks Bikeway Kirk Road Trailhead for a 2-4 mile hike at 9 a.m. on Feb. 25.

Struthers winter concert series

Enjoy an evening of music with Rex Taneri at Yellow Creek Lodge from 7-8:30 p.m. on Feb 12.

Yoga in the gardens

Enjoy yoga that will help you keep a healthy outlook on Tuesdays and Thursdays in February from 9:30-11 a.m. or 5:30-7 p.m. Bring a mat and a small blanket. The cost is $10 per class and classes will take place at Fellows Riverside Gardens.

T’ai Chi step one in the gardens

Warm-ups, breathing exercises and movements will ease stress, improve health and increase vitality at this T’ai Chi class on Wednesdays during the month of February from 12-1 p.m. The cost is $10 per class and classes will take place at Fellows Riverside Gardens.

Restorative Yoga

Begin the morning with quiet time, restoring the body and nourishing the mind with restorative yoga and journaling with Michelle O’Brien on Feb. 28 from 9-10:30 a.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Each class will explore a specific topic to reflect on as you allow yourself to open to the process of relaxation and mindfulness. Bring several blankets, a pillow and a notebook. Register and pay $20 by Feb. 26.

It’s all about color

These lovely works from the Bonfoey Gallery in Cleveland are all about colors of the season. They will be on display at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Jan. 23 through March 1.

Salsa dance class

Swing your hips and enjoy the Latin rhythms as you learn to salsa Feb. 10, 17 and 24 from 6-7 p.m. at Pioneer Pavilion. No partner? No problem. It is a paired dance, but everyone will learn together. Beginners are encouraged and welcomed. This class will be led by dance expert Lynda McPhail and A Time To Dance. The cost is $5 per class. Call FNC for details.

Rumba dance class

Come out and enjoy learning this easy to follow slow dance Feb. 10, 17 and 24 from 7-8 p.m. at Pioneer Pavilion. No partner? No problem! It is a paired dance, but everyone will learn together. Beginners are welcome and encouraged. This class will be led by dance expert Lynda McPhail and A Time To Dance. The cost is $5 per class. Call FNC for details.

Puppy love

Take a brisk walk with your favorite Valentine - your canine companion - on Feb. 15 at 11 a.m. Explore the winter beauty of the lily pond. Meet at Birch Hill Cabin afterward for hot drinks, cookies and treats by the fireplace. Share the love and bring an item to donate to the local animal shelters. Call FNC for details.

Contra dance at Pioneer Pavilion

Join the fun of Contra Dance on the ballroom floor of historic Pioneer Pavilion on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. This unique folk dance from the British Isles can be enjoyed by beginners and veterans alike. Dancers are instructed for each dance. The cost is $7 per class. Call FNC for details.

Cumberland island national seashore

Join Eric Broviak for a talk and presentation about this island paradise with pristine beaches and stunning nature wonders at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 2-3:30 p.m. on Feb. 22. Call FNC for details.

Hot dog hike

Join Mill Creek Park for a winter 2 mile hike around the Ford Nature Center and get warm by the campfire with hot dogs and hot chocolate on Feb. 28 at 11 a.m. with your dog. Metromutts are free and not-yet members are $3. Register by Feb. 26.

Coffee with the birds

As part of the 18th annual Great Backyard Bird Count, join Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist Nancy Brundage to watch bird while sipping coffee or tea on Feb. 14 from 9:30-10:15 a.m. or 10:15-11 a.m. Bring your favorite mug. Limited space is available. Call Ford Nature Center to register.

Bluebird box workshop

Learn about Eastern Bluebirds and make a nest box to help their population. Afterward, hike to the bluebird trail along the MetroParks bikeway. The cost is $15 to register and $18 NR per nest box. Register and pay at the Ford Nature Center by Feb. 8. This event will take place from 1-3 p.m. on Feb. 14.

Audubon Society/Mahoning Valley

Mary Smith will present a program about the National Audubon Society’s priority species and habitats on Feb. 24 from 7-8 p.m. at the MetroParks Farm. Mary previously had worked for Audubon Maryland-DC.

