On the same night Ravenna Stadium held a Relay for Life event, with 40 participating teams, 600 participants and about 300 cancer survivors in  attendence. Relay for Life events are very touching and emotional for all who participate.

Berlin Center

As David explained, “This cemetery was established in 1820 and was the burial site for many of the early settlers of this area.  Jacob Cole who fought in the Revolutionary War is one of the more prominent people laid to rest here.  When I was approached with possibility of renovating this hallowed ground for my Eagle Scout project, I did not hesitate at taking on the challenge.  I want to thank all of those individuals and companies that supported this great cause.”

The Olde Dutch Mill Cemetery (also known as the Riverbank Cemetery) is located on the banks of the Mahoning River in a grove of walnut trees behind number 1 green at Olde Dutch Mill Golf Course.  Course owner Ron Birchak commented, “When David approached me about this project, I knew this young man was about to embark on a very special moment in his life.   I introduced Dave to the Lake Milton Browns Backers and they agreed to help finance the project.  Along with their help and a ton of other people and businesses, Dave has helped resurrect an important piece of Lake Milton history.”

Mr. Corll is a senior at Western Reserve High School and will continue his education at ATI Wooster where he will be studying Beef and Swine Production.  According to his scout master Mike Smith of Salem, Ohio, “only 2% of Boy Scouts achieve Eagle Scout status.”  We are sure that with this kind of dedication, David will go on to be quite successful in his chosen profession.

If anyone is interested in visiting the cemetery, stop by Olde Dutch Mill Golf Course in Lake Milton, Ohio. (www.oldedutchmill.com or 330-654-4100)

All 50 participating agencies among 13 counties were given the same tornado scenario in order to assess their collaborative efforts in planning and responding, communicating with each other and sharing supplies, equipment or staff when possible. “Hospitals demonstrated their familiarity with community and statewide partners and reached out to each other to share resources and information, or to find beds for evacuated patients,” said Sarah Short, one of the project’s managers from the Akron Regional Hospital Association. “The use of the Statewide OHTrac Patient Tracking System improved dramatically since its last test, due to training and new help guides. The hospitals entered over 1,000 ‘patients’ into the system and used it successfully for family reunification and situational awareness.”

Functional exercises and mock disaster drills such as this one serve the purpose of testing each hospital or agency’s internal disaster and crisis communication plans. “These exercises serve as a valuable learning tool because they emphasize not only what we are doing well, but also areas where improvements can be made,” said Short. “An outcome report will be distributed to all participating hospitals and agencies which will highlight areas to focus on improving upon for next year.”

This amazing display, organized by the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, reveals the relationship between nature and legend.  Exhibition highlights include “life-size” models of mythical creatures such as a 17-foot-long dragon with a wingspan of over 19 feet; a 9-foot long, 8 ½ -foot-tall armored Pegasus; 10-foot-long unicorn; a 6 ½-foot-tall griffin; an 11-foot-long Roc with large, sharp talons swooping above the heads of visitors with a wingspan of nearly 20 feet; and a kraken, whose 12-foot-high tentacles appear to rise out of the floor of the exhibition as if surfacing from the sea.

Local artisan, Joe Leonard, of Custom Woodcarving in Garrettsville, OH states “it is a huge honor” to have two of his carvings as part of this touring exhibition.  In 2007, representatives of the American Museum of Natural History contacted him after seeing a photo of a griffin he had made for a Californian collector.  Joe suggested that they might also be interested in an armored pegasus he had made for the same collector.  After seeing photos of it on his website, they agreed.

The exhibit ‘wows’ and allows a hands-on approach in intertwining legend and history.  You’ll be able to touch a cast of a narwhal tusk and the lower jaw of Gigantopithecus, rearrange scale models of mammoth bones to look like a giant human skeleton or build your own dragon in an engaging touch-screen interactive and watch it come alive before your eyes in a virtual environment.  Also of interest are videos and interviews with experts in various fields discussing the significance of mythical creatures including artists from motion-picture visual effects company Industrial Light and Magic (founded by George Lucas) demonstrating the process of creating dragons for popular movies such as “Eragon”.

The Mythic Creatures Exhibit began its tour in 2007 in New York City, drawing in over 500,000 visitors.   Since then the exhibit has also been on display in Chicago, Boston, Ottawa, Toronto, Atlanta, and Sydney, Australia.  It is expected to continue touring though 2014.  Its current run in Cleveland has been extended through August 12, 2012.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is open seven days a week.  More information on tickets and hours of operation can be found on their website: www.cmnh.org or call the museum at 216-231-4600.

Beginning May 31st, The NGSSC will meet every Thursday morning from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Nelson Community House on State Route 305 at the Nelson Circle.  Food and beverages will be provided free of charge.  For the first meeting, seniors are encouraged to bring board games, cards or crafts.  So we can assure that there is enough food and beverage, please call the Villager (330-527-5761) and let us know you are coming.

Information on meetings and trips for both groups will be posted in the Villager or online at www.weeklyvillager.com.  You may also call the Villager if you have any questions.

