South, southwest suburban libraries to receive $1.3 million in state funding
The Orland Park and Oak Lawn public libraries will receive the largest grant, at just over $86,000 each. Orland Park Public Library Director Mary Adamowski said the library plans to use the money to expand its collection of books and materials.
'We have a patron-driven collection, which means we purchase the materials that the community requests and materials that will help us fulfill holds faster,' Adamowski said. 'These include fiction and nonfiction materials in both print and digital formats.'
Following closely behind the top grant recipients, the Tinley Park Public Library will receive almost $83,000, which Director Zach Musil said will go toward purchasing books, movies, music, ebooks and other materials.
That includes a memory care collection to provide resources for community members with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.
Musil said it's crucial libraries receive this funding every year.
'If we don't receive that fundamental funding, it cuts into how much we're able to purchase materials for patrons and for the community,' Musil said.
All other public libraries will receive between $2,000 and $60,000, depending on population size. Libraries will have two years to spend the funds.
Two libraries qualified for matching grants for construction projects. Frankfort Public Library Director Amanda Kowalcze said they will use the $83,200 grant to help fund a large maintenance project. She said water leaks into the building during high rainfall, due to landscaping and building materials, and the project aims to fix the issue.
'It disrupts usage because we need to clear out the area and set up air movers and fans, and so it's definitely something that has been a longtime struggle,' Kowalcze said. 'We're all excited we don't have to worry about it going forward.'
Yet the funding for new technology in the south suburban libraries dwindled this year. Four Southland libraries qualified to receive technology grants, of either $12,500 or $27,500 depending on population size, compared to more than a dozen libraries that qualified for the same grant last year.
The Richton Park Public Library received $27,500 in grants for technology resources while public libraries in Flossmoor, Posen and Thornton received $12,500.
Last year, the Blue Island Library received a technology grant of $27,500, which Director Anna Wassenaar said funded the purchase of more than two dozen computers, along with computers for staff and a license to use Microsoft programs. Wassenaar said several of the computers were purchased in 2013.
'We're able to run programs much faster,' Wassenaar said. 'We have updated software that the older computers couldn't run. Our older computers were sometimes glitchy and trashy because they were older, and modern software didn't want to run on them, so it did make it harder to serve the public as quickly and efficiently as we would like to.'
Libraries are only eligible to use the funding if they adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights that states the library will not censor or remove materials, as part of the state's 2023 effort to prevent book banning. Several libraries in downstate districts have given up small grants under $4,000 to keep independence in making decisions on books.
Illinois Deputy Secretary of State Scott Burnham said Thursday all 639 libraries receiving grants this year provided compliance with the association's standards on book banning.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who is the state librarian, mentioned the Trump administration's executive action signed in March that ordered the elimination and defunding of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which Giannoulias said issues nearly $6 million annually to Illinois.
'We're doing things differently in Illinois,' Giannoulias said in a statement. 'Instead of cutting funding that would limit learning and prove harmful to Illinois communities, we're fighting for Illinoisans to ensure they have the funding and resources to learn, grow and explore today and in the future.'
Wassenaar said she is still concerned about the future of federal library funding.
'Some of these grants did run through federal funding that came into the state library and then the state library would distribute, so I'm concerned that those grants might not be continued,' she said.
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Los Angeles Times
23-07-2025
- Los Angeles Times
How do you know when it's the right time to say goodbye to a beloved dog?
Mazie was my sweet girl, a jaunty caramel-colored spaniel with bulgy brown eyes that radiated love, even in her final days when she fell almost every time she tried to stand. At least, that's the version I want to believe. But since Mazie died on April 29, I've talked to veterinarians who say our dog and cat companions don't show pain the way humans do. So was it really love in her eyes at the end, or was it desperation? We never knew Mazie's origin story. My sister, a former animal control officer, spotted her running in heavy traffic in 2012 and managed to coax her into her car. We spent a couple months searching for her owner — she was such a beautiful dog we figured somebody must be missing her — but Mazie wasn't chipped and no one claimed her, so she joined our family, first in my sister's home and finally mine, where she became a doting companion to my late husband, who had Alzheimer's. She was definitely a looker, prancing like a show dog after she was groomed, and was always cheerful and loving — except with lizards, whom she hunted and devoured with relish. In her glory years, she'd dart out of open doors or find the tiniest opening in a fence, and run down the street, looking back at her pursuers with laughing eyes. We couldn't stop her on foot, but she wasn't hard to catch. The chase ended with someone driving by her side. She'd jump in the car happily, give her captor a toothy grin and then curl into a contented nap, probably dreaming of her next escape. We guessed her age at about 15 when her decline began. Over the next year and a half, she slowly deteriorated from a nimble, mischievous little mutt who adored our daily jaunts to a deaf and shrunken trooper who staggered with a drunken lilt but still insisted on 'walkies' even though her pace was glacial and she couldn't manage more than a couple blocks. I agonized about what to do but never made concrete plans. Instead, I fretted — how do you know when it's time to say goodbye? I'd always told myself, 'When she stops eating, that's when I'll know,' but Mazie ate heartily up until her last few days. She slept more and more, but anytime I changed rooms she would slowly rouse herself and follow on unsteady, spindly legs. Our kind veterinarian shook her head at Mazie's tenacity and said, 'She'll let you know when she's ready to go,' but my sweet girl seemed stubbornly intent on staying alive and I had neither the heart nor the will to intervene. Instead I did what apparently many people do. I froze in my grief and my guilt, and watched her waste away. I didn't want her to die in a sterile exam room. And when I called a mobile vet, just randomly chosen from online, I recoiled when they quoted a fee of $750. So I stalled. I think I was hoping for some kind of Hollywood death, where she would give me one last affectionate lick, then close her eyes and quietly die. And that's kind of what happened until her final hours when her breathing became so labored she was writhing and wrenching herself upright trying to get air. That memory haunts me. I sat beside her that whole day, the way I attended the deaths of five people I loved, but they had hospice drugs to ease their passing. Why couldn't I do better for my little dog? 