Austintown Community Briefs

Smith Corners United Methodist Church Smart Choice Food Program

The Smart Choice Food Program is a program sponsored by Smith Corners United Methodist Church that provides special value boxes of meats, pastas or children’s meals. There are also “on the go” meals available for those who have no time to cook full meals. These meals are diabetic-friendly. The food can be ordered online at www.smartchoicefoods.com, where a credit card may be used, or by calling the church at 330 799-9390 where cash or money orders may be used for payment.

Free Supper at the Corner

Smith Corners United Methodist Church, located at 3000 S. Canfield Niles Road, will host a free “Supper at the Corner” event on March 17 from 4:30-6 p.m. This event is hosted monthly and donations are accepted to continue its success.

Free pancake, sausage and egg breakfast

On March 12, Smith Corners United Methodist Church, located at 3000 S. Canfield Niles Road, will host a free pancake, sausage and egg breakfast from 9-11 a.m. Donations will be accepted and proceeds will benefit World Service Projects.

Knights of Columbus 3930 to host pancake breakfast

Immaculate Heart of Mary Knights of Columbus 3930 is sponsoring a pancake and sausage breakfast on March 6 from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the parish center, located at 4500 Norquest Boulevard in Austintown. The menu will consist of pancakes, sausages and beverages. The cost for adults is $5 and $3 for children 12 and under. There will also be a 50/50 raffle.

Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League to host meeting

The next meeting of the Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League will take place on March 7 at Glenellen Assisted Living, located at 9661 Market Street, at 7 p.m. Members will be finalizing plans for the upcoming Farewell to Downton Abbey Tea. Members are to bring socks for veterans to fill Blessing Bags. Each month a different item will be collected and filled bags will be given to the Veterans in November. Members can wear green in recognition of St. Patrick’s Day and to welcome spring. Hostesses for the meeting are Debbie Chop, Yvonne Ford and Cheryl Smaldino, who will be sharing food from their heritage. The Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League is open to all women ages 18 and up that are residing in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties. Women interested in joining can contact Membership Chairwoman Linda Crish at 330-727-9321 for more information about the League.

Knitting guild to have March meeting

The Western Reserve Knitting Guild will meet on March 8 at 7 p.m. at the Rotary Community Building in Fair Park in Canfield. This month’s program will be presented by Jacquie Thomas and Knit-Wit Knits of Salem will host a trunk show for the members and their guests. To contact the group about joining or donating yarn for their charity work, email wrkg.ohio@gmail.com.

The Boardman-Poland Junior Women’s League hosts event

The Boardman-Poland Junior Women’s League will host a Farewell to Downton Abbey Tea, which will benefit The Dorothy Day House. The Downton Abbey Tea will take place at The Poland Presbyterian Church, located at 2 Poland Manor Drive, on March 19 at 1 p.m. The cost is $20 per person. The tea will include lunch, special herbal teas, a basket auction, a contest for the best costume from the Downton era and more. Kathy Richert will present “Downton Abbey Visits Biltmore Estate.” For tickets, donations, or more information, contact Sperry Rongone at 330-770-3880 or srongone@gmail.com. A limited amount of tickets will be available. A portion of the proceeds will be given to PBS.

Holiday event to be hosted by St. Patrick’s Church

The Annual Order of Hibernians Joseph T. Nalley Division Six will be hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Mass and luncheon honoring the 2016 AOH Irish Man of the Year, James P. Tressel, and the 2016 LAOH Irish Woman of the Year, Martha Zarlenga, on March 17 at St. Patrick’s Church. The mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. and is open to the public. Tickets are required for the luncheon at the cost of $20 each. Tickets are available for pre-sale by contacting Danny O’Connell at 330-518-4450 or Daniel.oconnell@aoh.com. A limited amount of tickets will be available at the door. The menu consists of a traditional corned beef and cabbage lunch prepared by Chef Jeffrey Chrystal.

Relief from allergies naturally seminar

The Ohio Naturopathic Wellness Center in Boardman will be hosting a free natural health seminar titled, ”Relief from Allergies Naturally” on March 10 at 6:30 p.m. Join Dr. Ted Suzelis, ND and Valentina Khoury Dubasic ND, LAc on a discussion of allergies of all types, including what causes them, what health problems can be caused by allergies and how to get relief from your allergy-related problems naturally. The seminar will take place at the center, located 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. Admission is free, but RSVP is required.