I love my new Canfield library fundraiser

Treat your sweetheart to a night out at the fundraiser benefitting the Canfield Library Capital Campaign at A La Cart Catering, located at 429 Lisbon Street in Canfield, at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 12. Tickets are $25 each and the evening features heavy hors d’oeuvres, chocolate desserts, a raffle and cash bar. For information and tickets, call the Library’s Development Office at 330-740-6086.

ABWA to meet on Feb. 10

The Mill Creek Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 at A La Cart Catering, located at 429 Lisbon Street in Canfield. The guest speaker will be Jimmy Sutman, owner of Iron and String Life Enhancement (ISLE), Purple Cat, Golden String Radio and Touch the Moon Candy Saloon, all in Youngstown. Dinner will include a medley of three soups and sandwiches as well as salad, coffee or tea and dessert. Reservations are $15 per person and may be made by calling Darlene Demjen at 330-755-9089 or Marilyn Abramski at 330-726-2527 no later than Feb. 1.

BPJWL to have membership open house

The Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League is having a new membership open house and “Warm Your Heart” Valentine’s party on Feb. 2 at Glenellen Senior Living, located at 9661 Market St. in Boardman, at 7 p.m. Wear something red to celebrate Women’s Heart Month. The Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League is one of the most esteemed and charitable organizations that exist in our local community and your support is needed. The club was organized in 1979 and Federated in 1980. Over the past 35 years B.P.J.W.L. has raised over $650,000.and donated it back to our local community. The club’s mission is to provide a creative outlet for women interested in providing community service in areas of arts, conservation, education, home life, international affairs and public affairs. Women interested but unable to attend can contact membership Chairperson Linda Fabian at 330-782-8208 or email rfabian1949@sbcglobal.net. RSVP by Jan. 29.

Pancake breakfast

On Feb. 1, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Knights of Columbus #3930 will sponsor a pancake breakfast at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Center, located at 4500 Norquest Boulevard. in Austintown, from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. The menu consists of pancakes, sausage and beverages. The cost is $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under.

Annual benefit to be Feb. 8

The Mahoning Valley Ulster Project will be hosting their fourth annual Wine and Beer Tasting Benefit on Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at Drake’s Landing Banquet Center, located at 2177 West Western Reserve Road in Canfield. Tickets are $25 per person and includes light appetizers and tickets for drink sampling. There will be a Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle and giveaways. For tickets or more information, contact Jenette at 330-518-5290 or Carrie at 330-565-2900. Each year the Ulster Fundraising committee works to raise $20,000, which is the amount necessary to cover expenses for the host teens and Northern Irish teens. Visit www.ulsterprojectmv.com for more information. The intent of the Ulster Project is to break down the walls of intolerance and mistrust that exist in Northern Ireland. It was created through the efforts of like-minded peace seekers who strive towards the ultimate goal of creating a community of peace through fostering tolerance, understanding and friendship. The Ulster Project focuses on changing the perception of Ireland’s youth by bringing them together in a strife-free atmosphere that emphasizes acceptance of all people, regardless of creed. During the month of July, the Northern Irish teens and American host teens are provided with a variety of spiritual social, and service opportunities.

OH WOW! adds new board members

OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science & Technology recently announced the addition of two new board members, Patrick Chovan of Omega Incorporated and W. Greg Sturrus of YSU’s College of STEM, and recognized the efforts of two founding members, Dr. Martin Abraham and Bruce Sherman.

How to Eat and Live Right for Your Blood Type seminar

Dr. Ted Suzelis, N.D. will be presenting a free seminar titled, “How to Eat and Live Right for Your Blood Type “ on Feb. 12 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Ohio Naturopathic Wellness Center in Boardman (SouthBridge West Complex at 755 Boardman-Canfield Road, Suite D-3). Suzelis will discuss the scientific background behind the “Eat Right for Your Type” diet, as well as dietary and lifestyle guidelines for each of the blood types. Suzelis will have an open question and answer session at the end of the presentation to answer any questions you may have. For more information or to register, call 330-729-1350 or visit OhioND.com. There is free admission, but RSVP is required.