'These are not easy decisions; who wants to play God?' said veterinarian Lorraine Watson of DR 4 PETS, a home euthanasia service for dogs and cats. 'But you have to set some guidelines, and think about their quality of life. Our animals don't complain, they just live in the moment, and if you provide them with the basic necessities to keep going they can keep going for a long time, but are they happy? Because that's just as important as whether they're still eating.' There isn't really a magic formula for knowing when it's time, said veterinarian Robin Holmes, who worked in general practice for 20 years until 2013, when she founded Gifts of Peace, an in-home pet euthanasia service serving the San Gabriel Valley. Even with all her experience, Holmes said she struggled with the decision about when to euthanize her ailing elderly dog Gemios 'a 20-pound fluff ball' who had been in her family for years. 'You would think with all my knowledge I would just look at things medically, but every time I'd think, 'Oh it's time,' he'd have a couple of good days.' Ultimately, it was her ex-husband who helped her decide. He kept Gemios for a weekend when she had to travel and when she returned, he said, ''You do know it's time to make this decision?' And yes, I knew it in my heart, but it was still hard for me to make that decision. And three months later, I'm still grieving.' Oftentimes, Holmes said, veterinarians will just tell people, ''She'll let you know' and 'As long as she's still eating, she's fine,' but I'd like that last phrase to get lost because our patients will eat because their body says they need to eat; it's not an indication of good quality of life. I always tell people to just trust your instincts because you know them best.' All things considered, I was lucky that Mazie's death was relatively peaceful until the end, Watson said, but if she'd had cancer or muscular/skeletal problems like painful arthritis, her suffering could have been much worse,' and that crosses the line. That's why you need to be in tune with your pet to see the signs of pain.' For example, Watson said, a big dog might pace or circle for a while to lie down because it hurts so much to get down. They might stumble or fall often or get trapped behind furniture because their legs aren't working well. They might be panting or breathing rapidly even at rest because they're hurting, and their facial expressions will change. 'Their ears aren't up or their eyes aren't fully open or bright or you get a grimace expression on a cat, or they're withdrawing and hiding under the bed. Withdrawing is what wild animals do in nature. They get left behind by the pack or they'll hide under a bush because they know something's not right. And it's the same with our pets, they'll withdraw and oftentimes not interact as much with their people because they don't feel well.' Pain can also lead to appetite suppression, she said, so the animals start losing weight along with muscle mass, making them weaker and more skeletal. In the wild, weak animals don't last long, Watson said. In our homes, we can nurse them along with medications and carry them outside to pee, but at a certain point we have to consider their quality of life. She recommends using a calendar to note whether your pet had a good day or bad day and soon a picture will emerge. 'Is your dog happy being alive?' she said. 'Is it able to do at least some of the things that made it happy in the past? If they're just getting up to poop and eat during the day and then go back to bed, who wants to live like that?' Ultimately, it helps to reframe the way people think about pet euthanasia, said veterinarian Shea Cox co-founder of Honor Pet, a new 'end-of-life-care' facility in downtown L.A. that provides comfort rooms where families can be with their pets during euthanasia in an unrushed, home-like setting. 'In cases of terminal illness or natural decline, death isn't something we're initiating — it's already in motion,' Cox wrote in an email. 'The decision isn't between life and death but between a longer or shorter journey to the inevitable.' There's a lot of gray area in making these decisions, but all three say it's vital for pet owners to start investigating their options well before they're in the throes of grief. 'Lots of times people say, 'This must be such a hard job for you,' but it's not really,' Holmes said. 'I find the person losing their pet is doing the hardest work, having to make very emotional decisions sometimes in the dark and sometimes without a lot of information. Really, nothing in life prepares us for making these decisions [about euthanasia] because inevitably when you start to consider it, and think maybe it's time, suddenly they perk up and then you feel guilty — 'How can I be thinking this?'' So while there are no magic answers, preparation can help. Our pets' lifespans are so short, you don't need to wait until they're sick to start investigating your options, and what you're able to spend. For instance, if I'd made more calls when I was less emotional, I would have discovered there are many in-home euthanasia services in the Greater Los Angeles area but most ask people to call for pricing. Only a few, like DR 4 PETS, list their prices online, starting as low as $450 for euthanasia for dogs 20 pounds and under, and as high as $850 for euthanasia and individual cremation for dogs between 51 and 78 pounds. Be sure to ask what the pricing includes because the fees often include the cost of cremation; so when I called in anguish and got my $750 quote over the phone, if I'd known to ask, I might have also discovered that the fee was less if I only wanted euthanasia. I have a large yard, and Mazie was a relatively small dog, so after she died, I dug a deep hole, wrapped her in a cotton shawl and buried her, but that's not an easy option for people who don't have yards or have very large dogs. Most, Watson said, opt for some kind of cremation. Most veterinary clinics and in-home euthanasia services offer a choice of communal cremation, where the animal's remains are scattered in the ocean or a private reserve, or the more expensive option of individual cremation, where their ashes are returned in a special container. Cox's business, Honor Pet, provides water cremation, a.k.a aquamation, on-site so if people use their facility to euthanize their pet, they can have aquamation done in the same facility. The process uses hot water mixed with an alkaline lye solution, so it's more environmentally friendly than standard cremation, and usually more expensive. Honor Pet offers four large 'comfort rooms' with rugs, couches and homey decor, where families can spend all the time they need to say goodbye. Price is the big advantage here, Cox said, since euthanasia at Honor Pet is $275, well below the cost of most in-home visits. It's also designed to be more comfortable and welcoming than typical veterinary clinic exam rooms, with extras such as making bouquets and