Poland Community Briefs

Women’s self-defense and self-protection seminars

There will be women’s self-defense and self-protection seminars for those who are ages 18 and older (children may attend with adult) on April, 15 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and April 16 from 1:30–2:30 p.m. at Master Park Martial Arts Center, located at 212 Boardman-Canfield Road in Boardman, instructed by Grand Master Park. To register, email MasterPark@MasterPark.com with the subject stating “Self-defense Seminar” and the date or call 330-965-9000. The seminar is limited to 20 participants and the cost to attend is $10 per person per class. All the fees will be donated to “Boardman Park Children’s Playground Improvement Project.” Master Park, president and head grandmaster of Master Park Martial Arts International, has been training in Oriental Martial Arts for more than 50 years and has been instructing men, women, children, military, police, many sports teams and companies in a variety of Oriental Martial Arts for more than 31 years in this community since he came from Korea. Master Park is one of leading grandmasters in the world and he has trained various true Oriental martial arts, Hapkiyudo: the best self-defense: grappling, punching, kicking, joint locks, Judo, Jujitsu, Taekwondo, Karate, Hapkido, Aikido and other martial arts. You can find more information by visiting www.MasterPark.com.

Holy Family Seniors to meet on April 18

The Holy Family Seniors Club will meet on April 18 at Holy Family Parish, located at 2729 Center Road in Poland. The meeting begins at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch, Bingo and cards. If you have questions or need additional information, contact Ruth Burns 330-757-1334 or Laurie Fox 330-536-8850.

Historical Society hosts April meeting

The Poland Historical Society’s April meeting will take place on April 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Little Red Schoolhouse, located at 4515 Center Road (State Route 224 and Struthers Road intersection) in Poland Township. A presentation about the history of the Blackburn Home at 7:30 p.m. will be by Connie Daugherty, Program Coordinator. The Blackburn Home is a retirement home located in Poland Village. The membership drive for 2016 is in full swing. Annual membership dues are $10 per person. Of course, donations are always welcome. The group relies on membership dues and donations to continue providing educational programs about Poland’s history and to maintain the Little Red Schoolhouse Museum. Send checks made payable to Poland Historical Society to P.O. 5052, Poland, Ohio 44514. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number and email address with your check.

Books, purses and jewelry on sale at church

The UMW of Poland United Methodist Church, located at 1940 Boardman-Poland Road in Poland, will be having its “Books, Bags and Bling Sale” on April 23 from 9 a.m. until noon. There will be books, purses and jewelry. Some things will have prices, many will be a donation.

Community Cup season begins with Kick-Off Breakfast

The 27th annual Youngstown Area Community Cup season begins with a kick-off breakfast on April 19 at 7:30 a.m. in the Youth Lobby at the Central branch of the Youngstown YMCA. Interested companies and organizations are invited to attend the breakfast to learn about program changes and benefits of participation. There is no charge for the breakfast. Reservations are required. For more information, contact the Community Cup office at 330-742-4794 or cup@youngstownymca.org. The Community Cup is a program of the Youngstown YMCA that has involved more than 80 businesses and organizations and thousands of employees participating in 18 athletic events. The Community Cup aims to create an awareness of the importance of physical fitness for individuals and participating companies. Additionally, the program creates an attitude of teamwork and pride within each sponsoring organization and promotes community spirit. The 2016 Community Cup will take place on Sept. 10, with preliminary events to take place the weekends of Aug. 12-13 and Aug. 26-28.

Youngstown Saxon Club to host dinner

The Youngstown Saxon Club, located at 710 S. Meridian Road, will host its next pork-kraut dinner on April 17 from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. This will be the club’s last dinner until September. The price of $9.50 (children $5) includes dessert and coffee, tea or soda. The public is welcome and take-outs will be available.

First annual West Side Cats Father’s Day raffle

West Side cats will be hosting a Father’s Day raffle featuring a 48 inch Insignia LED TV. The drawing will be on June 18, and proceeds will be used for the group’s spay and neuter program. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5. You can purchase your tickets beginning next week through any volunteer or at the shelter. West Side Cats is located at 2217 Mahoning Avenue in Youngstown. Call 330-792-4228 for details.

MCCTC opens Summer Camp registration

The Mahoning County Career and Technical Center is giving students the chance to explore new careers this summer with its annual Summer Camp on June 20-22. This year’s camp offers students the opportunity to learn more about exciting career fields through fun, hands-on projects. Programs offered this year are Exercise Science, Culinary, Cosmetology, Mechanical Engineering, Truck and Diesel Mechanics and Welding and Auto Technology. MCCTC Summer Camp takes place every summer and is open to students in grades 6-8. For more information or to register a child, visit www.mahoningctc.com.

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. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Join the Poland library on Wednesdays in May at 10 a.m.

Library closings

All libraries in the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County system will be closed on May 8, May 29 and May 30.

Tales and talk for 2’s and 3’s

Join the Poland library on Thursdays in May at 10:30 a.m. for developmentally appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger plays and other activities that will help your child (2-3 year-olds) become a successful reader. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

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.

