Emerald Necklace - July 2012

Emerald Necklace

July ‘12 Vol. 61 # 7

Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events

Inside: Institute of the Great Outdoors Catalog

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Celebrating 130 Years

Contents Features 3 Basic Wilderness Survival

Columns 4 Notes from the Field 5 Naturalist’s Almanac

In Addition 2 BrookStock - A Celebration of Music & Nature

Saturday July 21 • 2 - 8 p.m.

Brookside Valley Event Site Brookside Reservation • Cleveland

6 Inside the Emerald Necklace

We are back for another year of family nature fun and fantastic summer open-air music. BrookStock - A Celebration of Music & Nature is a Cleveland Metroparks event you won’t want to miss.

12 Get On The Fast Track To Better Golf 13 Swing Into Summer Golf 14 Zoo News

The afternoon and evening are filled with live music, children’s activities, nature hikes, educational vendors and exhibitors that promote all things earthy, sustainable, local, and ‘60s.

17 Institute of the Great Outdoors 23 Events by Location 24 Events Calendar 32 Directory

Bring lawnchairs and blankets to enjoy music all day.

Cover photo of tiger courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo All other photos by Casey Batule or Cleveland Metroparks photo archive unless otherwise noted.

Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:

Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Paulette Welch Editor

Erie Reproduction Graphic Design

RR Donnelley

In addition, EarthWords Nature Shop will be on-site selling merchandise and offering t-shirt stamping. Along with the daylong schedule of awesome music, enjoy artwork, kid’s crafts and games, environmental vendors, live animals, nature hikes, food (including Ben & Jerry’s ice cream), and more! Those 21 years and older can also enjoy the Beer Garden.

Featured bands on the BrookStock Main Stage are: 2 p.m.

730 Club Band

3:30 p.m.

Brittany Reilly Band

5 p.m.

Latin Crew

6:30 p.m.

D.C. 4

For more information, call 216-206-1000.

Printing

Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com.

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

Debra K. Berry Vice-President

Brian M. Zimmerman

Executive Director-Secretary

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

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Brookside Valley Event Site is located off John Nagy Blvd., off the Ridge Road entrance of Brookside Reservation in Cleveland - north of the I-480/Ridge Road exit.

Basic Wilderness Survival Could You Survive?

Diane and I always wanted to learn how to survive in the wild…just in case.

So we took a three-part Basic Wilderness Survival class at Brecksville Nature Center last fall taught by volunteers Don Howell and Ron Lemieux. What an amazing experience! We have since developed a passion for wanting to know more!

One of the most important things we learned was how to put a survival kit together. If you became lost or stranded in the wilderness, would you have Making a debris hut the essential gear to keep yourself alive overnight, or for the average three days it takes to become rescued?

No matter where you venture, there are at least 10 key pieces of gear you should always carry with you (or in your car if you are travelling). These items will give you the ability to survive most situations. Each item should have at least two uses, or don’t bother packing it.

Adding leaves to the hut

All should fit into a fanny pack or shoulder bag.

We can only suggest what to include, you need to try options and carry what works for you.

And make sure you know how to use each item.

• Sharp cutting tool - knife with a plain blade (not half serrated)

• Two ways to make fire (flint & steel, ferro rod, wind/waterproof matches, etc)

• Metal container to boil water (canteen cup or metal water bottle)

• 25 ft. of 550 parachute cord

• Covering (tarp, wool blanket, or bivy bag)

• Light source (headlamp, candle, glow sticks)

• Combination tool (Swiss Army knife that has a 3 - 4” blade and a saw)

• Cotton cloth (so you can make char cloth, filter water, use for first aid)

• Compass with a mirror (mirror can also be used as a signaling device)

• First aid kit

Whenever you go into the wilderness, always leave Starting a fire your game plan with someone back home. Let them know when you are leaving, where you are going and how long you expect to be gone. Give as much detail as possible, like the trail you plan to hike, campsites where you plan on staying, etc.

