Austintown Community Briefs

Pancake and sausage breakfast to be April 3

Immaculate Heart of Mary Knights of Columbus 3930 is sponsoring a pancake and sausage breakfast on April 3 from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the parish center, located at 4500 Norquest Blvd. in Austintown. The menu consists of pancakes, sausage and beverages. The cost is $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under.

Trash and Treasure sale to be hosted April 9

Ladies Bunch 22, The Youngstown Saxon Club, is sponsoring a Trash and Treasure sale on April 9. This event will be hosted in the Saxon Club Ballroom located at 710 S. Meridian Road in Youngstown from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. A lunch of sauerkraut, hot dogs, German sausage sandwiches, chicken dumpling soup, chips, soft drinks and coffee will be served from 11 a.m. on. Take-out is available. All are welcome.

Lions of District 13D will host Bob Evans fundraiser

Lions District 13D’s Melvin Jones Eye Care Foundation will host a fundraiser through the Bob Evans Community Fundraiser in five different counties: Mahoning, Columbiana, Trumbull, Portage and Stark on April 6. The Eye Care Foundation helps with Cataract Surgeries for individuals who are unable to pay for the surgery. All Bob Evans North East Ohio Restaurants will participate in the fundraiser. They will donate 15 percent of your bill when you present a flyer. This flyer can be found at www.lions13d.org. The web site will have a link to the flyer to print and use, as well as a list of cities and their addresses for the Bob Evans Restaurants nearest you.

Farm animal baby shower

Welcome new arrivals to the barns and see who is still expecting for the season. Petting and touching permitted if baby is not napping. Enjoy cake and punch while supplies last as art of a Shower tradition. This event is hosted by Mill Creek MetroParks on April 10 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Gamblers Anonymous 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 takes place every Friday at Westminster Church, located at 119 Stadium Drive in Boardman, and another takes place 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.

Boardman-Poland Junior Women’s League to host meeting

The next meeting of the Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League will be hosted on April 4 at 7 p.m. at Glenellen, located at 9661 Market Street in North Lima. Past presidents will meet at 6 p.m. to discuss the constitution. A guest speaker will be coming from Frisky Ferrets, Fuzzies and Feathered Friends Rescue and Sanctuary. Members are asked to bring an item from their wish list to help the small animals. Members are also asked to bring one bottle of body wash for The Veterans Blessing Bags. Hostesses for the month are Tina Bellino, Nina Lowery and Sperry Rongone who will be sharing food from their Italian Heritage. The Boardman-Poland Junior Women’s League is open to all women ages 18 and up, residing in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties who are interested in friendship, fun and community involvement. Women interested in joining or receiving more information can contact membership chairperson Linda Crish at 330 -727-0321.

Daffodil weekend

See more than 200 species and cultivars on display at the Gardens during a special guided walk each day. Take a stroll through Daffofil Meadow in Mill Creek MetroParks. Participate in the Daffodil Show in the Davis Center that highlights the diversity and beauty of daffodils. Daffodil weekend at Fellows Riverside Gardens is April 23 and 24 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Plant the seed to read

Fellows Riverside Gardens will be hosting the 10th annual Children’s Book Festival on April 16 at 10 a.m. “Grow through Reading” with the Altrusa Club of Youngstown, Mill Creek MetroParks, Western Reserve Public Media and the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. This event will present authors, storytellers, illustrators, book characters and hands-on activities for children. Come out to meet Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat and then join the fun to promote literacy in the Mahoning Valley. This event is free.

Kite festival

Join the celebration of kites and all things that float, soar and fly through the skies. The Ohio Society for the Elevation of Kites will brighten the skies with expert kite flying and ingenious designs. Bring your own kite to fly and enter in free games. Enjoy free bubble, glider and pinwheel activities. Create a kite for a small fee. This event will be hosted at Wick Recreation Area on April 30 at 11 a.m. Call Ford Nature Center for details.

The poetic details of plants

Join Fellows Riverside Gardens for a writing workshop Tuesdays beginning April 12 through May 10 at 6 p.m. Writer Karen Schubert will host this five week workshop incorporating the details of plants into your own writing. Dress for outdoor exploration. Registration has passed.

Mosaic flower pots

On April 13 at 6 p.m., Barbara Amdt will guide you in creating a flower pot with mosaic flavor and a variety of color. Register and pay by April 11 for this event at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Tickets are $26, FFRG $22.