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, talk and play. Go to the Poland library on May 23 at 6:30 p.m. for this event.

Lego my library

Meet and enjoy creating Lego designs. Legos will be provided. This event is for children ages 6 and up at the Poland library on May 24 at 6 p.m.

Listen and Lego

Listen to a story and then have fun building with Legos. Legos will be provided. This event is for ages 4-7 at the Poland library on May 12 at 1 p.m.

Fun with numbers

Have fun exploring numbers with stories, songs, a craft and more. This event is for children ages 3-5 at the Poland library on May 4 at 6 p.m.

Spring painting party

Create your very own painting as you follow along step-by-step with the library’s presenter. Snacks will be provided. Space is limited and registration is required. Call 330-744-8636 and ask for the Poland library to register. This event will be hosted on May 2 at 6 p.m. for children in grades K-4.

Trim a tree for May

Decorate an ornament for the library’s all-seasons tree. Open to children of all ages throughout the month of May at the Poland library

Spring painting party for grades 5-12

Create your very own painting as you follow along step-by-step with the library’s presenter. Snacks will be provided. Space is limited and registration is required. Call 330-744-8636 and ask for the Poland library to register. This event is for grades 5-12 at the Poland library on May 16 at 6 p.m.

Frosted

Want to learn how to decorate cupcakes like a pro? Here’s your chance to experiment with different frosting tips and learn great decorating techniques. You’ll be amazed at what you can create. Remember to bring a container if you’d like to take your finished goodies with you. Space is limited, so registration is required. Call 330-744-8636. This event is for teens and adults at the Poland library on May 5 at 6 p.m.

GoT bleach t-shirt

Calling all “Game of Thrones” fans. Fun is coming...to the library. Bring in your own colored t-shirt and join the library in creating a bleach shirt celebrating the release of the sixth season of the show. Registration is required and space is limited, so don’t miss out. Call 330-744-8636. This event is for teens and adults at the Canfield library on May 11 at 6:30 p.m.

Color your world

Join the Poland library on May 11 at 7 p.m. for a relaxing evening of adult coloring. Coloring sheets and materials will be provided or you’re welcome to bring your own. Colorful light refreshments will be served. This event is for teens and adults.

Get connected with digital media

Would you like to learn how to download free eBooks, audiobooks, movies, TV shows, music, complete issues of magazines and more to your computer and mobile devices? Call 330-744-8636 to register. This event is for teens and adults at the Poland library on May 7 at 10 a.m.

Rummage Sale

Struthers Parkside Church will be hosting a Rummage Sale on April 16 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at 110 Poland Ave. in Struthers. There will be a variety of items such as toys, books, household items, holiday decor and more. There is something for everyone. Speciality items, such as candy and scarves, will also be on sale. Lunch and baked goods will be sold, and the event will feature a basket raffle. Proceeds from the sale will be used for church repairs and missions.

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 requested no later than April 14 to jessica@ycar.org or 330-788-7026, ext. 6.

Yearly basket auction

The Tri-Gold Prime-Time Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association is sponsoring its yearly basket auction. The event will be 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.

Fashion show to benefit cancer wellness center

Yellow Brick Place invites the community to its 2016 Fashion Show and Luncheon. This event will be hosted on April 17 at 12 p.m. at the Antone’s Banquet Centre, located at 8578 Market Street in Boardman. In addition to the fashion show, there will also be a basket raffle, 50-50 draw and a variety of vendor displays. Proceeds from this event will be used to support Yellow Brick Place, Poland’s cancer wellness center. The cost is $30. Doors open at 11 a.m. to provide you time to get raffle tickets and visit the vendors prior to lunch. For more information, contact 234-228-9550 or 234-228-9898.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Treasures of the Trunk sale offers vendor spaces

The Poland Lions Treasures of the Trunk sale will take place on June 11 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the Poland Seminary High School parking lot. Spaces are currently available to vendors wishing to participate in the event. The cost for registration is $10 per one parking space with payment postmarked before May 1 and $15 per space after May 1. No hot food, soft drink or raffle drawing vendors will be accepted. There is a limit of 100 spaces and they are available on a first come, first served basis. After your registration payment is received, you will be notified of your confirmed space. Vendors may arrive after 7:30 a.m. and must be in their assigned space by 8:30 a.m. No refunds will be given for any reason and the event will continue, rain or shine. Proceeds of the event will go to benefit the Poland Lions Scholarship fund. If there are any questions, call Judy at 330-360-3641 or Lori at 330-506-9611.

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.”

Half-price sale at library book store

The Friends of PLYMC will be having a half-price sale on all gardening, religion, crafts and paperback romances displayed during bookstore hours in April.

Yoga classes at the library

Friends of PLYMC is sponsoring a Yoga Class every Wednesday in April at the Poland library in the meeting room. Pay as you attend, $10 per session. Class is from 5-6 p.m. For more information, contact the development office at 330-740-6086. This event is for adults.