In a true wilderness survival situation there are five things that can keep you going: a positive attitude; fire which is a signaling device, provides warmth and well being, Wilderness survival tools and can make water safe to drink; shelter to keep out of the extreme cold or heat and wind; water to stay hydrated; and food. Ninety percent of surviving is attitude! When deciding what to spend energy on to survive, keep in mind the rule of three’s: you can live three minutes without oxygen, three hours without shelter in extreme heat or cold, three days without water and three weeks without food.

Hopefully we will never need to use our wilderness survival skills, but having them creates a sense of comfort and a greater willingness to go extra miles into the wilderness to have a better nature experience.

Sharon Hosko, manager/Diane Herold, information specialist Brecksville Nature Center 3

Notes from the Field

Notes on the Value of Things Wild and Free, Part 2

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In last month’s article, we discerned that for the past three hundred years of American history, the value of wildlife was based primarily on wildlife’s utility value to humankind, mostly as a food source or for sport hunting. We lived in a largely agrarian society with relatively low population density, and wildlife was abundant, and its food value to a self-sustaining farmstead was an important part of the annual cycle of hunt and harvest. And yet, even in those days, often the hunter was also the watcher, and wildlife was appreciated as more than just a meal on the table.

There are those who say that things wild and free have no value beyond their harvest utility, and yet recreational economists suggest otherwise. Recent research has indicated that bird watching, wildlife viewing and nature photography are the fastestgrowing segments of all wildlife-related recreation, with a 63 percent growth in the number of trips related to those activities. Locally these same indicators can be found in similar percentages in the 2011 Cleveland Metroparks Visitor Survey results.

Some forms of these particular activities are highly localized and well-advertised, such as “The Biggest Week in American Birding” now celebrated along Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline from Toledo to Huron each May. In 2011 researcher Philip Xie from Ohio Sea Grant conducted a study whose results showed that visitors attending that event during the time period May 4 - 11 contributed more than $26 million dollars to northern Ohio’s economy, created 283 jobs for those living and working in those shoreline communities, generated $8.9 million in personal income and contributed more than $1.9 million in tax revenue directed to local and state coffers. And that is during only one week in May in northwest Ohio. Recent estimates from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources place the annual value of these three non-consumptive Emerald Necklace, July 2012

activities in Michigan at over $692 million dollars.

While the measurement of the value of wildlife and wild places in terms of hard dollar flow through local, regional and state economies is a relatively new thing, there are other values we must consider as well. Dr. Paul Risk, dean of environmental interpretation at Michigan State University, once offered that we measure the value of nature not with our pocketbooks, but with our hearts.

What is value? When our lives are examined, we measure the most meaningful parts of our existence in terms of the experiences we’ve lived, not in terms of the things we’ve accumulated. To live fully bears little relationship to things. Life is given fullness by the relationships we’ve built, the people we’ve loved, the places we’ve visited, the things we’ve seen and heard and done that provide lasting meaning in our examined lives.

In elemental examination, material goods fall by the wayside as measured by the things that last.

John Muir, perhaps the father of nature appreciation, who lectured and wrote widely during the time of American self-discovery at the beginning of the twentieth century, was once asked by a San Francisco society matron, “Mr. Muir, what good are snakes?” Muir thought for a moment and replied, “Madame, snakes are good

Naturalist’s Almanac

for themselves, and we should not begrudge them their share of life.”

What is this thing called value?

What is the value of watching a majestic buck slowly walking through the autumn mist rising from a field in Mill Stream Run Reservation on a chill October morning, or watching the flash of a spring-run steelhead trout in the morning sun on the Rocky River?

