Emerald Necklace
December ‘13 Vol. 62 #12
Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events
Contents Features 3 Citizen Science
Columns 4 Notes from the Field 5 Naturalist’s Almanac
In Addition 2 Winter Outdoor Recreation Comes to Life with Snow in Cleveland Metroparks 6 Inside the Emerald Necklace 13 Winter Golf 14 Zoo News 18 Events by Location 19 Events Calendar 32 Directory
Winter Outdoor Recreation Comes to Life with Snow in Cleveland Metroparks We went from a warm, wet 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, pond ice skating and tobogganing at the Chalet. For sledding enthusiasts, Cleveland Metroparks has a number of sledding hills, including some with night lighting.
All photos by Cleveland Metroparks photo archive unless otherwise noted.
Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:
Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Marjorie Thomas Editor
Graphic Design
RR Donnelley Printing
Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com.
Board of Park Commissioners Debra K. Berry Bruce G. Rinker President Vice-President Vice-President
Brian M. Zimmerman
Chief Executive Officer
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.
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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. 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 condition information.
Eriepro ltd.
Dan T. Moore
Cross-country skiers and snowshoers are permitted on the fairways and rough areas at Little Met, Mastick Woods, 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 and ski rental. Cross-country skiers can also use the hiking and bridle trails, but skiers should use caution and must yield to hikers and horses. Call 216-635-3270 for conditions.
Emerald Necklace, December 2013
The Chalet Recreation Area provides tobogganing thrills on the twin ice chutes, open through mid-March, with or without snow. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com or call 440-572-9990 for hours, admission fees and group reservations for the only public ice chutes in Ohio. Cleveland Metroparks encourages everyone to dress properly for the weather and to exercise caution when outdoors. To truly enjoy the winter season, prepare yourself and your equipment for strenuous outdoor activities, 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. For more information, visit clevelandmetroparks.com or call 216-635-3200.
Citizen Science Imagine if it were possible to obtain over 3 million observations in just one month’s time. Do you think this could be a powerful tool for research and conservation? You bet it would. This is just what occurred during March of 2012 when over 3.1 million bird observations were entered into Cornell Lab of Ornithology citizen science website eBird. This snapshot of bird abundance and distribution has become increasingly valuable to science and conservation, while lending support for legislation that protects the environment. This is just one example of citizen science opportunities that anyone can take part in each and every time they visit Cleveland Metroparks. In your own neighborhood, backyards or even when traveling, you can help provide valuable observational information. The term citizen science has several different definitions and it may be more descriptive to call it “public participation in scientific research” or “projects in which volunteers partner with scientists to answer real-world questions.” This type of biological information collection is not new and has been occurring for well over 100 years. This year marks the 114th annual Christmas Bird Count occurring at over 2,300 locations throughout the world. The first count occurred in 1900 with a total of 27 participants. Check with your nearest nature center if you would like to participate in the Christmas Bird Count this year. Today over 60,000 individuals participate in the event. With new and rapidly changing technology, the internet, and smart phones there are endless opportunities for public participation in citizen science. Typically these large citizen science projects are utilized to monitor cyclic and/or long-term changes, such as migration, breeding, human impact, and population trends in response to global climate change. However, projects can be tailored to target a specific organism that may be of local interest. Frog call surveys or breeding birding bird surveys target certain species or populations to better understand these animals in a much more restricted range. Here are a few projects that provide both local and global information and are an easy way to begin contributing as a citizen scientist. Some take very little time and effort, while others may require additional training and substantial time commitment. eBird (http://ebird.org/content/ebird/) NestWatch (http://nestwatch.org/) FrogWatch (http://www.aza.org/frogwatch/) Long Term Butterfly Monitoring (http://www.ohiolepidopterists.org/bflymonitoring/) YardMap (http://content.yardmap.org/) iNaturalist (http://www.inaturalist.org/) There are many reasons to participate in a citizen science project. Not only will you gain a deeper personal understanding of nature, you will get some exercise, get outdoors, and assist in gaining valuable information that will help lead to improved management. Can one person make a difference? Yes. Tim Krynak Naturalist Watershed Stewardship Center 3
Notes on the Glorification of Busy
Notes from the Field
December is the busiest month. This year there are only two days between Thanksgiving dinner and the first breakfast in December, and then the month is full upon us. Want to get together during the holidays? Nope, “too busy” they say.
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Today’s suburban society seems caught in a vicious spiral of busy, always moving, time always scheduled, every waking hour predetermined, one day hurriedly blending with the next. Thank goodness for smart phones, we can even create new busy on the fly. Our lives become directed towards the next busy thing. After a time, busy becomes a way of life, and daily calendars now own us as we become their slaves. What will your December be like? A wise elder once told me that we are only as busy as we decide to be. It is we who rule our calendars, not they who rule us. December always seems to be an appropriate month of reflection, or used to be before we allowed busy to rule our lives. Now, too often we hurtle towards the future like mindless migrating lemmings, our path unconsidered and our future unknown. I’m not sure that it is the best way to live. Reflection is necessary to a well-lived life, and December’s a good time to do it. There are fundamental rhythms that guide all things in nature. The First People saw the year as a
Emerald Necklace, December 2013
circle, a cycle, endless and repeatable throughout the ages. Western society sees the year as linear, a long endless road that stretches farther than we can see, and everybody’s on it, all traveling quickly in one direction. In Western philosophy, concepts of ever-expanding growth, ever-increasing economies and unlimited resources reign. History is littered with the ruins of hundreds of thenadvanced civilizations that thought the same way. Recent studies of planetary geology, oceanography, genetics, anthropology and other endeavors point out that the earth and its people are, and have forever been, in gradual but constant change. Imagine it as the First People’s circle of life, but one that is ever so slowly moving down a one-way road of time. Everything changes, but changes so slowly that it is rarely noticeable, much less dramatic. But as we explore the physical and living history of the earth, it gradually gives up its secrets, some seemingly benign, others quite dramatic. Busy doesn’t work well when it butts heads with a long term view. Busy is now, quick, hurried, oftimes lacking deliberation. The earth never schedules its time, and its scale of time is unimaginable to us. All we know is that change is constant, and change is inevitable. We can deny nature’s change, claim that we’ve seen nothing
Naturalist’s Almanac
change in our lifetimes. I suppose that nature listens, then smiles, bemused, and moves on regardless. Schedule a little time for yourself this December, away from malls and work and the blare of what western society seems to think is appropriate behavior for the season. Remember that nature is a circle, a cycle, endlessly repeating, always changing, ever-surprising, and that you and I are all part of that cycle of endless change, whether we acknowledge it or not. December is a great month to retreat to nature, to consider your reason for being, to try to find your own meaning amidst the gifts of nature, the gifts of the past, the gifts of generations of others who came before you. Not just people, of course, but the gifts of all living things, of careful farmers and herders, of conservationists and builders, of forgetful squirrels who planted forests long before them, of endless generations of birds and other wild things who moved seeds across the vast expanse of the continent and formed the amazing patchwork of wild lands that have been entrusted to us today. It’s waiting there for you, you know. Take a walk in Cleveland Metroparks and let the peace soak in. Schedule the time if you must, or just seize any beautiful day in December and escape to the forests and fields. Feel the cool crisp air. Listen to the sounds of chickadees and the tapping of woodpeckers in the tree tops. Remember that you, and they, are fellow travelers through space and time, with uncountable generations of living things behind you, and generations yet to come. Feel it. You’re a part of it. And there’s no better place to find it all than your Cleveland Metroparks. Robert D. Hinkle, PhD Chief Naturalist Emeritus rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com
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 as some lie dormant, like wooly bears hibernating under logs and leaf litter on forest floor, while others like crickets and katydids wait as eggs, dispersed before the killing frost of autumn, to hatch. December seems to be a month that stands still except for the hearty birds and mammals that continue their daily search for food and shelter. Birds
Mammals
December is typically thought of as 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 in search of insects and berries, sometimes joined by uncommon pine and yellow-rumped warblers and the spritely red-breasted nuthatch. 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 become more active and vocal as their winter breeding season will begin at the end of the month. A quiet night’s hike can offer the chance to hear the deep hooting of the great horned owl, “Who-cooks-foryou?” 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 upwards of 8 species of gulls, waterfowl staging offshore, and, with lots of luck, a very rare visit from a snowy owl that irrupted south from Canadian wintering grounds.
