Poland Community Briefs


Every hero has a story

The Summer Discovery program for children will be ”every hero has a story” and will take place at the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. Children will have an opportunity to earn incentives by reading or completing activities or a combination of both. Children will receive a free ice cream cone from Dairy Queen and a Mahoning Valley Scrappers game voucher just for signing up. When they complete five activities, children get a choice of paperback books. On completing 10 activities, they receive an incentive and for children ages 3 and up, they will get a free admission to OH WOW! When they complete 15 activities, they will be into a drawing for a gift card. And children who complete 20 activities by July 25 will earn a chance to have breakfast with author David Catrow, creator of the Max Spaniel books, in July.

Ursuline Center hosts sumemr series of spirituality programs

The Ursuline Center is offering a Summer Spirituality Series of programs, beginning with classes on world religion taught by Sister Nancy Dawson. Dawson, executive director of The Ursuline Center and an instructor of World Religions classes at Youngstown State University, will teach three classes on world religions. Her classes are offered on June 1, 8 and 15 from either 10:30 a.m until 12 p.m. or 6:30-8 p.m. The first two classes will cover Judaism and Islam. The subject of the third class will be determined based on participants’ interest and the information presented in the first two sessions. The donation is $15 per session, or $40 for all three if paid by June 1. To register, call The Ursuline Center at 330-799-4941.

Ursuline Center: summer series of spirituality

Sister Nancy Pawlen from the Ursuline Center will lead summer series of spirituality class on Experiencing Sacred Space on Aug. 12. She will help participants appreciate the fullness of the sacred around and within them. Participants can attend class from 10-11:30 a.m. or 6:30-8 p.m. The donation is $10. To register, call The Ursuline Center at 330-799-4941.

Garden adventure day

Enjoy adventuring throughout Fellows Riverside Gardens as treasure and fairies create magical family fun on June 6 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Hooked on fishing

The MetroParks police are conducting the fishing program to teach children about the sport on June 13 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Mill Creek MetroParks Farm. All ages are welcome to this free event.

Explore at Ford Nature Center

Come explore Mill Creek Park for a three-day camp. Learn about trees, explore a creek, enjoy a ride on the Lake Glacier boat and take a look at wildlife in Ohio. Meet at Ford Nature Center on June 16-18 from 10 a.m. unitl 2 p.m. Register and pay by June 9. The cost is $50 R; $60 NR.

Explore heritage and history

Explore the history and heritage of the Mahoning Valley at Mill Creek Park for this three day camp on June 16-18 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Become an early explorer discovering Mill Creek Gorge, learn what animals live there now and in the past, take a boat ride on Lake Glacier, plus more. Register and pay $60 R; $70 NR by June 9. This event is for ages 8 and up.

Volleyball camp at Wick Recreation Area

YSU Assistant Volleyball Coach, Sarah Smith, will teach boys and girls ages 8-13 the skills of this sport. The camp will take place on June 16 and 17 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Register and pay $15 R; $20 NR by June 12.

Hanna receives doctorate

The title, Doctor of Physical Therapy, was conferred upon Christopher Hanna of Poland at the April 26 commencement ceremony of The University of Pittsburgh. Hanna received his undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences.

Jarrett named to Dean’s List

Caleb Jarrett of Poland has been named to the Dean’s List at Simpson University for the spring 2015 semester. Jarrett is majoring in Outdoor Leadership. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a student must have a semester grade-point average of 3.50 or higher.

Show Your Superhero Crafting Powers

Calling all teen superheroes - drop by the Poland library on June 30 at 2 p.m. to make a variety of superhero-themed crafts. This event is for grades 7-12.

Get connected with your eReader at the library

Bring your eReader to the Poland library and learn how to download eBooks from the Library’s Digital Catalog on the library website. Space is limited. Call 330-744-8636 and ask for the branch by name to register. This event is for adults at the Poland library on June 6 at 10 a.m.

Bonding with babies and books

This event is for caregivers and their little ones who are 6-23 months. There will be twenty minutes of language enrichment including rhymes, songs and stories, followed by time to play and socialize on June 3, 10 and 24 at 10 a.m. and June 17 at 9:30 a.m. at the Poland library. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Trim a tree for June

Decorate an ornament for the Poland library’s all-seasons tree. This event is for children of all ages during the month of June.

Creating a natural look in the garden with Martha Swiss

Master Gardener Martha Swiss, contributor to Pennsylvania Gardener magazine and publications editor for the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, will provide tips to get you started on the path to creating a natural looking garden for your property on June 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Poland library. Reservations are needed. This event is for adults.