Trees on trees

Join artist, illustrator and author Dar James for a hands-on painting workshop that celebrates trees. Register and pay by April 12 for this event hosted by Fellows Riverside Gardens on April 14 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $34, FFRG $28.

Starry night

Save the date for a stellar evening at the MetroPaks Farm. On April 2 come out at 8 p.m. to view the beauty of the night sky though high powered telescopes with the Mahoning Valley Astronomical Society. Call Ford Nature Center for details (rain date April 16).

Ford hunt and hike

This year is the MetroParks quasquicentennial (125th anniversary). Stop by Ford Nature Center to try and locate 25 birthday cakes hidden to commemorate this milestone and then go for a hike of your choice. This event is open April 6-30 during open hours.

Celebrating 125 years

Continue celebrating the MetroPark’s 125th birthday. View “classic” 1990s videos of the park, then join the hunt for Volney Rogers’ realized dreams. This scavenger hunt will lead you to various landmarks and jewels of the park. Come out April 16 at 10 a.m.

Tractor-wagon rides

Tractor-wagon rides leave approximately every half hour for a guided tour. Barns are open to visit the animals. Pay a small craft fee of $1 and come out April 17 and 24 at 1 p.m.

Spout club: moss pets

Come to Fellows Riverside Gardens on April 21 at 1 p.m. to learn about Marimo moss and create a moss pet to take home. This event is for children ages 3-5. Register and pay by April 19. Tickets are $7.

Happy birthday, Mill Creek

Celebrate Mill Creek Park’s 125th birthday with a craft, activity and a ride on the Cohasset Express Trolley. Trolley space is limited and each child (ages 2-6) must be accompanied by an adult. Register and pay two days in advance. Tickets are $7 for residents and $10 for non-residents. This event will be hosted by Ford Nature Center on April 8 and 9.

Saplings: mosaic flower pots

Children ages 8 and up are invited to Fellows Riverside Gardens on April 23 at 10 a.m. Celebrate Mother Earth by creating a colorful flower pot for your garden as a gift. Register and pay $21 by April 21.

Birthday trolley tour

Celebrate the 125th birthday of Mill Creek Park with a ride aboard the Cohasset Express and to visit and enjoy nostalgic areas of the park, which reflect Volney Rogers’ original vision and efforts. Limited seating is available. Register and pay at least two days in advance at Ford Nature Center. Adult residents pay $8, children 12 and under and adults ages 60 and up pay $6. Non-resident adults pay $11, children 12 and under and adults ages 60 and up pay $9. This event will be hosted on April 6 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.

125th anniversary tours

Sit back and relax on the Cohasset Express while enjoying views of the natural and historic features of 125-year-old Mill Creek Park, Ohio’s first park district. Limited seating is available. Event dates are April 16, 19 and 24 at 2 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. Register and pay at least two days in advance at Ford Nature Center. Adult tickets are $7, non-resident adult tickets are $10. Tickets for children 12 and under and adults ages 60 and up are $5, tickets for non-resident children and seniors are $8.

Bluebell trolley

After viewing Mill Creek Park’s bluebells, head out the view the carpet of them in Poland Municipal Forest. Register and pay at least two days in advance at Ford Nature Center. This event will be April 28 at 12:30 p.m. or 3 p.m. Tickets prices are as follows: adult residents - $8, non-residents - $11, child and senior residents - $6, non-residents - $9.

Collegiate Club golf card sale

This event is offered by Mill Creek Golf Course until April 31 and is available to any college student under the age of 23 with an active college ID. Colleges and universities include: Gateway Community College, Univesity of Mount Union, Univesity of Akron, Kent State University and Youngstown State Univesity. Call Mill Creek Golf Course for details. The cost is $19.99.

High school golf school

Join this new program for high school juniors and seniors who want to take their games to the next level and look to play at the collegiate level (boys and girls sessions). Register and pay by April 18. The program is $399 and includes a pair of Foot Joy Hype Flex Golf Shoes ($175 value). The program will meet throughout the months of April, May and June.

Odonald Ross amateur series

This season long golf series is available for all amateur golfers who have an active USGA GHIN Handicap. There will be divisions for both scratch and handicap for men, women and seniors of all abilities. The cost is $45 a player and the event will be hosted at Mill Creek Golf Course on April 23 at 10 a.m.

Get “golf ready”

Learn everything you’ll need to play golf in just a few lessons. PGA pros will show you ways to play by combining fun, friends and fitness. Each session will focus on various golf skills. Mix and match clinics available. One day clinic - $25, any two clinics - $45, any three clinics - $60 and any seven clinics - $100. Dates for the program are April 27 through Aug. 17.

