Emerald Necklace - December 2012 by Cleveland Metroparks

Emerald Necklace

December â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;12 Vol. 61 # 12

Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events

Contents Features 3 Winter – The Season of Silence 14 Passing on the Left

Columns 4 Notes from the Field 5 Naturalist’s Almanac

In Addition 2 Winter Outdoor Recreation 6 Inside the Emerald Necklace 8 Don’t Forget About Golf 10 Zoo News 12 The Chalet Toboggan Chutes Has It All! 16 Events by Location 17 Events Calendar

Winter Outdoor Recreation Comes to Life in Cleveland Metroparks From a warm, dry spring to a hot summer and a cool fall – now we just need snow to complete the seasons. Cleveland Metroparks offers many great and fun winter recreation opportunities. Enjoy the exhilarating winter season in Cleveland Metroparks and take advantage of the many opportunities for cold weather fun. Among the many activities offered are sledding, ice fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, ice skating and tobogganing at the Chalet. For sledding enthusiasts, Cleveland Metroparks has a number of sledding hills, including some with night lighting.

32 Directory

Cross-country skiers are permitted on the fairways and rough areas at Little Met, Mastick Wood, Shawnee Hills and Sleepy Hollow golf courses when there is a four-inch base of snow. Big Met and Seneca golf courses have groomed trails. Cross-country skiers can use the hiking and bridle trails, but skiers should use caution and must yield to hikers and horses. Call 216-635-3270 for conditions.

All photos by Casey Batule or Cleveland Metroparks photo archive unless otherwise noted.

Park visitors can enjoy pond ice skating at various Park District locations, including one with night lighting. The areas are not monitored and skaters are responsible for clearing the ice. Visitors should skate with caution and only when proper ice conditions exist.

Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:

Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Afi-Odelia Scruggs

For the truly dedicated fishing enthusiast, the recreational sport of ice fishing is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the winter season. Call 440-331-8017 for more ice fishing/ice conditions information.

Erie Reproduction

The Chalet Recreation Area provides tobogganing thrills on the twin ice chutes, open through mid-March, with or without snow. Call 440-572-9990 for hours, admission fees and group reservations for the only public ice chutes in Ohio.

Editor

Graphic Design

RR Donnelley Printing

Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com.

Board of Park Commissioners Dan T. Moore Bruce G. Rinker President Vice-President

Debra K. Berry Vice-President

Brian M. Zimmerman

Executive Director-Secretary

Cleveland Metroparks does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age or disability in employment, services or access to programs or activities. Special assistance for Cleveland Metroparks programs or facilities is available by calling 216-635-3264 in advance.

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

Cleveland Metroparks encourages everyone to dress properly for the weather and to exercise caution when outdoors. To truly enjoy the winter season, park visitors should prepare themselves and their equipment for strenuous outdoor activities and then get out there and have some fun. Winter is also a perfect time to take a hike and explore the various trails throughout the reservations, especially the all purpose trails. When snowfall is two inches or more, portions of the all purpose trails will be plowed as time permits. Winter recreation locations are open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Additional information is available in the Winter Recreation brochure, available at any Park District facility, by calling 216-635-3200, or online at www.clevelandmetroparks.com.

Winter – The Season of Silence At night the snow falls, and falls, and falls. By morning, the world we know no longer exists. Edges disappear, streets, driveways, all paths entirely erased. Trees become vertical summits of white especially a stand of trees. Add blustery winds and entire trunks vanish into snowdrifts. The world is magical; exquisite diamonds glisten in fields that have become white blankets covering miles and miles. It’s winter, a season like no other. I’m in the minority. I prefer winter and revere its challenges. We all prepare, stockpiling wood or extra supplies, knowing winter is coming. Nevertheless, we always forget how powerful its presence can be. We fail to recall how dangerous ice is until our car spins a bit. We tilt our heads into clipper-like winds, try to balance on icy ground, wear multiple clothes, and dress in layers. When the temperature really collapses, the world transforms. When a freeze descends, everything is enclosed in a transparent crust of ice. One cannot help but stare, and stare, and stare. We can peer directly into each gift: a branch, individual fir needles, any tiny living tendril. Individual beech leaves are wrapped in clear autumn time capsules. The sun shines and the light show begins. The ice sparkles like glass! The wind arrives, and the glass begins to talk in a rich, crackling voice that happens no other time of year.

photos by Jude De Clercq

I love winter’s silence as much as I love its look and sounds. The muffled rumble tires make crossing snow-covered streets is pleasant. No loud grackles or starlings invade bird feeders. Bold chickadees remain with us all winter; what loyalty. No singing of cicadas, katydids, grasshoppers or buzzing of bees, wasps or flies. No high-pitched whining of mosquitoes or midge funnels crossing the sky. Nothing, but the quiet of winter. How nice. One final note I’ll add to my affection for winter is the severe November snowstorm of 1950. Fortuitously, my parents were confined to their home for several days. Thus, I owe my very life to a winter snowstorm. How cool is that? Joni H. Norris, Naturalist Rocky River Nature Center Joni leads the Rocky River Readers book reviews. December’s book is The Bluebird Effect by Julie Zickefoose 3

Notes from the Field

The Northern Cardinal Decorates Winter’s Gloom

December creeps into our lives unannounced each year, while thoughts of Thanksgiving, Black Friday madness and cold, short days distract us. “It’s still November,” we say to ourselves. “How could the year have gone by so quickly?” December is a month of darkness, cold and gloom. How can we get by? The month of increasing darkness turns before it ends. Gradually, almost imperceptibly, days start to lengthen and gloom begins to fade as we trade longer days for colder days and snowy days, at least for another month or two. The long slide downhill into darkness has been averted by the great celestial spin, and the planet’s tilt changes for the better once again. It is said that as one door closes, another door opens. Thus does December speak to us. We put on a thicker sweater and gaze outdoors into the snow. There, the feathered harbinger of hope sits boldly upon a branch, a red burst of happiness amidst the cold stark white, gray and black

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

colors of winter. Nature brings living joy to our backyards and parklands through the life of the Northern cardinal. Cardinals used to be rare in Ohio, seldom found north of the Ohio River in pre-settlement times. Birds of thickets, shrubs and forest edges, they were excluded by lack of proper habitat as the great forests of Ohio stretched from Portsmouth to Lake Erie, broken only by a few prairie remnants, slips and remains of openings of other kinds. It was not until settlement, and the accompanying clearing of the forests, that Northern cardinals began their gradual spread northward. Now year-round residents throughout Ohio and other Northern states, cardinals have become one of the most common songbirds gracing our daily lives. Perhaps only chickadees and the nonnative house sparrow are as visible, but they are often overlooked. Each December, our attention is drawn to the bright, red-feathered coat of the

Naturalist’s Almanac

male cardinals against the frigid backdrop of snow. Easily adaptable to the artificial shrubby thickets we create around our homes, and greatly attracted to the miles of edge habitat and shrubby thickets throughout Cleveland Metroparks reservations, cardinals can be found nearly any time of the day. They respond especially well to black sunflower seeds placed daily in bird feeders. That seed tends to be less interesting to sparrows, so the cardinals, and their winter companions the chickadees, can be selectively attracted to your homes and our nature centers. Winter cardinals are bold at a distance, but shy up close; they often take flight at the slightest disturbance. If you are an early riser, or an evening feeder watcher, you will find that cardinals will often be the first birds at the feeders on crisp winter mornings, and the last ones there as darkness falls. Few living things in nature are so dramatic as a brilliant red male cardinal against a blinding newly fallen snow in the morning sunlight. Few things in nature give us such a lift in these dark days of winter. Among all places to see cardinals in Cleveland Metroparks, the bird feeders at Cleveland Metroparks CanalWay Visitor Center in Cuyahoga Heights may offer the best views of numbers of cardinals. The center also has become known as one of the best places to photograph or just watch cardinals in the winter time.

December

December’s calendar brings the first day of winter and the shortest amount of daylight of the year, however the plants and animals have already considered it winter for quite some time. Trees and perennial wildflowers are now dormant, while seeds of annual species wait for spring. Both the amount of daylight and temperature will play a role in awakening them at just the right time. The same is true for insects. Some, like wooly bears, lie dormant, hibernating under logs and leaf litter on forest floor. Others, like crickets and katydids, wait for eggs dispersed before the killing frost of autumn to hatch. December seems to be a month that stands still; only the hearty birds and mammals continue their daily search for food and shelter. Birds December is typically considered a quiet month for bird diversity and action, but surprises await those who go afield. Dark-eyed juncos (snowbirds) and American tree sparrows join ranks with Northern cardinals, white-throated sparrows and other ground-feeding species. Chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, and brown creepers form highly active feeding flocks that wander through woodlands, searching for insect and berry prey. Sometimes, uncommon pine, yellow-rumped warblers and the spritely red-breasted nuthatch join the hunt. American goldfinches have molted their brilliant yellow garb for more subdued golden-browns, but still bring a splash of color to nature centers’ bird feeding stations. Resident eastern screech, barred and great horned owls will become more active and vocal when their winter breeding season begins at the end of the month. A quiet night’s hike offers a chance to hear the deep hooting of the great horned owl, “Who-cooks-for-you?” of the barred owl, or the eerie trilling

and whinny of the hand-sized eastern screech owl. Along the lakefront, thousands of red-breasted mergansers, scaup, scoters, and other waterfowl are using Lake Erie as a migration portal to the East Coast. From the high bluffs of Huntington Reservation, one can view more than eight species of gulls, waterfowl staging offshore. With lots of luck, you can catch a very rare visit from a snowy owl that irrupted south from Canadian wintering grounds. Mammals Mammals still fat from autumn’s bounty spend a great deal of time sleeping December away. Skunks and raccoons find a quiet place, often underground, while squirrels prefer a tree cavity for their protection. Bats are now in caves and mines, hibernating in the cool constant temperatures. Groundhogs hibernate in their elaborate excavated burrows. Fresh December snow reveals activity of nocturnal mammals such as deer, fox and coyote that remain active in their quest for food.