Akron Zoo on wheels

The Akron Zoo on wheels presents “Superheroes” at the Poland library on June 17 at 10 a.m. Meet animals from the Akron Zoo. Akron Zoo follows a no-touch policy on reptiles for children under 5-years of age and senior citizens. This event is for children of all ages.

Unmask: teen theme for the Poland library

Unmask is the teen theme. Teens who complete ten activities will receive a paperback of their choice. Completing 15 activities will make them eligible to win a $25 gift card. Completing 20 activities earns them a chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card. Teens will enjoy seeing Marvel Comic Book Artist Jerry DeCaire presenting ‘Science of the Superhero’ at a special program on Aug. 13 at the Poland library. The program features more superhero fun and begins at 1 p.m., with DeCaire presenting at 2 p.m.

Lions Club to host Trunk and Treasure sale

The Poland Lions Club will host a Trunk and Treasure Sale on May 23 at the Poland High School parking lot. Venders are needed to fill the spaces and the cost is $10 per space. Those interested in purchasing a space can call 330-360-3641 or 330-757-9268.

Safe Sitter classes

Safe Sitter teaches boys and girls ages 11-13 how to be ideal babysitters. The two-day course covers basic first aid, rescue breathing, accident prevention, childcare tips, what to do if a child chokes and how and when to call for help. Cost for the program is $28.50 and scholarships are available for those who meet financial eligibility requirements. Classes are from 9:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. both days and will take place June 24 and 25 and July 22 and 23 at St. Joseph Warren Hospital, and July 8 and 9 and Aug. 5 and 6 at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital. For information or to register, call 330-480-3070.

Campbell Memorial class reunion Sept. 5

The Campbell Memorial Class of 1975 is seeking classmates to attend the 40th class reunion on Sept. 5 at Caf 422 in Boardman. All contact information can be shared by calling 330-755-7638 or emailing information to CMHS1975@roadrunner.com.

Art classes by Brenda Myers Cohen for the month of May

During the month of May, artist Brenda Myers Cohen will offer a series of art classes in conjunction with the YWCA of Youngstown’s annual art show. Classes will be from 10 a.m. until noon on May 13, 20 and 27 at the Senior Center, located at 1110 Fifth Ave. Cohen will instruct participants in the art of making a 5-inch by 7-inch project using watercolors on rice paper or a collage. The resulting artworks will be donated to the Women Artists: A Celebration! Silent Auction. Pieces will be auctioned at the June 20 Preview Party, and available for sale throughout the exhibit. Proceeds will benefit the YWCA Housing programs. The cost is $6 per person, payable at the beginning of the class. All supplies are included. Registration is not required. Participants may attend as many sessions as they wish. For more information, contact Rita at rcintavey@ywcaofyoungstown.org or 330-746-6361, ext. 102.

Wednesdays at the WOW!

Join Oh Wow! every Wednesday afternoon and explore the InspireWorks Lab from 4-5:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. Check out www.ohwowkids.org for details.

Second Saturdays-member only hours

Join WOW! Pals before the museum opens to the public for Member Only Hours from 9-10 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month. Get exclusive access to the museum and help WOW! Pals test new exhibit and program ideas.

Grandparents explore for free

Bring your grandparent(s) to OH WOW! the last Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. for free grandparent admission with the purchase of at least one child admission.

Hack-it at OH WOW!

Come and explore circuitry and robotics with the OH WOW! InspireWorks Staff on May 23 from 12-1 p.m. This event is for ages 9 and up. Free with admission.

OH WOW! Summer Hours

OH WOW! will be closed on Mondays through Labor Day starting on May 25.

Make-it-tornado at OH WOW!

Learn about one of Nature’s most fascinating phenomena while making your own tornadoes in a jar to take home at OH WOW! on May 30 from 12-1 p.m. For ages six and up. Pre-registration suggested.

Standard trolley tours

Explore, experience and enjoy a guided hour and a half tour on May 17, 21, 26 and 31 from 2-3:30 p.m. or 4:30-6 p.m. Register and pay in advance at FNC. The cost for adults is $6 R; $9 NR and for those 12 and under or 60 and over it’s $4 R; $7 NR.

Bits and pieces of Mill Creek Park

Now though December 2015, visit the exhibit at Fellows Riverside Gardens-Melnick Museum that takes a look at the very early years of Mill Creek Park. The exhibit is open everyday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Posies for Emily and other dreamers

Fine art photographer Patricia Christakos pays homage to writers such as Emily Dickenson at Fellows Riverside Gardens- Weller Gallery though June 14 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Nature in iron

Charles Hughes “hammers out” nature as seen through the eyes of a blacksmith at Fellows Riverside Gardens- Outdoor Gallery through July.