Ladies night out

This event will be hosted on April 28 at 5 p.m. by the Mill Creek Golf Course. Featuring a golf clothing trunk show, give-a-ways, contests and prizes. Area vendors and sales representatives will be on hand to give a preview of 2016 ladies clothing, shoe, purses and accessory lines. Drink specials, popcorn and appetizers are available. Tickets are $15.

Same trail twelve times

Mill Creek Gorge inspired Volney Rogers to establish the park district 125 years ago. Celebrate the Quasquicenteniial by hiking the Gorge every month this year. This month’s hike will be on April 3 at 2 p.m. Meet at the Lanterman’s Mill overflow parking lot.

Search for spring wildflowers

Join a weekly search for these charmingly named short-time bloomers. On April 17, meet at Scholl Recreation Area at 2 p.m. for a moderate 2 mile hike. on April 24, meet at YCP at 2 p.m. and wear boots for a moderate hike of 2 miles.

Frog walk

During spring, male frogs serenade the females. Meet at Vickers Nature Preserve to listen, look, catch and release in the “froggiest place” in the MetroParks. Boots are required at this April 29 event at 8 p.m.

Volunteer-led recreational hikes

Call Ford Nature Center for details. April 6 at 9 a.m., meet at Lanterman’s Mill overflow lot for a moderate hike of 2 miles. April 10 at 2 p.m., meet at ODOT (401 W. Main St., Canfield) for a hike of 2-3 miles. April 20 at 9 a.m., meet at overflow parking lot on West Golf Drive for an easy walk of 1 or 3 miles. April 26 at 6 p.m. meet at MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead at MPF for an easy walk of 2 or 4 miles.

Woodcock Watch II

On April 8 at 7:30 p.m., witness the amazing mating flight of the males. Wear boots and meet at MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead for a moderate hike of 1.5 miles. Call Ford Nature Center for details.

Birding the sanctuary

On April 16 at 8 a.m., come to Mill Creek Wildlife Sanctuary. Search for birds with Jeff Harvey of Wild Birds Unlimited. Boots are required and space is limited. Register by calling Ford Nature Center by April 15.

Eagle watch

Come to Mill Creek Wildlife Sanctuary April 17 at 8 a.m., 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. to join Jeff Harvey of Wild Birds Unlimited and observe bald eagles. Reservations must be made by phoning Ford Nature Center by 5 p.m. on April 16. “Walk-ins” not permitted.

Spring plant sale

Come to Fellows Riverside Gardens on May 6 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and May 7 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. for unique quality plants for the home garden. Perennials (sun and shade), annuals, herbs, fruits, vegetables, roses, trees, shrubs and more will add to your garden’s beauty.

Brent health and undaunted daffodils

These unstoppable, pest-free beauties have captured the hearts and borders of gardens in all 50 states and their various climates. This lecture will take you from early spring to early summer, exploring the multiplicity of different types of these bulb flowers. See new varieties to plant in your garden this fall. Sponsored in part by the John S. and Doris M. Andrews Memorial Lecture Series. Registration is requested but not required. This event will be April 23 at 1:30 p.m.

Spring flower palette

On April 14 at 6 p.m. at Fellows Riveside Gardens, join Ellen Speicher for a tour in search of early-blooming flowers. Register and pay by April 12. Tickets are $14, FFRG $12.

Master gardener gathering

On April 21 at 6 p.m,. come to Fellows Riverside Gardens for this event. Master gardeners from any program are welcome at the spring gathering of plants, food and fun.

Guided daffodil walk

Delight in the beauty, diversity and fragrance of daffodils on this guided walk. Drop-in on April 24 at 6 p.m. for this free event at Fellows Riverside Gardens.

Designing gardens

Thinking about creating a home, community or school gardening space? Come learn about the principles of designing gardens that are welcoming to visitors at any age. Register and pay $12 by April 24. This event is hosted by Fellows Riverside Gardens.

Botanical mornings

Discover the joy in the blossoming Spring at Fellows Riverside Gardens on April 29 at 9 a.m. The event will be guided by a knowledgeable staff member. Register and pay $5 by April 27.

Attracting monarchs

On April 30, Fellows Riverside Gardens will host this event at 10 a.m. Learn how to attract Monarchs with tips from Ellen Speicher that include providing simple food and breeding sites for these lovely butterflies. Register and pay by April 28. Tickets are $14, FFRG $12.