“Keep a green tree in your heart and perhaps a singing bird will come.”– Chinese proverb

“He that plants trees loves others beside himself.” — Thomas Fuller

To many, sitting in a forest surrounded by the glory and majesty of the forest is almost a spiritual event, especially in the redwoods; the wind rustling through the tree tops, the sunshine filtering through the canopy, the birds chirping. Besides water, trees are one of the most important components of the earth’s ecosystem. The amount of oxygen trees produce and the consumption of carbon dioxide during photosynthesis is second only to algae. In addition, trees play a critical role in providing habitat for many insects, animals, and birds. Without trees, we would have a hard time building a house, we would have very few paper products, we could not heat our homes, and many other parts of our lives we commonly take for granted would be changed dramatically. 

In order to gain a real appreciation for the diversity of trees and their prominence within a forest ecosystem, the first step is to become familiar with the various types of trees we see every day in our woods and forests.  Geographically, Ohio is part of the great central hardwood forest which extends to Michigan and Wisconsin eastward to the Atlantic and southward from the Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi borders. It has been said that at one time, a squirrel could climb a tree on the coast and never touch the ground until it got to Indiana. Some species have been here since the time of the dinosaurs:  ginko, cypress, and dawn redwood were common during that time period.  Ohio is approximately 26,000,000 acres in size. At one time, forest covered 25,000,000 acres.  Currently there are approximately 6,900,000 acres of forest  left in Ohio, due to farming and commercial development. There are around 120 different species of trees native to Ohio. The northern half is predominately hardwood– oaks, ash, hickory, tulip poplar and maples. The southern half of the state is much more diverse, with 87 of the 120 species growing in the woodlands or forests including most species of pine. Portage, Geauga, and Trumbull counties are located in what is called the beech – sugar maple area. Trees typically included in this area are oaks, basswood, white ash, and tulip popular.  There is little if any “virgin forest” or “old growth” forest left in Ohio and it is protected by the State, Federal Government, or groups like the Nature Conservancy. Almost all the trees you see while driving are second generation or younger. Ohio is home to some gynormous trees.  (Yes, that is a technical forestry term.) Portage County is home to the biggest butternut, sassafras, and linden trees in the state. Trumbull County is home to the biggest walnut, ash, blackgum, buckeye, and hophornbeam trees in the state.  If you go to http://ohiodnr.com/tabid/4806/Default.aspx you can see pictures of each tree and be amazed at the girth, height, and spread of each species. There is also a national registry of big trees at http://www.americanforests.org/our-programs/bigtree/.

Each species of tree has certain characteristics that distinguish it from other species. No two species have exactly the same bark, leaves, and fruit. The wood from each species varies as much as the various characteristics, from soft or spongy to rock hard, stringy to brittle, coarse to smooth -grained,  The most important distinguishing characteristics of a tree in the summer are form (overall shape) and leaf structure.  In the winter, coloration of the bark, arrangement of twigs, and buds are used to distinguish between species. However, before you can readily identify any tree in the woods you need one of two very important tools….no, not an ax or saw, but a dichotomous key or field guide. If you use a key you will need a working vocabulary of common terms; such as oblong, oval, elliptical to describe Leaf Forms;  undulate, serrate, lobed to describe  Leaf Margins;  alternate, opposite, whorled to describe Leaf Arrangement; simple bi-pinnately compound, pinnately compound, and palmately compound to describe Leaf Composition and  smooth, grooved rough, furrowed to describe Bark.

Let’s begin by using a key…first there are two classifications: (A) evergreen leaves and (B) deciduous leaves. Within each class there are sub divisions. Within each sub-division there are sub-groups and within these sub groups are further classifications until we get to the identity of the tree. .   It’s really not as hard as it sounds. Here are two examples:

1. Leaves needle-like, awl-shaped or scale-like

2 .Leaves needle like

 i – Clusters containing 2-5 needles

ii – Clusters of  3 needles

iii – Clusters of 2 needles

a. Needles in cluster of 5 – White Pine

b. Needles in cluster of 3 – Pitch Pine

c. Needles in Cluster of 2 – Red Pine

1. Leaves broad, not persisting through winter

2. Arrangement of the leaves alternate

i– leaves simple

ii- leaves not entire (lobed)

A. Leaves pinnately lobed; no thorns on trigs

a. Lobes with bristle tips

aa. Leaves shiny, smooth above and below -  RED OAK

The use of a Field Guide such as National Audubon Society Familiar Trees of North America, Trees of North America by Phillips, and Sidley Guide to Trees are among some of the guides I have found useful over the years.  You just look through the pictures until you see something that has the same shape, leaf structure, or fruit. The difficulty comes into play when there are many sub-species such as oak. (More than 20)

More Nearby Nature

The Edge of the Mountain I:A very private preserve  Saturday, May 12 (9:00-Noon) At the northern border of Geauga County is one of the largest private estates in the region. Located in the in an interesting geological complex that includes Little Mountain and the East Branch of the Chagrin River we will explore old growth forests, bedrock ravines, trout streams, and search for the great diversity of wildlife that are all part of this landscape adjacent to the Holden Arboretum near Chardon. Sponsored by the Friends of the Hiram College Field Station (hiking fee: $8 for members, $10 for non-members). Registration is a must as registration is limited. Call 330.569.6003 or email sorrickmw@hiram.edu. Directions sent upon registration.