State Tested Nurse Aide open house at MCCTC

If you are interested in becoming a State Tested Nurse Aide but need the training, the Adult Career Center MCCTC is the right place for you. The Adult Division is partnering with Park Center Health Care and Rehabilitation Center to put on an open house at MCCTC, located at 7300 N. Palmyra Road, on March 9 at 6 p.m. MCCTC will be providing the training and Park Center Health Care will be interviewing and hiring. Call 330-729-4100 to register and ask questions.

Saxon Club hosts annual goulash dinner

The Youngstown Saxon Club will host its 40th annual Presidents’ Benefit Goulash Dinner on March 19 in the Saxon Club ballroom. The event is open to the public. The dinner features cubed roast beef simmered in onions and herbs, and served with quartered red skin potatoes, along with tossed salad, bread and butter, and coffee or tea with German strudel for dessert. The doors will open at 6 p.m. with all bar drinks free until 6:30 p.m. and a cash bar thereafter. Soft drinks will be free all evening. Dinner is served family style beginning at 6:30 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by the Youngstown Saxon Culture Brass Band. The donation is $15 per person and reservations must be made by March 13. For reservations, call the Saxon office at 330-792-7973.

“Whooo’s” that?

Children will learn all about owls, the silent flyers, through a story, feathered craft and activities. It’s going to be a hoot. Children (3-6 year-olds) are welcome to the Pioneer Pavilion on March 10 at 10 a.m. Register and pay at Ford Nature Center by March 8. Residents will pay $4 and non-residents will pay $6.

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 March 17, April 21 and May 19. Register by March 15. The series costs $15 and individual classes are $7.

Spring into fun

Children, ages 6- and 7-years-old, are welcome to the Ford Nature Center March 30 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Spring into fun and look for signs of the season while discovering nature. Hikes, scavenger hunts, crafts and games are all part of the fun. Bring a lunch and dress for the weather. Register and pay March 26. The event will be $15 for residents and $20 for non-residents.

Spring into nature

Children (8-12 year-olds) are welcome to the Ford Nature Center March 31 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. to spring into nature and explore the new season. Go on a hike, look for signs of spring, make a craft, play games and much more. Bring a lunch and dress for the weather. Register and and pay by March 26. The event will be $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents.

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.

Struthers winter concert series

Come to the Yellow Creek Lodge on March 10 at 7 p.m. to enjoy an evening of entertainment with the Rex Taneri Orchestra.

Woodcock Watch

Come to McGuffey Wildlife Preserve on March 25 at 7:30 p.m. This preserve offers an excellent habitat for an odd-looking bird named the Woodcock. Witness the amazing mating flight of the males. Call the Ford Nature Center for details about this easy .5 mile walk.

Audubon Society of the Mahoning Valley talk

Jeff Harvey, President of the Audubon Society/Mahoning Valley, will discuss some of the common, uncommon and rare birds of our state. Come to the MetroParks Farm March 22 at 7 p.m.

Birding the Sanctuary

Call the Ford Nature Center to register by March 18 for this event taking place in the Mill Creek Wildlife Sanctuary. Search for birds with Jeff Harvey of Wild Birds Unlimited on March 19 at 8 a.m. Boots are required.

Easter brunch at Fellows Riverside Gardens

Contact the Ford Nature Center at 330-740-7116 to register for this March 27 event.

Sandwich bread 101

Grab an apron and learn to make bread that tastes like grandma’s with Sara Scudier. Join the class at Fellows Riveside Gardens on March 19 from 12-4 p.m. Register and pay by March 17. The cost is $24 (FFRG $20).

From the garden: spring brunch

Join the Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 15 at 6:30 p.m. for brunch. There will be a demonstration and tasting by Chef David Armstrong. Enjoy brunch for dinner with smoothies, asparagus scrambled eggs, pecan wood-smoked bacon, sour cream coffee cake and a sparkling beverage. Register and pay by March 13. Tickets are $36 (FFRG $30).