Bakers are ready for cookie table and cocktails

The third annual Cookie Table and Cocktails fundraiser is scheduled for Feb. 7 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the Tyler Mahoning Valley History Center, located at 325 West Federal Street in downtown Youngstown. Amateur and professional bakers are set to share their sweet confections on the epic cookie table. Guests will be treated to cookies such as mini cannolis, assorted pizzelles, buckeyes, clothespins, nut kipfels, chocolate marshmallow brownies, caramel tarts and lemon tassies. The cookies will be judged and bakers will be awarded prizes in several categories, which include “Best Unexpected Ingredient” and “Best Twist on an Old Tradition.” Upwards of 4,000 cookies will be displayed, and if guests have their fill of cookies at the event, carryout boxes will be available to take some home. Bakers are still being recruited for the event, both amateur and professional. Bakers donate cookies and receive a free ticket to the event. A registration form is available at www.mahoninghistory.org.

Ferguson named to the Dean’s List

Lauran Ferguson of Austintown has been named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester at Youngstown State University.

Saxon Club to offer Bingo

The Saxon Club, located at 710 South Meridian Road in Youngstown, will now be offering Bingo on Sundays at 6:45 p.m. in the main ballroom. Doors open at 5 p.m. There will be regular Bingo specials, including $10, $15 and $20 packages and tear offs, as well as $10 special packages, pig numbers, birthday specials and more. The facility is fully handicapped accessible and has security inside and out. Profits go to benefit the Austintown Fire Department and Austintown Police D.A.R.E. programs for local schools. For more information, call 330-792-7973.

Optimists have January meeting

The Austintown Optimist had their January dinner meeting at the Youngstown Saxon club recently and was informed by Juvenile Justice System Magistrate, Ted Ferris. Ferris enlightened the 24 optimists present about the workings of the Youngstown Juvenile Justice Center. The Juvenile Justice Center’s 85 employees work through approximately 1,800 complaints annually to rehabilitate rather than prosecute those juveniles who commit “delinquent acts”. Although serious offenses are rare they are usually prosecuted through the adult courts. Ferris went on to say that the biggest problem the Justice Center works with is that more than 50 percent of the families in Mahoning county are not intact, meaning that only one parent is involved in the custodianship of the juvenile.

Austintown Middle School teams win

Team Anti-Matter won the Judges Award and team SMART Cookies won the Project Award and the District Ambassador Award earlier this month at the Austintown Falco Tech District Tournament. Both teams are comprised of students from Austintown Middle School.

DQ Superbowl party

There will be a Super Bowl party at the Cornersburg and Austintown Dairy Queen locations. Watch the game on the TVs on Feb. 1. To celebrate Super Bowl XLIX, they will have their “Super Waffle Bowls” for XLIX cents (49 cents) during the game. They will feature the Fab Fudge waffle bowl as our “Super Waffle Bowl.” A fresh baked waffle bowl hand dipped in enrobing chocolate, Vanilla DQ, topped with hot fudge, sprinkles and whipped cream. The Seahawks sundae will have blue and green sprinkles. The Patriots sundae will have red and blue sprinkles. Which one will sell the best? By the way, Come with cash because they won’t be taking a credit or debit card for a loss leader. This deal is one per person. Vote for your favorite team starting at kickoff. Eat all the chili dogs you like at two for $2.22. If you get the chili dogs and the “Super” Waffle Bowl together, they will accept your debit or credit card.

YWCA receives $20,000 grant for resident programs

The YWCA of Youngstown has been awarded a grant for $20,000 from the Ohio Capital Impact Corporation. The award was made through the Huntington Wellness Initiative, a partnership between Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing (OCCH) and Huntington Bank. The funds will be used to increase the quality of life and wellness for the residents at the YWCA apartments by providing an increased awareness of healthy lifestyles. This will be accomplished by providing a series of health and wellness and social activities designed to engage residents mentally, intellectually and physically. The YWCA provides a home for homeless, low-income, single women with or without children, and a strong support system when they begin rebuilding their lives. The supportive services program eliminates barriers, provides education and offers friendly support to women and families. Huntington Bank appreciates the opportunity to provide assistance to YWCA of Youngstown. This grant is part of their commitment to the communities they serve.