Orchids at Fellows Riverside Gardens

The Wellers Gallery will feature Jamie Kirkell’s large silk paintings that bring fun and fresh perspectives to the study of the orchid and the iris. The paintings can be seen until April 10 during gallery hours.

In the forest

The work of realist painter Jason Floyd Lewis relishes the natural beauty of uninhabited places. The Wellers Gallery at Fellows Riverside Gardens will feature this artwork April 22 until June 12.

Plant sale

The Mahoning Valley Dahlia Society will host a tuber sale at Fellows Riverside Gardens with unique varieties that will add to the diversity of your dahlia collection. The sale will be on April 10 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Yoga in the gardens

Enjoy yoga that will help you keep a healthy outlook. Bring a mat and a small blanket to Fellows Riverside Gardens Tuesdays and Thursdays in April for $12 a class.

T’ai chi step one in the gardens

Warm-ups, breathing exercises and movements will ease stress, improve health and increase vitality. This class will be hosted Wednesdays in April at noon at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Each class is $10.

Chair to mat movement

Chair to Mat Movement is designed to increase mobility and flexibility for those who find seated floor movement challenging. Drop-ins are welcome and each class is $10. This event is hosted on Wednesdays in April at 9 a.m.

Sound bath experience

Enjoy this deep meditative experience with vibrations of gongs, crystal singing bowls and more. This event is for participants ages 13 and older at Fellows Riverside Gardens on April 14 at 6 p.m. Register and pay $25 by April 12.

Meditation and mindfulness

Enjoy a diversity of mindfulness methods at Fellows Riverside Gardens on April 17. This event will be hosted at 10:30 a.m. Register and pay $15 by April 15. Drop-ins will pay $18.

Cha-Cha dance class

Learn this fun and versatile Latin dance. It is not necessary to come with a partner, everyone learns together. Beginners are welcome to this class on April 5 at Pionner Pavillion. At 6 p.m., dance expert Lynda McPhail will host the class for $5. Call Ford Nature Center for details.

Rumba dance class

Learn this fun and versatile Latin dance. It is not necessary to come with a partner, everyone learns together. Beginners are welcome to this class on April 5 at Pionner Pavillion. At 7 p.m., the class will be hosted for $5. Call Ford Nature Center for details.

Let’s dance

Spend the evening dancing the Salsa, Swing, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Waltz, Fox Trot, Tango, Hustle, West Coast, Polka and more with Lynda McPhail. Half-hour dance lessons begin at 6 p.m. Singles and couples are welcome. Call Ford Nature Center for details, class is $5 per person at the door. This event will be on April 12 from 6-9 p.m.

MetroMutts: hike into spring

Spring has sprung and the daffodils are soon to bloom. Continue the MetroMutts tradition and take a spring hike up East Newport Drive past spectacular Daffodil Meadow. Meet at East Newport Boat Launch on April 16 at 10 a.m. for an easy 2 mile walk. Call Ford Natue Center for details.

MetroMutts: beginner obedience

Presented by The Learning Dog. Learn how to teach your dog commands such as “sit,” “down,” “stay” and play a few obedience games. This event will be hosted at MetroParks Farm (Barn #4) on April 20 at 6 p.m. Call Ford Nature Center to register and pay by April 17. MetroMutt members are free, non-members are $6.

Boy Scout Earth Day clean-up

Local Boy Scout Troops, Club Scout Packs and Girl Scout Troops will spend the morning helping to clear out winter’s accumulation of litter across the MetroParks. This event will be hosted on April 23 at 9 a.m. at Ford Nature Center. Call by April 11 to reserve a work area.

St. Joseph Church to host Quarter Auction

St. Joseph Church, located at 4545 New Road, will sponsor its second Quarter Auction on April 8. This event is for adults (21 and older) and doors will open at 6 p.m. The auction will begin at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $10 each and can be purchased in advance or at the door. The auction will also feature a 50/50 and lottery tree raffle. Ticket price includes admission and one bidding paddle. To purchase tickets in advance, call 330-792-3751 anytime or 330-792-7907 (evenings only).

Spring senior citizens dinner

Food, fun and entertainment are in store for Austintown seniors 65 and older on April 12 for the Spring Senior Citizens Dinner. Board members, student groups and school staff will serve dinner during this bi-annual event at 4 p.m. in the Fitch High School cafeteria. Students from the high school band and choir will entertain throughout the dinner. Tickets for the senior dinner are $2 and advance reservations are required. Call 330-797-3919 by April 5 to reserve your seat.