Northern cardinals are one of nature’s best gifts in this time of giving, and they’re out there, waiting for you, in Cleveland Metroparks. Come and see for yourself. Robert D. Hinkle, PhD Chief Naturalist Emeritus rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com

Raccoon

Inside the Emerald Necklace

Get a Jump on Holiday Shopping Cleveland Metroparks Style

This holiday season simplify your shopping. Visit Cleveland Metroparks at clevelandmetroparks.com and browse through a variety of gift ideas from EarthWords Nature Shops and Cleveland Metroparks Golf Pro Shops. Shop for unique nature-related gifts or golf items from home and support Cleveland Metroparks. Or, buy a Cleveland Metroparks Gift Certificate. If you have trouble finding the perfect gift for someone, make your holiday gift-giving easier with Cleveland Metroparks Gift Certificates. Certificates can be used for:

Holiday Tree Hunt A tree has been decorated for the holidays somewhere in the woodlands of South Chagrin Reservation. Take a hike or two in search of adorned boughs. Can you find it? If you do, take a picture and send it to lookabout@ clevelandmetroparks.com or show a photo to a Look About Lodge naturalist. You’ll be given one free pass to any Fireside Concert Series performance, which takes place in January and February 2013. The tree will be decorated December 1 – 31.

• Golf Courses – greens fees, cart and club rentals, merchandise, and driving range fees

Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale

• Chalet Recreation Area – tobogganing fees, merchandise, refreshments, hayrides and facility rental fees

December 8 – 9 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center

• EarthWords Nature Shops – books, Cleveland Metroparks apparel, jewelry, ornaments, cards and other gift items

Need a unique gift for your loved ones? Shop the Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale at Rocky River Nature Center. Talented artists will be offering a range of handmade items. Shop locally for:

• Ledge Pool and Recreation Area – admission fees, season passes and shelter reservation fees • Cleveland Metroparks facility rentals • Cleveland Metroparks fee-based programs • Cleveland Metroparks Zoo – admission, education programs and fee-based programs (not valid for refreshments or souvenirs) Gift Certificates are available in any quantity of $5 increments and are valid for two years. Certificates can be purchased at Cleveland Metroparks Administrative Office, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Administrative Office, EarthWords Nature Shops (four locations), the Chalet or online. For more information, call 216-635-3200.

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

• Paintings and fine nature photography • Hand-crafted jewelry • Pottery • Wood • Stone • Basketry • Cloth • Paper • Artisan soaps and lotions. Your dollar will go far; admission is free. For more information, call 440-734-6660 Rocky River Nature Center is located at 24000 Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation, north of Cedar Point Road in North Olmsted.

You Can Give the Gift of Nature This Holiday Season! Looking for a unique way to share your holiday spirit? A tribute gift to Cleveland Metroparks is a special way to recognize people who are important to you. Through a gift to one of the following funds, you can support what is meaningful to the nature or golf enthusiast in your life: • Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund – all contributions remain in the Fund and generate annual income to preserve and protect Cleveland Metroparks for generations to come • Fishing Fund – helps to provide a rewarding fishing experience through fish stocking and habitat enhancement • Golf Education Fund – supports all aspects of the Junior Golf Program, including instructional clinics, leagues, tournaments and day camps

Private Group Rentals at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes Book your company party, school trip, church outing, or club get-together at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes - the only public ice chutes in Ohio! The Chalet Recreation Area can be rented for exclusive private use during non-public hours – including riding the ice toboggan chutes – just for your group! Great dates are still available! A limited number of shareduse bookings are available, too. Call the Chalet at 440-572-9990 for more information and to make reservations. Enjoy an outing at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes all to yourselves!

• Legacy Fund – helps to provide tree and wildlife plantings throughout Cleveland Metroparks; gifts may be designated for a specific reservation • Outdoor Education Fund – supports special exhibits, programs, resource materials and equipment to provide opportunities for all ages to experience the natural world; gifts may be designated for a specific program or facility • Ranger Department K9 Unit Fund – helps to provide veterinary care, specialized training and equipment to ensure the safety of all Park District visitors, as well as promote public safety • Ranger Department Mounted Unit Fund – assists with veterinary care, specialized training and equipment to ensure the safety of all Park District visitors, as well as conserve natural resources • Trails Fund – supports maintenance and rehabilitation of trails throughout Cleveland Metroparks A special holiday card will be sent to all individuals to notify them of your meaningful tribute gift. Honorees and donors will also be recognized in Cleveland Metroparks Emerald Necklace newsletter and Gift of Nature annual report. To make a gift online, visit clevelandmetroparks.com and select ‘donate’ at the bottom of the page. Or, send a check payable to Cleveland Metroparks to: Gift and Donor Development, Cleveland Metroparks, 4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, Ohio, 44144. For more information on ways you can support Cleveland Metroparks now and in the future, please contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development, at 216-635-3217 or kjk@ clevelandmetroparks.com.

Just Because It’s Cold Is No Reason to Forget About Golf Weather permitting, it’s not too late to get in a few more rounds of golf in December at fall discount rates.

December 24

Here Are Some Gift Ideas for the Golfer in Your Life!

Last day of the golf season at Little Met, Mastick Woods and Washington golf courses

Whether shopping for the holidays or for yourself, winter might be the best time to visit a Cleveland Metroparks Pro Shop!

December 25

Shop now and enjoy deep discounts on most merchandise.

Christmas Day – all courses closed

December 26 – 31 Manakiki, Sleepy Hollow, Shawnee Hills, Seneca and Big Met open for regular play at fall discount rates, weather permitting

January 1 – March 14 Courses and driving ranges open if weather permits. Please check the individual courses for updates

All men’s and women’s shirts and shoes are discounted 30 percent or more. All bags, Wilson clubs and outerwear are discounted 20 percent or more.

Afraid to Get the Wrong Thing? Gift Cards Fit! Gift cards for any denomination are available at all Cleveland Metroparks golf courses. They can be redeemed at any Cleveland Metorparks golf course for greens fees, carts, golf merchandise, Academy of Golf programs, or lessons.

Don’t Forget! FREE REPLAY through December 31

Hey Golfers!

Stay in touch through the On the Fairways email newsletter. Subscribe now and start receiving On the Fairways periodically from Cleveland Metroparks Golf featuring golf tips, special offers, news from the courses, and more! Register via email to: hak@clevelandmetroparks.com.

Golfers – Buy an 18-hole round at a 18-hole course or a 9-hole round at a 9-hole course at the regular rate, Monday through Thursday, at any Cleveland Metroparks golf course and play an additional 9 for free! Offer is subject to availability. Cart charges apply for each round. (Offer cannot be combined with other offers or coupons.)

Sign up for the Bonus Rounds Program! Rewarding golfers for just playing Cleveland Metroparks golf courses! The annual fee for the Bonus Round Program is $25. But join by December 31 for an early bird fee of just $20! For every $100 spent on greens fees at any of the courses, earn $20 in Bonus Dollars to be used on future greens fees. Plus, receive a free 9-hole greens fee coupon and $5 off any in-stock merchandise purchase at Cleveland Metroparks Pro Shops. There are no restrictions on the use of Bonus Dollars; they do not expire and are even transferrable. Questions or ready to join? Speak to a staff member at any Cleveland Metroparks golf course.

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

The Chickadee Nest: The 6th Annual Kids-Only Holiday Shop Imagine you’re a kid again. Imagine a magical room filled with wonderful, inexpensive gifts for all the special people in your life. Imagine having your very own shopping helper – we call them elves – to help you choose those perfect presents. Now imagine that this delightful place is tucked away in Cleveland Metroparks. Follow your imagination to your favorite EarthWords or Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store Chickadee Nest on Saturday, December 1 or Sunday, December 2 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Turn your imagination into reality. You will not be disappointed in this memorable holiday experience. Create another holiday memory this year at Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store. From 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on December 8 and 9 and December 15 and 16, children can come to the boathouse for our new Santa’s Workshop. They can choose from several different crafts to create very special gifts for their family and friends, all $5 or under.

Shirt of the Month

LOCATIONS/HOURS Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store 1 West Drive • Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Open daily: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village • 440-449-0511

Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 4:45 p.m.

Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted • 440-734-7576

Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 4:45 p.m.

CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights • 216-206-1003 Open daily: 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Celebrate winter and the holidays by heeding the Advice from a Snowflake: Keep your Cool, Appreciate Small Wonders*Let your Plans Crystallize*Take Time to Chill*Sparkle!*Celebrate your Uniqueness*It’s OK to be a Little Flaky. Stay warm in your 100% cotton, soft blue, long sleeve t-shirt. Available in sizes S – XXL. $20

Visit EarthWords: December 1 and 2 – Chickadee Nest at Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store and North Chagrin and Rocky River Nature Centers. December 8 and 9 – Arts and Crafts Show at Rocky River Nature Center December 8, 9, 15 and 16 – Santa’s Workshop at Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store

EarthWords Nature Shops will be open daily from December 3 through December 24. And don’t forget our after-Christmas sale. 9

Learn More About Bears This Winter at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Did you know that a group of bears is called a sleuth? Or that under their white fur, polar bears have black skin? Bears are a fascinating part of the animal kingdom and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is very fortunate to have such a wide variety of bear species on exhibit. On your next visit to the Zoo, make sure you take a trip up to Northern Trek and visit the six different bear species. You won’t get the chance to see as many bears in one place at many other zoos in the country.

Zoo News

Start your bear tour with Aurora, the Zoo’s female polar bear. Polar bears are the world’s largest land predator with full-grown males capable of weighing more than 1,000 pounds. Polar bears are also excellent swimmers and spend a large part of their lives at sea on the ice Sun bear hunting seals. They are native to the Arctic Circle and are found primarily in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway and Russia. Another rare bear sight is four cubs in one exhibit. The Zoo was able to provide homes for two sets of orphaned sibling grizzly bear cubs in 2011. The bears are almost 2 years old now and two of them will soon be moving to a new exhibit that’s under construction at the Akron Zoo. Grizzly bears are a subspecies of brown bear and are native to the western United States, Alaska and Canada. The North American black bear is the most common bear in the United States and can be found across the entire continent in a variety of habitats. In the wild, black bears hibernate through the winter, but at the Zoo because of readily available, year-round food sources, hibernating becomes unnecessary. As your bear tour continues, the other three species on exhibit become a little more exotic and look a little less like their North American cousins. The Andean bear is the only native bear in South America and is also known as the spectacled bear. It lives in the Andes and is classified as vulnerable in the wild by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Grizzly bear

The Malayan sun bear is native to Southeast Asia. It lives in tropical rainforests where it hunts for insects, fruit and honey. It is the smallest bear in the world with full-grown males weighing in at less than 150 pounds. These expert climbers are also classified as vulnerable in the wild. Slightly larger than the sun bear, is the sloth bear, native to India and surrounding countries. Sloth bears in the wild feed mainly on termites, honey and fruit. They are also classified as vulnerable in the wild. The Zoo’s male sloth bear, Sakar, is a visitor favorite during the annual animal enrichment demonstration event, Creature Comforts. He often receives a papier-mache beehive suspended on a bungee cord which he is known to pursue in a very enthusiastic manner! Joe Yachanin, Marketing & Public Relations Specialist 10

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Breakfast with Santa December 15, 16 and 22 8 – 10 a.m. Come to the Zoo and mingle with Kriss Kringle in The RainForest! The event includes a breakfast buffet of eggs, breakfast potatoes, bacon, sausage, a pancake station, blintz station, cookies, parfait station, breakfast breads, Danish, coffee, juice and milk, Get-Close animal encounter, face painting and of course – Santa Claus! Tickets are $22.50 for adults and $18.50 for juniors and include admission to the Zoo. Reservations are required. Call 216-635-3306.

December Days at the Zoo December 17 – 30 (closed December 25) Special seasonal activities await Zoo guests during December Days including holiday crafts, entertainment, music, pictures with Santa Claus and more! A full schedule of events will be posted on clemetzoo.com. And no winter trip to the Zoo would be complete without a visit to The RainForest, where it’s always 78 – 80 degrees, or a ride on the Zoo’s complimentary heated transportation up to Northern Trek to see the cold weather loving animals like the bears, reindeer and Amur tigers! Best of all, winter admission to the Zoo is reduced to just $8.25 for adults and $5.25 for children ages 2 – 11.

Noon Year’s Eve

EdZooCation Calendar Education Programs at the Zoo

Winter Break Camp – December 26 – 28 (three-day camp) Introduce your kids to the Zoo in a whole new season! For the first time ever, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is offering a Winter Break Camp for kids ages 5 – 12. Full- and half-day sessions are available. All sessions include tours of Zoo exhibits, Get-Close encounters with small animals, arts and crafts, and conservationthemed games. Overnights at the Zoo – All programs run 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. the following morning. Would you like to sleep over at the Zoo, hike the park at night, get close to the animals and take a behind the scenes tour? Then round up your pack, troop, horde, pride, colony or herd and plan an event they’ll never forget! Night Tracks: Sleep over in the Wolf Wilderness cabin and become a scientist for a night while exploring Northern Trek – Friday and Saturday nights. Keeper for a Day – Runs daily from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the keepers who care for the animals in the Conservation Education division and become part of the team for the day. This is a five-hour, hands-on experience you won’t forget. Family Discoveries – 9 – 10:30 a.m. December 2 Bring the entire family for a special Zoo experience featuring hands-on activities and guided tours (topics vary by date). Animal Enrichment: Discover how the Zoo keeps its animals active and healthy while encouraging their natural instincts.

December 31

Home-school Programs – December 11

Why should adults have all the fun? Noon Year’s Eve lets kids celebrate the New Year 12 hours early! This family friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. December 31 and features live entertainment, crafts, ReZoolutions and a ball drop at noon.

Two sessions of the next home-school program, Mammal Mania, are scheduled for December 11. A session for students in kindergarten through fourth grade is set for 10 – 10:45 a.m. and fifth- through eighth-graders meet from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Kids will learn about mammals and just how much we have in common with them.

Noon Year’s Eve is presented by Dollar Bank with support from UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital and Kohl’s.

To register, call 216-635-3391 or visit clemetzoo.com/learn.asp.

For the most up-to-date Zoo information: clemetzoo.com / 216-661-6500 11

Icy Thrills, Travel Mugs, Discounted Nights – You asked for it – you got it. A toboggan lift is finally here! After years of talking about it, hours of engineering and hard work, the dream has finally been realized. The lift is only for toboggans. You still have to walk all 112 steps to the top of the chutes, but you won’t have to lug 40 additional pounds of toboggan. If you have never been to the Chalet you won’t appreciate what this means. If you have, though, you’ll think the lift is the best thing since the invention of the light bulb. Come on out and experience freedom from the toboggan and the thrill of the icy chutes. Cleveland Metroparks Chalet Toboggan Chutes are not only the best way to enjoy the winter, but they’re also the best place to receive great give-aways and discounts all season long! The Chalet Toboggan Chutes feature 700-foot twin, refrigerated ice chutes with a 70-foot vertical drop that can operate with or without snow! Impress friends and family in town for the holidays by bringing them to the Chalet Toboggan Chutes and enjoy extended holiday hours! Tobogganing costs $10 for adults and $8 for children, ages 11 and under. One-time ride tickets are available for $4. Group rates, for 20 or more people, are available for tobogganing during public hours. Groups must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance (not valid for season pass holders). Season passes are available at a cost of $40 for adults and $30 for children, ages 11 and under. A family pass (for up to four) may be purchased for $110. A discount on season passes is available if purchased before December 24. Call the Chalet for details. All riders must wear gloves or mittens. Children, ages 11 and under, must stand at least 42 inches to ride, and must be accompanied by an adult. Private Use: The Chalet, including the ice toboggan chutes, can be rented for exclusive private use during non-public hours. Call the facility at 440-572-9990 for more information and to make reservations. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays and enjoy nature’s winter thrill ride at the Chalet Recreation Area in Cleveland Metroparks – the only public ice chutes in Ohio! 12

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

The Chalet Toboggan Chutes Has It All! Regular tobogganing hours: Thursdays • 6 – 10 p.m. (January, February and March 2013, excluding holiday hours) Fridays • 6 – 10:30 p.m. Saturdays • noon – 10:30 p.m. Sundays • noon – 5 p.m. Holidays • call for hours

Special holiday hours for tobogganing: Sunday, December 23 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Monday, December 24 • noon – 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 25 • Closed. Happy Holidays! Wednesday, December 26 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Thursday, December 27 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Friday, December 28 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Saturday, December 29 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Sunday, December 30 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Monday, December 31 • noon – 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 1 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 2 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Thursday, January 3 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Friday, January 4 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Saturday, January 5 • noon – 10:30 p.m. Sunday, January 6 • noon – 5 p.m.

Additional holiday hours: Monday, January 21 • noon to 5 p.m. Monday, February 18 • noon to 5 p.m. The Chalet Toboggan Chutes are located at 16200 Valley Parkway in Mill Stream Run Reservation, between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville, and are open through mid-March, weather permitting.

