Emerald Necklace January ‘11 Volume 60 #1
Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events
Inside: Institute Of The Great Outdoors Catalog
Contents Special Events 2 New Year To Experience A New Adventure 11 Friday Nights With Nature 13 Saturday Night Specials
Features 3 Chasing the Great Bear
Columns 4 6 8 14
Notes from the Field Naturalist’s Almanac Inside The Emerald Necklace Zoo News
In Addition 17 20 21 32
Institute of the Great Outdoors Events By Location Events Calendar Directory
All photos by Casey Batule or Cleveland Metroparks archives unless otherwise noted
Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:
Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 TTY 216-351-0808 clevelandmetroparks.com
Paulette Welch Editor
Nobbynees Ltd. Graphic Design
RR Donnelly Printing Printing
Board of Park Commissioners Bruce Rinker
David Whitehead
Brian Zimmerman
Winter Recreation Fun in Cleveland Metroparks! Winter offers Cleveland Metroparks visitors the opportunity to experience the outdoors with sledding, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, tobogganing at the Chalet, and hiking. For sledding enthusiasts, Cleveland Metroparks has a number of sledding hills including some with night lighting. Cross-country skiers can use the unplowed trails, and are also permitted on the fairways and rough areas at Little Met, Big Met, Shawnee Hills, and Sleepy Hollow golf courses when there is a four-inch base of snow. The hiking and bridle trails can be used by cross-country skiers, but skiers should use caution and must yield to hikers and horses. 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 conditions information. 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.
Executive Director-Secretary
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.
For editorial questions of comments, contact Paulette Welch at 216-635-3205
Cleveland Metroparks winter recreation locations are open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Additional information is available in the “Winter Recreation” brochure, which can be obtained at any Park District facility, by calling 216-635-3200, or online at www.clevelandmetroparks.com.
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 and activities. Special assistance for Cleveland Metroparks programs or facilities is availabele by calling 216-635-3264 in advance
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Emerald Necklace, January 2011
Chasing the Great Bear
Long before the discovery of electricity, people were very familiar with the stars they could see at night. To them, the stars were more than sparkling lights that brightened the dark sky. Their rising, setting and position in the sky each season provided people with a compass, a calendar and a clock. Because of the important role stars played in people’s lives, guiding them when to plant, when to harvest and when to celebrate their various festivals, stars were grouped into patterns and stories were told about them. The names of these groupings or constellations and the figures they represented varied with different cultures. It wasn’t until the 1920s that the International Astronomical Union set the boundaries and the names for the eighty-eight constellations that are recognized today. One group of stars that is still familiar to most people is The Big Dipper, made up of seven bright stars and visible on any clear night throughout the year. In other cultures it is called The Plough (Britain), The Saucepan (France) and The Wagon (Italy). It is not a constellation on its own, but the hind quarters and tail of a bear. The constellation is Ursa Major or The Great Bear. The Seneca tribe of North America tell of a great hunt that occurs each year. In the earliest of times, there were seven brothers, all of whom were hunters. In the spring, finding tracks of a bear just out of its winter cave, the brothers set off to pursue the bear. One brother, called
yellows.
the Lazy One, is carried on a litter by four of the brothers. One brother leads the way carrying a torch and another brother comes last, carrying a kettle in which to cook the bear. They pursue the bear through the spring and summer before they finally catch it. In the fall, the bear is slain, cooked and eaten. At this point, the brothers find themselves high in the sky, and looking down, they see that the bear’s blood and fat has spilled over the forest turning the leaves bright reds, oranges and
Canada’s Micmac Indians also tell of the bear hunt, but in this culture the hunters are not people but birds. It is the robin who slays the bear with an arrow and in the process gets soaked in bear’s blood. Trying to get clean again, the robin shakes off the blood which splatters the trees around him, causing them to turn bright red. While the robin is able to shake off most of the blood, some remains to this day causing the robin to have a red breast. Each spring the bear rises again from its cave and the chase begins anew as this mythical drama of life and death is played out once more. Today, our cities and streets are flooded with light throughout the night, and we may not notice the stars at all. Next time you’re outdoors after dark, take the time to look up and reacquaint yourself with the stars. Find the Big Dipper, then use your imagination and see if you can find the entire Great Bear and the brothers on their endless hunt. Deb Marcinski, Naturalist North Chagrin Nature Center dlm@clevelandmetroparks.com
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Notes From The Field
Surviving Winter
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I was once an everant, an “overwinterer” in the far north of New England. New England takes winter seriously, and Vermont, where I lived, takes winter far more seriously than most. When I arrived in July, the mountain and valleys were lush with waist-high ferns, Clintonia lily, even an orchid or two. Forests rang with the calls of thrushes and whitethroated sparrows and warblers galore. Summer wore on, and daisies turned to autumn’s lavender and yellow New England Aster, then the leaves colored as if tinted with a celestial paint brush, and then it snowed. It snowed almost 50 inches of snow. And it stayed. All through January. And for 21 days the temperature never rose above zero degrees Fahrenheit. But life went on. I shared office and lab space that winter with Peter J. Marchand, noted author of several books about the natural history of New England. Far more than a naturalist, Pete was a superb scientist, inventing ways to measure and quantify the smallest intracies of nature. An expert in alpine vegetation and nature’s adaptations to cold, he was even able to measure such things as the differences in temperature between the top and bottom surfaces of spruce needles, deducing how the tree maximized its chances for survival in such intensely cold climates. Working with Pete at the Center for Northern Studies research site, I learned much about life in the cold. It is said that life finds a way, and when the cold and snows of January arrive, life does exactly that. Over uncounted generations, species adapt to change, and the change from autumn to winter must be one
Emerald Necklace, January 2011
of the most dramatic changes of all. Hibernation, perhaps, comes to mind first. Can’t deal with the cold? Not a problem, just eat and drink all autumn then sleep through winter. What a deal! The dramatic adjustments that hibernating creatures must take are far more dramatic than that, however. First, find a snug place where predators can’t find you while you’re taking a winter snooze. Then, fiddle with the chemistry of your cells so that they don’t freeze. If you’re a mammal, add the need to keep your body temperature above freezing, but just barely. Exist on your stored body fat reserves. Don’t forget to breathe every minute or so. Do that for three or four months, then wake up. Don’t wake up before there’s some food to eat. Hibernation is a massive change in physiology. Not many can do it.
bark. Except for the few true hibernators, most mammals simply changed their behavior when winter came and survived as best they could. If you’re any one of many species of insects, another option is to simply lay eggs in the summer or fall, then die. Seems efficient. You’re a simpler life form, and you maximize all your energy towards your summer job (pollinator, perhaps, or predator?) then find a mate, perpetuate the species in a tidy bundle of bug-to-be, and hang it all up. I’m not so certain that I like that option very well, Makes me glad that I’m one of those adapters. You could migrate to warmer places with more food. Monarch butterflies, some dragonflies, and many species of birds migrate southward and return when winter breathes its last sigh and warmer weather and food return. Migration seems like an easy solution to winter, but remember the hazards - changed southern habitats, colliding with structures, winds blowing you out over oceans, a steady gauntlet of predators, competition with other migrators and those already residing in those areas as you head south, settle, then migrate back north again. Migration is a change in behavior, and it’s a lot of work. We discovered in Vermont that small mammals like Northern flying squirrels and pine squirrels made a vast network of tunnels under the snow, foraging for food and leading to reliable food sources. Under four feet of snow, the surface temperature of the ground where their tunnels were was as much as forty degrees warmer than the ambient air temperature. Beavers stored food under water outside their warm lodges and swam out to cut small pieces to take back and strip off the
And adapt we do. No fur? Invent a coat. Can’t migrate? Store food at home. Getting cold? Make a fire, even if it’s a gas or electric one. Welcome to January, my friends. Changes in physiology, like hibernation, and changes in behavior like migration are only two of many, many ways in which species adapt to the cold. Want to learn more? Read the easy and informative Stokes Guide to Nature in Winter, by Donald and Lillian Stokes or for a more in depth understanding, Life in the Cold, by Peter J. Marchand. Robert D. Hinkle, PhD Chief, Division of Outdoor Education rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com
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Naturalist’s Almanac January
The beginning of a new year goes by largely unnoticed in the world of nature. Perhaps the most important day of the winter season occurred on December 22, when the days began to lengthen again and the apparent threat of a snowy decline into permanent darkness was broken by the winter solstice and the return of longer days. The change is noticed, though, in the world of birds and mammals who stay active throughout the winter in Cleveland Metroparks. The creeping increase in day length, or photoperiod, triggers a host of changes in nature including, later in the month, the first of the birds’ spring songs. The winter world of a meadow mouse becomes limited by snow this month as the gradual accumulation begins to impede his search for food. Ever-thrifty, the little mouse has stored away some grains for times like these. Unless the snow gets more than two feet deep, some plants will receive suitable sunlight and remain green, providing a winter salad for those creatures still active under the snowpack. Month’s end usually brings the first breath of spring with an annual thaw, but winter will return - usually with a vengeance - in a week or so.
First Week
Birds The harshest time of winter has arrived! Please keep your bird feeders brimming full each day if you have begun a feeding program. The birds will appreciate your handouts at least through late March. High-energy suet at feeders will attract downy, hairy, redbellied and possibly pileated woodpeckers. Mammals Although the pace of the rut has slackened, the breeding season for deer continues this month. Fawns conceived in January will still be born in late May, as these embryos will develop more quickly than those conceived in October.
Second Week
Birds Red-tailed hawks by day and screech owls by night forage over open fields as their small furry prey disappears beneath the snows of winter. Woe be to the tiny brown mouse that ventures out for “one last look” and is spotted against the white background of snow! Mammals Meadow voles and deer mice welcome the snowy white blanket as they stay safe in their snug tunnels beneath the snowpack until the coming of spring. Trees Many oaks and beeches will hold dead leaves on their branches all winter. Spring growth sheds the golden brown mantle of old leaves, thus allowing the forest to gain two layers of nutrients each year. The rustle of leaves in the winter wind is a sharp contrast to the quiet of snowy meadows. Certain witch hazels in sheltered locations continue to bloom this week.
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Third Week
Birds Watch for small flocks of northern cardinals to appear at your feeder. Their normally tightly controlled territories break down as food becomes scarce and they must range farther for food. Mammals Bucks begin to drop their antlers this week. Every year in late winter male deer shed their antlers and grow them back in the spring. Some may hold one or both antlers as late as March, however.