Mammals still fat from the autumn’s bounty spend a great deal of time sleeping December away. Skunks and raccoons find quiet places, 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’s snow reveals activity of nocturnal mammals such as deer, fox and coyote that remain active in their ever quest for food.
barred owl
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Inspired by Nature Arts & Crafts Sale
Inside the Emerald Necklace
December 14 & 15 • 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted Come to Rocky River Nature Center to find a perfect natureinspired gift for your loved ones. Local artists show their talents in this sale of wonderful handmade items in this two-day sale. Artists’ offerings range from paintings and fine nature photography to handcrafted jewelry, pottery, wood, quilted items and even artisan soaps and lotions. Shop locally at this free event. Rocky River Nature Center is located at 24000 Valley Parkway, 1/4 mile north of Cedar Point Road in Rocky River Reservation in North Olmsted.
Calling All Who Value Cleveland Metroparks! Your Parks, Your Stories: Cleveland Metroparks Memories Project The oral history team will be collecting your stories at Brecksville Nature Center during a few of the Hand Feed a Chickadee programs throughout December. We know that thousands of families have created memories for nearly 100 years of Cleveland Metroparks existence. We want to record your spoken words, your memories of how Cleveland Metroparks has made a difference in your lives for generations. We will be setting up 15 – 20 minute interviews with the public from 10 a.m. – noon. We encourage you to call ahead and schedule your interview with a friendly Cleveland Metroparks staff member or volunteer. If you have photos you would like to share that capture Cleveland Metroparks through the years, we would love to see them or even scan them! Oral History Interview Schedule for December: Brecksville Nature Center December 21, 23, 24, 27 10 a.m. – noon. Call the historical interpretation office at 440-786-8530 to schedule your interview. We will accept walk-ups if time slots are available.
Brecksville Nature Center is located off Chippewa Creek Drive off Route 82 in Brecksvile Reservation in Brecksville. 6
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Water’s Extreme Journey Maze December 21 – January 12, 2014 Watershed Stewardship Center 2277 W. Ridgewood Road • Parma Think Snowshed! Become a Water Drop, Change Your World. Developed with world-renowned marine life artist Wyland, Water’s Extreme Journey maze takes you on an exciting adventure quest for clean water. You’ll experience the watershed as a water drop, exploring firsthand the science behind the water cycle and learn how your daily decisions can immediately improve the watershed in your own backyard. Experience the water cycle as a drop of water, snow or ice. Learn to keep water clean through simple activities. Inspire stewardship of natural resources. Act to support clean water initiatives. The Watershed Stewardship Center’s new Winter Solstice hours begin December 21. Tuesdays – Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m Sundays: Noon – 4:30 p.m. Closed December 25 and January 1. For more information, call 440-887-1968. Water’s Extreme Journey Maze is sponsored by the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District and Cleveland Division of Water.
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What goes up does not have to be carried by you… thanks to the toboggan lift at the Chalet! December is a wonderful time to celebrate the holidays, enjoy winter and bring friends and family together. 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! The Chalet toboggan lift is a great bonus to the fun you will have plunging down a 70-foot vertical drop, traveling down 700 feet of ice at the toboggan chutes. Spend time with family and friends smiling, laughing, giggling and climbing the steps to the top of the toboggan chutes; the great part is we now have a toboggan lift to do the heavy lifting for you. Toboggans will be loaded and unloaded by Cleveland Metroparks staff. The lift is for toboggans only. It will not carry other items or people so you still will have to walk up all 108 steps. More time to enjoy family and friends at the Chalet Recreation Area in Strongsville. When you are finished tobogganing, come on in the Chalet and warm up by one of our two fireplaces and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or cappuccino. We offer many other fun food options for you to enjoy. The Chalet Toboggan Chutes operate with or without snow! Impress friends and family in town for the holidays by bringing them to the Chalet Recreation Area 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 at 440-572-9990 for details. All riders must wear sturdy gloves or mittens. Children, ages 11 and under, must stand at least 42 inches tall 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! The Chalet Toboggan Chutes are located at 16200 Valley Parkway in Mill Stream Run Reservation, between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville.
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Regular tobogganing hours: Thursdays
Fridays Saturdays Sundays
6 – 10 p.m. (January, February and March 2014, excluding Jan. 2 and excluding holiday hours) 6 – 10:30 p.m. Noon – 10:30 p.m. Noon – 5 p.m.
Special holiday hours for tobogganing: Sunday December 22 Monday, December 23 Tuesday, December 24 Wednesday, December 25 Thursday, December 26 Friday, December 27 Saturday, December 28 Sunday, December 29 Monday, December 30 Tuesday, December 31 Wednesday, January 1 Thursday, January 2 Friday, January 3 Saturday, January 4 Sunday, January 5
noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 4 p.m. Closed Happy Holidays! noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 5 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 10:30 p.m. noon – 5 p.m.
Additional holiday hours: Monday, January 20 Monday, February 17
noon to 5 p.m. noon to 5 p.m.
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There’s Still Time to Get on the Path to Better Health It’s not too late to earn your 2013 Walking Works shield. Walkers have until February 28, 2014 to hike at least eight of 13 designated trails and return the form to Cleveland Metroparks to receive the 2013 Walking Works shield. Download Walking Works forms at clevelandmetroparks.com
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 – celebrating more than 40 years of nature’s wild ride on the only public ice chutes in Ohio! The Chalet Recreation Area can be rented for exclusive private use during non-public hours – including riding down the ice toboggan chutes – just for your group. Great dates still available. Shared use bookings available, too. Enjoy an outing at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes all to yourselves! Call the Chalet at 440-572-9990 for more information and to make reservations.
Get a Jump on Holiday Shopping, Cleveland Metroparks Style This holiday season, simplify your shopping and support Cleveland Metroparks. Visit Cleveland Metroparks at clevelandmetroparks.com and browse through a variety of gift ideas from Cleveland Metroparks Nature Shops, Aquatics and Cleveland Metroparks Golf Pro Shops. Shop for unique naturerelated gifts, Ledge Pool season passes at preseason discounted rates, or golf items.
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
s r d Ki rne Winter Co Slumber During the winter some animals that have a hard time finding food in winter choose to sleep the winter away. They eat extra in the fall to gain fat to use for nutrients throughout the winter. Their heart rate will slow down and their body temperature will drop. The little brown bat and groundhog will enter “true hibernation” and will not awaken until spring temperatures warm them up. Animals like the skunk and opossum enter torpor and will awaken periodically throughout the winter to find food. Other animals like the fox and coyote will stay active all winter and continue to hunt each day. Can you find the 12 words about animals in winter in the puzzle below?
BAT • BURROW • FAT • GROUNDHOG • HEARTRATE HIBERNATION • OPOSSUM • SKUNK • SLEEP TEMPERATURE • TORPOR • WINTER
Make Your Holiday Giving Simple with the Gift of Nature! Looking for a natural way to share the holiday season? A tribute gift to Cleveland Metroparks is a unique way to recognize special people in your life. Through a gift to one of the following funds, you can support what is meaningful to those who are important to you: Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund - all contributions remain in the Fund and generate an annual income to preserve and protect Cleveland Metroparks for generations to come Field Trip Transportation Fund – provides buses for local classes to attend free field trip programs at outdoor education facilities within Cleveland Metroparks 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 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 K-9 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. 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, contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development, at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com.
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Neither snow, nor ice, nor sleet... The cold winter months can make for some nasty Northeast Ohio weather conditions. As some sections of Cleveland Metroparks parkways are considered commuter routes, Cleveland Metroparks strives to maintain parkways and parking lots to promote usable and safe conditions for park patrons. Roads will be cleared after snowfalls of four inches or more, or in freezing rain or icy conditions. As part of the Park District’s concern about the conservation and preservation of natural areas, Cleveland Metroparks will continue its minimum salt usage program in its snow and ice removal. For those outdoor enthusiasts who don’t let a little bitter cold weather stop them from enjoying the Park District Cleveland Metroparks will clear the way for you to enjoy the parks. Cleveland Metroparks will maintain designated all purpose trails as needed during the winter months to promote usable and safe conditions. Salt will not be used for snow or ice removal on all purpose trails.