Winteriffic!! Sunday, January 6, 2013 • Noon – 5 p.m. The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation. Come out of hibernation and enjoy the best the Cleveland winter has to offer. • Try out cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or ice fishing • Watch dog sled demonstrations • See the magic of ice carving • Take a winter hike • Build a snow shelter • Music, refreshments and more! For more information, call 440-734-6660

The Chalet Promotional Schedule is Slick! Fri. Nov. 23 CHALET OPENS FOR THE SEASON! Sun. Dec. 2 Family Four-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs and 4 Sodas Fri. Dec. 7 Lake Erie Monsters Street Team and Mascot Sun. Dec. 9 Vikings Street Team Fri. Dec. 14 Dollar Day – $1 Hot Dogs and $1 Sodas Sun. Dec. 16 Wear an Ugly Holiday Sweater and Save $2 Fri. Dec. 21 Tis’ the Season – 12 & Under Receive a FREE Treat Sun. Dec. 23 Vikings Street Team Mon. Dec. 24 Tis’ the Season – 12 & Under Receive a FREE Hot Chocolate – 1 per Person with Paid Admission. Tue. Dec. 25 CLOSED – HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Sun. Jan. 6 Winteriffic! Enjoy Ice Carvings, Hikes, Winter Recreation Demonstrations and More! Fri. Jan. 11 Aloha! Wear a Hawaiian Shirt and Save $2 Sun. Jan. 13 Vikings Street Team Fri. Jan. 18 Dollar Day – $1 Hot Dogs and $1 Sodas Mon. Jan. 21 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Holiday Hours Fri. Jan. 25 Mug Giveaway Sun. Jan. 27 Vikings Street Team Fri. Feb. 1 Glove Giveaway Sun. Feb. 3 Kickoff the Big Day – Wear a Team Jersey/ Shirt and Save $2 Fri. Feb. 8 Glove Giveaway Sun. Feb. 10 Dollar Day – $1 Hot Dogs and $1 Sodas and Lake Erie Monsters Thu Feb. 14 Sweetheart Deal – $20 for 2 Toboggan Passes, 2 Hot Dogs, 2 Hot Chocolates and 1 FLEECE BLANKET! Fri. Feb. 15 Sweetheart Deal Sun. Feb. 17 Military I.D. Day – All Military with a Valid I.D. Pay $5 Mon. Feb. 18 Presidents Day – Holiday Hours Sun. Feb. 24 Family Four-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs and 4 Sodas Sat. Mar. 2 Dollar Day – $1 Hot Dogs and $1 Sodas Sun. Mar. 3 Family Four-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs and 4 Sodas Sun. Mar. 10 Family Four-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs and 4 Sodas ALL Thursdays Jan. 10 – Student I.D. Night – All Students Feb. 28 with a Valid I.D. Pay $5 13

Passing on the Left If you are part of a large group stopping on an all purpose trail, where are you supposed to stand? What if another walker comes by? Who has the right-ofway? Let’s say you’re jogging. Where and how are you supposed to pass walkers?

• You, the walker, walk outside the ski track rather than stomp holes in it – even though it’s easier to walk where the snow is packed down. You, the skier, don’t let a few boot holes spoil your day even though they do indeed spoil the track.

There are no laws dictating what you should do in these or other situations that may arise while on Cleveland Metroparks trails. But there is an old adage that is appropriate for every situation: treat others as you would like to be treated. Though we all know this, it doesn’t hurt to be reminded once in a while.

• You, the dog-walker, curb your dog so it doesn’t foul the trail, and you keep the dog on a leash – even when you don’t see a ranger around.

The demand on all of Cleveland Metroparks trails is tremendous. And everyone has their own agenda and expectations. So how can these differences be solved? Well they can’t, but with a little common courtesy, conflicts can be minimized. Here is one of the best trail courtesy signs I’ve seen. It’s posted at the trail heads in Metroparks of the Toledo Area. Trail Courtesy A lot of people are using park walking trails these days. Walkers, joggers, skiers, large groups on nature walks, dog-walkers, even bicyclists and horse riders although both are prohibited on walking trails. Their wants are different and sometimes conflict. Rules and signs help. But no one can legislate courtesy, and courtesy is what’s needed – even though it hurts. Some examples: • You, the jogger, give some warning to the walker ahead that you want to pass on the left, rather than trying to just barge through – even though you may have to slow down a bit and change your pace. • You, the walker, promptly give the jogger enough room to get by on your left – even though five joggers have run through already and they’ve scared off all the deer. • You, a member of a large group stopped on the trail, make room for someone to pass – even though you may miss part of what your leader is saying or showing. • You, the runner/skier/walker, detour around the group that’s blocking the trail without interrupting them.

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

• You, the bicycle or horse rider, observe park rules and stick to your designated trails. And, whatever else you are doing, you keep to the right when possible. Give a little, get a little. Will you? While speaking volumes, this sign doesn’t address everything. It would be impossible to address every indiscretion that could be made. However, Cleveland Metroparks naturalists have come up with several other rules that would benefit both visitors and the park. According to the naturalists, low-impact hiking dictates you don’t widen the trail. If there is a puddle in the middle of the trail, naturalists recommend that hikers walk through the puddle to prevent widening the trail and the puddle. And though the temptation is great, walkers should not pick flowers, or for that matter, any other live plant. Not only will the flowers not be there for the next hiker to enjoy, the natural balance of the area will be disturbed. The flower won’t have the opportunity to reseed or to provide food for neighboring animals and insects. And, by taking live branches off trees you are weakening the tree, exposing it to disease, and destroying possible nesting sites and food sources. We have to live together and respect each other’s right to use the Park District. The only possible alternative would be to provide every type of user with their own trail, thereby turning the entire Park District into a mass of trail corridors and effectively eliminating what draws us to Cleveland Metroparks in the first place – nature. Of course, it won’t to come to that. But, let’s make sure! Next time you’re in the Park District, try extra hard to be courteous and tolerant of your fellow park users. Marjorie Thomas

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Our winter session of preschool programs is just getting started. It’s not too late to get your little one in on all the fun:

Nature Nuts

Choose from Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Fee (10-week winter session): $300 per child; members, $250 per child Children ages 3 – 5 can join us for a fun-filled introduction to nature and science! Encounter live animals, hike outdoors, learn to focus with our latest dance moves, get used to the “dark” in the planetarium and have plenty of time to play! Enjoy games, stories, crafts and a new nature topic each week! Enroll as an exciting alternative or supplement to traditional preschool. Children must be potty trained. Preregistration required.

Log Cabin Explorers Club

Choose from Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. or Fridays, 9 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 3 p.m. Fee (10-week winter session): $275 per child; members, $225 per child Children ages 5 – 6 will become nature detectives as they explore the hiking trails and gardens, encounter our resident animals, sing, dance or listen to a story. They will grab backpacks full of gear and investigate Huntington Reservation to look at bugs up close and identify native Ohio birds and mammals! Star shows, crafts, science experiments and journaling also help to build important school skills, whether they’re preparing for or already in kindergarten. Pre-registration required.

We also offer a full selection of programs and activities for school-aged children through adults. Find them at www.lensc.org. Highlights of our December event calendar include:

Second Nature: A Series for Lifelong Learners

Thursday, December 13 7 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $7 per adult, in advance; $10 per adult, day of program Enraptured by Raptors Join Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s own Director of Wildlife, Dave Wolf, as he shares the wonder of these majestic and powerful predators. Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this specifically adapted group of birds of prey and the ways their lives intersect with ours. With the help of some of the Center’s resident live raptors, at least one “Wow!” moment is guaranteed for every member of the audience.

Winter Solstice Celebration

Thursday, December 20 6:30 – 8 p.m. Fee: $7 per person; $35 per family of 5 or more Celebrate both night and day on the shortest day of the year! Come dressed to hike our candlelit trail. Warm up by the fire and visit with nighttime animals. Learn what a solstice is and experience the night sky in the planetarium. Enjoy a fun winter solstice family activity! Get your tickets early; registration closes on December 18.

Scouting Corner We know that girls want to have fun learning about themselves and exploring the world they live in. That’s why we design our Girl Scout programs to complement the Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting and National Leadership Journeys. We offer over 40 different programs for all levels of scouts, including:

Discover December for Daisy Girl Scouts Sunday, December 9 1 – 2:30 p.m. Fee: $10 per girl

Celebrate the holiday season and your road trip in the Journeys program Between Earth and Sky. See the animals that can be found in and around our Center and in your backyard when it’s chilly. Make a holiday treat for wildlife and yourself. Learn about women working to protect our planet and how you can help them. Light snack and program patch included. Find our full schedule of programs for girl scouts and cub scouts at www.lensc.org.

Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs * Monthly SkyQuest: Earth Based Telescopes Saturdays, December 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 – 1 p.m. Saturdays, December 1 and 15 – 7:30 p.m. Fee: $3 per person

Discover the professional tools of astronomers around the world. We’ll start with Galileo and bring you up to date with the telescopes used at world-class observatories. We will discover the impact these telescopes have made on science today, as they gradually revealed the wonders of the visual universe and gave us a better understanding of our place in the universe. Recommended for ages 7 and over.

Sunday Under the Stars

Sundays – 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Fee: $2 per person An out-of-this-world experience the whole family can enjoy! Each week, test your knowledge with new space trivia, explore the latest news from space and find out what’s going on in the sky tonight. Best for ages 2 and over.

Visit us at www.lensc.org for details of our full range of star shows including our popular weekday offerings for preschoolers: Twinkle Tots and Stellar Stars. * Doors close promptly at start time. Tickets for all star shows are available at the Welcome Desk 30 minutes before the program begins on a first-come, first-served basis.