Fourth Week
Birds Tree sparrows may be scratching about under your bird feeders this week. Watch for a sparrow-sized bird with a rusty cap and unstreaked breast with one central black spot. These birds come from northern Canada to winter in this area. Tufted titmice singing “Peter-Peter!” and the bright “Cheer-Cheer-Cheer!” of cardinals announce their recognition of lengthening days and the first hints of spring. Mammals Deer are seen throughout most Cleveland Metroparks locations now that the trees are bare and the snow has fallen. Winter is a difficult time, when food is scarce and less preferred foods are taken. Many forests are showing “browse lines” from winterhungry deer feeding on buds and stems of small woody plants. Where deer become too abundant and begin to destroy forests, control methods may become necessary.
New Year TO Experience a New Adventure! January is no longer the month to stay indoors - get outside and stay active by tobogganing down the only public ice chutes in Ohio!
And, add to the tobogganing experience by attending on one of the great promotional days at the Chalet:
If you’re looking for a new winter adventure, head over to the Chalet Toboggan Chutes to experience heart pounding fun in Cleveland Metroparks. Get the blood flowing by hiking up a couple stairs (107 to be exact) while carrying a toboggan (we encourage bringing friends and family to help) and then enjoy the heart racing fun of plunging down the 70-foot vertical drop along the 700-foot twin, refrigerated ice chutes up to 50 mph. The Chalet also offers free Wi-Fi to visitors.
Toast the New Year with a FREE Travel Mug Saturday, January 1
The regular tobogganing hours are: Thursdays 6 - 10 p.m. (January and February) Fridays 6 - 10:30 p.m. Saturdays noon - 10:30 p.m. Sundays noon - 5 p.m. Special Holiday Hours for tobogganing: Saturday, January 1 Noon to 10:30 p.m. Sunday, January 2 Noon to 5 p.m. Monday, January 17 Noon to 5 p.m. Monday, February 21 Noon to 5 p.m.
Tobogganing costs $8 for adults and $6 for children, ages 11 and under. One-time ride tickets are available for $3. All riders must wear gloves or mittens. Children, ages 11 and under, must be at least 4 2 inches tall to ride, and must be accompanied by an adult. 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 $35 for adults and $25 for children, 11 and under. A family pass (for up to four) may be purchased for $100. Private Use: The Chalet, including the ice toboggan chutes, can be rented for exclusive private use during non-public hours. Rental fees are $500 for 3 hours for up to 100 people (fee for additional riders).
Student I.D. Night -All Students with a Valid I.D. Pay $5 Thursdays, January 6, 13, 20, & 27, February 3, 10, 17, & 24 Star Light, Star Bright with a FREE Lighted Necklace Friday, January 7 & March 4 Aloha! - Wear a Hawaiian Shirt & Save $2 Sunday, January 9 Dollar Dog Day - $1 Hot Dogs & $1 Sodas Sunday, January 16 & Friday, February 25 FREE Winter Hat for Your Noggin Sunday, January 23 & February 20 Cleveland State Vikings Street Team & Mascot “Magnus” with Activities. AND, Receive a Buy One–Get One FREE Ticket to the February 12 Vikings Game! Sunday, January 30 FREE Ice Scraper Friday, February 4 Super Bowl Sunday Special – Wear Any Team Jersey/Shirt & Save $2 Sunday, February 6 Lake Erie Monsters Street Team Activities 6 - 8 p.m., Drawing to Race “Sully” the Mascot at 8 p.m.! AND, Receive a Buy One–Get One FREE Ticket to the February 14 (Valentine’s Day) Monsters Game! Friday, February 11
Semi-private rentals are offered on January 5 & 19 and February 2 & 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. for a maximum of five groups, or 150 riders so bring a group of 30 - 50! Book now – dates fill up fast!
Sweetheart Deal - $20 for 2 Toboggan Passes, 2 Hot Dogs, 2 Sodas, & 1 FLEECE BLANKET! Sunday, February 13
For more information and to make group, private and semi-private rentals, call 440-572-9990 (press “0” to bypass the prompts)..
Family 4-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs & 4 Sodas Sunday, February 27 & March 6, & Saturday, March 5
The Chalet Toboggan Chutes, located at 16200 Valley Parkway in Mill Stream Run Reservation, between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville, are open through the first weekend in March, weather permitting.
{All promotional items are with paid admission}
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Branching Out
Inside the Emerald Necklace
Cleveland Metroparks is pleased to introduce Branching Out – a new opportunity to support reforestation now and in the future. Through a gift of $1800, donors have the opportunity to have a tree planted in the reservation or golf course of their choice and support future tree planting through the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund of The Cleveland Foundation.
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Trees planted through the Branching Out program will be native species that are approximately 8’ in height. Plantings will take place in spring and fall. Donors will be notified of the location of the tree planted from their contribution. Specific planting locations and tree species will be determined based on natural resource plans for each reservation and golf course. In addition to keeping Cleveland Metroparks green, Branching Out is also a great way to make a living gift to remember a loved one, recognize a special event in someone’s life or honor a friend. All donors and those being honored will receive ongoing recognition on Cleveland Metroparks website, as well as in the Emerald Necklace newsletter and Gift of Nature annual report. For more information on Branching Out or other ways you can support Cleveland Metroparks, contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development, at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com.
2011 Look About Lodge Fireside Concerts Come out of the cold to cozy Look About Lodge for our annual Fireside Concert Series. All concerts are from 7 to 8 p.m. and cost $5 per person. Registration is required - call Look About Lodge to reserve your seat at 440-247-7075 • • • • • •
January 14 January 21 January 28 February 4 February 11 February 18
Brian Henke (guitarist) Lisa & Heather Malyuk (guitar/dulcimer) Peter Niro (acoustic/pop) The Flipside (folk rock) Nan O’Malley (Irish) Erie Heights Brass Ensemble (Mardi Gras/Dixieland)
CanalWay Coffeehouse is Back! CanalWay Visitor Center has heard the wishes of its faithful patrons. Starting this month we will bring back quality music and hometown atmosphere, as we feature local musical talent and a cup of coffee, free of charge! Each month, we will highlight a solo or group act that will feature a different genre of music or special theme. Each concert will be from 7:30 to 9 p.m. • • • • •
January 21 February 18 March 18 April 15 May 27
Roots of American Music - (Acoustic music with a historical message) Logan Wells - (Patsy Cline songs and more!) The Terriers - (Irish tunes) Acoustic Players Showcase - (folk songs of all kinds) Brent Hopper and Brittany Reilly - (acoustic originals)
For more information, contact CanalWay Visitor Center at 216-206-1000
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TOBoGGAN AT THE CHALET! Looking for a great place to book a private, fun winter outing for your group, then look no further than the Chalet Toboggan Chutes of Cleveland Metroparks. It’s the perfect place for family get-togethers, business and club outings, school and church groups, and special events. The facility features a great room with a big-screen TV (cable), Wi-Fi, a concession stand, a loft area with video games, and two fireplaces. The twin, refrigerated ice chutes operate with or without snow. Enjoy the icy winter thrill ride with your group on nature’s winter wild ride. For information and reservations, call 440-572-9990.
Emerald Necklace Kids Corner!
New for 2011! Each month will feature a puzzle or quiz just for kids! Answers will appear in the following month’s issue. Unscramble the letters to find the answers to these four clues. seed.
1. One of the Black-capped chickadee’s favorite foods is black oil
UEWLFSRNO
2. In late summer and early fall, Black-capped chickadees molt, which means they lose their old and grow new ones.
SAETEHRF in a tree.
3. Black-capped chickadees build their nests in a hole, or Hint: This is the same word for what you get in your teeth when you eat too many sweets!
VCTYIA
4. If a predator, such as a raccoon or a squirrel, comes too close to a Black-capped chickadee’s nest, the chickadee may scare the intruder away by hissing like a
NKESA
Now unscramble the circled letters from your answers above to find the answer to this clue: In winter Black-capped chickadees gather in groups called:
We Need Your Help! It seems like just yesterday that Cleveland Metroparks and 776 canoes and kayaks were floating on Hinckley Lake in Hinckley Reservation and cheering as we set the Guinness Book of World Records for the Largest Canoe & Kayak Floatilla. Our record has since been broken and we want it back! Join us on Saturday, May 21 at Hinckley Lake to break the current record of 1,800 boats from a group in Pittsburgh, PA. For more information on helping us set a new Guinness Books of World Records, call 216-635-3200.
Join Us On:
And, if you would like to receive the special events monthly E-Newsletter, subscribe now and start receiving monthly updates on special events and featured programming from Cleveland Metroparks. Register via email to: klf@clevelandmetroparks.com.
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Clip & Save! 2011 Cleveland Metroparks Special Events Calendar Tuesday, March 15 • Annual Return of the Buzzards AND Sunday, March 20 • Buzzard Sunday! Buzzard Roost • Hinckley Reservation Saturday, March 26 • “Toad-ally” Awesome Amphibians North Chagrin Nature Center • North Chagrin Reservation Friday – Sunday, April 15 - 17 • North Coast Nature Festival Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation Saturday, May 14 • Children’s Fishing Derby Wallace Lake • Mill Stream Run Reservation Sunday, May 15 • Children’s Fishing Derby Ohio & Erie Canal • Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Saturday, May 21 • Guinness Book of World Record Canoe & Kayak Challenge Hinckley Lake • Hinckley Reservation Saturday, June 4 • Farm & Garden Day Garfield Park Nature Center • Garfield Park Reservation Sunday, June 12 • Knee-High Naturalists Arboretum • South Chagrin Reservation Saturday, June 18 • Train Day CanalWay Center • Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Saturday, July 16 • Nature at Night North Chagrin Nature Center • North Chagrin Reservation Saturday, July 23 • BrookStock - A Celebration of Music and Nature Brookside Valley Event Site • Brookside Reservation Saturday, August 6 • Summer Beach Party Huntington Beach • Huntington Reservation Saturday, August 13 •Bug City Garfield Park Nature Center • Garfield Park Reservation Saturday, August 27 • Snakes, Turtles & Fun! The Shelterhouse Picnic Area • South Chagrin Reservation Sunday, August 28 • Dog Paddle & More! Ledge Pool & Recreation & Area • Hinckley Reservation Saturday, September 10 • Monarch Magic North Chagrin Nature Center • North Chagrin Reservation Sunday, September 18 • Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival Frostville Museum & Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation Sunday, September 25 • FallFest: 18th Century Festival Meadows Picnic Area • Brecksville Reservation Saturday, October 8 • Outdoor Odyssey Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16 • North Chagrin Nature Photography Weekend North Chagrin Nature Center • North Chagrin Reservation Saturday & Sunday, November 12 & 13 • “Reflections of Nature” Quilt Show Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation
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Take Advantage of Volunteer Opportunities with Cleveland Metroparks Trail Monitor Volunteers are pairs of First Aid/CPR certified volunteers that hike or bike in Park District reservations throughout the year. Trail Monitor volunteers interact with visitors, alert management crews to any hazardous situations and are first responders in emergencies on the trails. Trail Monitors are expected to donate a minimum of 40 monitoring hours per year; however, during their initial year, new 2011 Trail Monitor volunteers must complete these hours by December 31. Convenient on-line scheduling allows volunteers to choose their date, time and monitor location. During 2010, 142 volunteers donated over 7,000 hours to training and monitoring designated trails in 12 Cleveland Metroparks reservations. Interested individuals, age 35 and older, are invited to participate in this rewarding volunteer activity. Applications will be accepted through February 11, 2011 with training and certification classes held in April 2011. A limited number of spaces are available. The PPIP Mentor Volunteer Program is entering its seventh year of assisting and guiding high school students. PPIP Mentor volunteers work with high school students from Washington Park Environmental Studies Academy (formerly part of South High School) through a intern partnership program with Cleveland Metroparks and Cleveland Metropolitan School District. During the summer, June through August, mentor volunteers (45 years of age and older) are paired with PPIP students and will meet with students every other week for one hour at the students’ Cleveland Metroparks worksite. During this time, mentors will assist students with job readiness issues, work ethics, problem-solving and career exploration. Mentors must commit to a minimum of one hour of mentoring every other week during June, July and August for the duration of the twoyear program. PPIP Mentor volunteers must attend a training class and a background check is required. For an application or additional information about these or other volunteer opportunities, contact Heather Triplett, manager of volunteer services, at 216-635-3258 or hat@clevelandmetroparks.com.