Looking Forward Winteriffic!! Sunday, January 5 • Noon to 5 p.m. The Chalet Recreation Area Mill Stream Run Reservation • Strongsville A fun way to learn about Cleveland Metroparks and winter outdoor activities. Come out of hibernation and enjoy the best the Cleveland winter has to offer. • • • • • •
Try out ice fishing and snowshoeing Watch dog sled demonstrations See the magic of ice carving Take a winter hike Build a snow shelter Music, refreshments and more!
Some activities depend on adequate snowfall. For more information, call 440-734-6660
Emerald Necklace Art Club Are you an artist inspired by the wonders of nature? No experience is necessary to join the Emerald Necklace Art Club. Your $30 annual membership for 2014 includes art supplies, professional instruction, special art club events, and the opportunity to join other artists as we interpret the beautiful sites throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Interested? Please contact Naturalist-Artist Stefanie Verish at skv@clevelandmetroparks.com or 440-247-7075.
Environmental Stewards Book Discussion Watershed Stewardship Center West Creek Reservation • Parma Start off the New Year with a book discussion group that prepares and encourages us to become better land stewards while providing a better understanding of the environment. Each month we will dive into a different book that focuses on stewardship and provides information and opportunities to take action. Reading the book is not required to take part in the discussion. January 23 A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold February 20 The Creation by Edward O. Wilson March 20 Bringing Nature Home by Douglas W. Tallamy Look for more information in upcoming issues of the Emerald Necklace. 12
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
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 Last day of the golf season at Little Met, Mastick Woods and Washington golf courses. December 25 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 13 Courses and driving ranges open if weather permits. Please check the individual courses for updates.
Want Free Golf? Sign up today for Golf Bonus Rounds Join the Bonus Rounds Program, for only $25, and get a free 9-hole round of golf on any Cleveland Metroparks course. Plus a $5 coupon off any purchase of in-stock merchandise at any Cleveland Metroparks pro shop.
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 18 holes, par 71 and driving range Brecksville Reservation 9445 Brecksville Road, Brecksville 440-526-4285
Seneca Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 18 holes, par 71 Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway, Broadview Heights 440-526-0043
Manakiki Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 North Chagrin Reservation 35501 Eddy Road, Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500
Little Met Golf Course 9 holes, par 34 Rocky River Reservation 18599 Old Lorain Road, Cleveland 216-941-9672
Big Met Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 Rocky River Reservation 4811 Valley Parkway, Fairview Park 440-331-1070
Mastick Woods Golf Course 9 holes, par 31 Rocky River Reservation 19900 Puritas Road, Cleveland 216-267-5626
Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18 holes, par 71, 9-hole par 3 course and driving range Bedford Reservation 18753 Egbert Road, Bedford 440-232-7184
Washington Golf Course 9 holes, par 29 and driving range Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Blvd, Village of Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864
The more you play, the more you save! For every $100 spent on golf greens fees you earn $20 in Bonus Dollars for greens fees on future visits. There are no restrictions on when you can use your Bonus Dollars. They do not expire and are transferable. Sign up at any Cleveland Metroparks golf course or online at clevelandmetroparks.com.
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 at clevelandmetroparks.com.
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New Study Says Viral Videos Threaten ‘World’s Cuddliest Primate’ Millions of people watching Internet videos of slow lorises may not realize that they are indirectly responsible for the demise of one of the world’s rarest primates. That’s according to a study published recently by one of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s field conservation partners, Dr. Anna Nekaris, and other researchers at Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom. The study, entitled “Tickled to Death: Analyzing Public Perceptions of ‘Cute’ Videos of Threatened Species (slow loris) on Web 2.0 Sites,” says the illegal trade in slow lorises, fueled by their demand as pets in Asia and elsewhere, appears to be enhanced by people watching the cuddly primates on Internet videos that have gone viral. “Watching an out of context online video of a slow loris being treated as someone’s pet only breeds desire for the illegal pet trade, rather than spread facts about the plight of an endangered species,” said Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Executive Director Dr. Chris Kuhar. “That’s one of the main reasons we support Dr. Nekaris and the important conservation work she’s doing in Southeast Asia.”
Zoo News
Without a doubt one of the most viral videos is that of “Sonya,” the tickled slow loris. The video shows a clinically obese pygmy slow loris from Vietnam being tickled by its owner. The video has been watched by millions of viewers since its posting in February 2009. Now researchers have looked at links between the presence of slow lorises on Internet videos and the perception of the public viewing them. The study, published in the open access journal PLOS ONE, analyzed more than 12,000 comments in response to the tickling slow loris video. Inevitably, one of the more common responses was, “Where can I get one?” suggesting a direct link between the illegal trade in slow lorises and their presence in online videos. Despite these difficulties, the number of slow lorises making an appearance on the Internet is increasing – a reflection of the rampant illegal international trade. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo currently exhibits three pygmy slow lorises in the nocturnal animal section of the Primate, Cats & Aquatics Building. For more information, visit the Zoo’s website, clemetzoo.com, or Dr. Nekaris’ site, nocturama.org.
Breakfast with Santa December 15 and 21 • 8 – 9:30 a.m. The RainForest is the place to be when Breakfast with Santa returns. The event includes a breakfast buffet, cookie decorating, crafts, 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 16 – 30 (closed December 25) Celebrate the holidays with your favorite animals at the Zoo during December Days! The Zoo has plenty of special holiday activities planned including crafts, entertainment, music, cookie decorating, pictures with Santa Claus in Wolf Wilderness Lodge and more! Activities are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Pictures with Santa run from December 16 – 24 only.) A full events schedule will be posted on clemetzoo.com. Best of all, winter admission to the Zoo is reduced to just $8.25 for adults and $5.25 for children, age 2 – 11.
all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Noon Year’s Eve December 31 Get ready to unleash your pint-sized party animals! The Zoo’s Noon Year’s Eve celebration is back to let 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 over the Welcome Plaza. The festivities include a crew of charismatic critters in a special Noon Year’s Eve Wild Animal Show, music, dancing, an ice-carving demonstration, costumed characters and more. Noon Year’s Eve activities are FREE with Zoo admission. Noon Year’s Eve is presented by Dollar Bank with support from Kohl’s and UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.
EdZooCation Calendar Education Programs at the Zoo Winter Break Camp – December 30 through January 3 (no camp on January 1) 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. half day Keep your children engaged and learning over their winter break from school with Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Winter Break Camp! Available in full day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and half day (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) sessions, this camp for children ages 5 – 8 focuses on how active the Zoo’s animals are during the winter and includes tours of Zoo exhibits, Get-Close encounters with small animals, arts and crafts, and conservation-themed games and stories.
Overnights at the Zoo – All programs run 7 p.m. – 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! Sleep out in the Wolf Wilderness cabin during “Night Tracks” and experience what it would be like to be a scientist for a night.
Keeper for a Day – Runs daily from 9 a.m. – 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 – All programs run 9 – 10:30 a.m. Bring the entire family for a special Zoo experience featuring hands-on activities and guided tours (topics vary by date). This month, discover “Fur, Feathers and Scales” on December 1, or uncover some facts vs. myths about reindeer on December 14 during “Reindeer Games.”
Homeschool programs – Program times vary These fun and interactive programs complement science curriculums for homeschooled students. Kindergarten through second grade students meet from 10 – 10:45 a.m., third through fifth graders meet from 11 – 11:45 a.m. and students in sixth through eighth grade meet from noon – 1:30 p.m. December’s topic is “Animals of the Ocean” on December 10.
Preschool Safari – All programs run 10 – 11:30 a.m. Designed for families with children younger than 5, these fun-filled programs engage preschoolers with special hands-on activities and a Get Close animal encounter geared just for them. (Topics vary by date.) December 3 and 4 – Monkey Business. Monkey around at the Zoo and learn some basic facts about primates. December 10 and 12 – Fascinating Fish. Dive in and explore some of the fascinating underwater creatures that live at the Zoo. December 17 and 19 – Cold Weather Animals. Explore the Zoo’s Northern Trek area and find out the unique aspects that make the animals there perfect for living in cold climates.
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 15
Holiday Shopping Stumped on finding the perfect gift? Come to our Southpark Mall Kiosk or our Beachwood Mall Kiosk to find a new assortment of apparel, headwear, and gifts. Be on the lookout for some exciting promotions along with our new universal gift cards.