The Couch Preserve: Exploration and service  Friday, May 18 (6:30-8:30pm)  Located within the village of Hiram is a new preserve that contains a section of old growth forests, meadows for meadowlarks, a paw paw patch, a little bedrock, springs, and an historic landscape that tells a historic story. While exploring this preserve we will do a little bit of litter clean up and leave the landscape better than we found it. Sponsored by the Friends of the Hiram College Field Station (hiking fee: $3 for members, $5 for non-members). Call 330.569.6003 or email sorrickmw@hiram.edu to register. Meet at the Hiram Village Park adjacent to the Fire Station.

Chosen from a large field of highly qualified applicants from across Northeast Ohio, Hall demonstrated a great knack for balancing the academic rigors and extracurriculars of high school with her passion for all things dairy. Jennifer was the President of her local 4-H Club, works at Springer Dairy Farm, was the Ashtabula County Dairy Princess, while also serving as the president of her school’s Student Senate and Academic Challenge Team. Adding to her list of accomplishments, Ms. Hall earned Varsity Letters as a cheerleader, the Best in County 4-H Project Award, and participated in Jefferson’s Big Sister/Little Sister Mentorship Program. All of which she was able to accomplish while earning the lofty title of 2012 Class Valedictorian.

Brad Turner, “plant manager” of the Communications Factory, continues to be impressed by the turnout for his firm’s scholarship offering. “Each year I’m thrilled by the caliber of intelligent and hardworking young adults that apply. And this year is no different. We’re proud to support future leaders, like Jennifer, with our scholarship.”

Jennifer joins previous winners of the Scholarship that include Meghan Caprez from Our Lady of the Elms High, Kristie McLeod from Firestone High, Katherine Polenick from Warren Harding High, Megan Fraley from Willoughby South High, Mason King from Hudson High, Ben Everly from Rootstown High, Daniel Hurd and Lauren Ilenin from Crestwood and Keely Davidson from Stow-Monroe Falls. The Factory’s scholarship will be awarded again next year to another deserving area senior. Interested students should keep an eye on the firm’s Web site (www.communicationsfactory.net) and local papers for the early 2013 announcement.

The Communications Factory celebrates its 10th year as a full-service ad agency that helps up-and-coming businesses retool their brands by melding the knowledge of a large shop with the entrepreneurial spirit of a small one.

In 1912 The older women in town were concerned that the younger women were too frivolous, spending too much time playing cards & that they needed to expand their knowledge of the world. This led to the founding of the Aurora Study Club, by Orsa Harmon. They chose one topic for the year & met twice a month. Women had to be invited to join this prestigious club and failure to attend a meeting or to complete project assignments led to fines for the offending members. The Study Club was especially proud to be federated by the Club Women Of America in 1915.

Past president, Joan Tomko, will present a further look at the club’s history.

We also look forward to be entertained by Paula Messner who is a well known actress & singer. Her program is titled “A Little Song! A Little Humor!” She will be accompanied, on the piano, by Anne Ramsay.

Meeting time will be at 1:00 at the Church In Aurora’s fellowship hall. Guest are welcome.

The disagreement was between Archie Martin and the late “Doc” Foster. The disagreement turned into a challenge that was to pit four men with two canoes and paddles against the “Great and Mighty” Silver Creek in a competitive race. The four competitors, Bob Schnell, George Joseph, Archie Martin, and “Doc” Foster were each given a nickname. Schnell was “Beer Baron,” and his partner Joseph was “The Arab.” The opposing team comprised of Martin “River Rodent” and Foster “Quack.”

The race started on the Silver Creek at the bottom of Carlisle Hill on the Carlisle Family Farm between Hiram and Garrettsville. The course took them past Little Mountain and into the village, said to be an 8 miles long race.

The creek was very much like a jungle then and one had to portage through, around and over the debris found along the way. Many of the areas of the creek were dry and the canoes were dragged through the low areas and hoisted over several natural-made bridges from fallen trees and beaver dams, some were as high as 15 feet tall. When the racers reached South Street Bridge, the firemen hosed them down from the bridge as they continued on the last leg of the race. The last leg of the race was over the dam, which had the racers pushing their canoes over the dam, then sliding down the dam on their backsides. In the end the racers decided they didn’t want to be challenged again so they agreed to cross the finish line together, creating a tie.

The race drew nearly 2,500 folks along the banks to watch the event, which was the beginning of the festival in the small village. The festival at that time was called the “Silver Creek Canoe Race and Steeplechase and Old Time Git Together”

The Silver Creek Canoe Club was formed and became in charge of the annual races. Canoe clubs came from as far as Vermillion and Painesville to participate in the races. By 1973, interest in the race declined but in 1978, the interest was renewed when it became a part of the annual festival called Silver Creek Festival later re-named Silver Creek Turkey Daze*.

SummerFest has continued the tradition for seven years and this year will be no different. The Steeplechase will run Saturday June 23, 2012 at 9:00am. Racers are to meet behind the Deluxe Cleaners on Elm Street along the creek bank at 8:30 am.

This is a race for experienced paddlers who are over 21 years old. The race will begin at the bottom Carlisle Hill and will run back to the cleaners. One will need to wear deck shoes or tennis shoes for the race. The steeplechase is not for the faint-of-heart or the weak; the race is really more of a paddle-and-drag-type race, so strength will be required. Contestants will be hoisting a canoe over natural barricades, maneuvering around shrubs, bushes, briars, logs, beaver dams etc., besides paddling. This is a two man/woman race that requires endurance and is only for the toughest competitors. Watch the You Tube video, 2010 Steeplechase Canoe for an idea of what the race entails.