Community garden coming to Boardman

Boardman Township Park, in partnership with 4H Mahoning County, is announcing Boardman’s first community garden, located in the Historic Southern Stables on Washington Boulevard. Community gardens allow you to experience the joys of gardening, promote healthy eating habits and build new relationships with others in the community. Registration for the 10 foot x 20 foot garden plots began April 13 at the Boardman Park Office, located at 375 Boardman-Poland Road, and are available for a fee of $25. Your fee includes the garden plot, water and periodic classes/instructions on gardening. Due to the limited number of plots available, registration is limited to Boardman residents only and only one plot per gardener/family. Garden season begins May 1 and runs through Nov. 15. For more information, visit the park office or call 330-726-8105.

Landscapes on the Hudson

Explore the Hudson River Valley landscapes on August 13-16. Registration and $250 deposit are due by June 12. Full payment is due by July 17. Prices are based on double occupancy at $885 (FFRG member $835). Visit Fellows Riverside Gardens, Mill Creek Park website for more details.

Get golf ready: adult clinics

PGA professionals will show you ways to play by combining fun, friends and fitness. Put your skills into action in a casual, friendly setting at Mill Creek Golf Course on May 20 and 27 at 6 p.m. The cost is $25 for one clinic, $45 for two clinics, $60 for three clinics and $100 for seven.

Junior golf clinics

Pre-shot routines and alignment to various targets will be emphasized, along with swing fundamentals, at Mill Creek Golf Course on May 24 and 31 at 1 p.m. Range and course time vary with age and skill level. The cost is $15 per session.

Couple scotch event

Join Mill Creek Golf Course for the Major League Baseball Team Spirit for golf, drinks, food, fun and prizes on May 23 at 6 p.m. The cost is $45 per couple.

Family range night

There will be free instruction from PGA professionals at Mill Creek Golf Course Practice Range on May 30 at 6:30 p.m. Join in the games, prizes, music and a cook-off on the range.

Farm tours

MetroParks Farm will host a guided tractor wagon tour of the farm leaving every half hour on May 31 from 1-4 p.m. Donations will be accepted and there is a craft fee of $1.

Family fun Fridays

Each Friday from May 8 until Oct. 16 between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., take part in fun drop-in activities in the Family Garden at Fellows Riverside Gardens.

Spring scavanger hunt

Join the search for spring’s beauties at Ford Nature Center on May 23 from 1-3 p.m. Bring a camera to document your findings.

A little taste of the farm

Learn about dairy and beef cows, sheep and pigs at MetroParks Farm on May 30 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Milk a cow and do a craft.

Yoga in the Gardens

Enjoy yoga that will help you keep a healthy outlook at Fellows Riverside Gardens on May 26 and 28 at 9:30-11 a.m. or 5:30-7 p.m. Bring a mat and a small blanket. The cost is $12 per class.

T’ai Chi step one in the Gardens

Warm-ups, breathing exercises and movements will ease stress, improve health and increase vitality on May 27 from 12-1 p.m. The cost is $10 a class.

Yoga basics course

Enjoy deep relaxation during this eight-week yoga course on May 24, 31, June 7, 14, 21, 28 and July 5 from 9-10 a.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens. The cost is $80 or $72 if registered by May 12.

First kayak trip of 2015

Enjoy this naturalist and volunteer-escorted trip at East Newport Boat Launch on May 30 from 1-3 p.m. Register at FNC by May 28. The cost is $12 R; $15 NR. Age restrictions apply.

Mahoning Valley Dahlia Society sale

Fellows Riverside Gardens will host a Dahlia sale with many unique varieties on May 31 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TAB (Teen Advisory Board) meeting

Check out the monthly TAB (Teen Advisory Board) meeting at the Poland library on May 27 at 6:30 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. Snacks are provided.

Neighborhood Ministries is sseeking churches to provide free meals

Neighborhood Ministries, a sponsor for the Summer Food Service Program, is seeking churches or organizations to join in providing free meals to children ages 18 and under who live in the Youngstown area. The meals are provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the Ohio Department of Education from June 8 – Aug. 21. If your church or organization is interested in receiving free meals for children this summer, contact Neighborhood Ministries at 330-755-8696 or email lisa_scannell@ohionm.org. The deadline for submitting a site request is April 30.

Applications for the The Greater Youngstown Italian Fest

Applications for a Youngstown State University Scholarship from The Greater Youngstown Italian Fest are now available by contacting Deborah Mottle at mottlesmurals@gmail.com or applications may be retrieved from http://www.youngstownitalianfest.org. Applicants must attend Youngstown State University and be of Italian descent in order to be eligible. Deadline for applicants is June 7.