Want to stay away from busy malls? Come to our Nature Shops where you will find new apparel and accessories. Our friendly staff will be there to assist in your shopping needs. Enjoy the gorgeous surroundings while checking off gifts from your holiday list.
LOCATIONS/HOURS CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003
Open daily: 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store 1 West Drive Hinckley Township 330-278-2160
Open daily: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
December 7 & 8 – Chickadee Nest North Chagrin Nature Center, Rocky River Nature Center, and Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store • 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Allow your children to have a special shopping experience with an elf. Elves escort the children throughout the store to purchase gifts for their parents, family, and loved ones. All gifts are $10 or less, and complimentary gift wrap is included with each gift purchase. Cookies and milk will be provided
December 14 & 15, 21 & 22 – Santa’s Workshop Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store • 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and enjoy the beauty of Hinckley Lake Boathouse. Children pick out their special craft project and are provided with all of the supplies to create a special gift. All crafts are $10 or less, milk and cookies will be provided.
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
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.
Watershed Stewardship Center Parma 440-253-2170
Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Beginning December 21 Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 4:30 p.m.
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center December is a special time of year for the family. We want to help make it memorable for you with these unique programs designed around education and celebration.
Holiday Night Tree Tradition
Friday, December 6 6 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $12/adults; $8/child, ages 2 and up, 1 year and under FREE Get a visit with Santa and celebrate the heartwarming story of the Night Tree – one family’s tradition of sharing the spirit of the holidays with nature. Bring your own camera and meet Santa in the Center’s log cabin. Make a holiday craft and have a close encounter with some of the animals featured in the Night Tree story. Enjoy a pizza and salad dinner and make a treat to take home to the wildlife in your own backyard. Registration required.
Winter Solstice Celebration
Saturday, December 21 • 6 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $12/adults; $8/child, ages 2 and up, 1 year and under FREE Celebrate both night and day on the longest night of the year! Learn what a solstice really is and experience the night sky in the planetarium at a fun children’s level or a more in-depth adult level. Come dressed in sturdy boots to hike our candlelit trail. Enjoy a dinner and visit with nighttime animals by the fire. Hear about some solstice traditions and work as a family to make a decorative yule log for your home. At the end of the evening, join us in the field for telescope viewing if the weather permits. Registration required.
New Year’s Eve Camp
Monday, December 30 AND Tuesday, December 31 • 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. For children in grades 1 – 4 Fee: $120/child (includes all art supplies) Join us for a two-day program with BAYarts as we celebrate the beginning of a new year! Spend all day Monday at BAYarts creating a cool crown or hat along with a New Year’s banner to hang at home. The day will end with ball-dropping festivities. Spend Tuesday at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center for awesome animal encounters and a party in the planetarium with a New Year’s Eve light show. Registration required.
Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs Our weekday and weekend programs are a great way to launch a love of learning in little ones. School may be out for the December holidays but we’ll still be learning and having fun – join us!
Weekday & Weekend Walk-In Programs
HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING
Twinkle Tots • Ages 0 – 3 • Wed. & Thurs. at 11 a.m. • Sat. at Noon • $2
Join us when school is out for a special selection of star shows and animal encounters to engage the whole family! Program fees are $4 or less per program.
Stellar Stars • Ages 3 – 7 • Wed. & Thurs. at 11:30 a.m. • Sat. & Sun. at 12:30 p.m. • $3 Sunday Under the Stars • Ages 6 & up • Sun. at 2 & 3 p.m. • $3 The You-niverse • Families/children/all ages • Sat. & Sun. at 1:30 & 2:30 p.m. • $3 Visit www.lensc.org/planetarium for detailed descriptions of each program.
Monthly SkyQuest: The Scale of the Universe
Saturday, December 7* and Thursday, December 12 at 7:30p.m. Fee: $4/person. Preteens through adults. How big is big? Is the sun the biggest thing out there? To answer that question, we have to start with the smallest of the small. Join us as we take a look at the scale of the Universe. How far away is 14 billion light years? We will discover how astronomers measure these vast distances as we move farther and farther away from Earth in our quest to find the most distant objects in the Universe. This is a longer (45-60 min.) program for those who wish to deeply explore space topics with our expert staff. . *Free outdoor telescope viewing follows the Saturday evening show, weather permitting.
Weekdays: December 23, 24, 27, 30, 31 and January 2, 3 11 a.m. Twinkle Tots 11:30 a.m. Stellar Stars noon Mainly Mammals 12:30 p.m. You-niverse 1 p.m. Reptile Review 1:30 p.m. You-niverse 2 p.m. Animals, Animals 2:30 p.m. You-niverse Weekends: 11:30 a.m. noon 12:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m.
December 28, 29 Mainly Mammals Twinkle Tots Stellar Stars Reptile Review You-niverse Animals, Animals You-niverse
Please note: Doors close promptly at start time. Tickets for all star shows are available at the front desk 30 minutes before the program begins on a first-come, first-served basis. All shows include an overview of the current night sky and any news from the space agencies. For safety reasons, late admittance to planetarium programs is not permitted.
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
Wildlife Rehabilitation • Nature & Science Education • Planetarium 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. 17
December Events by Location Off-Site Programs
19 • Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades
(AR) Acacia Reservation 15 • Acacia’s Birds 27 • Hike and Play at Acacia
(BeR) Bedford Reservation
14 • Woodlands of Bedford: Dusk to Darkness Hike
(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 6 • Emerald Necklace Hikers 8 • Breakfast in the Park 11 • 19 • Animal Crackers 14 • Backyard Bird Watching Basics for Beginners 15 • Hike to Deer Lick Cave 20 • Solstice Eve 21 • 22 • 23 • 24 • 26 • 27 • 28 • 29 • 30 • 31 • Hand Feed a Chickadee 29 • Family Fun Night
(BrR) Brecksville Reservation 17 • Hiking for the Young at Heart
(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 - A Marriage of Photograpy and Nature 4 • 18 • CanalWay Matinee: The Men who Built America 7 • Geocache-ola! . . . for Experienced Geocachers 8 • Make and Take: Feed the Birds 12 • Family Movie Night 14 • American Girl Morning: Holiday Celebration 14 • Felted Scarves 14 • Bike Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 15 • Snow Paint 18 • Preschool: Senses 20 • CanalWay Critters 21 • Acoustic Players Circle 22 • Sunday Funday 28 • Kid’s Day at CanalWay 29 • Tracks in the Snow 31 • Toast the New Year Hike Cleveland Astronomical Society 5 • Star Wars: A Review of Cosmic Pugilism
(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 7 • Fall Hike 15 • Sunday Bird Walk
(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center Saturday and Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance, Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 1 – 31 • Winter Scavenger Hunt 6 • Winter Bird Walk 14 • Recycled Card Ornaments 22 • Winter Walk in the Woods 27 • Winter Woodpeckers 30 • Fable and Fire 31 • Winter is Wonderful
(HiR) Hinckley Reservation 14 • Chilly Dog Hike
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(HuR) Huntington Reservation
5 • Bird or Bust Waterbird Mecca 21 • Winter Solstice Sunrise 28 • Volunteer to Adopt-a-Beach (LENSC) Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Located at 28728 Wolf Road in Bay Village 440-871-2900 www.lensc.org 5 • Log Cabin Sampler 23 • Keeper For a Day
(LR) Lakefront Reservation 21 • Winter Walk
(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation 14 • Extreme Hiking
(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation
15 • Makin’ Tracks 18 • Trail Trackers: Snow’s My Home 20 • Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Winter Weeds 21 • Sledding in the Park 21 • Winter Solstice Campfire 28 • Birds and Coffee 28 • White Pine Hike
(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 8 • Along the Chickadee Trail 14 • Dog Hike 17 • Stroller Science 17 • Cold, Cold Moon 20 • Friday Movie Night 22 • Winter Weeds 27 • Family Friday Night: Marvelous Mammals! 29 • A Winter’s Walk in Arthur B.’s Woods 31 • S’more Year’s Eve Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 2 • Critique Night
(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation
7 • Early Winter Photo Hike 13 • A Cold Shower 15 • The Other Beaten Path (LAL) Look About Lodge Open Sundays noon – 4 p.m., otherwise open for scheduled programs, 37374 Miles Rd. Bentleyville 44022 1 • Spring Wildflower Sculpting 2 • Odds and Ends Baskets 13 • A Big Year at South Chagrin Reservation 14 • Recycled Card Crafting 14 • Nature Journaling 20 • Candlelit Hike and Caroling 21 • Solstice Concert Cleveland Natural Science Club 8 • Annual Open House
(WSC) Watershed Stewardship Center Open Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. After December 21 Open Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday Noon – 4:30 p.m. 2277 West Ridgewood Drive, Parma 440-887-1968 13 • Friday Film 14 • Bird Feeding Drop-by 21 – Jan 12 • Water’s Extreme Journey MiniMaze 27 • Winter Water Exploration 28 • Boxing Day Drop-by
(WCR) West Creek Reservation 8 • Habitat Hike 21 • Solstice Dog Stroll 22 • Monthly Bird Survey
(RRR) Rocky River Reservation
14 • Monthly Morning with the Birds 17 • Full Moon Hike 26 • BYOS (Bring Your Own Sled) Olmsted Historical Society 7 • 8 • Holidays at Frostville Museum
(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 440-734-6660 7 • Mt. Pleasant Hike 8 • Coffee with the Birds 8 • Winter Tree I.D. for All 8 • Winter Book Review 9 • 10 • Little Explorers 10 • Raptor Workshop 12 • Homeschool Happenings 14 • 15 • Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale 15 • Hoots and Howls 15 • River Poets 19 • Scavenger Hunt 21 • Meet a Chickadee 22 • School of the Wilds: Solstice Twilight Exploration 26 • Techno-Nature 28 • Winter Night Hike 29 • Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center 29 • What’s to Know About Snow Trout Unlimited 3 • Fly Fishing the Inland Oceans Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society 3 • Adventures in Bird Photography Coast to Coast
Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Group Programming For information on group programs, call any Cleveland Metroparks nature or visitor center.