Registration forms for the race can be found online at www.garrettsvillesummerfest.com. The registration fee is $25 per team and there are a limited number of entries being taken, so sign up early. Canoes, paddles and life preservers are provided by Camp Hi Canoe Livery.

*Early History Source The Visitor

The canoe races are sponsored by Therm-O-Link

This year’s SummerFest is sponsored by Garrettsville Area Chamber of Commerce, Geauga Vision, Ellerhorst-Russell Insurance Agency, Kepich Ford and the Weekly Villager. The festival is traditionally held the fourth full weekend in June at the corners of S.R.82 and S.R. 88 in downtown Garrettsville. More information can be found at www.garrettsvillesummerfest.com

Register Today

Vendors are still being accepted for this year’s market. All vendors must have edible items and no food carts are permitted.  The cost for this year’s market has remained the same, $60.00 for the entire season. The Farmer’s Markets will run from July 18, 2012 through October 3, 2012 every Wednesday from 3:00 – 6:30pm in the Skylane Bowling Alley parking lot. Applications may be obtained by contacting Jackie Rinearson at rinearson05@frontier.com

Millennium Youth Conservationists

Sign up Today

Interested in taking a peek at aquatic critters, such as crayfish, dragonflies, water pennies, and caddisflies, which live in our local streams?  How about interacting with other individuals who share an interest in nature?  Then grab your water shoes and join the Millennium Youth Conservationists (MYC) team!  In MYC we will use kick seines, sediment sticks, pH test kits, and more while analyzing the health of area streams and rivers.  The adventure begins in June and concludes in August in streams throughout Geauga County.  Contact Colleen Sharp by phone (440)834-1122 ext. 6 or email csharp@geaugaswcd.com for more information.

Attention Crafters & Vendors

Register Today

The Ravenna Summerfest is June 16 from 10-6. We are currently looking for additional crafters and vendors to add to the days activities and car show. Please contact Susie 330 296 3779 or Barb 330 297 6684

Newton Falls 4th Raffle Tickets

On Sale Thru July 4

Newton Falls 4th of July Committee is selling raffle tickets for the fireworks display to take place on July 4, at 10 pm.  This year’s prizes are as follows:  Grand Prize- $2500.00, 1st- 55” LCD TV, 2nd- Latest IPAD, 3rd- 32” LCD TV, 4th- Kindle Fire, 5th- PlayStation Vita.  The donation price is $10 per ticket and available at local stores and from committee members.  Look for us on the corner by Family Video in June.  ALL donations go to the fireworks!

Historical Society Open

First Saturday of Month

The James A. Garfield Historical Society will be open the first Saturday of every month between 10:00 and 3:00.  We are located at the corner of Main St. and High St. in Garrettsville. Microfilm of the Garrettsville Journals are available for research. Everyone is welcome.

Sunday Morning Fellowships

Every Sunday

Each Sunday morning the First Church of God in Windham at 9016 N. Main St. invites you to share in a donuts and coffee/juice fellowship at 9:00 am.  The fellowship time is followed by adult and children’s classes at 10 and congregational worship at 11.

Bird Watching Walk

May 13 & 20

May 13 at Big Creek Park and May 20 at Swine Creek Reservation. All are Sundays from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Bird Walk

May 13, 20 

Experienced and beginning birders are invited for these walks as we set out early Sunday mornings to learn and record the sights and sounds indicating the return of our feathered friends from distant lands. Bird walks begin at 7:30am and usually end about 9:00am. Bring your binoculars and meet at the JH Barrow Field Station on Wheeler Rd. (between SR 305 and SR 82) near Garrettsville. It is a great way to learn birding from experts. No registration is necessary. For questions, call 330.569.6003.

Patriotic Dance

May 11

Square dance and line dance May 11 from 7-11pm. Professional Caller Gene Hammond and line dance cuer Frankie Hammond. Public is welcome, no experience necessary. Location North Bloomfield Town Hall. Junction of 45 & 87. admission $5 for ages 10 and up and $4 under age 10. show your pride, wear red, white and blue. Refreshments will be served. Non-profit for restoration of Town Hall.

Softball Clinic

May 11

The Ravenna Recreation Department is offering All Skills Softball Clinic for ages 9 to 15. Clinic will be held at City Park field #1 on May 19 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.  Cost is $12 for CTP or $17 for NCTP.  Please register at Ravenna Parks and Recreation Department, 530 N. Freedom St. Deadline is May 11th  and for more information call 330-296-2864. Participants enrolled in Ravenna Recreation Girls Fast Pitch 9-15 divisions may participate free of charge.

Spaghetti Dinner

May 11

Beebe Rebekah Lodge, of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, will be holding a spaghetti dinner fundraiser to benefit the Miss Liberty House Project, which is a home in Ravenna for female veterans.  The dinner will be held on May 11 from 5-7 at the United Methodist Church in Ravenna, located at the corner of Riddle Ave. and Prospect St.  The cost is $7.00 for 13 and up, $5.00 for kids 5-12, and $5.00 for seniors 55 and up.  The dinner includes spaghetti with choice of marinara or meat sauce, rolls, salad, dessert and beverage.  Carryout is also available.