Heritage gardening seminar

Fellows Riverside Gardens will be hosting Garden Seminar: Heritage Gardening for the 21st Century on Feb. 22 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Discover some of the successful, sustainable, and simple plants from the 18th through early 20th centuries. These tough and adaptable plants represent the foundation of our gardens today. Speakers will look at historic gardening methods that can be applied to our current gardens. Explore the rich heritage of the garden and what it means. The speakers’ books will be available for purchase at the seminar. This event is presented by the Men’s Garden Club of Youngstown and Mill Creek MetroParks. For more information and to register, visit www.mgcy.org/Pages/WinterSeminar.aspx. The cost is $45 through Feb. 7 and $55 after that date.

New exhibit to begin Feb. 21

Ford Nature Center will be hosting a Nature Photography Exhibit Feb. 21 through March 15 during regular hours. View the talents of many amateur photographers.

Twice-Loved Book Sale

Fellows Riverside Gardens will host the Twice-Loved Books Sale Feb. 21 through March 1 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Peruse the tables in the Antonucci Horticulture Library for much loved books on gardening, cooking and nature. There will also be magazines for sale. Donations of related used books are appreciated at any time. All proceeds will benefit the Antonucci Horticulture Library.

Students make the Dean’s List at The University of Akron

More than 3,600 students who made the Dean’s List at the University of Akron in fall 2014. Students from Austintown to earn this achievement include Kyle Citino, Meghan Delaney, Michael Hafely and Taylor Marshall. To be eligible for the Dean’s List the students maintained a GPA of 3.5-3.99 and were enrolled in 12 or more credit hours.

Akron names fall 2014 President’s List recipients

Nearly 800 University of Akron students have been named to the President’s List. To qualify, students must be undergraduate, enrolled full-time and achieve a 4.0 grade point average for the semester. Students from Austintown to be names to this list include Courtney Dockry (majoring in Exer Sci-PrePhysical Therapy), Alexandra Hulick (majoring in Political Sci - Criminal Just) and Anny Carroll (majoring in Mechanical Engineering)

Eastern gateway announces fall academic honors

More than 370 full-time students at Eastern Gateway Community College were named to the dean’s list for the fall semester. These students attend full time and earned a grade point average of 3.5 or higher during the semester. Students from Austintown to earn this distinction include Stephanie Jade Streb, Alexis Lashay Miller, Justin Robert Vinkler, Robert Earl Venters, Simone Morris, Alexandria Christine Orosz, Olivia Noel Bundy, Mary Ann Tul, Jose Luis GonzalezCastillo, Christina Marie Bondi, Lori Ann Lucia, Dawn LaShalle Woodberry, L. Andrew Orr, Kimberlee Jean Speare and Nicole Ann Wolfkill.

The Bistro at MCCTC announces new winter and spring hours

Student-operated restaurant, The Bistro at MCCTC, has new winter and spring hours starting in January. The restaurant will be open for dine in or carryout from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Open dates are Feb. 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26; March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 and 31; and April 1 and 2. The Bistro is run by students enrolled in the Culinary Arts Program at the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center. This gives students the chance to gain experience in all facets of working in the restaurant industry, from working as kitchen staff and the Sous Chef to waiting tables and hosting. To make a reservation or place an order for carryout, call 330-729-4000, ext. 1506.

Gamblers Annonymous to meet

Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-Step fellowship of compulsive gamblers who want to recover from their gambling addictions, will meet twice this week in the Youngstown-Warren area. A GA meeting is offered every Friday at Westminster Church, located at 119 Stadium Drive in Boardman, and another is offered every Sunday at Christ Church Presbyterian, located at 3425 Hopkins Road in Youngstown (Cornersburg). Both meetings begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. and last about 1-1/2 hours. Those who believe gambling has affected any part of their lives are urged to attend. For more information, call 330-505-5060.