Outdoor Adventures Outdoor Recreation is year-round. For details about trips, skill classes or other recreational activities, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/or.
December Events Calendar
1 • Sunday Hunt of the month: Coyotes
Coyotes are found in every county throughout the state of Ohio. Stop by this month to find the 20 hidden coyotes in our center. Then go for a walk outside to see if you can find any scat or tracks. Through December 31. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC A Marriage of Photography and Nature
This month’s display features the work of Sean Mabin and Angela Reali-Mabin. This couple is lucky to be able to work together on the things they love. Sean is a Cleveland Institute of Art graduate who teaches art. Angie is a shutterbug who loves nature. Together they journal their explorations of Cleveland Metroparks. Through December 31. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC
Cleveland Metroparks Maps Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 18 reservations. Or, call 216-635-3200 and request a Pathfinder Map and Guide.
2 • 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 – 9 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years & over Fee: $10 Registration required by December 2 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Critique Night
Time to put your knowledge of composition to work. Bring in a maximum of two photos for gentle critique. 8 – 10 p.m. NCNC
3 • Tuesday Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society Adventures in Bird Photography Coast to Coast
Photographer and woodcarver Bruce DiVaccaro, shares his beautiful bird photographs taken throughout North America. Learn the qualities he looks for and incorporates into his photography. Join WCAS members for a potluck dinner and silent auction at 6:30 p.m. 7:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC Trout Unlimited Fly Fishing the Inland Oceans
This is the title of a new book and guide by Jerry Darkes, noted Ohio fly angler and
author. His presentation details techniques for finding and catching cold water and warm water fish from Lake Superior to Lake Ontario. 6:45 – 9 p.m. RRNC
4 • Wednesday CanalWay Matinee: The Men who Built America
This History Channel miniseries focuses on the men whose big ideas and hard work transformed the country after the Civil War. We will watch episodes one A New War Begins and two Oil Strike in our comfortable theater. Beverages and snacks are available for purchase or bring your own. 1 – 2:30 p.m. CWC Ages: 10 years & over
Winter Scavenger Hunt
Search amidst the winter decorations to find the things that don’t match the season. Be sure to bring your best detecting skills with you. Through December 31. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, 1 – 5 p.m. Sundays GPNC Spring Wildflower Sculpting
When the snow seems thickest, think spring! Artist Suzette Cohen will instruct us how to make our own spring wildflowers from polymer clay. 1 – 3:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 14 years & over Fee: $15 Register by November 26 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com
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5 • Thursday Bird or Bust: Waterbird Mecca
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a “seabird watch” atop the bluffs at Huntington Reservation, where we’ll conduct a Cornell Lab of Ornithology waterbird survey for waterfowl, gulls, loons, and more. Meet at Huntington Reservation’s lakefront parking lot on the north side of Lake Road. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. HuR Ages: 13 years & over Terrain: flat, easy
Log Cabin Sampler
Become a nature detective as you explore the hiking trails and gardens, encounter an animal and more! Join us for 3 monthly sessions (12/5, 1/9, 2/13) each with a different theme. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. or 1 – 3 p.m. LENSC Fee: $90/child, $70/child for members (for all 3 sessions) Registration required 440-871-2900
Cleveland Astronomical Society Cosmic Pugilism
Dr. Karen Bjorkman, Professor of Astronomy and Director of Ritter Observatory, University of Toledo, and Dr. Jon Bjorkman, Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy, University of Toledo will debate Star Wars: A Review of Cosmic Pugilism.” 6:30 – 7 p.m. Meeting CWC 7 – 8:30 p.m. Speaker CWC
6 • Friday Winter Bird Walk
Join a naturalist as we walk the interior of Garfield Park Reservation looking for our wintering birds. Find out who is tough enough to stick it out through 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 Emerald Necklace Hikers
Don’t feel comfortable navigating the trails on your own? Join us for this monthly hiking series to explore the trails throughout the Emerald Necklace while we get some exercise. This month we’ll enjoy winter’s quiet beauty while we warm up on the hills of Brecksville Reservation. 10 a.m. – noon BNC Ages: adults Terrain: moderate, hills, 2.5 miles
7 • Saturday Early Winter Photo Hike
Join us as we tread through the quiet winter woods with our cameras in search of the season’s hidden treasures. 9 – 11 a.m. SCR The Arboretum Terrain: slow-paced, some hills, 1 mile Fall Hike
Don’t let the cold stop you from coming to the park. Bundle up and join Naturalist Angelec Hillsman for a fall hike in the park. We’ll get our heart pumping as we hike the paved trail in this beautiful reservation. 10 a.m. – noon ECR Highland Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: paved, 5 miles 440-473-3370 Mt. Pleasant Hike
Get away from the holiday rush by hiking up quiet, peaceful Mt. Pleasant with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt. 1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: hilly, 1.5 miles Lakefront Reservation
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Geocache-ola! . . . for Experienced Geocachers
Doug Kusak hid caches. Find ‘em. At the Meet-n-Greet we will provide coordinates, coffee, and cocoa. Bring your own GPS unit. Log attended on geocaching.com until midnight December 7 only. 2 – 4 p.m. CWC Olmsted Historical Society Holidays at Frostville Museum
Celebrate 19th Century Holidays. All buildings open displaying period holiday decorations. Food and drinks available. Visit with Father Christmas, storytelling, children’s crafts, bonfires and more. Special early evening event 12/7 with luminaries lighting the pathways. Music
in the church. Holiday shopping at the General Store. 4 – 8 p.m. RRR Frostville Museum olmstedhistoricalsociety.org
8 • Sunday Breakfast in the Park
Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis for a hike through the woods around Brecksville Nature Center. We will return to a hot, delicious breakfast prepared by volunteers. 8 – 10 a.m. BNC Terrain: 1 mile Register beginning November 17 440-526-1012 Coffee with the Birds
Join us at Rocky River Nature Center to observe birds visit-
ing our feeders while we sip a warm cup of coffee. Enjoy a break from holiday hubbub. We’ll provide coffee, binoculars and birds. 9 – 10 a.m. RRNC Ages: adults, teens Register December 1 – 6 440-734-6660 or clevelandmetroparks.com Make and Take: Feed the Birds
Find out how to make an easy suet mix your backyard birds will love. We will whip up a batch and create a simple feeder to take home along with the recipe. The suet contains peanuts. Noon – 1 p.m. CWC
Winter Tree I.D. for All
Join Naturalist Min Keung for beginning winter tree I.D. We will take a short and accessible trail. 1 – 2 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, paved, 0.25 mile Habitat Hike
West Creek Reservation has several habitats packed into a relatively small area. Oak hillsides transition into red maple forest with a large meadow restoration project in the middle. We will learn more about the history and future of this green space in the middle of Parma. 1 – 3 p.m. WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Ages: adults, families Terrain: moderate, some hills, 2 – 2.5 miles
Hawks
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Along the Chickadee Trail
What does it feel like to be a black-capped chickadee? On the “Chickadee Trail,” you will take on the role of this tiny songbird and learn to recognize its call from other birds and discover what challenges they face in finding food and avoiding becoming food for predators. 2 – 3 p.m. NCNC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: easy, 0.5 mile Winter Book Review
Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the Rocky River Readers as we review the book What The Robin Knows by Jon Young. Please bring your favorite pie to share as we vote for our favorite book for 2013. 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Cleveland Natural Science Club Annual Open House
Come to the Annual Holiday/ Christmas Tea, and enjoy the ambience of rustic Look About Lodge. Fireplaces will warm the chilly day as you relax and enjoy homemade treats and listen to the musical entertainment. 2 – 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Olmsted Historical Society Holidays at Frostville Museum