Friday Nights with Nature Doors open at 6:45 p.m. • One presentation from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation
This January and February, spend your Friday nights with nature! Take an armchair journey to a variety of world locations and explore the delicate yet sometimes harsh beauty of nature, or discover the culture and heritage of our cousins around the globe. Check out the schedule and look for details in the Events Calendar beginning on page 24. For more information, call 440-734-6660. January 7 - “Natural Gems of Israel” with Ami Horowitz January 14 - “Exploring New Zealand On Foot” with Mary Huey January 21 - “To the Roof of Africa” with Nancy Hughes January 28 - “Natural History of Costa Rica” with Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Andy Jones
February 4 - “Pacific Northwest” with Naturalist David Dvorak February 11 - “The Changing Tides of Fundy” with Photographer and Historian Karen Beck
February 18 - “Southern Africa Safari” with Naturalist Min Keung
February 25 - “North to Alaska” with Naturalist Ken Gober
Don’t miss the adventures!
Rocky River Nature Center is located in Rocky River Reservation at 24000 Valley Parkway, 1/4 mile north of Cedar Point Road in North Olmsted. Emerald Necklace, January 2011 11
YOUR FIRST NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION: “SHOP SMART AT EARTHWORDS” Start 2011 by visiting your favorite EarthWords Nature Shop. Here are the top 10 reasons why we can help you “shop smart”
10. Seasonal sale is going on in January. We are marking down the old and ringing in the new. Come in and save! 9. Spot the birds. Check out our brand new Birdsong Identiflyer Ultra. An amazing way to identify your 120 birds and 50 frogs by sight and by sound. $59.95 8. Stay safe on your winter walk. Our popular cleated Stabilicers are back to keep you safe on snow or ice and eco-friendly bamboo socks promise to keep your feet warm and dry. 7. Shop for a variety of Cleveland Metroparks logo items, only found at EarthWords. 6. Something new! Our shops now offer hot coffee and hot chocolate. A delightful way to relax after shopping so smart at EarthWords. 5. Shop at the shows. In January and February, EarthWords at North Chagrin Nature Center is open every Saturday night for the “Saturday Night Special” nature series. EarthWords at Rocky River Nature Center is open every Friday evening for the “Friday Nights with Nature” nature series. “Shop smart” AND be entertained! 4. Stories for the kids. Viewfinder Fossils by Douglas Palmer - Explore the fossil world by using the removable magnifier to view some of the ancient world’s most incredible creatures close up. $19.95 3. See our beautiful selection of distinctive nature jewelry. Our affordable prices will help you “shop smart”. 2. Search for new products. Exciting new products arrive almost every week.
1. And the #1 reason to “shop smart” at EarthWords is… Every purchase you make supports your Cleveland Metroparks! 12 Emerald Necklace, January 2011
Need something special to do for Valentine’s Day? Mark your calendars for Sunday, February 13! Local author Emily Fuller Williams will teach you a natural way of handling stress. There also will be hors d’ oeuvres, calming music and a special EarthWords sale. Details in February’s Emerald Necklace.
CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m. Are you a member of Cleveland Zoological Society? Bring your membership card to receive 10% off non-sale merchandise every day! Subscribe to our free email newsletter to see new products and specials! Send an email to hjs@clevelandmetroparks.com, and type “subscribe” in the subject.
Saturday Night Specials
Explore natural history near and far… from local flora to the Great Wall of China. Spend your January and February Saturday evenings (from 7:30 until 9 p.m.) at North Chagrin Nature Center, as we travel the world exploring the marvels of nature. For more information call 440-473-3370. January 8
Birth to Border – Tales of the Rio Grande, Karen Beck An entertaining and historic look at the Rio Grande from its source in the Rockies to its mouth at the Gulf. Barely a boundary and hardly navigable, it nevertheless traverses spectacular physical and historic landscapes.
January 15
Natural Arabian Remedies for Health and Beauty, Muhammed Hassanali Herbs, spices, bark, twigs, rocks and salt for culinary, cosmetic or medicinal purposes are ubiquitous in the Middle East. This program explores the uses and folklore of these herbs.
January 22
Our Jewels of the Forest, Ken Stein Scientist and noted photographer Dr. Kenneth J. Stein shares his beautiful photos of wildflowers of the eastern United States as well as his expertise on location, identification, habitat, and historical medicinal uses.
January 29
Natural Gems of Israel, Ami Horowitz Asia, Africa and Europe meet in Israel, enriching it with a diversity of plants and animals. Join Ami, who grew up in Israel, on a trip to discover many natural environments from the Negev Desert to the lush Galilee.
February 5
Journey through the Seasons… Close Up, Bruce Mack Beginning with the appearance of the first wildflower and concluding with winter’s snow and ice, this program takes the viewer on a journey through the seasons, examining the smaller, often overlooked aspects of the natural world.
February 12
Colorado, Gary Meszaros Professional nature photographer Gary Meszaros will take us on a trip across colorful Colorado. We’ll climb peaks on the front ranges, tour many of the state’s national monuments and visit famous Pawnee National Grasslands.
February 19
China and Tibet, Min-Sui Keung From the Great Wall of China to the city of Lhasa in Tibet, join Naturalist Min Keung as she shares pictures of her recent adventure. Just in time to celebrate the Chinese New year, learn about fascinating Chinese culture and customs.
February 26
The Big, Bad, Savage, Scary …..Amazing Wolf, Tom Stanley Maligned by some, revered by others, misunderstood by most. Hear the fascinating story of the gray wolf throughout history right up through the reintroduction efforts in Yellowstone National Park, the southwest US and the natural recovery in the upper Midwest.
North Chagrin Nature Center is located off Buttermilk Falls Parkway, off the Sunset Lane entrance of North Chagrin Reservation, off SOM Center Road/Route 91 in Mayfield Village - south of I-90/Rte. 91 exit. Emerald Necklace, January 2011 13
See a Different Side of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo by Visiting During the Winter Months The park seems a little more peaceful with a winter’s calm settled over it - that is until one of the Zoo’s Amur tigers lets out a roar to let you know she’s up and around!
Zoo News
Visiting Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in the winter allows people the opportunity to travel from the Arctic tundra to the tropical jungles of Brazil and Malaysia without setting foot on a plane or cruise ship. Our complimentary heated transportation will take visitors from one end of the park to the other. Many winter visits to the Zoo start in The RainForest - where the temperature is always a most pleasant 78-80 degrees. The equatorial rainforest biome exhibit features a 25-foot waterfall, a simulated rain storm every 12 minutes, a video theater, open-air aviary and an amazing collection of plants and animals from Asia, Africa and South America. The RainForest is home to several of the Zoo’s most popular animals including a family of endangered Bornean orangutans, Asian small-clawed otters and Egyptian fruit bats. New additions to The RainForest include white-fronted marmoset monkeys and a completely remodeled leafcutter ant exhibit. At the other end of the environmental spectrum are the animals of Northern Trek. When cooler temperatures arrive and the mercury starts to dip, the tigers, reindeer, sea lions, Bactrian camels, Mexican gray wolves
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and all five species of bears are at their most active. Polar bear Aurora is especially comfortable in the colder months. A complimentary, heated Tram ride to the top of the hill on Wildlife Way brings visitors to the Primate, Cat and Aquatic building, home to one of the most diverse collections of primates in the country featuring gorillas, monkeys and several different species of prosimians including lemurs and lorises. The Primate, Cat and Aquatic building is where you also can find cheetahs, snow leopards, red pandas, sharks, an octopus and a new coral reef exhibit. In between, be sure to stop and visit with 1-yearold Kookoora, the koala youngster who lives with his mother and the other koalas in GumLeaf Hideout and check out the Center for Zoological Medicine for a behind the scenes look at the amazing care the Zoo’s animals receive. Visiting Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in the winter is even easier, especially for families, because admission prices are discounted through March 31 to just $7 per person and $5 for children ages 2 to 11. Admission for Zoo members and kids younger than 2 is always free. You can find Northeast Ohio’s most-visited yearround attraction online at clemetzoo.com and find the latest updates at facebook.com/Cleveland MetroparksZoo. Joe Yachanin Marketing & Public Relations Specialist
Noon Year’s Eve
Friday, December 31 • 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Why should kids miss out on all the fun of welcoming the New Year? Bring the entire family to celebrate Noon Year’s Eve at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The party starts a little earlier than most - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, December 31 - and features kid-friendly versions of year-end merrymaking. Now in its fifth year, Noon Year’s Eve will let kids ring in 2011 with a dance party hosted by Radio Disney, a countdown to noon complete with a ball drop and non-alcoholic toast on the Welcome Plaza, and the chance to make their own eco-friendly noisemakers.