Volunteer-led recreational hikes

Meet at 9 a.m. on March 9 at Ford Nature Center for a moderate walk of 2-4 miles. Come out March 23 at 9 a.m. for an easy walk of 1-3 miles. Meet at overflow parking lot on West Golf Drive.

Seasons change hike

Enjoy the first day of spring on March 20 at 2 p.m. while looking and listening for signs of the new season and remnants of the old. Starting at the Ford Nature Center, this hike will be a moderate length of 3 miles.

The Awakening Moon hike

Come to the Ford Nature Center and discover why North American Indian tribes referred to this month as “The Awakening Moon.” This walk will be a moderate length of 2 miles and will take place on March 18 at 7 p.m.

Same trail twelve times

Mill Creek Gorge inspired Volney Rogers to establish the park district 125 years ago. Celebrate the Quasquicentennial by hiking the Gorge every month this year. The hike is moderate and a length of 2.5 miles. This month’s hike will be March 13 at 2 p.m. Meet at the Lanterman’s Mill parking lot.

Egg hike

Hike to the MetroPark’s Egg Stravaganza and back with Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist Jim Thornton. Meet at the Lily Pond on March 6 at 2 p.m. for this moderate hike (2 miles) with steep hills.

Maple sap to syrup

This year marks the fourth season of the Rocky Ridge Neighborhood Association’s maple sugar project. Join in on this moderate hike (2.5 miles) to see it in action. Meet at Ford Nature Center on March 5 at 2 p.m.

Ford hunt and hike: cardinals

This year is the MetroPark’s quasquicentennial (125th anniversary). Try to locate 25 hidden cardinals to commemorate this milestone, then go for a hike of your choice. This event will take place at the Ford Nature Center during March hours.

Meditation and mindfulness

Come to the Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 20 at 10:30 a.m. to explore a diversity of mindfulness methods with Karres Cvetkovich. Register and pay by March 18. The cost is $15 and drop-ins will pay $18.

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. Receive a 10 percent discount (cost is $72) if you register by March 5. Sunday classes will be March 20 through May 8 at 9 a.m., Tuesday classes will be March 22 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. Receive a 10 percent discount (cost is $90) if you register by March 5. Classes will be Thursday nights starting March 10 through May 12 at 12 p.m.

Chair to Mat movement

Increase mobility and flexibility for those who find seated floor movement challenging. Accessible to anyone for health, fitness and relaxation. Movement is done seated in chairs and in standing positions. Feel free to drop-in Wednesdays in March at 9 a.m. Each class is $10.

T’ai chi step one in the gardens

Come to Fellows Riverside Gardens Wednesdays in March at 12 p.m. for this class. Warm-ups, breathing and movements will ease stress, improve health and increase vitality. Each class is $10.

Yoga in the gardens

Come to Fellows Riverside Gardens on Tuesdays and Thursdays in March at 9:30 a.m. to enjoy yoga that will help you keep a healthy outlook. Bring a mat and a small blanket. Each class is $12.

Swing dance class offered at Pioneer Pavilion

Come out and have fun learning this easy-to-folow popular dance. No partner? No problem. Swing is a paired dance, but everyone learns together. Beginners are welcomed and encouraged. This event is led by dance expert Lynda McPhail on March 1 at 6 p.m. The cost is $5. Call the Ford Nature Center for details.

Salsa dance class offered at Pioneer Pavilion

Enjoy learning this easy to pick up and fun Latin dance. No partner? No problem. Salsa is a paired dance but everyone learns together. Beginners are welcome and encouraged. This event is led by dance expert Lynda McPhail on March 1 at 7 p.m. The cost is $5. Call the Ford Nature Center for details.

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 March 8, 15, 22, 29 and 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 March 8, 15, 22, 29 and April 5 at 7 p.m. The cost is $5 per class. Call the Ford Nature Center for details.

MetroMutts: St. Patrick’s hike

Join the fun at Pioner Pavilion on March 12 at 11 a.m. for the “wearin’ of the green” and hiking Artist’s Trail along Mill Creek. Dress your hound in a “bit o’ color” to celebrate the day. Enjoy cookies and treats after the hike. MetroMutts members receive a special gift. This moderate hike will be 2 miles long. Share the luck by bringing along an item to donate to Friends of Fido- Mahoning County Dog Pound. The hike is free to all. Refreshments are free to MetroMutt members and are $1 to the public.

