Honoring the 'wizard' Thomas Edison

MILAN — Those involved with America 250, a committee celebrating the 250th anniversary for the U.S., and the Milan Public Library invite community members to celebrate the life and achievements of trailblazing inventor and hometown hero Thomas Edison. Titled the Wizard of Menlo Park, an in-depth and engaging photo album presentation by Edison re-enactor Mike Woloszyk takes place from 2-3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24 in the library's Olak Community Room, 19 Church St., Milan. Regarding the event's name, many people called Edison the Wizard of Menlo Park. Menlo Park, New Jersey, was where Edison worked in his invention factory. He and his team created hundreds of inventions, including the phonograph, an improved telephone transmitter and the first practical incandescent light bulb. "Performer Woloszyk's fascination with Thomas Edison started in childhood and has only grown over the years," according to a joint statement. "He has drawn on his extensive knowledge about Edison to develop this event, which chronicles the innovator's childhood in Milan, Ohio, and Port Huron, Michigan; his first inventions; the war of currents with rival Nikola Tesla; and his friendship with Henry Ford." Woloszyk, who will appear in character as Edison, encourages attendees to "prepare themselves to be enlightened, informed and entertained," the statement read, noting this event is free and open to the public.