ZooPERSTARS! Cleveland Metroparks Zoo would like to thank its many corporate and non-profit community partners for their generous support of the Zoo throughout 2010: Art House, Inc. b.a. Sweetie Candy Company Bob Evans Camp Bow Wow Clear Choice Custom Lasik Center
Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital Cleveland Clinic Healthwise Connection Cleveland Public Power Visitors also can check out ice carving demonstrations, make their New Year’s ReZOOlutions and see a special holiday performance of Professor Discount Drug Mart Wylde’s Animal Show. Dollar Bank Fifth Third Bank Everyone saves $1 off admission for Noon Year’s Eve. Children younger than 2 and Zoo members are always free. Firefly’s Mini Golf Giant Eagle presents Noon Year’s Eve Good Nature Organic Lawn Care with support from UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital Jolly Pets and Kohl’s. Kalahari Resorts, Sandusky Kmart January 2 through 31 Lowe’s What is a Polar Bear Day? Marc’s Throughout the month Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District of January, whenever the day’s predicted high The Ohio Lottery temperature is 32 degrees Ohio State Parks & Resorts or below, a Polar Bear Day is declared and admission Omnia, A Telos Company to Cleveland Metroparks PEDIGREE Zoo is cut in half. ConPet Supplies Plus sidering Zoo admission is already reduced for the Renewal By Anderson winter, a Polar Bear Day means adults can get into the Zoo for only $3.50. Revol Wireless Children ages 2-11 are just $2.50, and as always Zoo members and children younger than 2 are free. Stern Advertising Tavens Container How will you know if it’s going to be a Polar Bear Day? UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital Check out clemetzoo.com, call 216-661-6500 or listen to V107.3 FM
Polar Bear Days at the Zoo
between 6-10 a.m. for the announcement.
Polar Bear Days are supported by V107.3 Emerald Necklace, January 2011 15
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Animals A La Mode
For families with children of ALL ages Sunday, January 23 • 2 p.m. Fee: $5/person (children 1 and under free) It’s show time! Live creatures will captivate the whole family as they (and maybe YOU) take center stage in our ever-changing, upbeat and interactive show. Top off the afternoon with some delicious ice cream! Pre-registration required. Log Cabin Discoveries Arctic Animals For children ages 4 - 6 Monday, January 24 • 10 - 11 a.m. OR 1 - 2 p.m. Fee: $15/child; members $10/child Become a nature detective as you explore the hiking trails and gardens, encounter an animal, sing and dance to music or listen to a story. Arctic animal-themed activities await your discovery during this one-hour session that is a slice of our Explorers Club! Pre-registration required.
Holiday Programs For children ages 1 - 5 with an adult Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 17 AND Groundhog Day, Tuesday, February 1 10 - 11:30 a.m. Fee: $5/child each program Take a “Play-cation!” Learn a little about the holiday, meet an animal, make a craft, read a story and PLAY! This freeflow program will allow you and your little one to move at your own pace, make new friends and focus on what you enjoy best. Each program will have different activities. Pre-registration required.
Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs* Twinkle Tots
Backyard Astronomy
Stellar Stars
Monthly Skyquest:
Thursdays & Saturdays • 11 a.m. Fee: $1/person (including infants) This is a program for the toddler in your family. Watch lights dance across the sky, see some magic and learn what’s new in space. This program is fun for just about everyone in the family! Wednesdays • 11 a.m. & Saturdays • noon Fee: $2/child Grab your passports, blast off to a new planet and find a different picture in the stars each week. Watch lasers moving to music, take home a planet picture to color and add a sticker to your passport. Great for children 2 years and up!
Saturdays • 1 p.m. Fee: $2/person Explore the night sky as it appears from your very own backyard! View winter constellations and other celestial objects visible in the Northeast Ohio sky. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Saturdays, January 8, 15, 22 & 29 • 2 p.m. Fee: $2/person Saturday, January 15 ó 7 p.m. Fee: $3/person Check our website (www.lensc.org) for program details. This longer, in depth program is recommended for ages 7 and up.
*Door closes promptly at posted start time for all star shows. 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
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Institute of the Great Outdoors The IGO Mission: To provide nature based outdoor recreational experiences and classes that enable participants of all abilities to connect with nature.
Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities All IGO programs have been evaluated regarding accessibility and activity level. With our professionally trained staff and ability to make equipment adaptations, most programs are accessible to anyone who would like to participate. For further information regarding program accessibility, or to schedule an accessible custom program, please contact IGO at 216-341-1704.
Program Registration:
Programs are filled on a first come, first served basis, so register early to get a spot. By Phone: Call 216-341-1704 Monday – Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Have your MasterCard, Visa or DiscoverCard number ready. In-person: Stop by the Garfield Park Nature Center located in Garfield Heights; Monday - Friday between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. By mail / fax: Complete a registration form and send it to the IGO office. Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 216-341-1704 / 216-341-8528 fax igo@clevelandmetroparks.com On line: Registration forms are available for printing by visiting www.clevelandmetroparks.com Looking for a gift for the outdoors person who has it all? Institute of the Great Outdoors gift certificates are available at all EarthWords locations.
Registration & Refund Policy:
• A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at time of registration for all Escape to Nature programs. Balance is due no less than two months before the pre-trip meeting. • For all other programs, fees must be paid in full upon registration. Your payment confirms that you are registered for the program. Registration should be made no less than two weeks before a course begins, so please register early. Program fees recover the direct program costs. • Program fees and deposits are not refundable unless Cleveland Metroparks finds it necessary to cancel a program.
Emerald Necklace, January 2011 17
Institute of the Great Outdoors Escapes to Nature
Hike (Snowshoe) the Hocking Hills
Join us on a two-day winter exploration of one of Ohio’s treasured natural areas. We’ll stay in comfortable cabins in Hocking Hills State Park and hike or snowshoe at an easy pace to interpret this natural winter wonderland. Last day to register is January 6. Terrain: steep trails and steps Ages: adult Pre-trip meeting: January 12 • 7 - 9 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Trip dates: January 28 - 30 Program fee: $195 (includes lodging, dinner Saturday night and on-site transportation)
Birding the Rio Grande Valley of Texas
Cleveland Metroparks Chief of Outdoor Education, Bob Hinkle and ardent birder/award-winning photographer Kim Hinkle lead you on a birding trip from Falcon Dam to South Padre Island, Texas. This area is famous for spotting some of the best of rare and unusual species of birds. Fly to McAllen, Texas where you’ll be picked up to begin your excursion. The week will include visits to Santa Anna National Wildlife Refuge, host to waders, claycolored robins and other semi-tropical surprises. Each day you’ll venture to a different Rio Grande Valley hot spot and end your stay at South Padre Island in search of rails and other wading birds, long-tailed flycatchers and migrating warblers. Previous birding experience is recommended as the trip will be focused on finding as many species in as many habitats as possible. Daily hikes may be as long as 2 miles with mid-day temperatures of 85 degrees. Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Pre-trip dates/times: March 8 • 7 - 9 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Trip dates/times: April 3-7 Fee: $895 Includes four nights lodging, on site transportation, specialty checklists, professional guides and trip premium. Participants must provide meals and transportation to and from Texas.
Call for information on upcoming 2011 trips including: • Birding California (fall) • Magee Marsh Day Trips (spring) • Canoe & Camping – Au Sable River (summer)
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Institute of the Great Outdoors CANOEING & KAYAKING
Kayaking I: Introduction to Kayaking
Feeling “cooped up” due to the weather? Learn to kayak in the comfort of a pool. We combine classroom and onthe-water practice to introduce you to equipment, practice basic paddling strokes and more. Participants should be prepared to get wet during the pool session. Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & over (with participating adult) Baldwin Wallace College - February 4 • 6 - 9 p.m. Lakewood High School - February 6 • 9 a.m.- noon Fee: $30 (includes boats & equipment)
Kayak Rescues
It’s a great time of year to hone or re-learn your kayak rescue and re-entry skills. Join trained kayak instructors for an in-depth pool session of kayak safety. Activity level: moderate Ages: 16 years & over (with participating adult) Lakewood High School - January 23 or February 27 • 9 a.m.- noon Baldwin Wallace College - February 25 • 6 - 9 p.m. Fee: $30 (includes boats & equipment)
Kayaking I for Teens
Need a break from your typical routine? Have fun learning basic kayaking skills this winter. The class will include both classroom and on-the-water instruction. See Kayaking I class description for details. Activity level: easy Ages: 13 - 16 years Lakewood High School January 9 OR February 20 • 9 a.m.- noon Baldwin Wallace College February 11 • 6 - 9 p.m. Fee: $25 (includes boats & equipment)
American Canoe Association Level I: Introduction to Canoe & Kayak Instructor Certification Workshop
This workshop follows standards established by the ACA and is designed for individuals and programmers interested in offering certified canoe and kayak instruction. The first day is designed as an Introduction to Canoeing or Kayaking class and will focus on practicing paddling strokes, braces and rescues. On day two, participants will start off in the classroom reviewing instructor teaching topics and will then split into kayak and canoe instructor groups to spend the afternoon outside. On day three, experienced trainers will evaluate each candidate’s paddling skills, knowledge and teaching abilities. Candidates will teach a minimum of two subjects both in the classroom as well as on the water and will receive a critique of their on- and off-water teaching and paddling skills. Upon successful completion of the workshop, participants can receive instructor certification through the American Canoe Association. Please specify either the canoe or kayak instructor workshop when registering. Pre-requisite: previous paddling experience is required. Completion of ACA Intro. to Canoe/Kayak course preferred. For certification, all participants must be members of the ACA & SEIC prior to the program. To become a member, visit www.americancanoe.org. Activity level: moderate Ages: adults June 10 - 12 • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Or July 20 - 22 • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Hinckley Reservation Fee: $225 per person (includes instructor manuals, training tools, paddling equipment and lunch first 2 days) Emerald Necklace, January 2011 19
Institute of the Great Outdoors GENERAL RECREATION & SKILLS CLASSES
American Red Cross First Aid Class
This class will teach you skills to become better equipped to respond to first aid emergencies. Lessons include: proper wound care, splinting broken bones and more. Upon completion of this course participants will be qualified to receive an American Red Cross First Aid certification good for three years. Activity Level: easy (must meet ARC requirements) Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: January 9 • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Look About Lodge Fee: $35 (includes certification card and workbook; participants should to bring a lunch)
Backcountry Cooking