Can you measure the joy of hearing the first woodcock peenting in early March, as woodcocks for thousands of years have done every spring on their breeding grounds? What is the value of watching a shooting star on a dark August night from a canoe on Hinckley Lake, or the long-term net worth of a quarteracre of white trilliums nodding in the spring breeze along a trail in North Chagrin Reservation? Express for me the dividend from seeing a fledgling red-tailed hawk take its first flight out of a nest you’ve watched for weeks in Brecksville Reservation, or the first sight of four red fox pups wrestling over a bone on the warm, sandy front porch of their safe and snug den, as the watchful vixen sits close by? What is the price of a sunset tinged with orange and gold beheld from the bluffs of Huntington Beach?

The value of all this, the richness, the joys long-remembered that weave the fabric of the years of our lives, my friend, all these moments that are the best experiences of our lives, are valued beyond terms of dollars and cents. The value of nature, of all the creatures and plants and earth and sky, all of those things have value beyond our poor means to measure, but we live them, and we know their value in our heart of hearts.

July

The hot summer days of July have arrived and the forests that were once filled with birds’ song now give way to insect serenades. During the day, cicadas start to sing as soon as the temperature reaches 70 degrees and the meadows are filled with cricket’s and grasshopper’s raspy calls. After the sun sets, the chorus grows as katydids join the other insects singing from high in the trees. The abundance of these insects provide a bounty for others animals as birds, fox, rodents and other insects utilize them as protein filled meals.

Birds While most resident breeding birds have already fledged young, the brilliant black-and-gold American goldfinches and ornately colored cedar waxwings only now begin to gather nesting material. Birdsongs still dominate the sounds of early morning in the deep woodlands, but as the month’s end draws near, warblers, tanagers, thrushes and other resident species go quiet as the nesting season winds down. Young red-shouldered and broad-winged hawks are now patrolling the woodland edges. The very first of the year’s migrant shorebirds are heading southward, and blackbirds again begin to build in flocks.

Insects July is high time to find a virtual cornucopia of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies. Flashy swallowtails, sulphurs, azures, and fritillaries adorn the heads of grassland wildflowers. The airspace above wetlands, ponds and lakes is a flurry of wings with skimmers, dashers, darners, forktails, and pondhawk dragonflies and damselflies mating and catching small insect prey. By the end of July, warm evenings bring on the trilling and buzzing serenades of katydids and grasshoppers.

Wildflowers The stunning colors of large rosemallow and pickerelweed flowers adorn the edges of wetlands and ponds. Milkweed - the host plant of the monarch butterfly - begins to explode its crown of pink flowers. Large fields hold tall stands of purple ironweed and its look-alike Joepye weed, purple coneflower, Queen Anne’s lace, all important plants for nectaring insects.

Jewelweed is flourishing in vast clumps in sunlit patches of wood- Queen Anne’s lace lands and woodland edges. By the end of July, early goldenrod, first of many goldenrods to bloom, becomes a harbinger of autumn as it adds touches of bright yellow to shady open places along parkways.

Mammals Male white-tailed deer antlers finish their rapid growth this month, but remain covered in soft velvet, while the fawn’s spots begin to fade as summer passes.

The wealth of Cleveland Metroparks awaits you.

Robert D. Hinkle, PhD

Katydid

Chief Naturalist Emeritus

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Stinchcomb Memorial Concert Series

Inside the Emerald Necklace

Thursdays, July 5, 12, 19 & 26 • 6 - 8 p.m.

Stinchcomb-Groth Memorial Scenic Overlook Rocky River Reservation • Cleveland Cleveland Metroparks is 95 years old this year!

Come to the site of the very first three acres that started Cleveland Metroparks for wonderful music this summer. Cleveland Metroparks founder William Stinchcomb would be proud to know that we have grown to over 22,000 acres! Concerts will be cancelled due to rain.

July 5

The GeezeCats - old time rock-n-roll

July 12

Oolong Gurus - Bluegrass/country/rock

July 19 Abbey Road - Beatles tunes July 26

Brigid’s Cross - Irish

Parking limited at site. Shuttle provided from Scenic Park/Emerald Necklace Marina, located off Valley Parkway, off the Detroit Ave. entrance of Rocky River Reservation in Lakewood. Or ride your bike or carpool!