Las Vegas night and basket raffle

Austintown American Legion Post 301 is hosting a Las Vegas night and Basket Raffle Fund raiser at 3652 Oakwood Ave. on April 2 from 7 p.m. until midnight. Tickets are being sold at the door for a $5 donation. Food and refreshments are included.

Help feed families with Harvest for Hunger

Through April 16, customers can help provide food to those in need by tearing off a $1, $5 or $10 coupon at the cash register at any Giant Eagle location in Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties. The donation will be added to their grocery bill. Non-perishable food items may also be placed in designated bins at the front of the stores. Harvest for Hunger is one of the largest annual, community-wide food and funds drives in the nation, and takes place in 21 counties in northeast Ohio during March and April. The campaign is a collaborative effort of four food banks, including Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank and Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio. All funds raised and food collected in Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties will remain in these communities to feed local friends and neighbors. The 2016 Harvest for Hunger sponsors are: Giant Eagle, 21 WFMJ and WBCB, The Vindicator, Cumulus Radio Stations Y-103, K105 and HOT 101, and UFCW Local 880. For more information on how you can get involved in Harvest for Hunger, visit www.harvestforhunger.org.

Loghurst museum to host sale

Loghurst is hosting a Trunk and Tool sale on April 30 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Each car will pay a fee of $10. Set-up is from 8:30-10 a.m. If you have questions about this event, call 330-533-4330.

Hospice of the Valley to train new volunteers

Hospice of the Valley is hosting training sessions for new companion volunteers to visit hospice patients in Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties. Sessions will take place on Tuesdays, April 5 through May 3, from 1-4:30 p.m., at St. Joe’s at the Mall, Sears Concourse Eastwood Mall, located at 5555 Youngstown-Warren Road in Niles. During the training program, volunteers will learn what Hospice of the Valley’s team of doctors, nurses, social workers and chaplains do for patients and their families and how they fit into that team. Hospice volunteers serve in a variety of ways including companions for hospice patients at home or in nursing homes and support to the family members. Volunteers may also assist with indirect patient services such as clerical support, reception desk, mail team and fundraising. Volunteer assignments are made close to the volunteer’s home. All volunteers must wait one year after the loss of a loved one before they can become a volunteer. For more information or to register, call 330-549-5902.

Boardman Park baby sitting class

Boardman Park is sponsoring a baby sitting class on April 16 from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center. Students ages 11-15 will learn babysitting basic skills, first aid, rescue breathing and more. The fee for the class is $40 for Boardman Township Residents and $45 for Non-Residents. Students need to provide their own lunch. Classes are limited. RSVP by April 14 by calling Karen at 330-965-0482, by emailing Karen@boardmanpark.com or calling the Park office at 330-726-8105.

Mahoning Valley walk benefiting JDRF

Take steps to help the Junvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) progressively remove the impact of type 1 diabetes from people’s lives. By joining a team or making a donation to JDRF, you’ll raise money to help fund critical research. The walk will be on May 21 at the Watts Center of Youngstown State University. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m. Register at http://www2.jdrf.org/mahoningvalleywalk. For more information, contact Timothy Styranec at 330-533-5306 or by email at tmstyranec@zoominternet.net.

Have your pet featured in a calendar

West Side Cats is having a pet photography contest. For each $1 you pay, you can submit one photo of your favorite pet. Each vote will be an additional $1 fee which can be paid through PayPal at: Westsidecats@yahoo.com or dropped off at the shelter, located at 2217 Mahoning Ave. The top 12 winners will have their pets photo featured on a month of the new calendar and receive a calendar of their own. There will also be a grand prize for the pet with the most votes. Calendars will be sold after the contest ends. The photography contest will end on May 30 (Memorial Day). For more information, visit the Facebook page “West Side Cats Photography Contest.”

GA 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 takes place every Friday at Westminster Church, located at 119 Stadium Drive in Boardman, and another takes place 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.

Pet expo to take place April 2 and 3

Mark your calendars for the North East Ohio Pet Expo Show and Sale that will take place on April 2 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and April 3 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. This year, it will take place at Yankee Lake in Brookfield, located at 1814 Route 7 Yankee Lake. There will be a Pet Fashion Show on April 3 at 2 p.m., along with a Feline Pageant on April 2 at 2 p.m. Of course, West Side Cats will have a booth at the Expo so feel free to stop by and see them while you are there. They plan on having their mascot, Mittens, in attendance.