Book discussion at Ford Nature Center

Sydney Morning Herald praises the book “The Weather Makers: How Man is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth” by Tim Flannery for “...extraordinary range of argument... vivid imagery... wealth of research, quick wit and richness of detail.” Read the book and join in a discussion to share your thoughts and conclusions at the Ford Nature Center on March 19 at 10:30 a.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.

Dairy Queen Easter events

Bring the children to Dairy Queen for fun Easter activities. Pet the cute “live” bunnies, eat lunch with the Easter Bunny and Curly the Cone, take a free picture with the Easter Bunny and color eggs the “DQ way.” Dairy Queen will also offer free candy filled eggs to the children. Join in the fun from 1-4 p.m. on March 12, at the Austintown Dairy Queen, located at 146 N. Canfield Niles Road, and March 20 at the Cornersburg Dairy Queen, located at 3555 S. Meridian Road.

Free Cone Day at Dairy Queen

Cornersburg Dairy Queen, located at 3555 S. Meridian Road and Austintown Dairy Queen, located at 146 N. Canfield Niles Road, both owned and operated by the Smith family of Canfield, will be hosting a Free Cone Day on March 15 (limit of one per person). This is the seventh year for the event and each guest is humbly asked to consider making a donation to the company’s chosen charity: Akron Children’s Hospital. The Smith family is proud that last year, they donated more than $10,000 to Akron Children’s Hospital on behalf of these Dairy Queen stores.

Woman of the Year dinner to be March 8

The Mill Creek Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will host its annual Woman of the Year dinner at Piccadilly Parlour on the green in Canfield on March 8. The guest speaker will be Barbara Shaffer, Society Features Editor of the Vindicator. During the evening the committee will announce its 2016 Woman of the Year and present her with gifts and plaques. She will be the chapter representative as she attends all functions including the national convention in the fall. Dinner will include cream of broccoli cheddar soup, potato and chive quiche, assorted tea sandwiches and mini desserts, tea, coffee, ice tea and lemonade. The cost is $20 and the public is invited. Call your reservations into Bonnie Pannunzio no later than March 4 at 330-793-2437. The Daffin’s Easter candy will be distributed and committees will form to prepare for the annual basket auction on April 24 at the Ursuline Center on Shields Road.

Spaghetti dinner to benefit the Mickey Schuster scholarship fund

Come to the Bethel Lutheran Church, located at 425 Crestview Drive, fellowship hall for a spaghetti dinner on March 5 from 4-7 p.m. This event will benefit the Mickey Schuster Scholarship Fund. Adult dinners are $8 and dinners are $5 for children under 12. Carry-outs are available. If you have any questions, call the church at 330-758-5745.

YWCA accepting entries for 34th Annual Women Artists: A Celebration! Art Exhibition

The YWCA of Youngstown is accepting entries for its 34th Annual Women Artists: A Celebration! Art Exhibition, which will take place June 18 until July 15 at 25 W. Rayen Ave. The art exhibition showcases works by local, regional and national women artists age 18 and older. The juried show features all media, including paintings, drawings, photographs, fiber, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry and metal work. New this year is a special rate for artists ages 18-25. Also new is an online entry option. Entry forms are available by calling 330-746-6361, ext. 102, or at WomenArtists.ywca.org/2016. An online entry option is also available on the website. Forms are due by March 28. Artists may enter a maximum of five entries. This year’s juror is Dr. Stephanie L. Smith, professor of art history at Youngstown State University. A preview party for the show will take place from 7-9 p.m. on June 17 at the YWCA. Proceeds from the art show will benefit the YWCA Housing Programs.

Free tax preparation for qualifying individuals

The local branches of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County will again provide locations for free tax preparation and electronic filing for seniors and those (at any age) with low to moderate income. The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify. All sites are staffed by volunteers who have been trained and certified by the IRS.

Spring seminar

On March 9, Fellows Riverside Gardens will host a spring seminar from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., sponsored by the Mahoning Valley Landscape and Nursrey Association, MCMP and OSU Extension - Mahoning County. Topics will focus on innovative ideas for the green industry. Call 330-398-7710 or visit www.mvlna.org for details. Entry is $70 to the public, $40 for MVLNA, FFRG and Garden Club members and Master Gardeners.