Stinchcomb-Groth Memorial Scenic Overlook is located off Hogsback Lane in Rocky River Reservation, between Valley Parkway and Riverside Drive in Cleveland.

Good Old Summertime

Nature at Night Saturday, July 14 • 5 - 11 p.m. Free!

North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village Find out what is out and about after dark at Cleveland Metroparks Nature at Night event. Visitors can enjoy a variety of free activities related to the night, including live nocturnal animal programs, astronomy and stargazing through telescopes, children’s crafts, and night stations.

• Live Nocturnal Animal Presentations • Crafts

• Shadow Puppets and Crafts • Starlab

• Marshmallow Roast

• Self Guided Nature Stations • Astronomy and Moon Gazing (weather permitting)

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Also, bring a lawn chair or blanket and watch the movie Yogi Bear on the lawn at 9 p.m.

For more information, call 440-473-3370.

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.

Sunday, July 15 • Noon - 5 p.m.

Frostville Museum • Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted Remember the good old days, filled with fun, games, ice cream and baseball? Bring the entire family for a step back in time as we celebrate summer. Enjoy old-time base ball, games, kid’s crafts, old-time ice cream making, and kite flying. Mitchell’s Ice Cream will be selling their delicious concoctions.

Kite flying - Let’s go fly a kite! Jump into the simple joy of kite flying. Join members of the Ohio Society for the Elevation of Kites (OSEK) for kite making and kite flying demonstrations. You can make your own kite for $3 per kite!

Vintage Base Ball - 1 and 3 p.m. - Remember the good old days and America’s game? Join us for good old summertime with two vintage base ball teams, the Whiskey Island Shamrocks and the North Baltimore Cyclones, who will take us back to the 1860s. Bring your lawn chair and settle in to watch the game by the rules and customs of the 19th century! (And yes, base ball was two words back then!)

Frostville Museum is located on Cedar Point Road in Rocky River Reservation, between Valley Parkway and Columbia Road/Route 252 in North Olmsted.

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Kids For Conservation Series Thursdays, July 5, 12, 19 & 26 • 7 - 8:30 p.m.

North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation Every day is the perfect time to learn and practice conservation in our homes, communities and parks. This children’s series will give families the opportunity to learn about the importance of plants, wetlands, habitats and sing about the animals that live in Northeast Ohio.

Here is what you have to look forward to: July 5 • Dr. Wildweed (shown right) Spend an hour with an old-time herbalist with lots of audience participation. Dr. Wildweed says,” Every plant has a purpose and every plant has a story.”

s r Splish Splash d Ki rne Summer Search CoSummertime is time for water activities and

Cleveland Metroparks offers plenty of splish splash places for fun! Whether it’s playing in the sand and water at Huntington Beach, swimming (or learning to swim) at Ledge Pool, kayaking or canoeing across Hinckley Lake, fishing in one of the many rivers or lakes, or paddling on Wallace Lake, Cleveland Metroparks is the place for kids to be this summer! After finding the summer fun words below, go to page 9 for more details on water recreation in Cleveland Metroparks.

July 12 • Willie of the Willows - This wetland wise man will share the values of wetlands and tell you stories and sing songs of this fascinating habitat.

July 19 • Professor Horatio Habitat - This wacky professor shares the importance of healthy wildlife habitats through humor, song and audience participation. Learn about Ohio’s endangered species.

July 26 • Children’s Nature Songs and Stories with Foster Brown - This award-winning songwriter and singer will get you singing and learning about the wonders of nature through memorable rhythms and rhymes.

To learn more about this family fun on-going program series, call 440-473-3370.

CanalWay Sunset Concert Series Summer is the time for outdoor concerts! Bring a lawnchair to CanalWay Center for a 90-minute melodious sunset experience. All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.