creating cards for your pet. But if cost is an issue, euthanasia will likely be the least expensive in veterinary clinics and Watson said some clinics offer special euthanasia spaces to give their patients and their people more time and privacy, so it's worth inquiring what kind of accommodations your vet may have. Another consideration is the size of your pet, especially if they are suffering from mobility issues, a common problem for large dogs. Can you carry your dog from home to a clinic without adding to their pain? If home euthanasia is more than you can afford, ask your veterinarian about sedatives you can give your dog to ease their suffering when you transport them to the clinic. But leaving home can be a real hardship for many ailing pets, no matter their size. Some dogs and cats panic in a clinic setting, or any new situation, so letting them die at home is a real kindness. This is where calling around ahead of time can help you know what to expect in terms of prices, procedures and availability when it comes time to make the call. Note that many of these in-home vets work alone, so you may have to wait a day or two for an appointment. Most will sedate your pet before administering the euthanasia drug to minimize their discomfort, but it's a good idea to call and ask questions beforehand, or at least browse their websites which usually have extensive blog posts covering all kinds of issues, from preparing children for a pet's death to helping your other animals cope with the loss of a companion. Some, like Honor Pet, and the national chain Lap of Love, also offer grief counseling and support groups. And you don't have to make these decisions alone. Mobile vets do offer home consults, usually for a fee, and your regular veterinarian can help you discover if there are treatments that can restore your pet's quality of life. Holmes warns that these home consults can sometimes be misleading — a dog who hasn't moved much may perk up momentarily with a new visitor who has interesting smells, she said, but that doesn't change the reality of his day-to-day life. Still, there are treatments that can turn things around, Watson said. Small dogs, like her 17-year-old shih tzu, Miss Coco Chanel, tend to live longer than large breeds but they're also more susceptible to suffer dementia. Coco developed sundowner's syndrome, she said, panting and digging in the carpet 'like clockwork when the sun went down. We could not comfort her,' Watson said, and she was so arthritic that she could barely walk. But Watson tried a prescription diet for brain health that lifted the sundowner's effect. 'She's happy now and doesn't need her antianxiety meds. She loves to go on her little walks — yes, I'm one of the those crazy parents who have a stroller for their dog — and I let her walk as long as she wants to and when she gets tired I push her along until she gets a chance to sniff at all her favorite spots. And she looks forward to her food. We put it in different places around the house every day so she has to hunt for it, and she absolutely loves it,' Watson said. 'We try to keep her mentally fit, and I'm lucky because she responded, but we have to keep reminding ourselves: When those things change, when she's not happy to see us every day or doesn't want to go for her little walk, then we'll know it's time to say goodbye.'
Chicago Tribune
05-07-2025
- Chicago Tribune
South, southwest suburban libraries to receive $1.3 million in state funding
Nearly 50 libraries in the south and southwestern suburbs will receive more than $1.3 million in state funding as part of an annual grant program awarding more than 600 public libraries across Illinois $20 million. The Orland Park and Oak Lawn public libraries will receive the largest grant, at just over $86,000 each. Orland Park Public Library Director Mary Adamowski said the library plans to use the money to expand its collection of books and materials. 'We have a patron-driven collection, which means we purchase the materials that the community requests and materials that will help us fulfill holds faster,' Adamowski said. 'These include fiction and nonfiction materials in both print and digital formats.' Following closely behind the top grant recipients, the Tinley Park Public Library will receive almost $83,000, which Director Zach Musil said will go toward purchasing books, movies, music, ebooks and other materials. That includes a memory care collection to provide resources for community members with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. Musil said it's crucial libraries receive this funding every year. 'If we don't receive that fundamental funding, it cuts into how much we're able to purchase materials for patrons and for the community,' Musil said. All other public libraries will receive between $2,000 and $60,000, depending on population size. Libraries will have two years to spend the funds. Two libraries qualified for matching grants for construction projects. Frankfort Public Library Director Amanda Kowalcze said they will use the $83,200 grant to help fund a large maintenance project. She said water leaks into the building during high rainfall, due to landscaping and building materials, and the project aims to fix the issue. 'It disrupts usage because we need to clear out the area and set up air movers and fans, and so it's definitely something that has been a longtime struggle,' Kowalcze said. 'We're all excited we don't have to worry about it going forward.' Yet the funding for new technology in the south suburban libraries dwindled this year. Four Southland libraries qualified to receive technology grants, of either $12,500 or $27,500 depending on population size, compared to more than a dozen libraries that qualified for the same grant last year. The Richton Park Public Library received $27,500 in grants for technology resources while public libraries in Flossmoor, Posen and Thornton received $12,500. Last year, the Blue Island Library received a technology grant of $27,500, which Director Anna Wassenaar said funded the purchase of more than two dozen computers, along with computers for staff and a license to use Microsoft programs. Wassenaar said several of the computers were purchased in 2013. 'We're able to run programs much faster,' Wassenaar said. 'We have updated software that the older computers couldn't run. Our older computers were sometimes glitchy and trashy because they were older, and modern software didn't want to run on them, so it did make it harder to serve the public as quickly and efficiently as we would like to.' Libraries are only eligible to use the funding if they adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights that states the library will not censor or remove materials, as part of the state's 2023 effort to prevent book banning. Several libraries in downstate districts have given up small grants under $4,000 to keep independence in making decisions on books. Illinois Deputy Secretary of State Scott Burnham said Thursday all 639 libraries receiving grants this year provided compliance with the association's standards on book banning. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who is the state librarian, mentioned the Trump administration's executive action signed in March that ordered the elimination and defunding of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which Giannoulias said issues nearly $6 million annually to Illinois. 'We're doing things differently in Illinois,' Giannoulias said in a statement. 'Instead of cutting funding that would limit learning and prove harmful to Illinois communities, we're fighting for Illinoisans to ensure they have the funding and resources to learn, grow and explore today and in the future.' Wassenaar said she is still concerned about the future of federal library funding. 'Some of these grants did run through federal funding that came into the state library and then the state library would distribute, so I'm concerned that those grants might not be continued,' she said.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