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Located at 28728 Wolf Road in Bay Village • 440-871-2900 • www.lensc.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is an independent nonprofit affiliate of Cleveland Metroparks and receives public support with local tax dollars from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture, to preserve and enrich our region’s cultural heritage. 15

December Events by Location

•

Monthly Morning with the Birds

Cleveland Metroparks is celebrating the “Year of the Pollinator.” Look for this symbol next to Cleveland Metroparks special “Year of Pollinator” related programs and events.

Off-site programs

5 • Residential Stormwater Credit Workshop 21 • Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades

(BeR) Bedford Reservation

9 • Bedford Hike 15 • Venturing Through Viaduct 15 • Woodlands of Bedford: Egypt Mound

(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 4 • Hiking for the Young at Heart 7 • Night Hike 9 • Breakfast in the Park 12 • 13 • Animal Crackers 16 • Serenity Hike 22 • 23 • 24 • 26 • 27 • 28 • 29 • 30 • 31 • Hand Feed a Chickadee 27 • Family Friendly Hike 29 • Drop-In Exploration: Bird Nutrition

(CWC) CanalWay Center

Open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Off E. 49th St., Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Hts. 216-206-1000 1 – 31 • Hunt of the Month 1 – 31 • Art Display 2 • Bike Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 8 • Bird Banding 8 • American Girl Afternoon: Caroline 11 • Stroller School: Toys 12 • Hidden Valley Homeschool: Tracking 13 • Preschoolers: Holidays in the Past 15 • Geocache-ola for Experienced Geocachers 15 • Acoustic Players Circle 19 • History and a Brown Bag Lunch: Cleveland Holiday Traditions 22 • Pop-Up Program 22 • Holiday Hike 26 • All About Mills 29 • Kids Day at CanalWay Cleveland Astronomical Society 6 • The Higgs Boson: Found at Last?

(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 22 • Heart Pumping Hike

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance, Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 2 • Tree ID 7 • Winter Bird Walk 8 • Anatomy of a Snowflake 15 • 21 • Birdhouse Bonanza 22 • Recycled Card Ornaments 23 • Winter Walk in the Woods 28 • Who Lives in Our Trees? 29 • Bird Banding

(HiR) Hinckley Reservation 7 • 29 For Women Only

(HuR) Huntington Reservation

21 • Winter Solstice Sunrise 29 • Volunteer to Adopt a Beach (LENSC) Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Open Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 28728 Wolf Road, Huntington Reservation, Bay Village, 440-871-2900 15 • Meet an Animal: The Rosy Boa 16 • Meet an Animal: The Screech Owl 18 • A Walk in the Park

(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation 1 • Winter Wildlife Walk

(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation

8 • Birds and Coffee 14 • Family Friday Night: Winter Sleepover 19 • Trail Trackers: Birds in Winter 28 • Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers

(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 1 • Frosty Morning Hike 2 • Hibernating Insect Hunt 7 • Fireside Concert 9 • Sunday Bird Walk 14 • Friday Movie Night 15 • Dog Hike 16 • By Its Bark 18 • Stroller Science 21 • Family Friday Night: Night Tree 23 • Greet the Winter Season 26 • Afternoon Family Matinee 28 • Full Cold Moon 30 • Hike for Your Health 31 • Slithering into the New Year Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 3 • Critique Night 17 • Holiday Potluck Dinner Party

Group Programming For information on group programs, call any Cleveland Metroparks nature or visitor center.

Outdoor Adventures With IGO The Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) offers year-round courses in canoeing, backpacking and more, plus Escapes to Nature throughout the U.S. and Canada. For details, visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.

(RRR) Rocky River Reservation 8 • Monthly Morning with the Birds

(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 44070 440-734-6660 1 – 31 • Gallery Wall: Pine Needle Baskets 2 • Bird Banding 2 • River Poets 3 • 4 • Little Explorers: Feelin’ Foxy 8 • 9 • Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale 16 • Coffee with the Birds 16 • One Pond, Four Seasons 16 • Winter Book Review: Bluebird Effect 16 • School of the Wilds: Winter Tree I.D. 19 • Focus on the Planet Film: Carbon Nation 21 • 22 • Meet a Chickadee 23 • Chickadee Hike 23 • Winter Trees 26 • Winter Wonderland Hike 28 • Winter Botany 28 • Full Moon Hike 29 • Night Hike 30 • How to Feed Wildlife Trout Unlimited 4 • A Capsule History of Fly Fishing in America Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society 4 • John James Audubon: His Life and Art

(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation

ook About Lodge L Open for scheduled programs. Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91, Bentleyville 440-247-7075 2 • Daring and Dangerous 2 • The Lodge is Open 5 • 12 • Hearthside Knitting Circle 8 • Recycled Card Crafting 8 • Nature Journaling through the Seasons 10 • Odds and Ends Baskets 14 • Winter Solstice Concert 15 • Appalachian Dulcimer Workshop 15 • Candlelit Hike and Caroling 15 • Hike Along the River 20 • Nature Play Date 21 • Snowflakes on the Solstice Hike 23 • One Trail Twelve Times 29 • Bird for your Lunch Christmas Bird Count Cleveland Natural Science Club 9 • Open House

(WCR) West Creek Reservation 20 • Winter Warriors of West Creek 29 • Talking Tracks

December Events Calendar

1 • Saturday Frosty Morning Hike

Grab your warm boots and favorite travel mug and come out to North Chagrin Nature Center. We’ll fill up on hot coffee or tea before heading out to enjoy a frosty morning hike through the forest. 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. NCNC Terrain: may be icy, uneven, 2 miles Art Display

Robert Jursinski and Eileen Matias display their beautiful water colors and paintings of the wonderful animals seen at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Through December 31. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC Hunt of the Month

This month join us in the hunt for the evergreen trees, also known as pine trees. We have hidden 20 of these trees around the center. We have changed the color of some of them to give them better camouflage. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC

Cleveland Metroparks Maps Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 16 reservations. Or, call 216-635-3200 and request a Pathfinder Map and Guide.

2 • Sunday Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center

Better than binoculars, see intricate details of birds as we capture and band birds from the feeder. Learn about bird banding, an essential tool for studying our feathered friends. Program will be cancelled during rain. Drop in any time between the hours below: 9:30 – noon RRNC Bike Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation

Thirteen miles of bicycle adventure, led by Cultural History Interpreter Doug Kusak. We’ll keep warm biking and dabbling in history. 10 a.m. – noon CWC Terrain: all purpose trail Registration required 216-206-1000

River Poets

Tree ID

Join Naturalist Joni Norris as we read nature poetry by outstanding poets. If you are inclined, bring a sample of your own poetry to share with others. We will have several examples of nature poems at the session. Noon – 1 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults

Identifying trees is at its most refined when the leaves have fallen from their branches. Join a naturalist as we use bark and available buds to identify a few of Garfield Park Reservation’s common species. 1 – 2 p.m. GPNC

The Lodge Is Open

This year-long series will follow examples from the books, The Daring Book for Girls and The Dangerous Book for Boys. This month we’ll make and decorate our own paper with natural ingredients. 1 – 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 7 – 12 years with adult Fee: $10 per child Register by December 1 440-247-7075

Take a break from your busy day at Look About Lodge. Sit a while or just stop in. We’ll have a roaring fire waiting for you. Noon – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

Daring and Dangerous

Gallery Wall Pine Needle Baskets by Paul Johanni

Crafts become works of art in the hands of a master. Paul Johanni’s pine needle baskets, finely crafted, take artistic twists and turns. See Johanni’s imaginative creations daily through December 31. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. RRNC Winter Wildlife Walk

Get out, stretch your legs, and enjoy the brisk winter air. Along our hike, we will explore the woods, looking for signs left behind by our native winter residents. We’ll make a special stop at the Strongsville Wildlife Area. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. MSRR Bonnie Park Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: 3 miles 440-734-6660 17

Hibernating Insect Hunt

What do insects do in winter? Find out as we search fields and forests for sleeping insects. Be prepared to roll logs and carefully peek under bark to see who is home asleep. 2 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: easy, may be icy, 0.5 – 1 mile

3 • Monday Little Explorers: Feelin’ Foxy

Want to learn more about one of Ohio’s beautiful and mysterious animals? Join Miss Gretchen for a fun story, craft and hike to discover foxes. 1 – 2:15 p.m. RRNC Ages: 3 – 5 with adult Terrain: a few steps, 0.5 mile Register beginning November 26 440-734-6660 Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Critique Night

Time to put your knowledge of composition to work. Bring a maximum of two photos for general audience critique. 8 – 10 p.m. NCNC

4 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart

Join Naturalist John Miller for a vigorous walk and talk hike through our winter woods and prairie. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. BNC Terrain: moderate, 3.5 miles Trout Unlimited A Capsule History of Fly Fishing in America

This presentation visits what fishing was like in early America and how the sport of fly fishing evolved into what it is today. 6:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society John James Audubon: His Life and Art

Audubon’s illustrated book, The Birds of America was the most ambitious illustrated book of the 19th century. Dr. Henry Adams, professor of 18

American art at CWRU, traces Audubon’s remarkable life and discusses how it culminated in his career as an artist and naturalist. 7:30 p.m. RRNC Little Explorers

10 – 11:15 a.m. or 1 – 2:15 p.m.