July 13 - Haywire - If Rockabilly and Roots Rock Band sound is your thing, then listen to this Northeast Ohio group that gives tribute to Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash, along with playing their own original upbeat tunes.

August 10 - Logan Wells - Back by popular demand, this song artist has been crooning in the Cleveland area for many years with Patsy Cline songs and country tunes.

Come hear for yourself why she has a great following.

For information, call CanalWay Center at 216-206-1000.

beach boating canoe diveinmovie FISHING KAYAK lake lifeguard

marina paddle pool river splash sun swim

Hey Kids!

Are you a member of Kids Club?

If so, look for the events marked with Those are the ones where you can get your Kids Club passport stamp!

Not a member of Kids Club?

Go to clevelandmetroparks.com for details!

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95 Years of Summer Memories and Counting!

For the past 95 years Cleveland Metroparks has been the backdrop for some of northeast Ohio’s best summer memories. Whether it was a spontaneous family picnic, afternoon hike or catching your first fish, Cleveland Metroparks has provided easy access to nature for the people of greater Cleveland. Through including the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund in your will or estate plan, you can help to share your memories of Cleveland Metroparks with future generations. Could there be a more lasting or meaningful way to make a difference?

The Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund was established within The Cleveland Foundation to protect and preserve Cleveland Metroparks. Funds generated through the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund benefit all aspects of Cleveland Metroparks. Gifts may be made to the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund through cash donations, bequests, appreciated securities and other forms of estate planning. To learn more about including Cleveland Metroparks in your estate plan or other types of giving, contact Karen Kannenberg, manager of gift and donor development, at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com to confidentially discuss giving opportunities. You may also make a gift online by visiting clevelandmetroparks.com and selecting ‘donate.’

Angels Haven Horse Rescue Fun Horse Shows Sundays, July 29 and September 16 • 9 a.m.

Lewis Road Riding Ring Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted The Angels Haven Horse Rescue Fun Horse Shows are open to any breed.

There will be 30 classes, including five added per participants’ requests such as the always entertaining Egg & Spoon and Costume classes!

For more information, call 440-781-5060.

Spectators are admitted free! Join in on the fun!

Lewis Road Riding Ring is located off Lewis Road in Rocky River Reservation, between Cedar Point and Barrett roads in North Olmsted.

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Need a Great Place to Meet This Summer?

The Chalet Recreation Area in Mill Stream Run Reservation offers yearround recreational, social, and business meeting opportunities in the natural beauty of the “Emerald Necklace.”

The Chalet Recreation Area can be rented for family outings, group functions, and company meetings/ picnics during the spring, summer and fall seasons.

The area features charcoal grills, picnic tables, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and swings. The Chalet facility can accommodate up to 80 people in the main lounge and an additional 75 in the second floor loft. The back patio area can seat about 80 under a tent, with additional tents and seating available with prior arrangement. There are also tables and grills scattered throughout the picnic grove. A small kitchen area with commercial freezer and refrigerator, coffee maker, sinks, and counter space is also available. The Chalet also features a large screen TV with cd/dvd/ vcr/tape player, indoor and outdoor stone fireplaces, and indoor restrooms. The staff is always on-site throughout the private events, as well. Find out more about renting the Chalet by calling 440-572-9990 (Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.).

CanalWay Center Cycles Did you know? In June, CanalWay Center started renting bicycles!

Rentals are available from at least 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays. Rentals include a helmet, so riders can make their way up or down the towpath trail safely, and a lock, in case riders want to stop along the way to explore the natural or historical landscape, or visit a local restaurant.

For more information, call 216-206-1000.

July is the Perfect Month to Enjoy Cleveland Metroparks Water Recreation Cleveland Metroparks is a great place to enjoy a Staycation!

Enjoy a wide variety of water recreation, including swimming, boating, fishing and more throughout the Park District.

Swimming - The beach swimming areas are open June 2 through August 12. Huntington Beach will also be open weekends only from August 12 to Labor Day, September 3. Ledge Pool is open May 26 through August 19.