Discover new cooking tricks and recipes for your next camping trip. Learn easy meal preparation and stove selection and more. Everyone will be teamed up with their own stove to try their hand at something new. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Date/Time:February 9 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Brecksville Nature Center Fee: $15 (includes cookbook)
Backpacking Basics
Ice Fishing Basics
Introduce yourself to ice fishing with Outdoor Recreation Manager Dana Smith and ODNR Guest Naturalist Carol Ward in this classroom session that gives you the tools to escape to the ice safely this winter. Familiarize yourself with ice fishing equipment while learning ice safety techniques. During the session, we’ll try some “hands one” experiments that may peak your interest in learning more about ice fishing. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Date/Time: February 12 • 9 a.m. - noon Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $15 (includes program giveaway)
Backpacking is a great way to reconnect with nature. Learn the basics to having a safe, and enjoyable backcountry experience. Our knowledgeable staff will cover important topics such as tents, backpacks, water filters, sleeping bags, ground pads, food and clothing. Ages: 16 years & older (with participating adult) Date/Time: January 20 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. North Chagrin Nature Center February 28 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center Fee: $12.50
Ohio Boaters Education Class
Knot Tying for Families
Introduction to Accessible Outdoor Recreation
Knots can make your day! A good knot should tie easily, look pretty, be useful and untie almost as quickly as you tied it. Bring the family together to learn basic knots, their uses and more. Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: January 4 • 7 - 9 p.m. North Chagrin Nature Center Fee: $8
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Before boating season starts, learn tools to becoming a safe boater. This 3-part class teaches topics including fundamentals of safe boating, state boating laws and more. The last session includes a test for certification of completion and the course meets the mandatory education requirement for those persons born on or after January 1, 1982 who plan to operate a watercraft of ten horsepower or greater. Ages: 16 years & older (with participating adult) Date/Time: February 16, 22 and March 2 • 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $15
Want to participate in outdoor recreation activities, but think that some disability won’t let you? Join IGO’s Outdoor Recreation Inclusion Specialist Philip Brekke to explore opportunities available in outdoor recreation that will enable your participation in outdoor recreational and educational programs. Activity level: easy Ages: 10 years & older (with adult participation) Dates/Times: January 20 • 7 - 9 p.m. • Look About Lodge February 23 • 7 - 9 p.m. • Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: Free (pre-registration required)
Institute of the Great Outdoors Wilderness First Aid
Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors invites you to join us for a two day workshop to learn wilderness first aid skills from experts in the field. Designed specifically for groups and their leaders, the workshop stresses preparedness for first aid emergencies when help is an hour or more away. Classroom lectures and discussions will be combined with hands on experiences in the field. The curriculum includes assessment and treatment of specific injuries, long term patient care and more. Mock rescues will be practiced in the field allowing participants to practice skills learned in class. Scout leaders are encouraged to attend as this course meets the Boy Scouts of America requirements for backcountry training. Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Date/Time: May 14 - 15 • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Buckeye Shelter • North Chagrin Reservation Fee: $195 (includes lunch, instruction text and first aid supplies)
BACKPACKING & CAMPING
SNOWSHOEING
In this course we will explore the quiet beauty of the winter environment. Due to unpredictable weather, this excursion requires good equipment, proper clothing, and careful trip preparation. This course includes two indoor sessions where clothing, equipment, cold weather injury prevention, and winter backpacking skills will be covered in detail. Participants must be in good physical condition and have previous camping experience. Activity Level: moderately strenuous to strenous Ages: adults Pre-trip: February 8 & 15 • 6 - 8 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Trip dates: February 19 - 20 Hinckley Reservation Fee: $45 (includes some camping equipment and snowshoes)
January 2 through February 27, look for IGO on weekends from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the following locations when snow is 4” or deeper. Try a pair of snowshoes and hike along a course set up for the day. No special boots are required for snowshoeing, but waterproof footwear is suggested. Catch us on Facebook to see dates when a guest naturalist will join you for a hike. Pre-registration is suggested, but drop-ins are welcome. Fee: $5/pair (ages 8 years & up, with participating adult) January, South Chagrin Reservation - Sledding hill at corner of Sulphur Springs Drive and Chagrin River Road February, North Chagrin Reservation - Squires Castle
Winter Skills Basecamp
Snowshoe With IGO
Snowshoe Night Hikes
Strap on snowshoes and use your night vision to explore the beauty and wonder of nature at night. Snowshoes, headlamps, and hot cocoa are provided. Please dress for the weather. No special boots are required for snowshoeing, but waterproof footwear is suggested. Activity level: easy to moderate Ages:16 years & older (with participating adult) Date/Time: January 19 • 7 - 9 p.m. North Chagrin - River Grove Picnic Area February 17 • 7 - 9 p.m. North Chagrin – River Grove Picnic Area Fee: $10
Map & Compass - Snowshoe Style
Join us for basic indoor map and compass instruction then head outside to learn basic snowshoe techniques. Use your newly learned map, compass and snowshoes skills to explore the area and search for a hidden surprise. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking boots. Class will be held with or without snow and hiking will be substituted for snowshoeing if needed. Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: January 29 • 1 – 4 p.m. North Chagrin Nature Center February 5 • 2 - 5 p.m. North Chagrin Nature Center Fee: $10
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January Events by Location Off-site Programs
13 • Urban Explorations: Old Stone Church 20 • Urban Explorations: Trinity Cathedral
(BCR) Big Creek Reservation
(HiR) Hinckley Reservation 22 • Cabin Fever Hike
(HuR) Huntington Reservation
22 • Woodlands of Bedford: Dusk to Darkness 25 • Hidden Story Hike
(LENSC) Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 28728 Wolf Rd., Huntington Reservation, Bay Village 440-871-2900 8 • African Pygmy Hedgehog 29 • Wildlife in Winter
(BrR) Brecksville Reservation
(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation
4 • Hiking for the Young at Heart
(BeR) Bedford Reservation
14 • Mutts by Moonlight
(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 2 • 8 • 9 • 15 • 16 • 22 • 23 • 29 • 30 • Hand Feed a Chickadee 2 • 9 • 15 • 16 • 23 • 30 • Drop In Discovery 17 • A Day of Fun - Naturally 19 • Animal Crackers 20 • 21 • 22 • For Adults Only: Meteorology 27 • Owl Prowl 30 • Drop-In Discovery - Binoculars?
(BR) Brookside Reservation 26 • Winter Walk
(CWC) CanalWay Center
Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Off E. 49th St., Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Hts., 440-473-3370 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-449-0511 2 - 31 • Hunt of the Month 2 • CanalWay Photography Display 2 – 8 • Treasure Hunt Adventure 2 (Geocaching) 7 • For Women Only 8 • Hike & Soup 13 • Hidden Valley Homeschoolers - Canal Life 15 • Coffee at the Feeders 15 • Acoustic Players Circle 20 • Preshoolers: Winter Water 21 • CanalWay Coffeehouse 22 • Living History 26 • History & a Brown Bag Lunch: 29 • Appalachian Dulcimer Workshop Cleveland Astronomical Society 6 • Monthly Meeting
(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 29 • Winter’s Quiet
9 • Cabin Fever Hike 27 • Around the Emerald Necklace Hike
(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation
8 • Families Explore: Owls 14 • Family Friday Night: Owl Prowl 16 • Dog Hike 19 • Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Nature Memory Box 23 • Birds and Coffee 30 • The Frozen Swamp
(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center
Open Daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mayfield Village, 440-473-3370 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-449-0511 2 • Great New Year Hiking 7 • Family Friday Night- Winter Sleepover 8 • Birth to Border – Tales of the Rio Grande 9 • Sunday Bird Walk 15 • 5-Mile Hike 15 • Natural Arabian Remedies for Health and Beauty 17 • Drop-in Winter Fun 18 • Stroller Science 19 • Trail Trackers: Winter Animals 19 • Wolf Moon Tonight 21 • Friday Movie Night: Ice Worlds 22 • Hike to the Overlook 22 • Our Jewels of the Forest 23 • Dark Side of Nature Book Club 26 • Science Olympiad Study Session 28 • Professor Wylde Comes to North Chagrin Nature Center 29 • Natural Gems of Israel Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 3 • 17 • Bi-monthly Meeting
(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 3 • Holiday Hike Series
(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center
9 • Wonderful Winter Hike 16 • Bird Sketching - Pencil Techniques 22 • Winter Birds 23 • Bird Sketching - Watercolor Techniques
(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 440-734-6660 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m 440-734-7576 2 • Cabin Fever Hike 3 • 4 • Little Explorers 4 – 2/15 • Gallery Wall 5 • 28 • Close Encounters with a Chickadee 6 • Bird Apps 7 • 14 • 21 • 28 • Friday Nights with Nature 8 • Coffee with the Birds 9 • 23 • Bird Banding 12 • Hike and Fireside Chat 13 • Around the Emerald Necklace 13 • Homeschool Happenings: Lake Erie Lab 15 • Monthly Morning with the Birds 15 • Extreme Fossil Road Show 16 • Gems & Jewels of the World 19 • Hike and Fireside Chat 19 • Full Moon Frolic 20 • Hiking for Your Health 22 • Cinema Saturday Night: Eagle - Master of the Skies 23 • Winter Book Review 29 • Saturday “Souper Supper” 30 • School of the Wilds - Eagles in Ohio Southwest Camera Club 3 • 17 • Bi-monthly Meeting Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society 4 • Monthly Meeting Cuyahoga Astronomical Association 10 • Monthly Meeting Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association 12 • Monthly Meeting Rocky River Watershed Council 26 • Annual Meeting
(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation Look About Lodge
Open for scheduled programs. Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91, Bentleyville 440-247-7075 2 • The Lodge Is Open! 8 • Natural Expressions: Winter Landscape 8 • Young at Art: Snowy Scene 8 • Second Saturday Storytelling 14 • Preschool Green Time 14 • 21 • 28 • Fireside Concert Series 16 • One Trail, Twelve Times in Pictures 22 • Join the Parade 22 • Hike for your Supper 23 • Nature 101: Tracking 29 • Preschool Teacher Workshop Cleveland Natural Science Club 15 • Monthly Meeting
(WCR) West Creek Reservation 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.
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4 • Winter Warriors of West Creek 18 • Cabin Fever Hike-off 27 • Birds or Bust: Erie Gulls & Waterfowl
January Events Calendar 2 • Sunday CanalWay Photography Display During the months of January we will be featuring nature photos by Canton area photographer Elizabeth Bushey. Her creative eye for detail and love for all things wild is captured in these beautiful images. Come see her eclectic collection of Northern Ohio nature images. Exhibit will be open to view through January 31. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC Treasure Hunt Adventure 2 (Geocaching) Doug Kusak hides more stuff. You go find it. This is for geocachers who know what they’re doing. Visit CanalWay Center to pick up coordinates. Through January 8. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000 Hunt of the Month Each month we will have a new hunt for you to complete. Stop by CanalWay Center through January 31 to search for 20 hidden mittens. See how many you can find. 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 & Guide.