West Side Cats has April fundraiser

Mark your calendars for April 2 for the West Side Cats Fundraiser at Davidson’s Restaurant, located at 3636 Canfield Road in Austintown Township. The hours will be 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. West Side Cats will be having a 50/50 Raffle, Chinese auction with about 15 baskets of items and they will be selling cat and dog toys. Feel free to have some lunch at Davidson’s Restaurant while you are stopping in. Tickets may be purchased at the West Side Cats Shelter, located at 2217 Mahoning Avenue in Youngstown, Tuesday through Saturday from 2-6 p.m. or call Marie at 330-519-5002. And don’t forget to stop by West Side Cats to purchase your tickets and feel free to visit with the cats.

Socrates philosophy group

This event is sponsored by the Friends of PLYMC. If you love philosophy and want to discuss philosophical topics, join the Austintown library for Socrates Caf Philosophy group. This event is open to adults on April 18 at 6:30 p.m. For more information, contact the development office at 330-740-6086.

Friends of the Austintown Library program and meeting

Dr. Alton Merrell of YSU will direct the talented Jazz Musicians Program on April 25 at 10 a.m. Hosted by the Austintown library.

Coupon swap at the library

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

Blood Drive by the Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross

Proudly serving the needs of St. Elizabeth Hospital. Taking blood donations to help our community. For appointments, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). This event is for adults at the Austintown library on April 5 at 1 p.m. and April 30 at 10:20 a.m.

Page Turners book club

Love books? Looking for a good read? Hear what others are reading and share your favorite read, or just come in and join the fun. This event is for adults at the Austintown library on April 20 at 6 p.m.

Chapter chat book club

Love books? Come to the Chapter Chat Book Club where there will be reading and discussions of a book every month. Each month will be a new genre. This month’s book is “Black-Eyed Susans” by Julia Heaberlin. The club is open to adults. This meeting will be on April 25 at 6 p.m.

History book club

Join “...And the Rest is History” book club for lively discussions of the latest readings in history and historical fiction. There are no assigned titles. Pick a subject that sparks your interest and share your thoughts on your selection. All areas of history and historical fiction are welcome. This event is for adults at the Austintown library on April 7 at 6 p.m.

Tuesday Night Tech Bytes

Bring your basic technology questions for a one-hour question and answer session with a librarian. They will cover basic computer, basic software, eBooks, Internet and email. This event is for adults at the Austintown library on April 19 at 6 p.m.

Basic Microsoft Publisher class

Learn the basics of Microsoft Office Publisher. This is a beginner’s class that will teach users how to add and edit page components. Basic computer skills required. Space is limited, call 330-744-8636 to register. This event is for adults at the Austintown library on April 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday movie matinee

Join the Austintown library for a Saturday Movie Matinee. Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the movie. Children age 7-years and younger must be with an adult. The movie will be a newly released DVD rated PG-13 to G. This event is for the family at the Austintown library on April 16 at 2:30 p.m.

Mother’s Day body scrubs

Learn the components needed to make an exfoliating body scrub out of household ingredients. Make one to take home or to give to a special person for Mother’s Day. Registration is required by calling 330-744-8636. This event will be hosted by the Austintown library on April 28 at 6 p.m.

Scrapbooking club

Bring your photographs and create a scrapbook page for them. Paper and other supplies provided. This event is for teens and adults at the Austintown library on April 7 at 6 p.m.

Art with Andrea

Join the Austintown library in this art class. Andrea will guide you through a monthly project and help you work through your own art. Call 330-744-8636 to register. This event is for teens and adults on April 21 at 6:30 p.m.

TeenXTreme Blackout Poetry contest

April is National Poetry Month, so here’s your chance to indulge in some “creative destruction” and express your inner poet. Create a poem by eliminating (blacking out) the words you don’t want from newspaper and magazine articles (or book pages) that the library provide. Three winners will be chosen from entries throughout the county and awarded cash prizes. Talk to a librarian for details. For teens in grades 7-12 during open hours throughout April.

Teen Advisory Meeting

Check out at the monthly TAB (Teen Advisory Board) meeting. 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. This event will be hosted by the Austintown library on April 2 at 3 p.m.

Melted crayon art

Create a work of art with crayons, a hair dryer and your imagination. This event is for grades 5-12. Registration is required. This event is for tweens and teens at the Austintown library on April 13 at 6 p.m.

Favorite cookie

Vote on your favorite cookie each time you come to the library. The cookie with the most votes at the end of the month will be featured at the Hangry Bird’s party in May. This event is for grades 5-12 at the Austintown library during open hours.

Tween Scene movie club

Join in for snacks and a craft while discussing some of the coolest movies you have “scene” and decide on what to should watch next. This event is for tweens ages 8-12 at the Austintown library on April 23 at 2 p.m.

Tales to tails

Come and read to a therapy dog from Pet Partners. Bring your own book (or the library will find one for you) and read to a furry friend. Registration is required. Space is limited. Register online or by calling 330-744-8636 and ask for the Austintown library. This event is for school-age children on April 9 at 11 a.m.

Take a guess

Guess the number of items in the jar. Closest guess wins a small prize. This event is for the family at the Austintown library during library hours in April.

Lego my library

Meet and enjoy creating Lego designs. Legos will be provided. This event is for children ages 6 and up at the Austintown library at 6 p.m. on April 6 and at 11 a.m. on April 16.

Grab and go craft

Make a craft to take home. This event is available during Austintown library hours. Children of all ages are welcome.

Gotta move story time

This event is for children ages 2-5 who are accompanied by a caregiver. Join the 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, sing and dance and talk and play. Come to the Austintown library on April 14 and 21 at 10 p.m.

Fitness fun story time

Join the library for stories and activities selected from the Eat, Play, Grow program. Good fun and good nutrition. Prizes and snacks will be given. This event is for children ages 2-5 and is sponsored by the Mahoning Valley Kids Coalition. Come to the Austintown library on April 7 at 10 a.m.

Earth Day party

Join the Austintown library in celebration of Earth Day. Enjoy “Lorax” themed activities, snacks and create a recycled craft to take home. Children of all ages are welcome on April 9 at 1 p.m.

Tales and Talk for 2’s and 3’s

Join the library 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. This event is hosted by the Austintown library at 10 a.m. Wednesdays in April.

Bonding with babies and books

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. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This event will be hosted by the Austintown library at 10 a.m. Tuesdays in April.

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. This event is hosted by the Austintown library at 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays in April.

Baby brilliant playtime

Read a story and have fun with developmentally appropriate games and activities that you can do with your child to help them get ready for Kindergarten. This event is for 2-6 year-olds. All children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. This event will be hosted by the Austintown library on April 28 at 10 a.m.

Join a Relay for Life team

If you are interested in joining a team, visit the Relay for Life website at http://relayforlife.org/austintown. Attend one of the up-coming meetings at the American Cancer Society office in Canfield. Meeting dates are April 21 and May 26.

Fundraising from the trunk

A “Cure in your Trunk Sale” will be hosted on April 23 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Highway Tabernacle Church Parking Lot. This is a fun way for Relay for Life teams to raise money. This fundraiser is open to teams and any vendors that would like to attend. Spaces for this fundraiser are a donation of $10. Rain or shine – no refunds. If you are interested, email kellyjohwp@gmail.com.

Quarter Auction hosted in Austintown

The second annual Quarter Auction will be April 2. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the auction starts at 7 p.m. Last year, this event raised more than $10,000. For information, contact Amy Hughes, Relay for Life Co-Lead, at amy@ydcpa.com.

Austintown Relay for Life

On June 4, Austintown will host its annual Relay For Life event at the Austintown Elementary School parking lot from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. During those 12 hours participants will be celebrating, remembering and fighting back against cancer. Opening ceremonies will be followed immediately by a survivor lap. Lunch will be provided for survivors and caregivers. The event will include a variety of activities. Help the community reach the fundraising goal of $90,000.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Festival 5k run

The Immaculate Heat of Mary Festival 5k has been an annual event in the Youngstown area for over thirty years. The event will take place on June 9 at 7 p.m. Entry fees are $13 in advance and $15 on race day. In order to receive a shirt, mail in advance entry fee by May 22. Registration for the event will begin at 5 p.m. in front of the entrance to the school. Refreshments will be served to runners. Proceeding the adult run will be a free children’s run for sixth-grade and under. All children must be registered and have their form signed by a parent or legal guardian who must be present at the time of the race. Register online at https://runsignp.com/Race/OH/Austintown/IHMFestival5K or call Bob at 330-360-4876 for details.

West Side Cats in need of volunteers

West Side Cats, located at 2217 Mahoning Ave., is in need of volunteers for different duties throughout their shelter including cleaning, laundry and transporting cats to and from veterinary offices. The program is also in need of a volunteer grant writer well-versed in the entire grant-writing process. West Side Cats is an all volunteer 501 (3)(c) shelter. Call Marie at 330-519-5002 for details, or look online at www.WestSideCats.org or on their Facebook page.

Gathering Place event to be hosted by Lord of Life Church

On April 11, the Lord of Life Church, located at 550 N. Broad St., will host a Gathering Place event at 11 a.m. The program will include a speaker from the Canfield Police Department and lunch will be provided by the Woodlands. This event is a free community outreach social program offered to all senior citizens. Contact Bernadette Beler at 330-533-6045 for more information, or call the church at 330-533-3531.

Sprout Club meeting

Join the Sprout Club at Fellows Riverside Gardens this spring to learn about the amazing world of plants with topics that include: pizza plants, moss pets and herbs. Each class will include an activity and snack. Attend all three classes and receive a plant-related prize. Classes will be from 1-2 p.m. on April 21 and May 19. Register by March 15. The series costs $15 and individual classes are $7.

Starry night event

Come to the MetroParks Farm on April 2 to view the beauty of the night sky through high powered telescopes with the Mahoning Valley Astronomical Society. The time is to be determined. More details will be available in April’s calendar.

Yoga basics course offered at Fellows Riverside Gardens

Choose Sunday mornings or Tuesday evenings for this relaxing eight week yoga course. The cost is $80. Sunday classes will be March 20 through May 8 at 9 a.m., Tuesday classes will be through May 10 at 6 p.m.

T’ai chi for beginners at Fellows Riverside Gardens

Learn this art of energy balancing, coordination, flexibilty and leg strength during this 10 week course. The cost is $100. Classes will be Thursday nights through May 12 at 12 p.m.

Austintown Local School district announces open enrollment 2016-2017

The Austintown Local School district will have statewide open enrollment for the 2016-2017 school year. Applications will be accepted for the students in grades kindergarten through ninth-grade, and they can be downloaded on the Austintown Local Schools website beginning on March 4. In order to be accepted for open enrollment, completed applications must be submitted online. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Any students living in the state of Ohio and entering grades kindergarten through ninth are eligible. One application must be completed for each student. Call the registration office if any additional information is needed at 330-797-3900, ext. 1516.

Cha-cha dance classes at Pioneer Pavilion

Learn the steps to this fun and versatile Latin dance. This is a paired dance, but everyone learns together. No partner is necessary. Beginners are welcome and encouraged. This class is led by dance expert Lynda McPhail on April 5 at 6 p.m. The cost is $5 per class. Call the Ford Nature Center for details.

Rumba dance classes at Pioneer Pavilion

Come out and learn the Latin dance of love. This easy-to-follow dance is paired, but everyone learns together. No partner is necessary. Beginners are welcomed and encouraged. This class is led by dance expert Lynda McPhail on April 5 at 7 p.m. The cost is $5 per class. Call the Ford Nature Center for details.

Advanced Master Gardener series

This series, led by Ellen Speicher, will focus on pruning, plant names and fall gardening. The event will be hosted by Fellows Riverside Gardens on June 11 and Aug. 13 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The deadline for registration is March 17. The series costs $42 and individual classes are $16.

Orchid art exhibit

Jamie Kirkell’s silk paintings bring a fun, fresh perspective to the study of the orchid and the iris. Come see the art in the Weller Gallery at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The exhibit will be open until April 10.

America’s Schoolmaster exhibit

The Early Days of William Holmes McGuffey will be on display in the Melnick Museum at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Learn more about the early days of McGuffey and his boyhood homestead, located in Coitsville and now known as the McGuffey Wildlife Preserve. The exhibit will be open though January 2017.

Fundraiser to take place for American Cancer Society

The Pink Ribbon Golf Classic committee will be hosting two events in April benefiting the American Cancer Society. On April 13, a golf clinic will take place at Creekside Golf Dome in Girard from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Participants will receive instruction and practice in driving, chipping and putting. The cost is $25 per person. On April 24, “high tea” will be served at Piccadilly Parlor in Canfield at 11 a.m. A variety of teas and finger food will be served in a delightful Victorian atmosphere (wearing hats and gloves is optional). The cost is $25 per person. For further information and registration, contact Ginny at 330-219-9092 or Nancy at 330-272-5794.