Swimming hours are: • Huntington Beach, Huntington Reservation, Bay Village 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• Hinckley Lake, Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (rowboat, canoe, paddle boat, pontoon boat and kayak rental available)

• Wallace Lake, Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (paddle boat and kayak rental available) • Ledge Pool and Recreation Area, Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township (daily pool admission fee or season pass access) - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Lifeguards are on duty during posted hours at all swimming areas.

Boating - Cleveland Metroparks offers a number of areas to enjoy boating, including: Emerald Necklace Marina (216-226-3030), Rocky River Reservation, Lakewood; Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store (330-278-2160), Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township; Wallace Lake (440-826-1682), Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea (non-motorized boats only).

Fishing - Recreational fishing may be enjoyed throughout the Park District. An Ohio fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. A variety of fish can be caught, including: bass, trout, walleye, crappie, and bluegill. Major fishing areas include: the Chagrin, Cuyahoga and Rocky rivers, and Hinckley, Judge’s, Ledge, Ranger, Shadow, and Wallace lakes.

Cleveland Metroparks has brochures available on warmweather recreation information, entitled Spring/Summer/Fall Recreation, Fishing Areas in Cleveland Metroparks and Ledge Pool and Recreation Area.

Dive-In Movie I: Elf Friday, July 20 • 8 p.m.

Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Twp. Treat every day like Christmas at Ledge Pool!

Join us for a Friday night Dive-In Movie featuring Buddy the Elf on his journey from the North Pole to New York City!

Visitors can bring something to sit on and enjoy the movie from a spot on the lawn, or view the movie while relaxing in an inner tube in the heated luxury of Ledge Pool. Inner tubes are available by reservation only and are $5 for single tubes and $7 for double tubes.

Doors open at 8 p.m. with the movie starting at approximately 8:45 p.m. depending on sunset.

All ages are welcome but visitors 8 years and under must be accompanied by an adult in the pool. No outside floatation devices will be permitted in the swimming area. Space in the pool is limited, so be sure to call ahead and reserve your inner tubes starting July 6!

For more information and to reserve an inner tube, call 330-239-2911.

Refreshments available at Ledge Rock Café.

The last Dive-In Movie is August 10 - The Muppets.

Sweet Summer Fun in Cleveland Metroparks Stay cool at Cleveland Metroparks swimming areas, and enjoy a snack after your swim.

Ledge Rock Café • 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Ledge Pool and Recreation Area • Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. Quarry Rock Café • 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Wallace Lake • Mill Stream Run Reservation • Berea 9

A Look Ahead to August Special Events: Summer Beach Party with Movie on the Beach Saturday, August 4 • 5 - 10:30 p.m.

Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation • Bay Village Come on down to Huntington Beach for a summer bash including games, food, demonstrations and live entertainment by the Calypso Gypsies Steel Drum Trio.

Bring the whole family and stick around for a movie on the beach, Back to the Future. For more information, call 216-635-3200.

Dive-in Movie II - The Muppets Friday, August 10 • 8 p.m.

Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp.

Touch-a-Truck Sunday, August 19 • Noon - 4 p.m.

Park Operations Mill Stream Run Reservation • Strongsville 2011 marked our first Touch-a-Truck event at Cleveland Metroparks and it was a roaring success.

For 2012 we’ll repeat a showcase of our equipment used in the daily care of Cleveland Metroparks.

Several departments will be highlighted including Operations Maintenance, Golf Turf, Natural Resources, Law Enforcement, and Outdoor Education.

For more information, call 216-635-3200.

Snakes, Turtles & Fun! Saturday, August 25 • 4 - 8 p.m.

The Shelterhouse Picnic Area South Chagrin Reservation • Bentleyville

Join Walter as he reunites your favorite Muppets to save the day! Visitors can bring something to sit on and enjoy the movie from a spot on the lawn, or view the movie while relaxing in an inner tube in the heated luxury of Ledge Pool. Inner tubes are available by reservation only ($5 for single tubes/$7 for double tubes.) For more information, call 330-239-2911.