Mother’s Day Plant Sale

May 11

American Legion Post 459 Ladies’ Auxiliary will sponsor a special Mother’s day plant sale (flats, baskets, pots) American Legion Hall, Goodwin Street, Burton Ohio. May 11 from 12-7 and May 12 form 9-2 PM rain or shine. Proceeds to School Scholarship Fund. For further information, call 440 834 4532

Garrettsville Eagles Fish Fry

May 11

Fish fry May 11 from 4-7:30. also shrimp and chicken tenders or a combo. Meals include baked potato or French fries, coleslaw or applesauce, dinner roll and coffee. All meals are $8. Take outs welcome. 330-527-3330

Nelson UMC Rummage Sale

May 11

The Nelson United Methodist church’s spring rummage, plant & bake sale will be held May 10 from 9am-5pm and May 11 from 9am-noon. Bag day; both days all on clothing. New full sun perennials and delicious homemade baked goods. The church is located on Nelson Circle; 9368 St. Rt. 305. Good clean items!

G-Men Baseball Plant Sale

May 12

9am-5pm in Rite Aid Parking Lot. Stop by and get your Mother’s Day Plants on Saturday May 12th from 9am to 5pm in Rite Aid parking lot. Hanging baskets, flats, annuals, perennials, vegetables, and much more. All plants provided by Pochedly’s Greenhouse. GO G-MEN!

PTO Rummage Sale

May 12

Garfield PTO Rummage Sale May 12 at Garfield Intermediate School. 8233 Park Avenue Garrettsville. Drop off times May 6th 3-6:00, May 8th 4-5:30, & May 10th 4-6:00.

Spring Open House

May 12

Steve and Sharon Grover welcome all to celebrate spring at the farm on May 12, from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.  The Grovers will host a spring open house at Ridgeview Farm, 5488 Kinsman Rd, State Route 87 in Middlefield.  There is no charge for this event. The farm is located on SR 87 in Mesopotamia Township, 3.5 miles east of Middlefield or 7.5 West of SR 45 in Bloomfield.

Plant Sale

May 12

The Perennial Gardeners are digging, cutting, potting and writing plant descriptions!  All is in readiness for their annual Plant Sale, May 12th, 8:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. at the Town Hall in Chesterland located at 13455 Chillicothe Road, just North of Mayfield Road.  Plants of all kind will be available, the common and the unusual, many cared for over the years in the home gardens of members.  Join us and maybe even pick up a plant for Mother’s Day.

Wine & Chocolate Tasting

May 12 

What could be more pleasant than a relaxing evening near a tranquil lake with friends?  Call today to make your reservation to attend the third annual Friends of WomenSafe Wine Tasting at Pineview Lake in Chardon from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.  May 12. The evening is sponsored by PNC Bank.  You’ll have the opportunity to sample wines from Emerine Estates Winery, Markko Winery and Harpersfield Winery.  Snack on an interesting assortment of appetizers while you take your chances on a 50/50 Raffle, Wine Pull, and Chinese Auction. You can bid on your next vacation in Vail, Colorado or Naples, Florida in the Silent Auction! Only $35.00 per person ($25 for adults not wishing to sample wine) Please call #440-285-3741 to make your reservation or get more information. Space is limited.

Plant Sale & Workshop

May 12

Portage County Master Gardeners are having an annual plant sale and workshop on May 12 from 9:00 am to 2:00 p.m. at the Maplewood Career Center. The Workshops are Container Gardening for vegetables & herbs at 10 am, and Hypertufa Demonstration at 12 noon. If you wish to register for either call the extension office at 330-296-7737. To “Make it and Take It” the hypertufa workshop is $20, limited to 20. To observe either or both, the cost is $8 (pre-registration) or $10 at the door.

Scotch Doubles Benefit

May 12

There will be a Scotch Doubles on May 12 starting at 9 pm at Sky Lanes to benefit Toys For Tots.  Tickets are $40 per couple; $20 single. There will be a 50/50 raffle and Chinese auction.  For tickets contact Paula Daniel at 330 548-5989 or Dusty Lough at 330 977-7063.

Adoption Marathon

May 12

The Geauga County Dog Shelter & Warden’s Office is participating along with PAWSOhio in the 8th annual Adoption Marathon on May 12, located in the Cleveland MetroParks Polo Field in Moreland Hills. A total of 25 organizations will be in attendance to help you find that new member of your family. There will be a dog walk (pre-registration is requested for $25.00 or $30.00 the day of) that includes a doggie bag of goodies, canine demonstrations, dog contests, craft and pet-related vendors, food vendors, a BIG TICKET RAFFLE (some packages worth $500 or more) and SO MUCH MORE. Come join us for a day of fun and maybe add a new member to your family. For more details and to register for the dog walk, please visit www.pawsohio.org/p4ac.

Plant, Flower & Craft Sale

May 12

Hiram Farm living and learning community spring plant, flower and country craft sale. 11543 Garfield Rd. Hiram. May 12, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Unique Mother’s Day Gifts

Mother’s Day Breaksfast

May 13

Garrettsville Eagles Mother’s Day Breakfast May 13 8-11 AM. $6 per person. $3 ages 5-10. Free under age 5. All mothers free. No Take-outs please

Ravenna Revival

May 14-18

Revival – Jr. Angle, May 14-18, nightly  at 7 PM. Special Guest- Grandson, 12 yr. Old Dillon Angle speaking May 15. Ravenna Freewill Baptist Church. 1000 Park Ave. Ravenna. Everyone welcome.