Seminole County things to do, starting June 13
Legal Advice Clinic for Veterans: The Seminole County Legal Aid office hosts a free monthly legal advice clinic for veterans to get legal assistance with family law and housing law matters. Experienced volunteer and staff attorneys will be available to provide advice on your case and answer any questions you may have. 1-4 p.m. the third Thursday of the month through November, central branch of the Seminole County Public Library, 215 N. Oxford Road, Casselberry, free, 407-834-1660 or email deniceg@ Bingo: Hosted by Winter Springs VFW Auxiliary. All proceeds benefit veterans and families. Doors open at 10 a.m. early birds, 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Winter Springs VFW, 420 N. Edgemon Ave., Winter Springs, $15-$25 packets, 407-327-3151. Bingo: Proceeds benefit local charities through The Woman's Club of Casselberry. 2 p.m. the second and fourth Sunday of the month, The Woman's Club of Casselberry, 251 Overbrook Drive, Casselberry, $5 for 10 games plus two optional bonus games, 407-947-2747. Seminole County Dementia Caregiver Support Group: Sponsored by Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center. 10 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month, AdventHealth Lake Mary Health Park, 2nd floor conference room, 960 Rinehart Road, Lake Mary, free. Email info@ or call 407-436-7750 with any questions. Whirl and Twirl Square & Round Dance Club: Beginner Modern Square Dance, Early Rounds, Mainstream and Plus Square Dancing. 3:30-7 p.m. Saturdays, Lutheran Haven Fellowship Hall, 2041 W. State Road 426, Oviedo, $5 for club members, $6 for nonmembers, 407-448-9021. Male Alzheimer's caregivers group: The Men's Breakfast Club is an informal and unstructured gathering of male caregivers. Sponsored by the Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center. 10 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 701 E. State Road 434, Winter Springs, free, buy your own food, or 407-436-7750. Square Dancing with Round and Line Dancing: Presented by the Hoedowners Pairs & Spares Square Dance Club. 1:30-4 p.m. Sundays, Casselberry Recreation Center, Secret Lake Park, 200 N. Triplet Lake Drive, Casselberry, $5 for members, $7 for nonmembers, 407-339-2359, Zumba: No experience is necessary and all fitness levels are welcome. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Saturdays, Oviedo Gym & Aquatics Facility, 148 Oviedo Blvd., Oviedo, first class free, then $5 per class, 407-971-5565. GriefShare: A grief support program for adults who have lost a loved one by death. 1 p.m. Wednesdays, St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 2021 W. State Road 426, Oviedo, free. To register, call 407-365-3408 or email griefshare@ Alzheimer's and dementia support group: A monthly in-person support group for caregivers of those with Alzheimer's and dementia related illnesses. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month, Oakmonte Village's Cordova Assisted Living building, 1001 Royal Gardens Circle, Lake Mary, free, 407-444-0122 or email cking@ Leo Miller Senior Softball: Open to ages 60 or older. 9:30 a.m. Mondays (pickup games) and Wednesdays (league games), Seminole County Softball Complex, 2200 North St., Altamonte Springs, $3, 407-600-3564. Senior Softball: For seniors ages 50 and older. Players should arrive at 8 a.m. for batting practice, 9:15 a.m. game time Saturdays, Red Bug Lake Park, 3600 Red Bug Lake Road, Casselberry, $3, 407-779-6980. 'Pop Up' Plant Clinics: Hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Orange County Master Gardener Volunteers for all of your plant care needs. Upcoming clinics include – —10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. June 14, Winter Garden branch of the Orange County Library System, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. —10 a.m.-1 p.m. June 14 and June 28, Apenberry's Nursery, 3443 Edgewater Drive, Orlando. For details, visit 407-254-9200. Philippine Independence Day Celebration: Presented by the Council for Filipino-American Organizations of Central Florida, the event will showcase Philippine culture and history with talent shows, music, dances, exhibits and food vendors. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. June 14, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, $5, free for children ages 7 or younger, 407-460-2870. 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration in Historic Hannibal Square: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 14, Hannibal Square Heritage Center, 642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, free. For more information, visit Juneteenth Freedom Day Paint Party: A day of food, fun, music and more. Reservations required. 10 a.m.-noon June 14, Howell Branch Preserve, 1205 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, $25, 863-968-6840, email WeThe3ProductionGroup@ Seventh Annual Phrozen Jewel 5K Walk/Run: Proceeds benefit the Hankins Johnson Education Foundation Young Men of Distinction youth mentoring program, Head Start to Literacy Initiative, and other foundation programs. It is a hybrid event, meaning you may run or walk between June 14 and June 21 and submit your time. The in-person event is at 7:06 a.m. June 21 with registration and the walk/run starts at 8:15 a.m. at Jay Blanchard Park, 2451 Dean Road, Orlando, prices vary, 407-453-4279. Juneteenth: From Knowing to Remembering: Guest lecturer will be Professor Trent Tomengo, Seminole State College Professor of Humanities. 2-4 p.m. June 15, Winter Park Library, 1052 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, free. For more information, visit Summer family tours: A 40-minute gallery tour led by a Museum educator includes a take-home art activity for elementary school-aged children and their parents or guardians. Reservations required. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. June 17, 24, and July 8, 15, Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, $5 refundable deposit per person is required when securing a reservation for the program, 407-645-5311, Ext. 136, Orange Audubon Society: OAS will celebrate the end of its season by showing entries in the 37th Annual Kit and Sidney Chertok Florida Native Nature Photography Contest, culminating with announcement of the winners in the Youth, Novice and Advanced Amateur/Professional categories and more than $1,300 in ribbons, cash and other prizes will be awarded. 7 p.m. June 19, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, free, 407-718-1977. A Night Under the Stars: Jazz & Jubilee: Presented by the Equity Council Corp. in partnership with the Winer Park Parks & Recreation Department. 