(see 12/3 for details)

5 • Wednesday Residential Stormwater Credit Workshop

Learn to help your community – and your budget – manage increased amounts of stormwater before the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District utility fee arrives in January. Bring photos or plans of your rain barrels or rain garden to submit your credit application at the end of the workshop. 6 – 8 p.m. Padua Franciscan High School Multi-Media Room Contact: Jennifer Grieser 440-331-8679 Hearthside Knitting Circle

Come to Look About Lodge and sit hearthside to complete those knitting, crocheting, and needlepoint projects for the holidays. We’ll have the fires lit and warm beverages for you to enjoy. This will be a chance to share ideas and holiday cheer. 7 – 9 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

6 • Thursday Cleveland Astronomical Society The Higgs Boson: Found at Last?

University of Toledo professors Dr. Karen Bjorkman and Dr. Jon Bjorkman will give an overview of the theoretical prediction of the Higgs boson. They’ll present new experimental evidence of its existence and explain why it matters and how it fits – or doesn’t – into our view of the universe 8 – 9 p.m. CWC

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

7 • Friday For Women Only

Come join other women for exercise and camaraderie as we recharge after a busy week. We’ll hike along the bridle trails and through the forests as we explore a section of Hinckley Reservation. 10 a.m. – noon HiR Call for meeting location Ages: adult women Terrain: moderate, hills, 2.5 miles 440-526-1012 Winter Bird Walk

Join a naturalist as we walk the interior of Garfield Park Reservation looking for our wintering birds. Find out which fowls are tough enough to stick out the northeast Ohio winter. Dress for the weather and bring your binoculars. 10 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Terrain: moderate, some small hills, 3.5 miles 216-341-3152 Fireside Concert

Guitar, piano and flute accompanied by rich vocals from the group Off the Vine will bring you an eclectic mix of folk, blues and soul by the fireplace. 7 – 8 p.m. NCNC Fee: $5 per person Registration required 440-473-3370 Night Hike

The forest changes as the evening moves in. Join Naturalist Pam Taylor as we hike along a hemlock ravine and listen to the forest at night. Tasty treats will be ready upon our return to the nature center. 7 – 9 p.m. BNC Terrain: hills, 2.5 miles Register beginning November 26 440-526-1012

8 • Saturday Birds and Coffee

Brush up on your bird identification skills while enjoying a hot cup of coffee. Woodpeckers, chickadees and cardinals are expected visitors to our feeders. We will get a front row seat and close-up views through one-way glass windows. 9 – 10 a.m. NCR Nature Education Building Registration required 440-473-3370 Monthly Morning with the Birds

December is an exciting time to watch the birds in the woods and over the waters of the Rocky River valley. Bring your curiosity, binoculars, and a field guide (if you have a favorite) to see some of these winged gems. 9 – 11 a.m. RRR Rocky River Nature Center parking lot Terrain: level, some stairs, 1 mile 440-734-6660

Bird Banding

Learn about bird banding, an essential tool for learning about our feathered friends. You can see the intricate details of the birds that we capture, band, and release at the feeders. Drop in anytime. You can observe banding from inside the center. If it rains, the program will be cancelled. 9:30 a.m. – noon CWC Recycled Card Crafting

Drop by Look About Lodge, and design your own recycled card in honor of the season. Participants are encouraged to bring some of their own old cards and images. 10 a.m. – noon SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 8 years – adult Fee: $5 per person for supplies Anatomy of a Snowflake

Take a closer look into the miracle that blankets our world every winter. Gain a new understanding of and appreciation for the spectacular snowflake. We will even make our own unique snowflakes to take home. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC

American Girl Afternoon: Caroline

During monthly bite-sized programs, we will do activities like those in the American Girl books. Today we will meet the newest character, Caroline, who lived during the War of 1812. You do not have to read the books to participate. Snack provided. 1 – 3 p.m. CWC Ages: 8 – 12 years Fee: $5 Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000 Nature Journaling through the Seasons

We will take note of the subtle and not-so-subtle changes as the seasons take their turn and reflect on our observations in a nature journal of our own creation. You may want to bring your camera and a pair of binoculars. 1 – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years – adult Fee: $20 (first-time participants only) Terrain: slow-paced, some hills Register by December 5 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale (see page 6 for details)

9 • Sunday Breakfast in the Park

Join us for a brisk morning hike while our volunteers prepare a hot delicious breakfast. 8 – 10 a.m. BNC Terrain: may be slippery, 1 mile Register beginning November 26 440-526-1012 Sunday Bird Walk

Join us as we search A. B. Williams Memorial Woods for woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees and other songbirds that make this area their winter retreat. Some binoculars will be available to borrow. 9 – 11 a.m. NCNC Ages: adults and teens Terrain: easy, 2 miles 20

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

Bedford Hike

This winter walk will keep you warm. We’ll hike along the Tinker’s Creek floodplain before heading uphill to a portion of the ridge overlooking the ravine. 1 – 2:30 p.m. BeR Hemlock Creek picnic area Terrain: moderate, steep hill, 2 miles 216-341-3152 Cleveland Natural Science Club Open House

2 – 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale (see page 6 for details)

10 • Monday Odds and Ends Baskets

We will be using up the odds and ends from previous basket classes. Get creative and design your own small basket or use the pattern provided. Great for beginners! 6 – 10 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years – adult Fee: $10 Registration required by December 7

11 • Tuesday Stroller School: Toys

We will stay indoors so you can leave the stroller at home. Snuggle up with your little one as we read, play, and sing about toys. All children attending must be registered. 10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 years & under with an adult Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000

12 • Wednesday Animal Crackers

Join Miss Jenny for a special program based on Jan Brett’s classic book, The Mitten. We’ll read the story, make a craft and play a game. 10 – 11:15 a.m. or 1 – 2:15 p.m. BNC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult (no siblings) Register beginning December 1 440-526-1012

Hidden Valley Homeschool: Tracking

The Hidden Valley is home to many animals. Often we only see the tracks they leave behind. Join us in learning how to identify tracks and how animals use tracking skills to find a mate, food, or avoid a predator. 1 – 3 p.m. CWC Ages: 6 – 12 years Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000 Hearthside Knitting Circle (see 12/5 for details)

13 • Thursday Preschoolers: Holidays in the Past

How were the holidays celebrated in the past? What did people do differently or the same as they do today? Let’s find out and make a holiday craft like kids would have made long ago. 10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000

Winter Solstice Concert

Look About Lodge is the perfect backdrop to welcome winter at this special concert. With clarinet and guitar, Sunday in the Park will share sounds of the season. 7 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Register by December 12 440-247-7075 Friday Movie Night

Tonight’s feature is part two of the critically acclaimed documentary series by Ken Burns The National Parks: America’s Best Idea. Witness the struggles and the triumphs of preserving the parks for everybody to enjoy and for nature to thrive. Popcorn will be served. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. NCNC

15 • Saturday Historical Interpreter Appalachian Dulcimer Workshop

Build your own beginner’s lap dulcimer and learn the basics of playing it. This workshop includes a dulcimer kit, songbooks and instructions on playing your new durable cardboard dulcimer. Everyone will walk away playing their newly constructed dulcimer, guaranteed! Instructor – Foster Brown 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Fee: $60 Registration required 440-786-8530

Woodlands of Bedford: Egypt Mound

Enjoy a late autumn hike with Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi and visit the hidden site of the Gleeson family cemetery, historic Egypt Mound. Learn some unique local history, including who is buried there and the reason for its name. 9 a.m. – noon BeR Tinker’s Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook Terrain: moderate, hilly, some off trail, 3 miles 216-341-3152

Animal Crackers (see 12/12 for details)

10 – 11:15 a.m.

14 • Friday Family Friday Night: Winter Sleepover

Experience an unforgettable overnight at the Nature Education Building. We’ll spend time indoors and outdoors exploring and enjoying nature together. The sleepover will include a campfire, hike, breakfast and more. Please join us after dinner Friday evening and stay until Saturday morning. 6:30 p.m. – 8 a.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 6 – 12 years with adult Fee: $5 per person (money due by December 12) Terrain: moderate, 1 – 2 miles Registration required 440-473-3370

Venturing Through Viaduct

Geocache-ola! for Experienced Geocachers

Looking to get out of the house and stretch your legs? Join us for a short walk through time, as we explore the past and present Viaduct Park. 10 – 11 a.m. BeR Willis Picnic Area Terrain: easy, small hills 216-341-3152

Doug Kusak hid caches. Find ‘em. At the meet-and-greet, we will provide coordinates, coffee, and cocoa. Log finds on geocaching.com until midnight December 15 only. Caches will remain out for fun ‘til January 5. 10 a.m – noon CWC 216-206-1000

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

Birdhouse Bonanza

Acoustic Players Circle

Celebrate the coming winter season by building a gingerbread birdhouse for our feathered friends to enjoy! Enjoy views of our feathered friends while creating this special bird seed treat. 1 – 2 p.m. GPNC Register beginning December 1 216-341-3152