Senior Bingo

May 14

May 14 at the Newton Falls Community Center from 5-7pm. Free to all seniors, 50/50 and raffle-prizes. Come join us for the fun

Free Computer Training

May 14-16

Portage County District Library is pleased to announce that it is taking reservations for its next set of free computer training sessions. Training sessions will take place at the Garrettsville Library May 14-May 16 from 11- 1. Sessions fill up fast, so register early at www.portagelibrary.org (select “Library Programs”). Call 330-562-6502 for additional information.

Parkman Historical Society Meeting

May 17

Come learn about the history of the Parkman Community House on  May 17 at  7:30 p.m. at the Community House on St. Rt. 422, Parkman.

Board Meeting

May 17

Newton Falls Exempted Village School Board of Education will hold its regular board meeting on may 17 at 6pm. Located in Jr. high 907 ½ Milton Blvd. Newton Falls.

Card Party

May 17

Warren Township Garden Club card party May 17 at Johnson Community Center, 800 Gillmer Rd NW Leavittsburg. Doors open at 5pm. Admission $5 donation, includes dinner, 50/50, small Chinese auction. Questions call Judy 330-872-0847.

To Kill a Mockingbird

May 17, 18 & 19

“To Kill a Mockingbird” will be performed for the public on May 17th, May 18th at 7:30pm and May 20th at 2:00pm.  All tickets are $5.00 .The historic Geauga Theater is located on beautiful Chardon Square at 101 Water Street, Chardon, Ohio. For information or to purchase tickets visit www.geaugatheater.org, or call the box office at 440-286-2255.

Galapagos Islands Experience

May 18

Experience the Galapagos Islands at The Pines at Brooks House Assisted Living on Friday, May 18, 2012, at 1:00 pm!  Prudy Hall will share photos and information from her recent travels to this incredible archipelago!  Her presentation focuses on the fascinating wildlife and natural history of the Galapagos.  Won’t you  join us?  Refreshments will be served and admission is free!  The Pines at Brooks House is located at 18122 Claridon-Troy Rd. (SR 700), Hiram, OH, in Troy Township, about 5 miles north of Hiram OR about 1 mile south of SR 422.  If you have any questions, call Christine at (440)834-0260, ext. 4, or e-mail us at brookshouseassistedliving@gmail.com.

Home Gospel Concert Series

May 18

7:00 – 9:00pm  May 18 at Akron Free Will Baptist. 1802 Eastwood Ave Akron, Ohio Performing Artists: Host Group: Down Home Gospel Q.T. Guests: Violet Maynard Family Columbus, Ohio. Other talent. Love offering will be taken.For more information call 330 256 3114

Garden and Landscape Contractors Wanted!

May 18, 19

If you are interested in reserving a space to promote your business at the Portage County Gardeners’ annual plant sale on May 18 and 19, call or text 330-348-6089 for more information. Spaces are limited and there is a $20.00 fee per table.

GrassRoots Community Gardeners’ Plant Sale

May 18 & 19

9th annual perennial sale May 18 from 10-1 and May 19 from 10-1 at the Nelson Community House on Nelson Circle. Always welcoming new members! For more information call Johanna Wilson (330) 367-7608

Plant Sale

May 18 & 19

Portage County Gardeners’ annual plant sale will be held on May 18 from 4 -7 PM and on May 19 from 9 AM – 2 PM at 5154 S. Prospect St. (SR 44) in Rootstown. In addition to the perennials donated by the gardeners, there will be annuals, hanging baskets, planters, herbs, and vegetable plants for sale. Inside the building there will be a bake sale, raffle, kid’s corner and a garden cafe serving lunch on Saturday. A hot dog and drink will be available for purchase on Friday. Be sure to visit the Garden Shop, new this year, filled with garden gifts and treasures.

All-you-can-eat Breakfast

May 19

All-you-can -eat pancakes (in house) breakfast, served with sides of sausage (links or patties), eggs, orange juice, syrup, coffee or sausage gravy with biscuits served with eggs, orange juice, coffee. May 19 from 8am-noon. Adults $5.75, 5-12 yrs. $2.75, under 5 free. Tickets to be purchased at the door. Take outs are available, call 330-872-1328 to place order. First Christian Church of Newton Falls

Soccer Tournmment

May 19

Ravenna Parks and Recreation Department is offering a Youth 3-on-3 Spring Soccer Tournament for boys and girls U7/U8, U9/U10, U11/U12 age as of last July 31, 2011. The tournament will be held on May 19 at the soccer complex.  Cost is $60 per team if registered by May 11.  A $10 late fee will be charged after May 11.  Registration forms are available at the Ravenna Parks and Recreation office, 530 N. Freedom St.  (330) 296-2864, weekdays 8:00 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4:15 p.m.