5-10 p.m. June 19, Shady Park, 721 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, free. For more information, visit Orange County 4-H Teens in the Kitchen Day Camp: Calling all young chefs ages 13–18 (as of 9/1/24) for a fun, hands-on cooking camp where you'll learn essential kitchen skills, practice food safety, and enjoy the delicious dishes you prepare. This four-hour interactive camp is led by UF/IFAS faculty and program volunteers. Registration required at 8 a.m.-noon June 19, UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $25, 407-254-9200. Baseball Card and Memorabilia Show: More than 50 tables of dealers buying and selling cards and memorabilia. Proceeds benefit homeless children. 3-8 p.m. June 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 21, Bahia Shrine Center, 3101 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, $2, free for ages 11 or younger, 407-476-7290. Summer family films: Elementary school-aged children and their parents or guardians will see a short film, take a gallery tour and do an art activity in this 90-minute program. Reservations required. 10 a.m. June 20, 27, and July 11, 18, Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, $5 refundable deposit per child is required when securing a reservation for the program, 407-645-5311, Ext. 136, Juneteenth Community Celebration 2025: Hosted by City of Winter Garden. An annual celebratory event to commemorate the holiday, featuring a special live musical performance by Bobby Blackmon & The B3 Band, family-friendly games and activities, community resource booths, food/beverage/merchandise vendors, and more. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. June 21, Charlie Mae Wilder Park, 1203 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, free, 407-656-4111. Walk: The Mid-Florida Milers Walking Club, a member of the American Volkssport Association, is sponsoring walks in Orlando Downtown South. The walks will go by the historic train station, the Orlando Health complex before ending through residential areas. Two distances available – 10K (6.2 miles) or 5K (3.1 miles). Start between 8-8:45 a.m. June 21, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, $4 per person, free for walkers ages 12 or younger who do not want credit, 407-706-3034, email beachfan10478651@ Caribbean Culture Celebration: In honor of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month enjoy a live performance of Caribbean music and experience island culture. Recommended for all ages. Enjoy all facets of Caribbean culture including a parade, food tastings, crafts, stories and festivities. 2-5 p.m. June 28, Hiawassee branch of the Orange County Library System, 7391 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, free, 407-835-7323. Independence Day Open House: During the celebration, there will be live music in the galleries from 1-4 p.m. and special objects from the Morse will be on view, including a 1798 cream jug by American silversmith and patriot Paul Revere (1735–1818) and a baseball autographed by legends Babe Ruth (1895–1948), Ty Cobb (1886–1961), and Lou Gehrig (1903–41), as well as Central Florida resident and baseball legend Joe Tinker (1880–1948). 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. July 4, Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, free, 407-645-5311, Fourth of July Block Party: Hosted by the City of Ocoee Parks and Leisure Services Department, the family-friendly event will feature live music from 'The Boomers', free rides, food trucks, and vendors from the Ocoee Community Market. In addition, the event is tentatively scheduled to include a car show. New this year are fireworks, which will light up the night sky over Starke Lake at Bill Breeze Park, 125 North Lakeshore Drive starting at 9:15 p.m. 5:30-9 p.m. July 4 along McKey Street in downtown Ocoee, free, 407-905-3180. Coin Show: Sponsored by Central Florida Coin Club. More than 30 coin dealers will have high quality coins for the beginner to advanced collectors. A grading company will be accepting submissions. Children ages 12 or younger receive a free coin. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 6, Aug. 3, Venue on the Lake – The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, admission is free, 407-657-6440 or email cfccbourse@ Central Florida Job Fair: Featuring more than 100 employers offering thousands of career openings in various industries and resources on hand to assist your job search. Bring resumes and dress professionally. No children. Noon-4 p.m. July 9, Central Florida Fair Expo Park, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, free, 407-834-4022. Embrace the Moment: An excursion for individuals living with dementia and their family care partners. Enjoy pottery, lunch and connection. Presented by Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center. Reservations required. 10 a.m. July 16, Pottery U Paint in Longwood, free. Limited space available. RSVP at or call 407-436-7750. Walk: The Mid-Florida Milers Walking Club, a member of the American Volkssport Association, is sponsoring walks through the 150-acre Oakland Nature Preserve. Two distances available – 10K (6.2 miles) or 5K (3.1 miles). Start between 8-8:45 a.m. July 19, Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland, $4 per person, free for walkers ages 12 or younger who do not want credit, 917-881-8358. Wade in the Water Wednesdays: A designated window of time every week designed especially for adults and seniors within the community of Eatonville. Experience the benefits of aquatic activities in a fun and friendly environment. No prior swimming experience is necessary. 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Eatonville Community Pool, 142 S. West St., Eatonville, free, Orlando Amateur Radio Club: Guests are welcome. License testing at 5:30 p.m., meetings 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, 407-841-0874, Central Florida Woodturners: An organization created to provide local woodturners with woodturning demonstrations, information, and ongoing education while sharing in a social and interactive environment. Open to all ages and skill levels. 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month, Woodcraft of Orlando, 8155 S. U.S. Highway 17-92, Casselberry, free, Craft fair: Featuring knit and crochet items, baby quilts, floral arrangements, jewelry and wooden crafts. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. the fourth Tuesday, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, free, 321-765-7177. Clog Dancing for All Ages: The Orlando Cloggers will offer new beginner clogging classes. The lessons progress throughout the rest of the year. 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, $4 per person per night, 407-929-5102, Central Florida Stamp Club: Meetings include auctions and informative lectures. 6 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, free, 407-312-5706. Liberty Karate Club: Minimum age 15 years old. 7:30-9 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Friends Community Church, 53 S. Dean Road, Orlando, $40 per month, 407-484-5124. Duplicate Bridge: Sanctioned Duplicate Bridge games offered by the Orlando Bridge Club. Noon Monday-Saturday, St. Richard's Episcopal Church 5151 Lake Howell Road, Winter Park, free, 407-619-5333, Knitting/Crochet Classes: All ages and skill levels are welcome! Yarn and needles are provided. 