Sailing Lessons at MCCTC

Sailing lessons for beginners are being offered at the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center on May 26 and June 2, 6 and 9. Class meets on Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday June 2 at Berlin Lake 12-4 p.m. The class is taught by a certified sailing instructor and members of the Berlin Yacht Club (www.berlinyachtclub.com). The cost is $55 and includes a book. To register, call MCCTC at 330-729-4100.

Checking up on bluebirds

Walk along Bluebird Trail to check nest boxes at MetroParks Farm on May 24 from 2-4 p.m. Nest Box kits are available for purchase. Call FNC for details.

Frogs in the Sanctuary

Listen to frogs for this moderate 1.5 mile walk on May 29 from 8:30-10 p.m. Bring boots and flashlights. Register to FNC by May 28.

Volunteer-led recreational hikes

There will be volunteer-led recreational hikes on May 26 at 6 p.m. (meet at MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead, Kirk Road, for this moderate to or four mile hike).

Library day closings

All libraries in the PLYMC system will be closed on May 24 and 25.

Learn about our nation’s heritage at Poland library

During the week of Memorial Day, it is an auspicious and meaningful occasion to explore the records of our armed forces. Learn how to pursue personnel files and unit histories in order to understand your ancestor’s role in defending our nation’s heritage at the Poland library on May 28 at 6 p.m. Weather permitting, after the program we will visit nearby Poland Village Cemetery and observe the final resting places of our veterans. Registration is required by phoning 330-744-8636 or online via the library’s events calendar. This event is for adults.

The peeping continues...

Catch, watch and release frogs at Vickers Nature Preserve on May 22 at 8:30-10 p.m. Bring boots and flashlights for this easy one mile walk. Call FNC for details.

Fun Time 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 on May 28 at 1 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Bonding with babies and books

This event is for caregivers and their little ones who are 6-23 months old. There will be twenty minutes of language enrichment including rhymes, songs and stories, followed by time to play and socialize at the Poland library at 10 a.m. on May 20 and 27. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Pink Ribbon Golf Classic set for July 13

The annual Pink Ribbon Golf Classic will take place at Youngstown Country Club on July 13. All proceeds from this event will go directly to the American Cancer Society. The 18 hole scramble will be followed by lunch and a Chinese auction and raffle.

Simply Slavic call for vendors

The fifth annual Simply Slavic festival will be on June 20 from 12-11 p.m. on Federal Plaza East. Organizers are seeking authentically Slavic retail, craft, fine art and food vendors for its marketplace and food tents. Simply Slavic has vending space for 15 food vendors and 10 marketplace vendors who will provide a variety of Slavic merchandise and foods for patrons during the festival. The confirmation deadline for previous vendors is April 15. Applications from new vendors will be accepted after this date, but questions are welcome at any time. For more information, contact info@simplyslavic.org or call at 330-509-0754.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-Step fellowship of compulsive gamblers who want to recover from their gambling addictions. 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 (in Cornersburg). Both meetings will 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.

The Ursuline Center announces 2015 Guided Labyrinth Walk Schedule

The Ursuline Center, located at 4280 Shields Road, has announced its 2015 Guided Labyrinth Walk schedule. All persons of faith are invited to participate in these free events. Walks generally take 20-30 minutes. This year’s first guided walk is April 19 at 2 p.m. and offers an additional feature. The event starts with a presentation on the “Spirituality of Labyrinths” in The Ursuline Center, then moves outdoors for a walk celebrating the Earth. The complete list of walks is as follows: April 19 at 2 p.m. - Celebrating the Earth; May 12 at 6:30 p.m. - Celebrating Motherhood; June 9 at 6:30 p.m. - Celebrating Fatherhood; July 14 at 6:30 p.m. - Celebrating Families; Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. - Welcoming the Stranger; Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. - Celebrating Peace; and Oct. 4 at 2 p.m. - Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis, Showing Solidarity with the Poor.

Friends Specialty at the Garden Caf opens at Fellows Riverside Gardens

Friends Specialty at the Garden Caf in Mill Creek MetroParks Fellows Riverside Gardens has officially opened for business. The Garden Caf has been refreshed and newly updated and will offer an eclectic selection of teas, locally roasted coffee, a locally sourced lunch menu, desserts and other libations all served with a complimentary view of stunning Lake Glacier. The Caf is open to the public from Tuesday through Sunday during the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. for pastries, coffee and tea. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information or questions, contact Mill Creek MetroParks at 330-702-3000.