Martin and Catherine Timko with Nancy and Jack Calcott

“A Night for Nature,” a new event to benefit Lake Erie Nature and Science Center, gave 120 guests the opportunity to see how the center’s programs connect people to the natural world.
The evening featured up-close encounters with Lake Erie Nature and Science Center’s animal ambassadors in the Exhibit Hall. The Bay High School Senior Honors String Ensemble provided musical entertainment. Hors d’oeuvres and dinner were catered by Italian Creations. Following an introduction by Executive Director Catherine Timko, mission presentations were given by Katy Downing, planetarium coordinator, Tim Jasinski, wildlife rehabilitation specialist, Kyle Koprowski, wildlife specialist, and Maggie Watson, animal programs coordinator.

Robert and Scott Thomas, Julie Schroyer with Gandolph the screech owl, and Donna Thomas

Lake Erie Nature and Science Center’s mission is to educate and inspire each of us to understand, appreciate and take responsibility for our natural world. It is the only wildlife rehabilitation facility in Cuyahoga County, with more than 70 animals living on-site.
Proceeds from the benefit event will help provide wildlife rehabilitation services and engaging programs for children and families with a collection of live native animals, a dual-projector domed planetarium, and an accessible destination where indoor and outdoor exhibits are enjoyed at no charge. Lake Erie Nature and Science Center serves more than 100,000 people annually. STORY BY CYNTHIA SCHUSTER EAKIN/PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC EAKIN