3:30-5 p.m. Wednesdays, St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, free, 407-876-4991, Ext. 262, email care@ TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly): 9-10 a.m. Saturdays, Eastland Baptist Church, 9000 Lake Underhill Road, Orlando, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 985-513-2866. Antique Automobile Club of America, Florida Region: Share your enthusiasm for old cars. AACA shows, tours, cruises and more. Ownership of an antique car is not required. For membership information call. 7 p.m. the second Monday of each month, All Saints Episcopal Church, 338 E. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, 863-604-3148. Tai chi and qigong classes: Learn how to improve wellness, range of motion, breathing capacity and many other benefits. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays, The University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, $12 per class, info@ 407-234-0119. Ukulele Meetup and Jam: Ukulele players of all levels are invited to play. Meetups consist of playing popular songs together and sharing ukulele playing tips. Chords and lyrics are projected on a screen. 10 a.m.-noon the second Saturday of the month, Winter Park Public Library, 1052 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, free, 407-721-4289. Craft fair: Featuring knit and crochet items, baby quilts, floral arrangements, jewelry and wooden crafts. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, free, 407-247-7814. Orlando Camera Club: Monthly meetings held on Zoom and in-person. 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, free, Greater Orlando Orchid Society: 6:30-9:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, guests welcome, TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly): Weigh-in 9-9:30 a.m. Meeting 9:30-10:15 a.m. Thursdays, Asbury Methodist Church, 220 Horatio Ave., Maitland, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 407-376-7512. Tai chi and qigong classes: Learn how to improve wellness, range of motion, breathing capacity and many other benefits. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, Winter Park Presbyterian Church, 400 S. Lakemont Ave., Winter Park, $12 per class, info@ 407-234-0119. Learn to Line Dance: Learn the basic steps of line dancing to fun, easy dances and upbeat music. 2 p.m. Sundays, Lake Island Hall, 450 Harper St., Winter Park, $5, 407-592-7835. Plant Clinic: Orange County residents can bring their samples and plant-related questions to be answered by UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener volunteers. 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays, UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research Education Center, 2725 Binion Road, Apopka; or 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, free, 407-254-9200 or email OrangeCoMGV@ People of Wekiwa Springs citizen advocacy and engagement group: 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month, Wekiwa Springs Baptist Church, 584 N. Wekiwa Springs Road, Apopka, free, Fannie's Friends support group: Fannie's Friends is a virtual support group for adult daughters and granddaughters caring for those living with dementia. Sponsored by the Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center. 6 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month. Email info@ for link to join. Men Only Dementia Caregiver Online Support Group: Sponsored by Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center. 10 a.m. every third Thursday of the month. Email info@ for the link to join or call 407-436-7750. TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly): 7-8 p.m. Mondays, University Seventh-day Adventist Church 9191 University Blvd., Orlando, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 407-277-7946. Greater Orlando Cribbage Club: Nine games are played. Part of the American Cribbage Congress. 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through May, Elks Club, 4755 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, $13 per night, 407-580-6696 or email clchasema13@ TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly): Weigh-in 1-1:20 p.m. Meeting 1:30-2:30 p.m. Mondays, Zellwood Station, 2126 Spillman Drive, Zellwood, $5 monthly dues, 407-630-3833, leave a message. Central Florida African Violet Society: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, September through May, with informal meetings June through August, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, free, 407-246-4440. Knitting/Crochet Classes: Free instruction. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Yarn is provided. 3:30-5 p.m. Wednesdays, St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, free, email care@ or call 407-876-4991, Ext. 262. Central Florida Fruit Society: Learn about growing and enjoying fruit in Central Florida. Discover new species and varieties of ambrosial fruits from around the world and grown locally. 6:30-8:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month, Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, free, JenC@ 'FashionAbility' American Sewing Guild, Orlando Chapter: A group dedicated specifically to the art and skill of garment sewing. All levels welcome. 10:30 a.m.-noon the fourth Thursday of the months of October, January, April, and July, The Sewing Studio, 9605 U.S. Highway 17-92, Maitland, first two visits are free, then ASG membership is required, 407-697-0882. TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly): 7 p.m. Thursdays, Delaney Street Baptist Church, 1919 Delaney Ave., Orlando, first visit is free, 407-898-6215. Tai Chi for Health: Featuring simple Tai Chi forms and qi gong (energy work). 9-10 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 1st Unitarian Church of Orlando, 1901 E. Robinson St., Orlando, $5 facility fee donation requested but not required, 407-701-3357. United States Submarine Veterans, Central Florida Base: Open to all Navy personnel and veterans who are qualified in submarines. Guests are welcome at meetings. 7 p.m. the fourth Thursday of every month, Casselberry Veterans Club, 200 Concord Drive, Casselberry, 407-720-5163 or email Bingo: Proceeds benefit the Bahia Shrine Center Apopka. Doors open at 4 p.m. Early bird games start at 6 p.m., regular games at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Bahia Shrine Center 3101 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, 407-660-8811, Ext. 306. Italian American Social Club of Central Florida: All nationalities are welcome. Dinner dances, with live bands, 6-10 p.m. every second and fourth Saturday ($40 for members, $45 for guests, includes open bar); Italian American Social Club of Central Florida, 5900 Hibiscus Road, Orlando, 407-273-2830. Order of the Skywatcher Clan: A meeting of the nonprofit Order of the Skywatcher Clan's (Native American tribe and 501c3 charity) caving group, which takes monthly trips to the tribe's cave near Belleview to explore, dig out and map. Training is provided, if needed. Also potluck lunch, socializing, fossil hunting and camping. Advance registration required. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. the first Saturday of the month, a private residence, 3415 Silverwood Drive, Orlando, free, 407-293-1739, omegaltd158@ Roots and Branches Genealogical Society of West Volusia: Philip White will present 'Use of Family Search.' Prior to the meeting, at 1 p.m., the Society will host a workshop regarding our upcoming 40th Anniversary project. 