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (see 12/7 for details)
9 • Monday Little Explorers The Mitten
Join us for a whimsical reading of Jan Brett’s The Mitten and find out how children in other countries might have fun in winter. 10 – 11:15 a.m. or 1 – 2:15 p.m. RRNC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile Register December 1 – 6 440-734-6660 or clevelandmetroparks.com
Tobogganing at the Chalet Recreation Area
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
10 • Tuesday Raptor Workshop
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield for an evening presentation featuring the spectacular diversity of owls, hawks, eagles and falcons found in Northeast Ohio. Learn the secret lives of these astounding birds of prey. 6:30 – 8 p.m. RRNC Little Explorers (See 12/9 for details)
11 • Wednesday Animal Crackers
Join Miss Jenny for a special exploration based on the beloved children’s book, Stranger in the Woods. We’ll discover which animals are still active in the winter and hand feed a chickadee! 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
12 • Thursday Homeschool Happenings
Beavers are nature’s architects. Hike with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt and Education Specialist Bev Walborn to search for local beaver lodges and learn about this amazing mammal. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: grades K – 6 Terrain: some stairs, 1.5 miles Register beginning December 2 440-734-6660 Family Movie Night
Bring your family and friends to watch Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest. This cartoon is about the adventures of a fruit bat, a fairy and a shrunken human who need to stop loggers from chopping down their home. Snacks will be available for purchase or bring your own. 7 – 8:30 p.m. CWC Register beginning December 2 216-206-1000
13 • Friday A Big Year at South Chagrin Reservation
When Look About Lodge opened in 1938, a popular activity was keeping lists of what was seen when hiking. Join Naturalist Renell Simrau for a presentation on what was seen throughout South Chagrin Reservation this past year. 7 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Friday Film
The film One Water is an emotional and visual journey through 15 countries in both hemispheres that celebrates all the ways water touches us. This winner of multiple international awards brings home water challenges and stories of innovation, compassion and hope. 7 – 8:30 p.m. WSC Ages: adults, families A Cold Shower
Dress warmly and bring a chair so you can sit and marvel at the annual Geminid meteor shower. This event offers up to 75 meteors an hour as the earth passes through a cloud of space debris. A fire and hot chocolate will be available. 7 – 9 p.m. SCR Polo Field
14 • Saturday Backyard Bird Watching Basics for Beginners
Join Naturalist Jenny McClain at the bird viewing window to learn about our winter resident birds. We’ll identify the most common winter backyard birds, learn about their behavior, and enjoy an opportunity to hand feed the chickadees. 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. BNC Register beginning December 1 440-526-1012
Screech owl
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Extreme Hiking
Recycled Card Crafting
Join Naturalist Pam Taylor as we head out on the mountain bike trail. The hills along this narrow path are great for a warm-up on a cold day! Please check the website to see if the trail is open; if it is not, this hike will be cancelled. http:// www.clevelandmetroparks. com/Main/RoyalviewMountain-Bike-Trail.aspx 9 a.m. – noon MSRR Royalview Trailhead Terrain: hills, 6.5 – 7.5 miles 440-526-1012
Bring your creative ideas to give new heart to our recycled holiday cards. Spend the morning card-crafting in the cozy atmosphere of Look About Lodge. Donations welcome. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. SCR Look About Lodge
Monthly Morning with the Birds
Meet Naturalist Ken Gober for our monthly hike to survey bird activity near Rocky River Nature Center, then warm up with a cup of hot cocoa. Bring binoculars and a bird guide. Dress for the weather. 9 a.m. – noon RRR Rocky River Nature Center parking lot Terrain: some stairs, 1.75 miles 440-734-6660
American Girl Morning: Holiday Celebration
Let’s spread some holiday cheer! We will make a cute seasonal decoration then watch Samantha: An American Girl Holiday while enjoying Christmas cookies. This is a drop-off program. Bring a doll if you have one. 5 – 7 p.m. CWC Ages: 8 years & over Fee: $5 Register beginning December 2 clevelandmetroparks.com Recycled Card Ornaments
Ever wonder what to do with those old greeting cards? Bring
Coyote by Jen Brumfield
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
them to the nature center and Naturalist Beth Whiteley will show you how to transform them into a beautiful orb ornament. 1 – 2:30 p.m. GPNC 216-341-3152 Nature Journaling
Take a deep breath of nature, and appreciate the signs of the season as we venture out on the trail. We will reflect on what we have seen through art and writing in a journal of our creation. You may want to bring your camera. 1 – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years & over Fee: $15 first time only Terrain: slow-paced, 1 mile Register by December 12 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com Bird Feeding Drop-by
Drop by the Watershed Stewardship Center any time between 1 – 3 p.m. to warm up by the fire and watch winter birds. A naturalist will be
on hand to help you with identification and provide bird food, watering, and feeder tips. 1 – 3 p.m. WSC Felted Scarves
Felting is an ancient skill that has developed into an art form. You’ll work through the entire process of taking merino sheep wool, adding soap, water and elbow grease and turning it into a unique piece of wearable art. You’ll leave with a completed project. 1 – 4 p.m. CWC Ages: 16 years & over Fee: $35 Registration required 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Dog Hike
Bring your best friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. We will hike the wooded trails of North Chagrin Reservation. All dogs must be leashed. 2 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, some hills, 2.5 – 3 miles
Tobogganing at the Chalet Recreation Area
Bike Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation
Thirteen miles of bicycle adventure led by Cultural History Interpreter Doug Kusak. We’ll keep warm by bicycling and dabbling in history. Helmet required. 2 – 4:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: all purpose trail, 1 hill each way, 13 miles Register beginning December 2 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Chilly Dog Hike
Bring your favorite canine companion for a chilly day warm-up hike through Hinckley Reservation. This is a great exercise and social opportunity for you and your dog! Please, no aggressive dogs. Trails on this moderate
to fast paced hike could be muddy. 3 – 4:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Terrain: moderate, hills, 3.5 – 4 miles 440-526-1012 Woodlands of Bedford: Dusk to Darkness Hike
Enjoy an evening hike with Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi that transitions into the quiet serenity of nighttime. If the sky is clear, the Geminid meteor shower, nearly full moon and Jupiter will delight us. Bring a flashlight for emergencies only. Dress for the weather. 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. BeR Circle Emerald Field Terrain: moderate, slow 216-341-3152
Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale (see page 6 for details)
15 • Sunday Sunday Bird Walk
Join us as we search the shores and surrounding forest of Lake Erie for year round and winter resident birds. Dress warmly and some binoculars will be available to borrow. 9 – 11 a.m. ECR Wildwood Marina parking lot Ages: adults, teens Terrain: easy, 1 – 1.5 miles Acacia’s Birds
Not all of the birds have flown south for warmer climates. Join us at Acacia Reservation to see which birds will grace
us with their presence among the leafless trees and rolling landscape. Binoculars are recommended; some available for loan. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. AR The Other Beaten Path
Join Naturalist Carly Martin as we follow trails through the forests of South Chagrin Reservation that are normally used by four-legged forest dwellers. Wear sturdy footwear for this hike that leaves traditional trails behind. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. SCR Squaw Rock Picnic Area Terrain: off-trail, 3 miles 440-247-7075
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River Poets
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. Several examples of nature poems will be provided. Noon – 1 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Snow Paint
Winter is a time when snow blankets everything in white. Come on down to Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation and add a little color to the park and paint some animals into the snow. Be as creative as you want. Dress for the weather. Canceled if there is no snow. 1 – 2:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: all purpose trail, 1 hill Register beginning December 2 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Makin’ Tracks