Join this well-established players’ circle to swap songs, chords and styles of playing. Professional abilities not needed; just a desire to have fun and learn from fellow musicians. Listeners are always welcome. Theme for the month: Holiday Time. 1 – 3 p.m. CWC

Meet an Animal: The Rosy Boa

This cute little serpent is actually one of two boas found in the United States. Come learn more about it and touch it afterwards. This is the perfect get-to-know snake for young and old alike. 3 p.m. LENSC Fee: $2 per person 440-871-2900 Dog Hike

Bring your best friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. We’ll hike the wooded trails of North Chagrin Reservation. All dogs must be leashed. 2 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, may be icy, 2.5 – 3 miles

Hike Along the River

Join Naturalist Carly Martin for a hike through fields and along the Chagrin River. 2:30 – 4 p.m. SCR Jackson Field Terrain: flat, 2 miles Candlelit Hike and Caroling

Take respite from the busy season by walking through a beautiful South Chagrin forest lit by candle luminaries. You will be led to a roaring fire where we will sing carols and warm our hearts and hands together. 7 – 8:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

16 • Sunday Coffee with the Birds

Join us to observe the birds visiting our feeders while sipping a warm cup of coffee. We will examine different types of feeders and seeds, exploring ideas of how you might attract birds to your yard. We’ll provide coffee, binoculars and birds. 9 – 10 a.m. RRNC Register beginning December 3 One Pond, Four Seasons

Join Naturalist Joni Norris for a walk around West Channel Pond. We will note the seasonal changes through the woods, near the dock, and along the edge of the pond, Then we’ll meet again this spring. Noon – 1 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Terrain: some stairs, 1 mile

Serenity Hike

Before the hustle and bustle of the holidays, take time to enjoy the peace and serenity offered in the woods of Brecksville Reservation. We will hike the Deer Lick Cave Loop Trail. 1 – 3 p.m. BNC Terrain: hills, 4 miles By Its Bark

Can you tell which species of tree you are looking at by its bark? Would you like to learn how? Join Naturalist Traci Williams on a hike through A. B. Williams Memorial Woods to look at some of our trees that make up our beech-maple climax forest. Hot chocolate will await us upon our return. 2 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, children 10 years & over with adult Terrain: trails, 1.5 miles

School of the Wilds Winter Tree Identification

Join Naturalist Valerie Fetzer and learn clues that identify trees in the winter. Impress your friends with this newfound skill! 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, some stairs, 1 mile Winter Book Review

Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the Rocky River Readers to review Ohio author, Julie Zickefoose’s most recent book, The Bluebird Effect. Haven’t read the book? Listeners are welcome. Bring your favorite pie to share as we select our top book of the year. 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Meet an Animal: The Screech Owl

This owl is a common Ohio inhabitant but often overlooked because of its small size. We will have an unusual look at it (in the daylight and indoors) and discuss its life in the wild. 3 p.m. LENSC Fee: $2 per person 440-871-2900

17 • Monday Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Holiday Potluck Dinner Party

Bring along a dish to share. There will be a program at 8:30 p.m. 7 – 10 p.m. NCNC

18 • Tuesday A Walk in the Park

Join us for a stroll through Huntington Reservation. We’ll talk about what is happening with the flora and fauna of the forest as the season progresses and touch on local history as well. 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. LENSC Fee: $5 per person Terrain: easy to moderate

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

Stroller Science

Northeast Ohio winters can be long and harsh. The animals, plants and people living here have adapted to meet their survival needs. Join us to discover the unique ways living things cope with winter. 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: easy, snow, 0.5 mile

19 • Wednesday Trail Trackers: Birds in Winter

In wintertime some birds fly south, some stay here. Come learn about birds in the icy cold weather. 10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 3 years – K with adult Register beginning December 3 440-473-3370

History and a Brown Bag Lunch: Cleveland Holiday Traditions

Reminisce about Cleveland during the holidays – shopping, dining, television, and more – during this interactive presentation. Bring your mementos and memories to share, or just listen and enjoy. Noon – 1 p.m. CWC Focus on the Planet Film Series: Carbon Nation

This is a film about solutions to climate change. This optimistic, non-preachy film shows how working out climate change can boost the economy and raise the quality of life on the planet. 7 – 8:30 p.m. RRNC

20 • Thursday Winter Warriors of West Creek

Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a quiet winter hike through the crisp fields and forests of West Creek Reservation. We’ll be on the lookout for resident birds, like juncos and bluebirds that are toughing out the season in northeastern Ohio. Binoculars recommended. Meet at Center Park on Park Drive off State Road/ Route 94 10 – 11:30 a.m. WCR Ages: adults, families Terrain: mostly flat, 1.25 miles Nature Play Date

Join a naturalist at Look About Lodge and explore winter through play. We’ll be inside and outside, weather permitting. Bring a lunch if you’d like. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 2 – 5 with adult

21 • Friday Winter Solstice Sunrise

Winter officially begins at 6:12 a.m. Join Naturalist Ken Gober, who returns after a five-year hiatus, to savor winter’s first sunrise. Then enjoy a home-baked solstice muffin on your way home or to work. Bring your favorite sunrise photograph or experience to share. 7:15 – 8:15 a.m. HuR Lake Picnic Area Shelterhouse 440-734-6660 Snowflakes on the Solstice Hike

Enjoy the morning hours on the trail this shortest day of the year. We’ll keep a steady pace and watch the snowflakes fall. Stop inside the Lodge for some hot chocolate at the end of the hike. 9 – 11:30 a.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: hills, 3 miles

Meet a Chickadee

Family Friday Night

If a chickadee lands in your hand, you’ll have an opportunity to meet it up close. Let’s try our hand at hand feeding a chickadee. Sunflower seeds will be provided. 10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Terrain: may be snow, 1 mile

Join us as we bring Night Tree by Eve Bunting to life this holiday season. We’ll hike through the nighttime forest to a perfect spot. There we’ll decorate a tree for our wildlife friends, sip hot cocoa and sing a few songs. 6:30 – 8 p.m. NCNC Ages: families, adults Terrain: level, easy, 0.5 mile Register beginning December 3 440-473-3370

Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades

Doug Kusak leads an exploration of downtown Cleveland’s arcades: the Old Arcade, Colonial Arcade and Euclid Arcade. We’ll stroll through a part of Cleveland’s grand past en route to understanding their role in Cleveland today. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Ages: adults, children 8 years & over with adult Fee: $5 (includes use of tour guide system) Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000 26

Birdhouse Bonanza (see 11/15 for details)

3 – 4 p.m. GPNC Register beginning December 1 216-341-3152

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

22 • Saturday Hand Feed a Chickadee

Looking for something to do with your family and friends over the holidays? Stop by Brecksville Nature Center to hand feed the chickadees. We’ll supply the black oil sunflower seeds and instructions that help make this experience one to remember. 10 a.m. – noon BNC Pop-Up Program

Join us for a new program by stopping at the center to find where in the reservation Jill, our naturalist, will pop up. There will be something to learn about the local flora or fauna and something to take home too. 10 a.m. – noon CWC

Recycled Card Ornaments

Naturalist Beth Whiteley will show you a fun way to make recycled ornaments. Bring some of your favorite old greeting cards and a metal jar lid or two and we will transform them into something beautiful to add to your holiday decor. 10:30 a.m. – noon GPNC Register beginning December 1 216-341-3152 Holiday Hike

Join us for a brisk hike to shake off the stress of the holiday. We will enjoy the sights and sounds of the hidden valley as we walk the Lower 40 Loop trail. 1 – 2 p.m. CWC

Heart Pumping Hike

Winter Walk in the Woods

Get your heart pumping on this more-walk-than-talk hike. During our fast-paced walk through the reservation, we’ll keep our eyes and ears open for signs of wildlife. 1 – 3 p.m. ECR Highland Picnic Area Ages: adults Terrain: moderate, some uphill, 4 – 5 miles 440-473-3370

Need a break in the midst of the busy holiday season? Take time to enjoy the peace of a winter walk in the woods. Allow the stillness of nature to rejuvenate you. 1 – 2 p.m. GPNC

Meet a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details)

23 • Sunday Chickadee Hike

Join Naturalist Joni Norris to try hand feeding a chickadee. We will walk part of West Channel Pond and the back part of the Wildlife Management Trail. Sunflower seeds will be provided. 10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Ages: adults Terrain: some stairs, 1 mile

Greet the Winter Season

Don’t let the arrival of winter keep you inside. We’ll look for winter birds in the forest and at the bird feeders. We’ll take some sunflower seeds along to bring them in for a closer look. 1:30 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: muddy, moderate pace, 2.5 miles One Trail, Twelve Times

Seasons come and go but do we really pay attention to nature’s changing landscape? Walk with Naturalist Barb Holtz to discover how the plant and animal life on

one trail transforms over the course of a year. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. SCR Quarry Rock Picnic Area Terrain: hilly, 2 miles Winter Trees

Join Naturalist Min Keung to learn common trees of Rocky River Reservation. Learn about common bark identification. 2 – 3 p.m. RRNC Terrain: may be snow, some stairs, 1 mile Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

24 • Monday Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

26 • Wednesday All About Mills

Mills were an important part of the industrial history of the Cuyahoga Valley. Before you return to your daily grind, learn about local mills and how they shaped life in our area. 1 – 2 p.m. CWC Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000 Winter Wonderland Hike

Don’t forget the best gift of all is time spent with family and friends outdoors! Escape the stress of the season and spend some time laughing, playing, and hiking with your loved ones. 1 – 3 p.m. RRNC Terrain: icy hills and stairs, 1.5 miles

Afternoon Family Matinee

Today’s matinee feature will be Dr. Doolittle, the 1967 classic starring Rex Harrison. Are you ready to witness how the good doctor communicates with creatures both great and small with the help of music and dance? It’s the perfect prescription for the whole family! Popcorn will be served. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, families Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

27 • Thursday Family Friendly Hike

Feeling a little stuffed from eating all those holiday cookies? Join Naturalist Sharon Hosko for a family-friendly hike on the Hemlock Loop Trail to get some exercise and look for local wildlife. 1:30 – 3 p.m. BNC Terrain: moderate, stairs, hills, 2.5 miles Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

28 • Friday Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers

Did you know that Ohio experienced an ice age? How long ago was it? What were the native flora and fauna like back then? Find out the answers to these questions and more as we discover how Ohio’s ice age shaped Ohio that we know today. 10 a.m. – noon NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 6 – 12 years Register beginning December 3 440-473-3370

Who Lives in Our Trees?