Celtic Beltane Festival

May 19

The 8th Annual Celtic Beltane Festival, sponsored by the Scottish American Society [www.scottishamericansociety.org] will be held on May 19 at Maize Valley Market and Winery, 6193 Edison St. NE (St. Rt. 619) Hartville, Ohio 44632 [330-877-8344].  Gates open at 10:00. Free parking.  Admission cost:  Age 100 and over, free.  Age 8 and under, free.  Over age 8 – $6.00.  $20 for a family.  All entertainment included. The entertainment will feature two pipe bands: The Cyril Scott Pipe Band from Columbus and The Celtic Eagle Pipe Band, at one point playing together.  The Akron Ceili Band and the Northeast Ohio Celtic Harpers will present traditional Scottish and Irish tunes. Also appearing:  Welsh Country dancers of Columbus, Ohio, Scottish Country Dancers from Columbus, Kent Scottish Country Dancers, the Tigh na Creige Highland Dancers and the O‘Hare School of Irish Dance will perform.

Community Garage Sale

 May 19

Community garage sale sponsored by Atwood-Mauck Post 459 on May 19 from 8am-1pm. 14052 Goodwin St. Burton. Contact Mike 330.286.1202

Antique Tool Show

May 19

The annual Antique Tool show will be held from 10 am -3pm in the Bond Bldg. Century Village Museum, Burton. Free to public. Come see tools you won’t see again at the 6th annual tool show. Contact Dan Miller 330 297 6344

Indoor Garage Sales

May 19

The First Church of God will be holding an  indoor garage sale at 426 West Broad St., Newton Falls on May 10 from 9 am – 4 pm

Bird Day

May 19

Audubon International Migratory Bird Day, May 19th  1-5 pm, Novak Educaton Center, 382 Townline Road, Aurora, OH. Fun for the whole family.  Back To The Wild with live birds, hayride, free hot dogs, bird walk, children’s activities. Event is free.

Coffee with the Birds

May 20 

Have you ever been sitting in a chair with a cup of coffee enjoying the view of your bird feeder and said, “Geez, I wonder what kind of bird that is,” or, “How can I get more birds to come?” Well, now’s your chance to get those questions answered and still enjoy that cup of joe indoors. Join Naturalist Nora Sindelar for an “inside” look at bird watching as we enjoy sitting around our bird feeding station indoors with beverages and snacks. 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Swine Creek Reservation, Lodge, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield Township

Prayer Gathering in the Park

May 20

Prayer Gathering in the Park May 20 at 3pm. Sunny Lake Park. Will be held at 885 E. Mennonite Rd. Aurora in the North Pavilion.

Re-Creation

May 20

Re-Creation will be in concert May 20 at 7:00 pm at the Windham United Methodist Church, 9051 N Main St, Windham, OH.   Re-Creation is a group of dynamic young people who present both religious and family-oriented music which provides entertainment programming for Veterans Affairs Medical Centers in the United States. The group’s remarkable blending of voices, tasteful apparel, and dynamic presentation contribute to a unique and memorable worship experience. The public is invited to attend the concert. There is no admission charge, but a free-will offering will be received.

Amvets Post 112 Breakfast

May 20

The Amvets will be hosting a breakfast on May 20 from 9 am to noon at 37 W. Braods St in Newton Falls. Adults $6; Children ages 4-9 $4; Under 4 free.

Habitat for Humanity Prospective Homeowner Orientation

May 20

Interested in becoming a homeowner? Great!  Habitat can help. Habitat for Humanity of Portage County will be holding an orientation class on Sunday, May 20 at 2 p.m. at the Habitat Offices, located at 6630 Cleveland Rd. Ravenna 44266  Things to keep in mind before you attend this class: In order to apply for a Habitat for Humanity house, you have to attend an orientation class.  Applicants must be able to pay a monthly mortgage and be willing to complete a minimum of 250 “sweat equity” hours. Construction is underway and houses will be available for this fall. For more information and to RSVP for this class, please contact Habitat at 330-296-2880 or email at office@habitatofportage.org   Hope to see you there!

Memorial Day Service

May 28

Memorial Day service will be located at Burton Square Gazebo 11am. Opened to public, Open house following at 145052 Goodwin St. Contact Mike 330.834.8764

Little Tigers Golf Fund-Raiser

June 2

The Newton Falls Little Tigers will be hosting their annual Golf outing fund-raiser on June 2, 2012 at the Olde Dutch Mill golf course. The four-man scramble will be an 8:00 a.m. shot gun with registration starting at 7:00 a.m.. The registration fee will be $65.00 per golfer and will include lunch, dinner, golf with cart, and beverages. Prizes will be awarded for all holes. For information please contact Ron Wilcox @ 330-235-3046 or Heather Lyndsey from the Olde Dutch at 330-654-4100.

Crestwood Scholarship 8th Annual Golf Outing

June 6

Mantua Shalersville Area Chamber of Commerce’s (MSACC) 8th Annual Golf Outing to be held June 6 at Tanglewood National Golf Club.  Cost is $65pp or $260 team.  This fund raiser supports two $1,000 Scholarships for Crestwood Seniors.  For more info call Graham Harmon 330-274-8225 or Joann Vance at 440-632-3233.

Hiram College Youth Football Camp

June 11-13

Hiram College Youth Football Camp.  Instruction from Hiram College coaches for kids entering grades 3-8.  The camp will be held on the Hiram College Campus on June 11-13.  Cost for the camp is $120.  For more information, please go to http://www.hiramterriers.com/sports/fball/camps or call (330) 569-5446.