Orchids of China

Tom Sampliner, noted native flower photographer and native orchid specialist, will present a slideshow tour of his visit to China. Hosted by Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 10 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $8.

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 March 19, 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.

Learn how to spring clean your garden

Join Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 24 at 6:30 p.m. Weeding is a much needed spring clean for your garden. Learn simple ways to keep weeds out of the garden as well as benefits you can get from those “weeds.” Register and pay by March 22. Tickets are $14 for the public, $12 FFRG.

Botanical mornings at Fellows Riverside Gardens

Discover the joy in the blossoming spring at Fellows Riverside Gardens with one of the knowledgeable staff members. Come out on March 25 at 9 a.m. Register and pay the $5 fee by March 23.

Floral drawing workshop

Join Fellows Riverside Gardens March 5, 12 and 19 at 10:30 a.m. for a journey into floral drawing. Learn techniques and problem solving then delve into two projects, one with graphite and one with watercolor. A supply list will be provided. Register by March 1 for the series of classes. The cost is $44 fo the public, $36 FFRG.

Create Stoneware windowsill vase

Lynn Cardwell will be at Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 15 at 5:30 p.m. to help students create a stoneware vase for the windowsill. It will be glazed, fired and ready for pick up in approximately five weeks. Register and pay by March 13. The cost is $34 (FFRG $28).

Design spring flower arrangements

Come to Fellows Riverside Gardens on March 22 at 6:30 p.m. to embrace this spring holiday with colorful floral. Design an arrangement with fresh pink, white and yellow carnations; white, yellow and purple daisies; and baby’s breath with seasonal accents. Register and pay by March 20. The cost is $34 (FFRG $28).

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.

Blood pressure check at the library

The Austintown library will be hosting a blood pressure check by the Salem Area Visiting Nurse Association on March 22 at 11 a.m.

Blood drive by the Mahoning chapter of the American Red Cross

The Austintown library will be hosting a blood drive on March 15 at 1 p.m. Proudly serving the needs of St. Elizabeth Hospital, the American Red Cross will be taking blood donations to help our community. For appointments, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Page Turner’s book club meeting

Love books? Looking for a good read? Hear what others are reading and share your favorite read, or just join the fun. This event is for adults at the Austintown library on March 16 at 6 p.m.

Lego my library

Meet at the Austintown library on March 12 at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to enjoy creating Lego designs. Legos will be provided. This event is for children ages 6 and up.

Gotta move story time

This event is for children ages 2-5 who are accompanied by a caregiver and will include a variety of musical and movement activities that will 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 March 10, 17 and 31 at 10 a.m.

Grab and go craft For March

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

Tales and talk for 2s and 3s

There will be developmentally appropriate books, songs, rhymes, finger plays and other activities to help your child (ages 2-3) become a successful reader at the Austintown library every Wednesday in March at 10 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Bonding with babies and books

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

Playtime at your library

Prepare for Kindergarten through play. 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 on March 24 at 10 a.m. at the Austintown library. This event is for children ages 2-6. All children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.

Socrates Philosophy Caf to meet

If you love philosophy and want to discuss philosophical topics, join the Austintown library for Socrates Philosophy Group on March 21 at 6:30 p.m. This is open to the public and sponsored by the Friends of PLYMC. For more information, contact the development office at 330-740-6086. This event is open to adults.

Friends of the Austintown Library program and meeting

Keith Kaiser, Horticulture Director at Fellows Riverside Gardens in Mill Creek Metro Parks, will be presenting “Are You Ready for Spring?” at the Austintown library on March 28 at 10 a.m. This event is open to adults.

Coupon swap at Austintown Library

Do you have coupons you don’t need or need coupons you don’t have? Adults are welcome to drop in during library hours to stretch shopping dollars by swapping coupons.

Basic Microsoft Excel class to be offered

On March 29 at 6:30 p.m., the Austintown library will host a class to learn the basics of Microsoft Office Excel. This is a beginner’s class, but basic computer skills are required. Space is limited. Call 330-744-8636 to register. This event is for adults.