Tracking was a valuable skill when Ohio was settled. Local animals were used for food, clothing, blankets and rugs. Now the presence of tracks tells us which animals are wandering in the park. 1:30 – 3 p.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: hill, 2.5 miles Hike to Deer Lick Cave
Winter is near. Venture out and explore the beauty of the season along the Deer Lick Cave trail. 2 – 4 p.m. BNC Terrain: hills, slippery, 4 miles Hoots and Howls
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a nocturnal adventure. We’ll seek out screech, barred and great horned owls, and listen and call for coyotes. We’ll demystify the secretive lives of these feathered and furred hunters of the night. Bring a flashlight. 6:30 – 8 p.m. RRNC Terrain: easy, 1 mile or less Inspired by Nature Arts and Crafts Sale (see page 6 for details)
Cardinals
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Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Hand feeding chickadees
17 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart
A crisp morning hike is a great way to start your day. Join Naturalist Pam Taylor as we head over to Deer Lick Cave and venture down some of the Buckeye Trail. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. BrR Oak Grove Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: hills, 3 – 4 miles Stroller Science
Go on a color scavenger hunt to see how many colors we can find in winter. We will do a colorful craft and then go look for plants and animals that stand out against the white and gray of winter. 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: easy, 0.5 mile Full Moon Hike
Winter nights in the forest have a unique sense of quietness and peace. Bundle up
and experience it for yourself! 6 – 7:30 p.m. RRR Rocky River Nature Center parking lot Terrain: may be icy, some stairs, 1.5 miles 440-734-6660 Cold, Cold Moon
December is the start of winter so this moon deserves to be called the Cold Moon. We’ll hike by moonlight to get a different experience in the park. 7 – 8:30 p.m. NCNC
18 • Wednesday Preschool: Senses
Animals use all their senses to communicate with each other. Bring your preschooler to CanalWay to explore our senses. Perhaps you will rediscover your senses too. 10 – 11 a.m. CWC Register beginning December 2 clevelandmetroparks.com
Trail Trackers: Snow’s My Home
Today we investigate snow with chilly activities and a hike. Discover why snow is helpful to many winter animals. 10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 3 years – K with adult Terrain: easy, 0.5 mile Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com CanalWay Matinee: The Men Who Built America
This History Channel miniseries focuses on the men whose big ideas and hard work transformed the country after the Civil War. We will watch episodes three A Rivalry is Born and four Blood is Spilled in our comfortable theater. Beverages and snacks are available for purchase. 1 – 2:30 p.m. CWC Ages: 10 years & over
19 • Thursday Scavenger Hunt
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield for a wild woodland adventure seeking nature’s artistic creations. From tracks to trees, birds and leaves, we’ll have a must-find list to keep us trekking. 10 – 11:30 a.m. RRNC Terrain: easy, 1.5 miles 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, 8 years & over with adult Fee: $5 Register beginning December 2 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com
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Animal Crackers (see 12/11 for details)
10 – 11:15 a.m.
20 • Friday CanalWay Critters
Bring the little ones in to meet some of our resident animals. Watch the animals eat a variety of goodies such as fish, worms, and crickets – yum! We will feed throughout the hour and discuss the various animals that live at CanalWay Center. 10 – 11 a.m. CWC Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Winter Weeds
The vibrant colors of summer plants are gone until next spring but the plants still stand. Disguised in their winter attire, these plants can be hard to identify. Join Naturalist Angelec Hillsman to reveal their identity. 10 a.m. – noon NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 6 – 12 years Terrain: paved, 0.5 – 1 mile Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com Solstice Eve
Join Naturalist Pam Taylor on this eve of the solstice for a hike among the hemlocks. We will celebrate the lengthening of the days and enjoy a tasty treat upon our return. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. BNC Fee: $3 Terrain: hills, 2.5 miles Register beginning December 1 clevelandmetroparks.com 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 Friday Movie Night
Tonight we will continue the series Frozen Planet as we discover what happens in the polar regions during the sum28
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Deer Lick Cave in Brecksville Reservation
mer season. Popcorn will be served. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. 7:30 – 9 p.m. NCNC
21 • Saturday 22nd Winter Solstice Sunrise
Winter officially begins at 12:11 p.m. today. Join Naturalist Ken Gober to savor the last sunrise of autumn, 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
Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Lake Picnic Area Shelterhouse 440-734-6660 Meet a Chickadee
Join Naturalist Min Keung for a chance to get up-close to a chickadee. Sunflower seed will be provided for a chance for a bird to land in your hand. 10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Terrain: easy, 1 mile Solstice Dog Stroll
Let’s celebrate the gradually lengthening days by getting the whole family out and about! The well-behaved family dog is also welcome on
this outing which will explore all that nature has to offer. 10 – 11:30 a.m. WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Terrain: paved, easy, 1.2 miles 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
Sledding in the Park
Solstice Concert
Celebrate the first day of winter with us! Grab your sleds and join us on the sledding hill for an afternoon of fun. Afterwards, hot chocolate will be served. 1 – 2:30 p.m. NCR Old River Farm Picnic Area
Welcome the new season with an evening at Look About Lodge. Surrounded by the winter night, you can sit back in the warmth of the Lodge and relax to the music of acoustic guitarist Brian Henke. 7 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Register by December 19 clevelandmetroparks.com
Acoustic Players Circle
Join this well established player’s 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: Children’s and Holiday Songs 1 – 3 p.m. CWC Winter Walk
Join us for a winter solstice walk throughout Edgewater Park. We will meet at the beach picnic shelter and enjoy a brisk walk around the park. Dress for the weather it will be windy near the Great Lake. 1 – 3 p.m. LR Edgewater Beach Picnic Shelter 216-206-1000
Winter Solstice Campfire
Today marks the official start of winter and the shortest day of the year. Following ancient beliefs, we’ll light a fire to lure the sun back into the sky. Explore the winter night with a short hike then warm yourself around the crackling campfire with hot chocolate. 7 – 8:30 p.m. NCR Nature Education Building Terrain: level, 1 mile Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
22 • Sunday Monthly Bird Survey
We’ll track restoration efforts by using breeding birds as one measure. Stop at designated sites to look, listen and record all bird species. This training is for anyone interested in assisting with future breeding bird surveys. 9 – 11 a.m. WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Winter Walk in the Woods
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 be a rejuvenating force. 1 – 2 p.m. GPNC Terrain: moderate, some hills, 1.8 miles Winter Weeds
Explore the rugged remnants of summer flowers. Delicate patterns and shades of brown and gray interrupt the smooth white winter landscapes around the marsh and meadow. Bring your camera to capture the scenes. 2 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: level, 0.5 mile
Sunday Funday
Join us as we will learn about our local animals and the evidence they leave behind them. We will go on a hike looking for tracks and scats of our furry friends. Then we will head back inside for a craft and snack to warm us up. 2 – 4 p.m. CWC Terrain: gravel and dirt path, 0.5 mile Register beginning December 2 clevelandmetroparks.com School of the Wilds: Solstice Twilight Exploration
Many creatures are active, even on the longest night of the year. A naturalist will review some of the creatures that stay active in the winter and then we will head out for a twilight hike. 3 – 5 p.m. RRNC Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details) Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
Join our monthly bird survey of West Creek Reservation.