2 p.m. June 15, DeLand Regional Library at 130 Howry Ave., DeLand, free, rootsandbranchesvolusia@ Medieval Fair for all ages: The Society for Creative Anachronism will be demonstrating different arts, craftsmanship, fighting styles, and more from the Middle Ages. Immerse yourself in what it was like to be a lord or lady in that day. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 20-21, New Smyrna Beach Regional Library, 1001 S Dixie Freeway, New Smyrna Beach, free. UF/IFAS Extension Upcoming Programs: The UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County offers a variety of community programs to educate residents about economic and community development, leadership, family issues, agriculture, and the environment. Unless otherwise indicated, in-person classes will be held at the Volusia County Agriculture Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand. Programs include – —Poultry Showmanship Workshop, 1-5 p.m. June 13. Cindy Kinard will help youth get ready for the Volusia County Fair. She'll share tips on grooming, show ring etiquette, animal handling, and more. Youth are encouraged to bring their poultry to the workshop. A parent or guardian must accompany participants under age 13. This workshop is open to 4-H and FFA members and independent exhibitors ages 5 to 18. The cost is $15 per participant. Register at —Creatures on the Beach, 2-3 p.m. June 26, Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach. Carolyn Kovacs, a sea grant extension agent with the UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County, will discuss organisms that live along Florida's coasts and share artifacts she found on the beach. This program is recommended for adults. Marine Science Center Grand Reopening: Volusia County will reopen the Marine Science Center and unveil the much-anticipated facility and habitat upgrades. Take a behind scenes tour of the center and get some facetime with feathered and aquatic friends. 9 a.m. June 23, 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet, free, email krussler@ Explore Volusia outings: Volusia County's Environmental Management Division sponsors free outdoor adventures to acquaint residents with the county's diverse natural habitats and land management practices. Participants are encouraged to bring water and wear comfortable clothes and walking or hiking shoes. Advance registration is required. Call 386-736-5927, Ext. 12072 or email tnordmann@ Outings include – —Estuary Dip-netting Adventure, 9-10:30 a.m. June 19, Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, 3283 Sleepy Hollow Road, New Smyrna Beach. Participants will wade among mangroves and oyster beds, using nets to examine local aquatic life. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Closed-toe shoes that can get wet are required. —Deep Creek Preserve Eco-buggy Tour, 8:30-10:30 a.m. June 24, Deep Creek Preserve, 964 S. State Road 415, New Smyrna Beach. Environmental specialists will highlight native plants and wildlife along the route. All ages are welcome, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes. —Bioluminescence Paddle, 8:30-10:30 p.m. June 25, Mosquito Lagoon, River Breeze Park, 274 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill. Learn about the tiny organisms that create glowing waters during this magical experience. Participants must bring their own watercraft, personal flotation device, whistle, and a white electric light. Ages 10 and up are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Explore Nature at the LEC: Discover Volusia County's native plants and wildlife during free indoor programs and outdoor hikes at Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. The 360-acre preserve adjacent to the LEC and Deltona Regional Library is home to a variety of wildlife, including Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, which are drawn to the low vegetation and sandy ridges of the scrub habitat. Staff will offer the following programs – —Lyonia Photography Club, 10-11 a.m. June 14. Learn techniques and explore Lyonia Preserve with volunteers from West Volusia Audubon Society. Open to all ages and skill levels. —Nature's Best Dads, 2-3 p.m. June 15. Celebrate Father's Day by learning about devoted animal dads. Includes a live animal encounter and card-making activity. Recommended for ages 7 and older. —Summer Solstice Science and Sun Salutation, 9-10 a.m. June 21. Learn about the science and cultural traditions of the summer solstice, followed by a short walk and beginner-friendly yoga. Bring a mat or towel. Recommended for ages 10 and older. —Pollinator Power, 2-3:30 p.m. June 22. Celebrate the end of National Pollinator Week with games, crafts and a themed snack. Sponsored by the Friends of Lyonia Environmental Center. Recommended for ages 7 and older. —Photography Club Hike, 7-8 a.m. June 28. Explore Lyonia Preserve with your camera. All ages, skill levels and camera types are welcome. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. —Products of the Hive: Honey, Wax and More, 10-11 a.m. June 28. Discover what bees produce and how those products are used. Recommended for ages 10 and older. —Critter Corner, 2-2:30 p.m. June 29. Meet one of the center's animal ambassadors and learn how it survives in the wild. Suitable for all ages. Reservations are required; call 386-789-7207, Ext. #21028. DeBary Hall events: All events will take place at DeBary Hall Historic Site, 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. Registration is requested for all programs; call 386-668-3840 or email lperez@ to sign up. Upcoming events include – —Story time at DeBary Hall, 9:30 a.m. June 20. Children are invited to Kids Corner, a free series featuring stories, songs, and activities. The program is designed for preschoolers, but children of all ages are welcome. —Summer Tea, 11 a.m. June 14. Experience the elegance of a traditional Victorian afternoon tea with samplings, etiquette lessons, and a house tour. Guests may sample two teas as hostesses dressed in Victorian clothing describe the history of tea and offer instruction on tea etiquette. Seating is limited, and tickets must be purchased by June 6. The cost is $20 per person, and tickets are nonrefundable. Call 386-668-3840 or email lperez@ to reserve your tickets. New Smyrna Beach Duplicate Bridge Club: Sanctioned by the ACBL. A partner is always available for those without one. 