Hand Feed a Chickadee Generations of visitors have experienced the thrill of feeding a free-flying bird that lands in your hand. Now it’s your turn! We’ll provide a handful of sunflower seeds and instructions. 10 a.m. - noon BNC Drop In Discovery Kids Craft Kids can use their imagination to design their own bird using various craft supplies. 10 a.m. - noon BNC The Lodge is Open! Wander into Look About Lodge for a quick look around or to sit awhile. Enjoy the ambiance of this beautiful historic building and surrounding landscape. Noon - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge
Great New Year Hiking While the land lies sleeping there are still birds and other animals to be seen. Start your year with a new checklist and log in some of these fascinating animals found in Cleveland Metroparks. 1:30 - 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: slight hill, moderate, 2.5 miles Cabin Fever Hike Let’s get some fresh air after our New Year’s celebrations! Meet at Rocky River Nature Center for a vigorous hike on our trails. Be prepared for cold weather and winds. 1:30 - 3 p.m. RRNC Terrain: many steps, 2 miles Ages: adults, older children
3 • Monday Little Explorers What’s your favorite wild animal? Please bring a story and/or stuffed animal about your favorite animal to share with the group. 10 - 11:15 a.m. or 1 - 2:15 p.m. RRNC Ages: 3 - 6 years with adult Terrain: flat, .4 mile Registration required 440-734-6660 Holiday Hike Series Join us for the final holiday hike of the season. We will start in Bacci Park Parking Lot and head south over our pedestrian bridges to Rockside Road and then back to Bacci Park. It will be a four-mile hike so come prepared for the weather. 1 p.m. OECR Bacci Park parking lot Terrain: two hills, all purpose trail, 4 miles 216-206-1000 Southwest Camera Club Visit “Peru, Land of the Incas” with photographer Eleanore Jakubowski in tonight’s photoessay presentation. Jakubowski’s photographs have been on display at Rocky River Nature Center and enhance many RRNC archival presentations. 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. RRNC
Emerald Necklace, January 2011 23
Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society “Tales of an Urban Wildlife Officer” - Wildlife and people sometimes get along and sometimes do not. Bears in your backyard? Deer dive through a window? Geese (and their leavings) on your grass? 4 • Tuesday Hear how Cuyahoga County Wildlife Officer Gallery Wall Enjoy the mixed media art Hollie Fluharty deals with work of Lynne Dufenetz wildlife AND people. on the Gallery Wall of the 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. RRNC Rocky River Reservation. Little Explorers Through February 4. (see 1/3 for details) 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. RRNC Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East The Best of 2010 - Was it a good year photographically? Bring in your 10 best of ’10 and tell us why they were. Guests welcome. 8 - 10 p.m. NCNC
Hiking for the Young at Heart Resolve to take winter walks! It’s easy on the mostly level Lake to Lake Trail. Join Naturalist Debra Shankland on a search for winter wildlife. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. BCR Eastland Road Trailhead Terrain: paved, boardwalk, 5 miles 440-526-1012 Winter Warriors of West Creek Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a quiet winter hike through the crisp fields and forests of West Creek. We’ll be on the lookout for resident birds, like titmice, juncos, and bluebirds that are toughing out the season here in Parma’s “big backyard”. Binoculars recommended. 10 - 11 a.m. WCR Ages: adults, families Terrain: moderate, mostly flat, 2 miles 216-341-9225
5 • Wednesday Close Encounters with a Chickadee Join Naturalist Min Keung in search of the black capped chickadee. If we are lucky, maybe one will land in our hands! Dress for the weather. 2 - 3:15 p.m. RRNC
6 • Thursday Bird Apps Birding resources have entered a new world through modern technology. Perfect for the bird app beginner and/ or the birding beginner, learn about the world of apps for the iPhone/iPod Touch, and the world of birds with Naturalist Min Keung. App portion is indoors. Optional short walk follows. 2 - 3:30 p.m. RRNC
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Cleveland Astronomical Society Guest Kelly Jons, library media specialist at Shaker Heights High School, will speak on Questar: The Timeless Telescope. 8 p.m. CWC
7 • Friday For Women Only Come join with other women for exercise and camaraderie as we walk off some of those holiday treats! This month will take us to the heart of Ohio in Erie Canal Reservation. Bring a friend. 10 a.m. - noon CWC Ages: adult women Terrain: easy, slippery, 2 miles 440-526-1012 Family Friday NightWinter Sleepover Experience an unforgettable overnight! We will spend time both indoors and outdoors exploring and enjoying nature. The sleepover will consist of a campfire, hike, breakfast and more. Join us after dinner Friday evening and stay until Saturday morning. 6:30 p.m. - 8 a.m. NCNC Ages: grades 3 - 6 with adult Terrain: moderate, 2 miles Fee: $5 per person (due by January 5) Registration required 440-473-3370 Friday Nights with Nature Natural Gems of Israel Asia, Africa and Europe meet in Israel, enriching it with a diversity of plants and animals. Join Ami Horowitz, who grew up in
Israel, on a trip to discover many natural environments - from Negev Desert to lush Galilee. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Seating is limited. 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC
8 • Saturday Coffee with the Birds Observe the birds visiting the nature center feeders as you sip warm coffee. Discover which kinds of seed attract the most birds. You may go home with some new ideas of how to attract birds to your yard. We’ll provide coffee, binoculars and birds. 9 - 10 a.m. RRNC Registration required 440-734-6660 Natural Expressions: Winter Landscape Express your interest in nature artistically. No experience is necessary to see the beauty in nature and try your hand at a winter landscape in chalk pastels and charcoal. Supplies provided. 9:30 a.m. - noon Look About Lodge Ages: 14 years - adults Registration required 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Families Explore: Owls Can owls turn their heads all the way around? Why are their eyes so big? Why don’t we hear them when they fly? Learn the answers to these questions and others and meet some resident friends. 11 a.m. – noon NCR Nature Education Building Ages: families
Hike & Soup Join us at CanalWay Center for a hike along the Towpath. We will hike southbound to Lock 40 and back to the Center. When we return, homemade soup will be waiting for us to warm us up. Each person will receive a Cleveland Metroparks mug to take home. 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. CWC Fee: $6 Terrain: one hill, all purpose trail, 3 miles Register beginning January 3 216-206-1000 Young at Art: Snowy Scene Kids who love art and nature are invited to come and express their creativity. We’ll explore nature in the winter and create an art project. Come prepared for the outdoors and potential messiness. Supplies provided. 1:30 - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 10 - 13 years Registration required 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com African Pygmy Hedgehog Come to a truly “spinetingling” program! We’ll take a close look at our African pygmy hedgehog and learn to love some of its peculiarities. We may even hear sneezes, snorts, or snuffles. Free. 3 p.m. LENSC 440-871-2900
Birth to Border Tales of the Rio Grande Join Karen Beck for an entertaining and historic look at the Rio Grande from its source in the Rockies to its mouth at the Gulf. Barely a boundary and hardly navigable, it nevertheless traverses spectacular physical and historic landscapes. Come celebrate a much misunderstood river. 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC
Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center Better than binoculars, you will see intricate details of birds as we capture and band the 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 the hours below. 9:30 - noon RRNC Cabin Fever Hike Explore the South Quarry area in Mill Stream Run with Naturalist Gretchen Motts and check out what is going on by the river and fields in this area. 1:30 - 3 p.m. MSRR South Quarry Picnic Area Terrain: mostly flat, 1.6 miles 440-734-6660
Second Saturday Storytelling Join the Hassanali family as they present Conference of the Birds, an ancient Persian tale that brings a taste of an ancient culture to the modern day and shows how stories from the past continue to teach essential lessons in the modern world. 7:30 – 9 p.m. SCR Wonderful Winter Hike Look About Lodge Join us for a hearty hike through the beautiful winHand Feed a Chickadee ter woods of Garfield Park. (see 1/2 for details) We will look for signs of our local wildlife and take the opportunity to wit9 • Sunday ness the wonderful winter woodland. Warm up by Sunday Bird Walk Join us as we search for the fire after the hike with species from farther north a cup of hot cocoa! as well as more of the com- 2 - 3 p.m. GPNC mon winter birds. Some Terrain: some paved, hills, binoculars will be avail- 2 miles able to borrow. Drop In Discovery 9 - 11 a.m. NCNC Birdfeeders Ages: adults & families Take a break from hand Terrain: easy, 2 miles feeding a chickadee and make your own pinecone bird feeder. 10 a.m. - noon BNC
10 • Monday Cuyahoga Astronomical Association “Star Stuff ” -Learn the latest scientific theory on how stars, other astronomical bodies (planets, moons, asteroids), and even the elements were created from the time of the Big Bang. A group discussion will follow this DVD presentation. 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. RRNC
12 • Wednesday Hike and Fireside Chat Enjoy a fast-paced hike for winter exercise with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt, then warm up by the fireside with a cup of tea and conversation. The trail taken will depend on weather conditions. 1 - 2:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: varied, 1.5 miles Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association Don Downs presents Apitherapy - the practice of using bee venom, pollen, propolis, or honey in homeopathic methods for a variety of problems. 7 - 8:30 p.m. RRNC
Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 1/2 for details) Emerald Necklace, January 2011 25
13 • Thursday
Homeschool Happenings: Lake Erie Lab Did you know that we live on the edge of the greatest reservoir of freshwater on the planet? Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski for a fun afternoon of activities and learn all about our great Lake Erie. 1:30 - 3 p.m. RRNC Ages: 6 - 12 years Registration required 440-734-6660
Urban Explorations: Old Stone Church Join Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak to explore Old Stone Church. Church docents lead a tour of this venerable Public Square landmark. You recognize it from the street, now take a peek at what’s inside. 10 a.m. Ages: adults Register beginning 14 • Friday January 3 216-206-1000 Preschool Green Time Preschoolers who love Around the nature will love coming Emerald Necklace Our naturalists love to to this 2-part nature proshare their favorite trails gram (second part on Jan. with you. This series will 28). This month we’ll talk rotate around the Emer- about birds that stay in ald Necklace as we intro- Ohio for the winter and duce you to spots that may those that migrate. Arrive become your favorites as up to 30 minutes early to well. Join Naturalist Dave play and socialize. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. or Dvorak for one. 1 - 2 p.m. SCR 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. RRNC Look About Lodge Terrain: some hills, Age: 3 – pre-K with adult 3 miles Register at LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Hidden Valley Homeschoolers Fireside Concert Series: Canal Life Brian Henke Who dug this “big ditch” and why? What was life Join us for the soothing like on a canal boat? Find guitar strumming of Briout from Cultural History an Henke amid the cozy Interpreter Karen Lakus in warmth of Look About this hands-on program all Lodge. about the Ohio and Erie 7 - 8 p.m. SCR Canal. Be prepared for a Look About Lodge Fee: $5 brief walk outside. Registration required 1 - 2:30 p.m. CWC 440-247-7075 Ages: 6 - 12 years Register beginning January 3
26 Emerald Necklace, January 2011
