“Nature’s Night Out”

The Lake Erie Nature and Science Center welcomed 250 guests to its annual benefit party, “Nature’s Night Out: Creatures of the Night.”

“We were very excited to welcome everyone to this year’s benefit. It is our pinnacle event focusing on nature education for children,” said Catherine Timko, executive director at the center. “Every aspect of the evening reflects our distinct mission.”

Attendees enjoyed a strolling dinner by Duet Catering, a beer and wine bar featuring Great Lakes Brewing Company, soulful music throughout the evening provided by Becky Boyd and The Groove Train and sweets served by East Coast Original Frozen Custard. The center’s animal ambassadors were featured along with planetarium programming provided by NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed.

Hall of Fame career broadcaster Ed “Flash” Ference and wife Deb Ferenc served as emcees for Nature’s Night Out, encouraging guests to participate in the silent auction, raffle and wine pull.

Proceeds from Nature’s Night Out will help the center continue its mission of providing hands-on educational programming, a public-access planetarium and wildlife rehabilitation services at no charge to the public. The center is a nonprofit organization funded by donations, class fees and grants including Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. STORY BY CYNTHIA SCHUSTER EAKIN/PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC EAKIN

Lori and Jeff Scheid with Colleen and Gary Garlin and Iris and Brian McDonald

Bruce and Susan Cady with Scott Thomas

Phil and Margy Callesen with Trudy and Pat Pauken

Ed “Flash” Ferenc and Deb Ferenc with Catherine and Martin Timko

Margaret Kraker, Winnie Walter, Pat McRoberts and Sandra Shumway

Sarah Nowlin, Ethan Steinberg with a resident chinchilla, and Kyle Nowlin

NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed instructs Eric German on the use of the telescope.