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Live Oak Cultural Center, 1050 Live Oak St., New Smyrna Beach, $7 for members, $9 for guests, 386-690-1736. American Cancer Society Volunteer Drivers Needed: The American Cancer Society needs volunteers who can give a little time in their week to help drive neighbors to treatment. As a volunteer driver with the Road To Recovery program, participants will be providing a critical service as well as helping a neighbor get the care they need. To learn more, call 1-800-227-2345 or visit Eldercare Volunteers Needed: The Florida Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program relies on state-certified professional volunteers to advocate for the health, safety, welfare and rights of individuals residing in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. At the request of residents, ombudsmen work with residents, family members, administrators and other to resolve complaints of residents. For more information, call 888-831-0404 or email LTCOPinformer@ Volusia County Guardian ad Litem Program needs volunteers: Volunteers advocate for children who have been removed from their home from either abuse, abandonment or neglect. Volunteers must be 21 and consent to background check. All training provided. You can make the difference in the life of a child by volunteering approximately 10 hours per month. Visit or call 386-589-6825. Volunteers needed to recover fishing line: Volusia County needs environmentally minded volunteers to participate in the Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program. This program collects and recycles discarded fishing line to help keep local waterways tangle free for manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and other aquatic animals. Fishing line recovery bins are located throughout Volusia County and are ready to be adopted in Astor, Daytona Beach, DeLand, DeLeon Springs, Deltona, Edgewater, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, Ormond-by-the-Sea, Osteen, Pierson and Ponce Inlet. Residents who live near a fishing location, spend a lot of time near the water or are avid boaters are encouraged to get involved. Participants should be at least 16 years old. Volunteers can adopt a fishing line recovery bin in their area. The contents are documented, and the data is sent to program coordinators. This data is used to improve the program's overall effectiveness. Participants receive training materials and can earn an official Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program T-shirt. For program details, contact Chad Murch at MonofilamentRecycling@ or 386-736-5927, Ext. 12839. For more information, visit Juneteenth Festival: A Celebration of Freedom: Attendees can enjoy a high-energy block party featuring line dancing with Jaz, live performances by Yung Joc and Michael Randolph, as well as delicious food, craft vendors, and activities for the whole family. Community partners include the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Black Empowerment & Community Council. Noon-4 p.m. June 14, Kissimmee Civic Center, 201 E. Dakin Ave., Kissimmee, free. For more information, visit Composting: Level up your gardening expertise by recycling your yard waste. Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County. Advance registration required.11 a.m.-noon June 23, St. Cloud Library, 810 13th St., St. Cloud, free. Register at: Florida Native Plant Society Pine Lily Chapter: The program will be a book discussion, 'The Serviceberry' by Robin Wall Kimmerer. 6:30 p.m. June 26, West Osceola Branch Library, 305 Campus St., Kissimmee, free, Composting: Level up your gardening expertise by recycling your yard waste. Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County. Advance registration required. 2-3 p.m. June 26, West Osceola Library, 305 Campus St., Celebration, free. Register at: Florida Native Plant Society Pine Lily Chapter: Book discussion: 'The Serviceberry' by Robin Wall Kimmerer. 6:30 p.m. June 26, West Osceola Branch Library, 305 Campus St., Kissimmee, free, Peghorn Park Hike: Sponsored by Florida Native Plant Society Pine Lily Chapter. 8:30-11 a.m. June 28, 2101 Peghorn Way, St Cloud, free, Composting: Level up your gardening expertise by recycling your yard waste. Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County. Advance registration required. 2-3 p.m. July 2, BVL Library, 405 Buenaventura Blvd., Kissimmee, free. Register at: Walk: The Mid-Florida Milers Walking Club, a member of the American Volkssport Association, is sponsoring a tree-shaded walk through scenic residential areas of Celebration. Two distances available – 11K (6.8 miles) or 6K (3.7 miles). Start between 8-8:45 a.m. July 5, Starbucks, 715 Bloom St., Celebration, $4 per person, free for walkers ages 12 or younger who do not want credit, 325-668-4914, Composting – Community Garden Education Series: Level up your gardening expertise by recycling your yard waste. Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Osceola County. Advance registration required. 11 a.m.-noon July 17, Kissimmee City Chambers Park Community Center, 2380 Smith St., Kissimmee, free. Register at: Osceola Stamp Club: Meet other stamp collectors to talk, trade, buy or sell, United States and foreign. Noon-2 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of the month, Osceola Council on Aging, 700 Generation Point, Kissimmee, free, email vjmlot01@ or 407-343-7942. TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly): Weigh-in 9 a.m. Meeting 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays, St. Cloud Senior Center Complex, 702 Indiana Ave., St. Cloud, $5 monthly dues, 508-932-4631, leave a message. Breastfeeding Happy Hour support group: Hosted by the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program at the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County for expectant and new moms. Breastfeeding educators will discuss the benefits and the common challenges of breastfeeding. Family members and friends are welcome. 10-11:30 a.m. the first Monday of each month, Florida Department of Health in Osceola County, 1875 Fortune Road, Kissimmee, free, 407-343-2087. 'Sunshine Sewlutions' American Sewing Guild, Orlando Chapter: A group dedicated to advancing sewing as an art and life skill. All levels welcome. 10 a.m.-noon the second Saturday of each month, Hart Memorial Library, 211 E. Dakin Ave., Kissimmee, first two visits are free, then ASG membership is required, 407-697-0882. Osceola Community Orchestra: The Osceola Community Orchestra welcomes new musicians high school age and older. 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, St. Cloud Community Center, 3101 17th St., St. Cloud, free, 407-957-7390 or email osceolaorchestra@ Euchre: Players needed. Noon Tuesdays, 1 p.m. Sundays, American Legion Post 10, 205 Lakeview Drive, Kissimmee, $5, 863-326-0727. St. Cloud Duplicate Bridge Club: All bridge players and skill levels welcome. Snacks included. Noon-3 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, St Cloud Shuffleboard Club, 701 Ohio Ave., St. Cloud, $1, 407-922-0038. Retired educators: The Retired Educators of Osceola County is composed of people who are retired from the field of education from anywhere in the country. All are welcome. Bring a bag lunch. 11:30 a.m. the second Friday of each month, September-May, Barney E. Veal Center, 700 Generation Point, Kissimmee, free, 407-892-7428. Classic Country Music and Open Mike: Players and singers welcome. 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Osceola County Council On Aging, 700 Generation Point, Kissimmee, free, donations welcome, 407-908-6735. Discover Pioneer Village: Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek tells the story of Osceola County's early settlers through a collection of buildings dating from the late 1800s to 1920s. The village is open for self-guided tours from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for youth ages 4-12. Group visits and educational field trips are welcome and can be scheduled by calling 407-396-8644, Ext. 2. The village is located at 2491 Babb Road and the website for more information is Joseph Rassel of the Sentinel staff compiled this report. To submit an item, email communityevents@