Summer Camp Counseler Registrations

June 11 – Aug 10

Ravenna Parks and Recreation Department is taking registrations for Jr Camp Counselor for our Summer Playground Day Camp.  This program is open to students entering 8th, 9th or 10th grades in the Fall 2012 and the program is held at John Tontimonia City Park.This program is designed for individuals with leadership qualities and who love to work with children.  Participants will enjoy all the same activities as the Playground Camp participants and assist in the program planning, activities, general park duties and a community service project.  For more information call the (330) 296-2864

Ladies Guild Trip to Erie, PA

June 13

The Ladies Guild  of St. Mary and St. Joseph Church is sponsoring at trip to Erie PA on June 13th.  Among the places visited will be St. Peter Cathedral built in 1873, at delicious group luncheon will be served on a paddlewheel boat cruise aboard the lovely Victorian Princess.  It will journey out into the scenic Presque Isle Bay.  Later in the afternoon we will journey into one of Pennsylvania’s premier wine growing regions to a local winery for sampling and shopping.   A dinner stop will be made en route home.  The trip will leave St. Mary & St. Joseph parking lot at 7:30 a.m. and return at 7:30 p.m.  Tour cost is $79.00 per person .  Space is limited—first come, first served.  Price includes bus transportation, luncheon, cruise, all sightseeing, church donations, driver tip and is fully escorted.  Make checks payable to Wendt Touring and mail to Ruby Bajnok, 5203 Taylor Avenue, NF 44444.  Phone 330-872-7928.

Summer Playground Day Camp

June 18- July 19

Ravenna Parks and Recreation Department is taking registrations for Summer Playground Day Camp. Packets may be picked up at the Recreation Department office.  This program is held at John Tontimonia City Park and is open to all children entering kindergarten through grade seven in Fall of 2012. Event sponsor is Medical Mutual.  Also included is a Ravenna School District Summer Reading & Math program  for children in Ravenna School District entering 1st through 5th grades  in Fall 2012 will be offered free of charge for a 5 week program from June 18-July 19.

For more information call the (330) 296-2864.

Safety Town

June 18 & 22

Register early for Ravenna Parks and Recreation’s Safety Town, co-sponsored by the Rotary Club.  Children entering kindergarten and 1st grade in the fall of 2012 will be introduced to safety awareness in a week-long program, June 18 to June 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Willyard School.  $35 or $40 for Non-city taxpayers.  Deadline to register is May 25 or until filled.  For further information contact 296-2864.

Junior Golf Clinic

June 19- 21

Ravenna Recreation is offering Junior Golf Clinic for children ages 8 to 16 years at Windmill Lake Golf Club on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, June 19 to June 21, 2012 from 9:30 to 11 a.m.   This instructional clinic will teach putting, chipping, golf etiquette, iron and wood play. DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION IS  JUNE 15 OR UNTIL FILLED.  Checks made payable to Windmill Lake Golf Club, but mailed to Ravenna Parks and Recreation, 530 N. Freedom Street, Ravenna, Ohio.  Fee is $40.00 For more information call Ravenna Recreation Department at (330) 296-2864.  Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to noon or 1:00 to 4:15 p.m.

Garden Tour & Plant Sale

June 20

June 20, 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M., 4th Annual Scholarship Benefit.  The Geauga County Master Gardeners are presenting their fourth and best yet Garden Tour & Plant Sale. $15 tickets may be purchased in advance (440.834.4656) or at Adam Hall Community Center, 11455 E. Washington Street, Auburn Township, OH 44023 the day of the sale

Friends of Melana 2nd Annual 5k

June 24

The Friends of Melana Committee is pleased to announce our 2nd annual 5k and 1 mile run/walk benefiting Childhood Glioma Cancer. The date for the event is set at June 24th at 9:00 a.m. right by the Garrettsville Summerfest Main Stage. We had 180 participants last year and we want this year to be bigger and better than ever! The cost for the event is $25.00 for runners and $10.00 for walkers. This year we are also featuring a DJ to play warm up music. The atmosphere will be fun and exciting. More information is available at www.summerfest5k.eventbrite.com

Vacation Bible School – “Incrediworld”

June 25 – 29

First Baptist Church of Garrettsville. 7656 State Route 82 Garrettsville, OH 44231. Ages – 2 yrs old to 12 yrs old – PLUS an Adult Class 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm 330-527-2727

“Run of the Ox”

July 21

5k run/walk held during the Ox Roast Festival. 7 AM registration. 8 AM race. St. Joseph’s Church in Mantua. Pre-registration is $16. Race day registration $20. Awards to top 3 overall and top 3 in 11 & under, 12-15, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & over. For more info call 216-752-5151

Save the Date!

September 15

The 7th annual Alumni banquet will be held on September 15 at the J.A. Garfield Elementary School starting at 5pm. Reservations are $18 and need to be mailed by Sept. 1 to P.O. Box 93 Garrettsville. Please include the names and graduating years of the alumni attending. Classes being honored are class of ’52, ’62, ’72, and ’87. Friday night’s home game is against Southeast. For a carefree reunion, plan with the alumni. Contact Helen Louise Paul Bouts 330.309. 2743 for more info.