Mutts by Moonlight There’s nothing like a walk in winters moonlight. Bring your well-mannered mutt or pedigreed purebred dog along to share the sparkle of snow in the moonlight on this naturalist guided hike. Walkers without dogs also welcome. 7 - 8:30 p.m. BrR Plateau Picnic Area Ages: adults, families Terrain: hilly, slippery Registration begins January 2 440-526-1012 Family Friday Night: Owl Prowl In the still silence of a winter’s night, an owl’s call can be heard. Join Naturalist Traci Williams as we prowl for screech, barred, and great horned owls. After the prowl, s’mores and hot chocolate awaits, along with a close encounter with a live owl. 7 - 9 p.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: adults, 10 years & over with adult Friday Nights with Nature Exploring New Zealand on Foot The best way to see a country is on foot. Mary Huey will share her three weeks of hiking adventures in beautiful New Zealand along with insights into the local culture and conservation in that fairy tale county. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Seating limited. 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC
15 • Saturday Monthly Morning with the Birds Enjoy a stroll through the winter forest and along wetlands to discover what birds are spending the winter in our area. Bring your binoculars to search for winter birds with Naturalist David Dvorak. 9 - 11 a.m. RRNC Terrain: level, 2.5 miles Coffee at the Feeders Winter is a great time to drink coffee and watch the birds. Which ones stay in our area the entire year and which ones are just visitors? We will sit inside by the windows and watch as the birds visit the feeders. Stop in for a few minutes or sit and stay a while. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. CWC Nature Writing: Styles of Overwintering Kinglets huddle together on branches, insects hide under bark, groundhogs go underground and frogs and turtles descend to different depths in moist mud. Join us to write about the amazing adaptations that creatures developed to overinter in Ohio’s frigid season. Writers Jenny Clark and Linda Tuthill will lead us through writing prompts. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 16 years - adult Fee: $25 Terrain: easy, .5 mile Register by January 12 440-247-7075
5-Mile Hike Don’t let old man winter stop you from coming to the park. Bundle up and join Naturalist Angelec Hillsman for a five mile hike. After our hike enjoy hot cocoa. 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults Terrain: hilly, 5 miles Extreme Fossil Road Show North Coast Fossil Club members will help you identify your fossil finds from your collection. Bring as much information as you can about where your fossils were found. Enjoy displays by club members of their 2010 collections from throughout North America. Learn more at www.ncfclub.org. 1 - 3 p.m. RRNC 440-777-4820
month for a year, recording seasonal change. This indoor program will illustrate nature’s seasons and Cleveland Natural surprises. Science Club Finding it difficult to sift 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. SCR through all the informa- Look About Lodge tion on how to take care of Bird Sketching the earth? Barb Holtz, Look Pencil Techniques About Lodge manager/naturalist, will share that ev- Join Naturalist Beth Whiteerything you ever wanted ley for an chance to learn to know about conserva- bird sketching techniques. tion can be learned from We will learn bird anatomy and look for winter birds Mother Nature. that visit our feeders for in7:30 p.m. SCR spiration. Bring sketchbook Look About Lodge and sketching pencils. Natural Arabian Remedies 2 - 3:30 GPNC for Health and Beauty Ages: adults, 10 years & up Herbs, spices, bark, twigs, with adult rocks and salt for culinary, Dog Hike cosmetic or medicinal purBring your best friend to poses are ubiquitous in the Middle East. Their use has the park for some exercise developed a rich heritage of and socialization. We will folk medicine. Muhammed hike the wooded trails of the Hassanali explores the uses North Chagrin Reservation. and folklore of these herbs. Dogs must be on leash. 2 - 3:30 p.m. NCR 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC Strawberry Picnic Area Hand Feed a Chickadee parking lot Terrain: moderate, pos(see 1/2 for details) sible ice, 1.6 miles Drop In Discovery - BirdHand Feed a Chickadee feeders (see 1/2 for details) (see 1/9 for details) artisans at work. 1 - 4:30 p.m. RRNC
Acoustic Players Circle Join this well-established players circle singing songs to a theme each month and swap songs, chords and styles of playing. If you don’t play an instrument, don’t worry, listeners are always welcome. Theme is 16 • Sunday Players Choice. 1 p.m. CWC Drop In Discovery Drop by the discovery table Gems & Jewels to learn about box turtles. of the World You’ll get to meet the NaOooh and ahhh over these ture Center’s turtle, Clyde. beautiful rocks! Parma Lapi- 10 a.m. - noon BNC dary Club members demonstrate silversmithing, cabbing One Trail, Twelve Times and other skills that turn the in Pictures earth’s rocks, minerals and Experience the life of Jackmetals from drab to delight- son Field over a 12 month ful. View mineral collections, span via photos and nalisten to unique presentations ture notes. In 2010, a group about mineralogy, and watch hiked the same trail once a
Drop-in Winter Fun Shake off those winter blues. Stop by the North Chagrin Nature Center and celebrate winter with crafts, games and activities. 1 - 3 p.m. NCNC Ages: families, all ages Southwest Camera Club Digital projection and slide competition. Bring slides or digital images on the topics: “circles or squares,” and “nature.” Learn more about photo quality and composition during the judging process. 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. RRNC Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Photographing Israel – Naturally: Join Ami Horowitz for an in-depth look at the natural side of Israel. 8 - 10 p.m. NCNC
18 • Tuesday
Cabin Fever Hike-off Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a pleasant winter hike through the wintry woods of West Creek. There’s no better way to fend off cabin fever than to hit the trails! 10 - 11:30 a.m. WCR 17 • Monday Ages: adults, families A Day of Fun - Naturally Terrain: moderate, 3 miles Have the day off from 216-341-9225 school? Then join us for a fun day of learning about nature in the iwnter through games, a hike and other activities. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. BNC Ages: 6 - 8 years Terrain: stairs, slippery, 1 mile Registration begins January 3 440-526-1012 Emerald Necklace, January 2011 27
Stroller Science Bring your precious little one out for a walk to discover where all of the animals have gone. We’ll have fur and feathers to touch plus more. Bring a stroller or wagon for the walk. 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: paved, .75 mile Register beginning January 3 440-473-3370
19 • Wednesday Animal Crackers Join our snowy exploration. We’ll learn about the properties of snow, make snowflakes, and explore the snowy world outside. Children will use clues from the mystery bag to guess the topic of the day. 10 - 11:15 a.m. or 1 - 2:15 p.m. BNC Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult, no siblings Register beginning January 3 440-526-1012 Trail Trackers: Winter Animals Winter is often thought of as a resting time, but many animals are still out finding food and shelter. Join us to discover more about our busy winter residents. 10 - 11 a.m. or 1 - 2 p.m. NCNC Ages: 3 years - K with adult Register beginning January 3 440-473-3370
Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Nature Memory Box Calling all homeschoolers! A new year is here and creativity is in the air. Come create a memory box to store all your precious keepsakes from nature. 12:45 - 2:15 p.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 6 - 12 years Fee: $10 Register beginning January 3 440-473-3370
20 • Thursday
Urban Explorations: Trinity Cathedral Join Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak in an exploration of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral and the ecofriendly Trinity Commons. Church docents guide us through the Cathedral and you can stay to shop in the commons. Details will be sent upon registration. 10 a.m. Ages: adults Register beginning Hike and Fireside Chat January 3 Enjoy a fast-paced hike for 216-206-1000 winter exercise with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt, then Preschoolers: warm up by the fireside Winter Water with a cup of tea and con- Bundle up and head to versation. The trail taken CanalWay Center where will depend on the weath- we will explore the world er. of water in the winter. We 1 - 2:30 p.m. RRNC will talk about when waTerrain: varied, 1.5 miles ter becomes snow or ice. We will explore outside so Full Moon Frolic dress for the weather. Few things are more beau- 10 a.m. CWC tiful than the light of a full Ages: 2 - 5 years with moon glittering on eve- adult ning snow. Join Naturalist Terrain: easy, all purpose Bethany Majeski for a se- trail rene hike through the crisp Register beginning winter woods of Rocky January 3 River Reservation, then 216-206-1000 warm up with hot cocoa before heading home. Hiking for Your Health 6:30 - 8 p.m. RRNC Enjoy a brisk walk through Terrain: mostly flat with forest and along wetlands some stairs, may be to the lagoon area with slippery, 1.5 miles Naturalist David Dvorak. We will look for signs of Wolf Moon Tonight winter wildlife along the Wolves no longer roam way. Ohio, but you’ll get to see 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. RRNC a wolf pelt as well as other Age: adults animal furs after this brisk Terrain: level, 3 miles hike. Hot cocoa will be available. 7 - 8:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: level, easy, 2 miles
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For Adults Only: Meteorology This three-part program will take the mystery out of meteorology and the fiction out of forecasting. Get the low down on lows and highs, clouds, and lake effect through handouts, multimedia, lecture and hands-on activity. The first two sessions will be followed by a field trip to WKYC TV3 - details given upon registration. 7 - 9 p.m. BNC Ages: 16 years - adult Register beginning January 3 440-526-1012
21 • Friday Fireside Concert Series: Lisa & Heather Malyuk Settle in at Look About Lodge to enjoy the dulcimer and guitar playing talent of Lisa & Heather Malyuk. 7 - 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Fee: $5 Registration required 440-247-7075 Friday Nights with Nature To the Roof of Africa Visit Africa’s highest freestanding, glacier-covered, equatorial mountain Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Nancy Hughes shares her experiences climbing through five different ecosystems, challenging her endurance along the way. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Seating limited. 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC
CanalWay Coffeehouse CanalWay Center starts the year with Kevin Richards, Jack DiAlesandro, and Ray DeForest from Roots of American Music. They will take us on a journey through time celebrating Ohio transportation. Get ready for some acoustic music with guitar, fiddle, mandolin, and banjo. 7:30 - 9 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000 Friday Movie Night: Ice Worlds The polar regions are the most demanding and challenging habitats for all life on Earth. Witness the struggles of a polar bear dealing with the consequences of a warmer planet along with an insider’s look into the lives of penguins, walruses, and other arctic wildlife in their daily struggle for survival. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, 10 years & over with adult For Adults Only: Meteorology (see 1/20 for details)
22 • Saturday Living History With her red hair and feisty, no-nonense attitude, Dorothy Fuldheim was a broadcasting legend. Actress Carol Starre-Kmiecik has portrayed Fuldheim for 15 years and thousands of performances. Take a peek into the life of the beloved WEWS commentator, the first woman broadcaster in America. 3 p.m. CWC
Winter Birds Where did all the birds go? How are they staying warm? How are they finding enough food? Join us at Garfield Park Nature Center as we learn about our backyard birds. Drop in anytime between the hours listed below. 1 - 4 p.m. GPNC Join the Parade Would you like to be in a parade? “Parade the Circle” is an annual event at University Circle that promotes the arts. Come and represent the nature in art. At this orientation, we will discuss our theme and costume creation. All curious are welcome to join us. 1:30 - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Hike to the Overlook Enjoy a hike to the Overlook. We will look for clues as to how the animals and plants are surviving through the winter. Hand feeding the chickadees will be one of the highlights. 2 - 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: icy, moderate, 1.5 miles Cabin Fever Hike Got cabin fever? Join Naturalist Jenny McClain for an invigorating trek around beautiful Hinckley Lake. You’ll be rewarded with hot chocolate at the end! 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Terrain: some hills, slippery, 3.4 miles 440-526-1012