Cross country skiing
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23 • Monday
27 • Friday
Keeper For a Day
Winter Water Exploration
Work alongside our expert wildlife staff. Learn how to care for our resident animals and the wildlife patients in our rehabilitation center. Other dates available. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. LENSC Fee: $50 Registration required 440-871-2900
Get out and explore water in all its wonderful forms: snow, rain, vapor, ice, mud and more! We’ll be active indoors but spend plenty of time out in the field, exploring how plants and animals cope with changing winter water conditions. Lunch provided. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. WSC Ages: 12 – 16 years Fee: $25 Terrain: on- and off-trail, 2.5 miles Registration required 440-887-1968 or clevelandmetroparks.com
Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details)
24 • Tuesday Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details) Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
26 • Thursday Techno-Nature
Bring your smart phone and tablet with you to learn all of the newest and coolest apps for nature and discovery. From field guides to weather, conservation and study, YOU can be a citizen scientist and provide data that will help change our world. Two opportunities to see the presentation: 11 a.m. – noon RRNC or 2 – 3 p.m. RRNC BYOS
Bring your own sled to Little Met Golf Course for family fun! Enjoy a naturalist-led search for winter wildlife on the gentle slopes, then grab your sled and enjoy sliding down those slopes. Program cancelled if insufficient snow. Call number below after 9:30 a.m. to confirm. 2 – 3:30 p.m. RRR Terrain: open with small, sloping hills Little Met Golf Course 440-734-6660 Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details) Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
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Hike and Play at Acacia
Don’t let winter keep you inside! Dress for the weather and join Naturalist Carly Martin for a short hike and some outdoor play. Read this month’s Notes from the Field blog at clevelandmetroparks. com for tips on dressing your young ones for wintry outdoor play. Program canceled in the event of rain. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. AR Ages: 3 – 6 years with adult 440-247-7075 Winter Woodpeckers
Kids can hear a story and go for a brief hike to see if we can find woodpeckers! When we return to the nature center we will warm up by the fire and make a cool woodpecker craft. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Ages: 4 – 8 years with adult Register beginning December 1 216-341-3152 Family Friday Night: Marvelous Mammals!
Discover what kinds of mammals are out and about in the winter cold and which ones sleep the winter away. Mammal mounts, pelts and skulls will be available to see and touch. A short hike will follow to search for mammal tracks. 7 – 8:15 p.m. NCNC Terrain: easy, 0.5 mile Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details)
Emerald Necklace, December 2013
Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
28 • 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 Kid’s Day at CanalWay
Kids, join us for a day of CanalWay Entertainment. 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: 8 – 12 years Fee: $20 Terrain: inside and outside Register beginning December 2 clevelandmetroparks.com Volunteer to Adopt-A-Beach
White Pine Hike
Take a leisurely stroll under towering white pines and Eastern hemlocks. Learn why white pines were so important to early settlers in the area and why this group of old growth trees may have been spared the loggers’ axe. 2 – 3 p.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: mostly level, icy, 1 – 1.5 miles Winter Night Hike
Celebrate one of the longest nights of the year by going outside. Enjoy a brisk walk on the trails while learning about how night animals survive in the dark. Dress warmly, boots recommended. 7 – 8:15 p.m. RRNC Ages: families and adults Terrain: many steps, 1.2 miles Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details) Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
29 • Sunday A Winter Walk in Arthur B’s Woods
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 – 3 p.m. HuR Huntington Beach Water Tower Terrain: stairs, sand, 0.25 mile Register by December 25 440-331-8111
Join us as we trek the woods named in honor of the first park naturalist Arthur B. Williams. As the wind blows, we’ll listen for the shaking leaves of the beech trees and the echoing sounds of woodpeckers pecking. Afterwards, we will reward ourselves with hot chocolate. Binoculars recommended; some available for loan. 9 – 11 a.m. NCNC Ages: adults Terrain: trails, icy, 2.25 miles
Boxing Day Drop-by
Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center
Boxing Day is December 26, but it’s not too late for our own version. Drop by the Watershed Stewardship Center any time between 1 3 p.m. and make your own colorful keepsake box with a used greeting card. Bring your old cards if you have some. 1 – 3 p.m. WSC Ages: 7 years & over
Better than binoculars, you will see intricate details of birds as we capture and band birds from the feeder. Learn about bird banding, an essential tool for learning about our feathered friends. Program will be cancelled during rain. Drop in any time between: 9:30 – noon RRNC
forward to the next. We will start at CanalWay Center and head into the Cuyahoga Valley. Toast the New Year with hot cocoa after the hike. 10 a.m. – noon CWC Terrain: blacktop, 1 hill, 1.5 miles Register beginning December 2 clevelandmetroparks.com S’more Year’s Eve
We’re not going to offer you S’more of 2013; but we will fill your evening with s’more fun! Families will create sweet memories at this end of the year celebration full of campfire goodies. Program includes plenty of food, fun and a keepsake. 6 – 9:30 p.m. NCNC Fee: $15 (9 years – adult), $10 (3 – 8 years) Register by December 27 clevelandmetroparks.com Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details) Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
Hand feeding a tufted titmice
What’s to Know About Snow
Living in the far north, the Inuit have many names for different types of snow. We’ll go on a snow search to find “anniu,” “api,” “quali” and more. At the end of our search, we’ll make a “quinzhee” – a snow shelter. 1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: easy, 1 mile or less Tracks in the Snow
Ever walk outside during the winter and wonder what made those tracks? Come down to CanalWay Center for a hike outside to see if we can spot some tracks and try to figure out who made those tracks in the snow. Dress for the weather. Cancelled if no snow. 2 – 3:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: all purpose trail, one hill
Family Fun Night
Put down the new toys and join us for some family fun. We’ll read a story, play games and make a craft. Space is limited. 7 – 8:30 p.m. BNC Ages: 4 years & over Register beginning December 15 440-526-1012 Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details) Water’s Extreme Journey (see page 7 for details)
30 • Monday Fable and Fire
Let your imagination run wild as we gather ‘round the fire to hear fun animal fables. After the story, enjoy a warm
chocolate treat and explore the exhibits. Stories told on the hour 1 – 2:30 p.m. GPNC Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 12/21 for details)
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31 • Tuesday Winter is Wonderful
The cold can’t keep us inside! In this program we will explore the joys of winter through a short story, hike and a craft. The craft is fun for many ages and will freeze our experience in time. 10 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Ages: 4 – 8 years with adult Terrain: easy Toast the New Year Hike
Take time to reflect on the closing year and as you look 31
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4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY
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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 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3200 Volunteer Services 440-253-2142
Ranger Headquarters
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 Executive Director 216-635-3331 Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-661-6500 ext 4356 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3229 School Group Reservations 216-635-3391 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3389 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421
Outdoor Recreation 216-341-1704 Acacia Facility Acacia Reservation 26899 Cedar Road Lyndhurst Food Service/Catering: Dino’s 216-342-4767
Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990 Cross Country Ski Rental 440-331-1070 Rivergate Facility 1785 Merwin Ave Cleveland 216-341-1704 Food Service/Catering: Rivergate Café 216-664-5696
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 Rocky River Reservation 4811 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 18599 Old Lorain Road Cleveland 216-941-9672 Manakiki Golf Course North Chagrin Reservation 35501 Eddy Road Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: 440-449-0700 Mastick Woods Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 19900 Puritas Road Cleveland 216-267-5626 Food Service/Catering: Double Eagle Cafe 216-267-5626 Seneca Golf Course Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Food Service/Catering: Back 9 Grille 440-546-1555 Shawnee Hills Golf Course Bedford Reservation 18753 Egbert Road Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Shawnee Hills Grille 440-786-7587 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course Brecksville Reservation 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555 Washington Golf Course Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Blvd. Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Education Administration 440-331-8681 Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530 Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530 NatureTracks Education Unit/ EcoExplorers 216-341-1707 Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010
Outdoor Education Facilities
Swimming
CanalWay Center Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 4524 E. 49th Street Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center Brecksville Reservation 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville 440-526-1012 Garfield Park Nature Center Garfield Park Reservation 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation Sunset Lane Entrance Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 Rocky River Nature Center Rocky River Reservation 24000 Valley Parkway North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge South Chagrin Reservation 37374 Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 440-247-7075 Watershed Stewardship Center at West Creek West Creek Reservation 2277 W. Ridgewood Dr. Parma 440-887-1968 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-471-8357 Nature Shops Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Hinckley 330-278-2160 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 Watershed Stewardship Center Parma 440-253-2170
Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs
Boating Emerald Necklace Marina Rocky River Reservation 1500 Scenic Park Drive Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Emerald Necklace Marina Grille 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Hinckley Reservation West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road, Berea Quarry Rock Café
440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Edgewater Park Lakefront Reservation Cleveland Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café
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.