Preschoolers can come to the nature center to discover what kinds of critters call our trees home. Through activities, a craft, and weather permitting, a short hike, we will learn why our trees are so important to local wildlife. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Ages: 4 – 6 with an adult Register beginning December 1 216-341-3152

Winter Botany

The skeletons of last year’s herbs look mighty forlorn next to dormant trees, but never fear! You, too, can learn tips and tricks to help you identify some of the most common plants in our area – even in the winter. 1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, 1 mile Full Moon Hike

It’s your last chance of the year to experience the beauty of a forest by the light of a full moon. You won’t even notice the chill as we search for signs of owls, beaver, and coyote. Dress for the weather! 5 – 6:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, icy, 1.5 miles Full Cold Moon

Hike under the last full moon of 2012. The winter forest is quiet and peaceful, but we may hear owls in the forest or catch a glance of white-tailed deer in the meadow. 7 – 8:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: slight hill, muddy, 2.5 miles Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

29 • Saturday Bird for Your Lunch: Christmas Bird Count

Join Naturalist Renell Simrau for this unofficial Christmas bird count. We will travel throughout South Chagrin Reservation, hiking and driving, counting the birds along the way. You will be assigned a food item to bring when you call to register. Volunteers will make our lunch while we are out birding. 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: hills, uneven Register by December 20 440-247-7075

Bird Banding

Ever seen birds so close you can count their feathers? Drop in between the hours listed below and do just that. You’ll be amazed watching us capture, band and release our feathered friends. Kids can also do a bird craft. Cancelled if raining 9:30 a.m. – noon GPNC Drop-In Exploration: Bird Nutrition

We will discuss the nutritional needs of birds and the physical and behavioral adaptations that enable them to get their food. We will apply these questions to a variety of birds, but our emphasis will be on the ones you see during the hand-feeding pro-

gram. We will have a variety of visual resources to enhance our exploration. 10 a.m. – noon BNC Kids’ Day at CanalWay

Drop off your kids at CanalWay for a day of entertainment. Come prepared for a day of fun while the adults clean up from the holiday. We will go for a hike, do some crafts, play some games, and watch a movie. Don’t forget to pack a lunch, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. CWC Ages: 6 – 12 years Fee: $20 Terrain: inside and outside Register beginning December 3 216-206-1000

Emerald Necklace, December 2012

Talking Tracks

Animals that thrive in West Creek Reservation can be silent and mysterious during the winter, but they ALWAYS leave traces. Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on an animal tracking adventure through fields and woodlands. We’ll seek tracks, rubs, chews, sheds, feathers, and other signs of wildlife. Meet at Center Park on Park Drive off State Road/Route 94 10:30 a.m. – noon WCR Ages: adults, families Terrain: easy, 1 mile

Volunteer to Adopt a Beach

A great hands-on way for businesses, schools, community groups, families and individuals to care for our Great Lake! Adopters remove litter and conduct science-based beach health assessments. Data collected is counted, then used to evaluate existing conditions and make a change for the better. 1 – 2:30 p.m. HuR Huntington Beach water tower Terrain: stairs, sand, 0.25 mile Register by December 26 440-331-8111

Night Hike

Winter is a perfect time to explore the woods at night. Join Naturalist Gretchen Motts for a brisk walk. We’ll warm up by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate afterward. 7 – 8:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: mostly flat, 1.5 miles

For Women Only (see 12/7 for details) Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

30 • Sunday Hike for Your Health

This hike will take you through the classic beech-maple forest of North Chagrin Reservation. We’ll travel the route selected for the 2012 Walking Works program. 1:30 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: slight hill, muddy, 2.5 miles

How to Feed Wildlife

Ways to provide food for wild animals range from practical and sustainable to illegal and downright dangerous. Learn to attract and feed the wildlife you love, while bolstering beauty and bio-diversity in your yard. Later, we’ll venture out to look for signs of wildlife foraging. 2 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

31 • Monday Slithering Into the New Year

According to the Chinese calendar, 2013 is the year of the snake. Learn a few phenomenal facts while celebrating the year’s end. Even if snakes make you a little uneasy, you can make a craft, test your knowledge in snake trivia and learn how snakes are beneficial. 7 – 9:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: families, adults Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/22 for details)

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Cleveland Metroparks Directory Administrative Offices

216-635-3200/general Cleveland Metroparks information - 24-hours a day. 4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com 24-hour Job Hotline 216-635-3211 Office of the Executive Director 216-635-3214 Office of the Treasurer 216-635-3260 Human Resources 216-635-3228 Marketing 216-635-3268 Planning/Engineering 216-635-3237 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3200 Volunteer Services 216-635-3258

Ranger Headquarters Ranger Chief 4600 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-5530 Accidents or Emergencies 440-333-4911 Parkway Alert Line (PAL) 440-331-5963

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo & The RainForest 216-661-6500/24-hour information. 3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH 44109 clemetzoo.com Office of the Zoo Director 216-635-3330 Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-635-3331 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3338 School Group Reservations 216-635-3308 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3389 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421

Winter Recreation 216-635-3200

Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990

Golf

Golf Tee Reservations (24 hours) and directions, hours, fees etc. 216-635-3673 clevelandmetroparks.com Golf Services – for general course info and inquires 440-232-7247 Big Met Golf Course 4811 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course 18599 Old Lorain Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-941-9672 Manakiki Golf Course 35501 Eddy Road North Chagrin Reservation Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: Sammy’s of Manakiki 440-946-1140 Mastick Woods Golf Course 19900 Puritas Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-267-5626 Food Service/Catering: Eagle’s Nest Cafe 216-267-5626 Seneca Golf Course 975 Valley Parkway Brecksville Reservation Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Food Service/Catering: Back 9 Grill 440-546-7797 Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18753 Egbert Road Bedford Reservation Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Double Bogey Grille 440-786-7587 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555 Washington Golf Course 3841 Washington Park Blvd. Washington Reservation 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799

Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education Administration 216-341-9225 Institute of the Great Outdoors 216-341-1704 Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530 Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530 West Creek Reservation 216-341-9225 Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010

Outdoor Education Facilities CanalWay Center E. 49th Street entrance Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-1012 Garfield Park Nature Center 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Park Reservation Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 North Chagrin Nature Center Sunset Lane Entrance North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 Rocky River Nature Center 24000 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge 37374 Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 South Chagrin Reservation 440-247-7075 EarthWords Nature Shops CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store Hinckley 330-278-2160 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 NatureTracks Education Unit/EcoExplorers 216-341-1707 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-471-8357

Boating Emerald Necklace Marina 1500 Scenic Park Drive Rocky River Reservation Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Sweetwater Landing 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Boathouse West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Wallace Lake Off Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Quarry Rock Café

Swimming

440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café

Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs Achievement Centers for Children Camp Cheerful 440-238-6200 Mill Stream Run Reservation BAYarts Huntington Reservation 440-871-6543 www.bayarts.net Vento 440-835-4530 Brecksville Historical Society Brecksville Reservation 440-526-7165 Brecksville Stables Brecksville Reservation 440-526-6767 www.brecksvillestables.com Brooklyn Exchange Cabin Hinckley Reservation 330-577-8882 exchangecabin@gmail.com Chagrin Valley Trails and Riding Club South Chagrin Reservation 216-635-3200 Cleveland Archery Club 216-635-3200 Cleveland Natural Science Club 440-247-4005 or 440-247-0151 Hinckley Historical Society Hinckley Reservation 330-278-3159 Huntington Playhouse Huntington Reservation 440-871-8333 www.huntingtonplayhouse.com Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Intergrove Lodge 1-800-852-4474 www.gsneo.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Huntington Reservation 440-871-2900 www.lensc.org Olmsted Historical Society Rocky River Reservation 216-501-3345 www.olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides) www.valleyriding.org

Affiliates are supported, but not operationally-funded, by Cleveland Metroparks. These outstanding non-profit organizations depend on class fees, special events, benefactor initiatives, and your financial support to operate. Your contributions and volunteer service are encouraged.