Chapter Chat book club meeting

Love books? Come to the Chapter Chat book club meeting at the Austintown library on March 28 at 6 p.m. where they will be reading and discussing a book together. Each month will be a new genre. Call the Austintown library at 330-744-8636 to find out this month’s exciting read. This event is open to adults.

Discover social media

Learn about social media, the most popular sites, their uses and how you might benefit from using them on March 21 at 6 p.m. at the Austintown library. This event is open to adults.

Saturday movie matinee

Join the Austintown library for a Saturday movie matinee at 2:30 p.m. on March 12. 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 or G. This event is for the family.

Stamping with Cindy

Learn to create your own handmade cards using stamps, punches and other fun tools. Sign up to create this month’s greeting card with matching envelope and 3-D item. Participation is limited to one session per person each month to accommodate demand and registration is required. Call 330-744-8636 to register. This event is for adults at the Austintown library. Meet March 21 at 10 a.m. or March 22 at 6:30 p.m.

Scrapbooking club meeting

Scrapbook a page and share your scrapbooking ideas on March 11 at 11 a.m. at the Austintown library. Paper and supplies provided. All teens and adults are welcome.

Learn how to make Easter Bunny popcorn balls

On March 25 at 11 a.m., learn to make festive treats at the Austintown library and take one home with you. Register at 330-744-8636. This event is for adults.

Art with Andrea

This art class at the Austintown library will guide you through a monthly project and help you work through your own art. Call 330-744-8636 to register for the event taking place on March 24 at 6:30 p.m. This event is open to adults and teens.

Teen advisory board meeting at the Austintown library

Join the Austintown area TAB (Teen Advisory Board) on March 5 at 3 p.m. to help plan and support teen activities at the library. Meet new people and have fun. Snacks will be provided. This event is for teens in grades 7-12.

Enjoy pixel art

Get creative with pixelated art in the teen department and put it on display for others to enjoy. This event is for students in grades 5-12 at the Austinown library during regular hours in March.

Green and gold party

Get your green on and sham-”rock” out the library with music, food, crafts, games and more on March 14 at 6 p.m. at the Austintown library. This event is open to students in grades 5-12.

Tween Scene movie club

Join the Austintown library for snacks and a craft while the book club discusses some of the coolest movies recently “scene” on the big screen and decide on what to watch next. Tweens ages 8-12 are welcome on March 8 at 6 p.m.

Take a guess

Guess the number of items in the jar. The closest guess wins a small prize. This activity is open to families during Austintown library hours.

St. Patrick’s Day party

Join the Austintown library as they celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Make crafts, enjoy activities and have festive snacks. Children of all ages are welcome to this holiday program on March 9 at 6:30 p.m.

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 every Wednesday in March at 11:30 a.m. at the Austintown library.

Learn how to control gambling habits

This session will highlight warning signs that you or a loved one might be struggling with a gambling addiction, how to protect your finances and resources in the community for help. Presented by Lynn Burkey, National Certified Gambling Counselor, the program will be hosted by the Austintown library on March 17 at 6 p.m. Reservations are needed and can be made by calling 330-744-8636. This event is for adults.

Immaculate Heart of Mary to have Lenten fish dinners

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, located at 4500 Norquest Boulevard in Austintown, will offer Lenten fish dinners from 4-7 p.m. every Friday through March 18. The menu includes fried or baked Haddock or shrimp, coleslaw or applesauce, bread and butter, choice of two sides and dessert. There is also a complimentary pasta and pizza table with the purchase of a dinner. The cost is $11 for adults and $6 for children.

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.

Angels for Animals hosts Reverse Raffle Dinner

Angels for Animals is hosting it 11th annual Reverse Raffle Dinner on March 5 at 6 p.m. at Andrews Hall in Canfield. The event will feature a gourmet dinner prepared by Dr. Mark McMurray, basket raffles and 50/50 silent auctions. Various prizes will be won through out the evening. The grand prize is the final drawing of an estimated $2,000. All proceeds will benefit Angels for Animals. For tickets, call Diane Less at 330 502-5352 or online at angelsforanimlas.org. The cost is $75 per ticket or $25 for the dinner ticket only.