Woodlands of Bedford: Dusk to Darkness Enjoy a pleasant evening stroll with volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi that transitions into the quiet serenity of nighttime. Bring a flashlight for emergencies, but use will be discouraged otherwise. Dress for weather conditions. 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. BeR Emerald Circle Field Hike for your Supper Come to the Lodge on this cold winter evening and enjoy learning a little more about animals that are active in winter. Choose between joining an energizing hike or a more relaxed hike. When register you will be assigned a food item to bring as your price of admission. When the hikers return to the Lodge, we’ll all enjoy a warm supper prepared by our volunteers. 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: rolling hills, .5 mile Register by January 17 440-247-7075 Our Jewels of the Forest Scientist/noted photographer Dr. Kenneth J. Stein shares his beautiful photos of wildflowers of the eastern United States as well as his expertise on location, identification, habitat, and historical medicinal uses. He will present many rare, threatened, and endangered native species. 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC
niques, from aerial battles for territory to tender moments spent rearing their young. This film is a preview of RRNC’s “Birds of Prey Weekend” in February. Doors open at 7 p.m. 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with older children, adults For Adults Only: Meteorology (see 1/20 for details) Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 1/2 for details)
23 • Sunday Birds and Coffee Join us as we enjoy the birds visiting the feeders as we sip hot coffee. We will discuss how to attract birds to your own backyard and behaviors of the birds that are being observed. This is great opportunity to have your bird questions answered. 9 - 10 a.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: adults & families Register beginning January 3 440-473-3370
Drop In Discovery Snowflakes Drop in and observe snowflakes with Naturalist John Miller. If snow drops in we’ll use hand lenses for great looks at the flakes. Snowy or snowless, we’ll learn how to capture flakes and make ‘fossil” impressions that can be observed with microscope or hand Cinema Saturday Night lens. Eagle – Master of the Skies 10 a.m. - noon and An in-depth look at the ea- 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. BNC gle using new camera techEmerald Necklace, January 2011 29
Nature 101: Tracking While seeing animals in the forest may only happen here and there, finding evidence of their existence in tracks and other signs can be just as exciting. We’ll spend time indoors learning about tracking then practice our skills on a woodland hike. 1 - 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: rolling hills, some off trail Bird Sketching – Watercolor Techniques Join Naturalist Beth Whiteley for another opportunity to enjoy our feathered winter friends. We will be experimenting with watercolor techniques to try and capture the beauty of these creatures on paper. 2 - 3:30 p.m. GPNC Ages: adults, 10 years & up with adult Register beginning January 1 216-341-3152
Dark Side of Nature Book Club Join us to discuss two books: Where the Wild Things Were by William Stolzenburg and Open Season by C.J. Box. Be prepared to share your thoughts and reading experiences. Feel free to bring a snack to share - we will provide a hot beverage. 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 1/2 for details) Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center (see 1/9 for details)
25 • Tuesday
Hidden Story Hike Enjoy the beauty of the winter woods as we hike through Bedford Reservation. We will learn about some of the changes that happen in the winter. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. BeR Bridal Veil Falls Terrain: hills, slippery, Winter Book Review 2 - 3 miles Join Naturalist Joni Norris 440-526-1012 for a review of Seth Kantner’s Ordinary Wolves. 26 • Wednesday Jack London is Kantner’s writing hero and in this History & book Kantner dispels a A Brown Bag Lunch few myths London’s writ- Ohio & Erie Canal 101 ing created. Like Thoreau, - Join Cultural History Kantner’s writing reveals Interpreter Karen Lakus the importance of wildness for an introduction to the left wild and the impact of Ohio and Erie Canal. Get consumerism. back to the basics and 2 - 4 p.m. RRNC learn how and why the caAges: adults nal was built and its impact on Northeast Ohio. Noon - 1 p.m. CWC
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Winter Walk Join us for a brisk walk through Brookside Reservation. We will meet at the picnic shelter near the Zoo tram stop. Today’s hike will take us through the baseball fields up to the overlook and back to the shelter. 1 p.m. BR Terrain: stairs, 1.5 miles Close Encounters with a Chickadee Join Naturalist Min Keung in search of the black capped chickadee. If we are lucky, maybe one will land in our hands! Dress for the weather. 2 - 3:15 p.m. RRNC Science Olympiad Study Session In preparation for the Elementary Science Olympiad, students are invited to drop in. Study tables and presentations will be available to help prepare for Amphibians and Reptiles, Bird Identification, and Leaf and Tree Identification. Bird Identification presentation is from 4 - 5 p.m. and Reptile and Amphibian presentation is from 5 - 6 p.m. 4 - 6 p.m. NCNC Rocky River Watershed Council Learn what’s up in the Rocky River. Join us for the RRWC’s Annual meeting, featuring the council’s accomplishments and ongoing initiatives, highlighting planned activities, and showing you what you can do to get involved! 7 - 9 p.m. RRNC
27 • Thursday Bird or Bust: Erie Gulls & Waterfowl Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a quest to see rare Arctic gulls that visit the tundra-esque Cleveland lakefront in winter. Hopefully the ice shelf will have pushed these tough gulls and waterfowl towards the shore for a morning of intense field study. Gull identification is complex and tricky, but we’ll help you get a handle on these surprisingly beautiful and distinct birds. Binoculars required. Spotting scope recommended. 9:30 a.m. - noon Ages: adults Terrain: flat, possibly icy walkways, cold Register beginning December 28 216-341-9225 Around the Emerald Necklace Our naturalists love to share their favorite trails with you. This series will rotate around the Emerald Necklace as we introduce you to spots that may become your favorites as well. Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski on this one. 9:30 - 11:30 p.m. MSRR Royalview Trailhead parking lot Terrain: steep, slippery, difficult, 3 miles 440-734-6660 Owl Prowl Learn about these fascinating nocturnal animals and their adaptations. After the indoor presentation, we will head out to try and call an owl. 7 - 8:30 p.m. BNC Terrain: flat, 0.5 miles
28 • Friday
29 • Saturday
Professor Wylde Comes to North Chagrin Nature Center The very popular Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Wild Animal Show is hitting the road and we are one of the stops. This show uses humor, theatrical techniques and trained animals to engage your attention and imagination. The show reinforces that each person can make a difference by helping to improve the future for wildlife. 7 - 8 p.m. NCNC
Preschool Teacher Workshop Sharing a love of nature with children is one of the most important responsibilities we have. Educators of young children are invited to learn more about the nature most accessible to us – backyard nature! We’ll cover natural history, indoor and outdoor activity ideas, and resources. Lunch, a book and other materials included. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Fee: $20 Register by January 18 440-247-7075
Fireside Concert SeriesPeter Niro While the snow blows outside, warm yourself by the fire to an acoustic pop performance by Peter Niro. 7 - 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Fee: $5 Registration required 440-247-7075
Appalachian Dulcimer Workshop Build your own beginners lap dulcimer with CanalWay Manager Foster Brown and learn the basics on how to play one. This workshop includes a dulcimer kit, songbooks, juice harp, and instructions on playing your durable cardboard dulcimer. Everyone is guaranteed to walk away playing their newly constructed dulcimer. 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. CWC Fee: $50 Register beginning January 3 216-206-1000
Friday Nights with Nature Natural History of Costa Rica Though tiny, Costa Rica boasts amazing biodiversity. Trek with The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Andy Jones from the mountains down to the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, discovering how so many organisms have made Costa Rica their home. Doors Winter’s Quiet open at 6:45 p.m. Seating It’s a peaceful time of the limited. year when the pace seems 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC slower. We’ll look for tracks in the snow or mud as we travel through Euclid Creek. 10 - 11:30 a.m. ECR Welsh Woods parking lot 440-473-3370
The Frozen Swamp Join us for this hearty hike to experience the swamp in winter. The cold January temperatures should allow us to get up and close to areas that are otherwise very difficult to access. 1 - 3:30 p.m. NCR Wilson Mills Rd. parking lot Saturday “Souper Ages: adults Supper” Terrain: hills, off trail, Be creative and mix lots of 3 miles ingredients to make a delicious soup. While volunteer School of the Wilds chefs cook the ingredients, Eagles in Ohio we’ll enjoy a nature video Ohio Department of Natufollowed by a brisk walk to ral Resources Eagle Watchwork up an appetite for our er Lisa Romaniuk will fill “souper soup.” Bring your us in on the story of the own bowl and spoon. comeback of the eagle in 4 - 7 p.m. RRNC Ohio and tell of the unlikeAges: families, adults ly places this highly adapTerrain: mostly level, tive bird is turning up. 1.5 miles 2 - 4 p.m. RRNC Register beginning January 18 Hand Feed a Chickadee 440-734-6660 (see 1/2 for details) Wildlife in Winter Brrr! Find out what wildlife is doing while we’re warm and cozy in front of our fireplace. We will see live animals up close and discuss ways that they cope with the winter. Free. 3 p.m. LENSC 440-871-2900
Natural Gems of Israel Asia, Africa and Europe meet in Israel, enriching it with a diversity of plants and animals. Join Ami Horowitz, who grew up in Israel, on a trip to discover its many natural environments – from the Negev Desert to the lush Galilee. 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC
Cleveland Metroparks is proud to serve the following products
Hand Feed a Chickadee (see 1/2 for details)
30 • Sunday Drop-In Discovery: Binoculars Looking to buy new binoculars? Stop by the discovery table to learn everything you need to know before buying. 10 a.m. - noon BNC Emerald Necklace, January 2011 31
4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY
printed on recycled paper Administrative Offices
216-635-3200/general Cleveland Metroparks information - 24-hours a day. TTY 216-351-0808 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 216-635-3231 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. TTY 216-661-1090 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
Cleveland Metroparks Directory
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 Food Service/Catering: Fairway Grille 216-252-6533 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 216-265-3666 Food Service/Catering: Eagle’s Nest Cafe 216-362-1731 Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18753 Egbert Road Bedford Reservation Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Double Bogey Grill 440-439-1068 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 Learning Center 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 216-206-101
Outdoor Education Facilities CanalWay Center E. 49th Street entrance Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center Rt. 82 entrance 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 John J. Donnelly Rocky River Nature Center 24000 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 South Chagrin Reservation 440-247-7075 EarthWords Nature Shops CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 NatureTracks Education Unit 216-341-1707 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-871-WILD
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 330-278-3132 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 & 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 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides) Brilla House Slavic Village Development Mill Creek Falls Garfield Park Reservation 216-429-1182, ext. 116 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 Northeast 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 440-779-0280 www.olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides)