Austintown Community Briefs

Free breakfast event

There will be a free pancake, sausage and egg breakfast on April 9 from 9-11 a.m. at Smith Corners United Methodist Church, located at 3000 S. Canfield Niles Road (on the corner of Kirk Road and State Route 46) in Austintown. Donations will be accepted, and proceeds will go toward World Service Projects.

TQGIBT hosts a thread painting workshop

Make a handmade greeting card using thread painting. It’s a special Quilt Happening on April 9 at Fair Park in Canfield, hosted by That Quilt Group I Belong To. Kathy Wolfe will teach this unique workshop from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Doors open at 9 a.m. The cost for TQGIBT members is just $15 – non-members is $25 – and lunch is provided. All local stitchers are invited to attend and learn more about this creative art form. You’ll need to bring a few supplies, including a piece of fabric at least 6-1/4 inches wide by 5-1/4 inches tall (preferably one with a large floral or geometric design print), a piece of batting that is 5 inches wide by 3-3/4 inches tall, a permanent glue stick (not washable), a piece of cardstock 6-1/2 inches wide by 5 inches tall and variegated threads to match your fabric. For more information and to reserve your seat, call Mary Durkin at 330-533-2375 or 330-207-8613 (cell).

Fitch Academic Team qualifies for National Tournament

The Austintown Fitch Academic Team won its way right in to the national tournament in Dallas, Texas. The 2016 National Academic Quiz Tournament (NAQT) for the High School National Championship will take place on May 28 and 29 with 256 teams competing. Out of 31 teams in the league, Austintown placed fourth in varsity and second in junior varsity. The team and advisor, Valerie Baiss, would like to thank alumnus Sierra DuBois for her invaluable assistance.

Getting a restful night’s sleep seminar

The Ohio Naturopathic Wellness Center in Boardman will be hosting a free natural health seminar titled ”Getting a Restful Night’s Sleep” on April 14 at 6:30 p.m. Join Dr. Ted Suzelis, ND and Valentina Khoury Dubasic ND, LAc as they discuss the different causes of the most common sleep problems and will walk you through how to overcome your sleep issues. They will be covering the issues of sleep hygiene, diet and exercise, neurotransmitter and hormonal imbalances and genetic issues that may need to be addressed to help you get a restful night of sleep. The seminar will be hosted at the center at 755 Boardman-Canfield Road, Suite D3, in Boardman (Southbridge West Complex). For more information or to reserve your seat, call 330-729-1350 or go to OhioND.com. This event is free and RSVP is required.

Mercy Health presents free colorectal cancer program and dinner

Mercy Health Youngstown, formerly Humility of Mary Health Partners, will host a presentation on colorectal cancer (the second leading cause of death in the United States) on April 21 at Holiday Inn Boardman. David J. Dunch, MD, a board-certified colon/rectal surgeon, will be the featured speaker. He will discuss the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer, who should be screened and when, and how to reduce your risk. The free presentation will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Boardman, locaed at 7410 South Ave. Dinner will be provided along with dessert from Yellow Brick Place. Doors will open at 5 p.m. Registration is required. Call 330-480-3183 to register or for more information.

Event raises funds for Habitat for Humanity

The Youngstown Columbiana Association of Realtors is inviting the public to a Reverse Raffle and Dinner fundraiser that will benefit Habitat for Humanity of Mahoning Valley. The event will take place on April 28 at The Embassy, located at 5030 Youngstown Poland Road in Boardman. The evening will get underway with cocktails at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and then the drawing for the $4,000 grand prize. Tickets are $100 for dinner and a raffle ticket, and $50 for each additional dinner. Only 150 raffle tickets will be sold. Entertainment will be provided by Steve Fazzini, and there will also be a Chinese auction and side board. RSVPs are requested no later than April 14 to jessica@ycar.org or 330-788-7026, ext. 6.

Niles Friendly Squares to host dance

The Niles Friendly Squares will host its monthly dance on April 9, from 7:30-10:00 p.m. at the Niles Senior SCOPE Center, located at 14 E. State St. in Niles. For additional information, call Gene Hammond at 330-534-4426 or 330-506-3370.

American Business Women’s Association to host meeting

The Mill Creek Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will host a meeting April 12 at A La Cart beginning at 6 p.m. The guest speaker will be Kristin Bodendorfer of Poland who will speak about DIVA Donations and provide details on other tenants at the Old School Marketplace in North Lima. Members and guests are asked to bring any formal dresses, accessories and dress shoes to the meeting that they wish to donate. On the menu is southern baked chicken, eggplant parmesan, sand trap potatoes, Italian vegetable blend, tossed salad, roll and butter, coffee and tea and chocolate delite for dessert. The cost is $18. Guests and members must get their reservations in no later than April 7 by calling either Marilyn Abramski at 330-726-2527 or Jackie Fischio at 330-788-6634.

Yearly basket auction

The Tri-Gold Prime-Time Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association is sponsoring its yearly basket auction. This event will be hosted on April 23 at Christ Our Savior (St. Nicholas Church) in the Great Hall. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m. There will be a drawing at 3 p.m. The $5 admission includes a full sheet of raffle tickets and door prize entry. Free light refreshments and cash door prizes are available. The first prize winner will receive $100 and the second prize winner will receive $50. A special raffle, cash hat raffle and a 50/50 raffle will also be featured. All proceeds go to the Tri-Gold Chapter’s education program.

Knitting guild to meet

The Western Reserve Knitting Guild will meet on April 12 at 7 p.m. at the Rotary Community Building in Fair Park in Canfield. Kay Thompson will present a program on knitting with two colors. Members participating in the “Spring Clean” exchange are to bring their two knitted cleaning items in a paper bag. Tickets for the spring brunch on April 30 are $5 for members and $7 for guests. Tickets can be purchased at the April meeting or by mail (will-call pickup at the door) by sending a check to Jen Kendall, P.O. Box 14144, Poland, OH 44514. Tickets purchase deadline is April 20 (check payable to WRKG). Anyone interested in membership or donating yarn for charity work can contact wrkg.ohio@gmail.com.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 9.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 Walk

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.

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. Call 330-797-3919 for details, deadline fo registration has passed.

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 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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. The deadline for registration has passed.

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.

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 has passed.

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.