Host an international student

Each year, AFS Intercultural Programs welcomes more than 2,300 international high school students to the United States. These are outstanding young people who were selected in their home countries to study in US high schools and are eager to experience what it’s like to live in America. Sharing daily life with a teenager from another country and culture is a rich and rewarding experience, and is a wonderful way for you and your family to bring more understanding into the world. Local AFS volunteers will support you and your hosted student throughout your experience to help you both receive the most from your time together. You provide a bed and meals for your student, but most importantly, you should be eager and excited to share your life and activities while providing the same kind of care, support and comfort as you would to your own child or family members. AFS welcomes all kinds of families. Host an AFS Exchange Student and build bridges of intercultural understanding. Most families have no idea how much they’ll gain until they say yes. Start the process at www.afsusa.org/host, or call 1-800-AFS-INFO or email hosting@afsusa.org for more information.

Evening with the Easter Bunny

Put a little spring in your step and hop on over to Boardman Park on March 8 or March 9 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and enjoy an evening with the Easter Bunny. Tickets will go on sale starting on Feb. 8 at the park office from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, by calling the park office 330-726-8105, or pay online at www.boardmanpark.com. Tickets are $7 for Boardman residents and $9 for non-residents. Children ages 2 and under are free. The evening includes dinner, arts and crafts, and a family photo with the Easter Bunny. For more information about Boardman Park events visit the park website at www.boardmanpark.com.

Adult 22+ diploma program now within reach for valley residents

There’s new hope for valley residents ages 22 and up who want to earn their high school diploma. The Ohio Department of Education just approved two Mahoning County sites to host the state’s Adult 22+ Diploma program: the Mahoning County High School on Bryn Mawr Avenue, and the Unlimited Classroom located at the Southern Park Mall. Both sites will be hosting adult learning programs after school hours until 5 p.m. Adult 22+ is free to adults age 22 and older who live in Ohio and do not have a diploma or GED. For more information on 22+ or to apply to the local programs, contact Jennifer Merritt at J.Merritt@mahoningesc.org.

Short-term host family opportunites available

Mahoning, Columbiana, Portage and Trumbull County families will have the opportunity to welcome a young person from Japan into their home for one month this year, as part of an international exchange program being offered by the County OSU Extension, 4-H. Statewide, host families are needed for 100 Japanese participants (aged 12-18) and their adult chaperones, who will visit Ohio from July 23 through Aug. 18. Host families provide the exchangees with room and board and a chance to experience daily life in America. The young Japanese visitors belong to the Labo Foundation, an organization which promotes the study of English culture and language in Japan. All types of families are welcome to apply to become hosts, including urban, rural, single-parent, childless and non-4-H families. Those interested should contact Gretchen Kalinay at 330-799-8407 or Gary Reel at 330-533-7712 for an application form or visit http://www.ohio4h.org/youth/international.

St. Brandan Parish to offer fish dinners

There will be fish dinners at St. Brandan Parish Maxwell Hall, located at 144 N. Schenley Ave., March 11 and 18 from 4-7 p.m. The cost is $10 for adults $5 for children under 10-years. The menu will include beer batter, fried, Cajun or baked fish, coleslaw or applesauce, bread and butter, cake and coffee, and your choice of macaroni and cheese, haluski, parsley potatoes or french fries for a side. For takeout orders, call 330-799-3683. There will also be a luncheon special that is takeout only from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. The cost is $6 for a sandwich and side or $10 for dinners.

MCCTC is now accepting applications for 2016-2017

Students interested in attending the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center for the 2016-2017 school year can now apply. The application is available for sophomore students on the school’s website. Current students do not need to reapply. The school offers 23 programs and has a limited number of seats per program. If you are interested in applying, visit the school website at www.mahoningctc.org.

Equestrian Exchange to be March 19

Buckeye Horse Park presents its third annual Equestrian Exchange used and new tack sale from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on March 19 at Austintown Plaza, located at 6000 Mahoning Ave. in Austintown. Vendor space is available, but reservations must be made by March 12. All spaces must be pre-paid by the vendors and there will be no food vendors allowed. No reservations will be taken over the phone. The cost is $15 per space to bring your own 8 foot table or $20 per space for a table and two chairs to be provided to you. Mail check or money order payable to Buckeye Horse Park and send to: Susan DePerro, 6749 Styme Road, Lowellville, OH 44436.