“Appy hour”

What’s an app? What apps are right for you? Learn all about popular apps for smartphones and mobile devices. See a variety of apps that will help you connect to your library, find a good place to eat, keep you entertained in a long grocery line, find a great new recipe or find great music to listen to on your walk. Registration is recommended, and can be made by calling 330-744-8636 and asking for the Poland library. This event is for teens and adults hosted at the Poland library on April 18 at 6 p.m.

Mother’s Day craft night

Mother’s Day is coming up and you can join the Poland library to make a special gift to give to Mom or another special woman in your life. All materials are provided. Call 330-744-8636 or stop by Poland librarians’ desk to register. This event is open to students grades 3 and up on April 26 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 will provide. Three winners will be chosen from entries throughout the county and awarded cash prizes. Talk to a librarian for details. This event is for teens in grades 7-12 during open hours throughout April.

Trim a tree for April

Decorate an ornament for our all-seasons tree. For children of all ages during library hours in April at the Poland library.

Shakespeare Day

Stop by and celebrate the birthday of William Shakespeare while learning about the famous bard. There will be interactive displays and hands-on activities, as well as fun for all ages during Poland library hours on April 23.

Read to Roxie, registered therapy dog

Relax and read to Roxie, a registered therapy dog with Therapy Dogs International. Each child will be given a 15 minute reading session while spots remain. Call 330-744-8636 and ask for the Poland library to register. This event is for grades 1-4 on April 27 at 6 p.m.

“Poet-tree” Poland

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Poland library. Find your inner poet and write a poem on a leaf to hang on the tree. This event is for the whole family during library hours.

Lego my library

Meet and enjoy creating Lego designs. Legos will be provided. This event is for children ages 6 and up at the Poland library at 6 p.m. on April 19.

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 Poland library on April 25 at 6:30 p.m.

Build-a-poem

Why just write a poem when you can build one? Use “wordy” Duplo blocks to build a 3-D poem. Pictures of you and your creation will be displayed in the Poland library. This event is for children in grades K-6 during library hours in April.

Smart money fun time for 4’s and 5’s

Join the Poland library for developmentally appropriate stories and activities that will help your child learn about money. Each child will receive a piggy bank. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Come out April 21 at 6 p.m.

Evening with Scott Mann

Presentation and book signing with Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) D. Scott Mann (Special Forces), author of “Game Changers – Going Local to Defeat Violent Extremists.” This event features a raffle and books for sale. Presented by the library’s Literary Society and sponsored by Clarence and Rose Marie Smith. For more information, contact the development office at 330-740-6086. This event is for adults at the Poland library on April 20 at 7 p.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. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This event will be hosted by the Poland library at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays in April.

Poland Lions to have “Treasures of the Trunk” sale

Save the date for the Poland Lions Club “Treasures of the Trunk” sale on June 11 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Poland Seminary High School stadium parking lot.

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. Registration has passed.

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.

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.

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.

Poland Players plan spring musical

Poland Players are preparing for a fun-filled spring musical this year, with a timeless story told in a timely way. Cyrano De BurgerShack is a pop musical by Jeremy Desmon. It is the modern retelling of Cyrano De Bergerac by Edmond Rostand with singing, dancing and even sword play. The songs are audience-pleasers, including “Firework,” “Call Me Maybe,” “Eternal Flame,” “We got the Beat” and “Crazy For You.” More than 80 Poland Seminary High School Students will be singing, acting, dancing and preparing the sets for this production. Performances will be April 17 at 2 p.m. Show tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children and seniors.

Poland Lions to have “Treasures of the Trunk” sale

Save the date for the Poland Lions Club “Treasures of the Trunk” sale on June 11 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Poland Seminary High School stadium parking lot.

Two fundraisers 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 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.

East High class of 1966 reunion

The East High class of 1966 has begun making plans for their 50th reunion. They are looking for up-to-date addresses from all classmates who would like to attend. The event is planned for Sept. 2 from 6-10 p.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Hall on the East Side. There will be a buffet dinner and music provided by a DJ. The cost to attend is $40 per person. For details and information or to provide a current address, call Janine Johnson (Ross) at 330-716-1543 or Marie Mamonis (Macchio) at 330-533-1633.

Poland Relay for life to by May 21 and 22

The 2016 Poland Relay for Life will take place May 21 and 22 from 2 p.m. until 10 a.m. at the Poland Seminary High School Stadium. This years’ events include the Kids’ Relay Party, starting at 2:30 p.m., with free activities, games, entertainment and a “Celebrating More Birthdays” cake. The second Miss Relay Pageant will begin at 4 p.m. for girls ages 0–18 years-old. New this year is a $500 scholarship for pageant contestants ages 16–18. The Buddy Marshall Memorial Scholarship will be awarded at the Poland Relay for Life event. At 6 p.m., the Survivor Ceremony begins with the crowning of the Survivor King and Queen. At 7 p.m., the complimentary Survivor Dinner will be served for all survivors and their care givers. The Luminaria ceremony takes place at 10 p.m., and games and contests will go on throughout the night. For more information about the 2016 Miss Relay Pageant and Scholarship, call 330-883-7541 after 5 p.m. or message the Poland Relay for Life Facebook page. The pageant entry deadline is March 1.