Enjoy an evening event dedicated to reptiles with live animals, games and crafts, live music, presentations and exhibits, refreshments for sale, and more! The Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists will be on-hand with various live reptiles too! There will be many fun activities for families to enjoy! For more information, call 440-247-7075.

Bug City

Dog Paddle & More!

Saturday, August 11 • 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Garfield Park Reservation • Garfield Heights Mayor Mantis and Lucille Bugg welcome visitors of all ages to this event filled with cool buggy activities, information, and demonstrations. There will be many exciting opportunities to learn about “buggy” jobs and why they are important. Exhibitors from all over will be bringing their bug collections to share. Bug City Chef Gene White will be demonstrating some bug cooking recipes and there will be a chance to enjoy a buggy snack or two. Beekeepers and butterfly enthusiasts will be on-hand to give more information about these wonderful insects. Bug-themed activities for the kids as well as entertainment for all ages are also a part of the Bug City event. For more information, call 216-341-3152.

Sunday, August 26 • 1 – 5 p.m.

Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. Visitors can bring their non-aggressive dogs to swim at Ledge Pool for a nominal donation that benefits the Medina County SPCA. A mini dog fair will also be held on the grounds with exhibitors and vendors with items to pamper the pooches. Leash up your dog and take them on a naturalist-led dog hike, enjoy animal safety demonstrations with Cleveland Metroparks K-9 unit and B.A.R.K, and be sure to view the dogs available to adopt. For more information, call 330-239-2911.

Reflections of Nature Quilt Show Applications Available One of the warmest and coziest Cleveland Metroparks events is the annual Reflections of Nature Quilt Show held November 10 and 11 at Rocky River Nature Center. Nature-themed quilts and wall hangings can be entered into the juried show. Pick up applications at any nature center or download an application online at clevelandmetroparks.com. For more information, call 440-734-6660.

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Discover the History of Hinckley Reservation on the 2012 Hear Here! Audio Tour June 15 - December 31 • Hinckley Reservation Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Reservation, located in Hinckley Township, is yours to discover when you take part in Hear Here! - An Audio Tour of Cleveland Metroparks!

This half-day, self-led tour is perfect for all ages. Pick a morning or afternoon, weekday or weekend, hop in the car, and get ready to tune your radio to 1620 AM at each Hear Here! site for a unique tour of five gems of the “Emerald Necklace.”

At each stop, turn off your car engine and tune in to 1620 AM to listen for facts and interesting stories about places like Hinckley Lake, Buzzard Roost, Whipp’s Ledges, Worden Heritage Homestead and Ledges, and learn about Mr. Johnson of Johnson’s Picnic Area.

Feel free to customize your tour - stopping at sites in whatever order you like. And, be sure to get out and explore each area after you listen.

For more information, call 216-635-3200.

Walking Works with Nature Take the first step toward better health and explore new trails with Cleveland Metroparks Walking Works program. Research shows walking leads to better health.

Walking three to five times a week helps improve cardiovascular fitness, increases circulation, helps control weight, blood and cholesterol levels, and improves overall feeling of well-being. Now through October, hike at least eight of 13 designated Walking Works trails on your own – any time - it’s fun and easy.

This year take an easy hike in Bedford, Big Creek, Bradley Woods, Garfield Park, Mill Stream Run and Rocky River reservations. Moderate walkers can hit the trails in Euclid Creek, Hinckley, Ohio & Erie Canal and South Chagrin reservations. Those looking for a difficult hike will appreciate the challenging hikes in Brecksville and North Chagrin reservations.

After completing each walk, sign and date your Walking Works form. Complete eight walks and return your form to Cleveland Metroparks to receive this year’s Walking Works shield. Display your shield on your own walking stick or purchase a walking stick at any EarthWords Nature Shop.

Want to walk with others while learning about the natural features of the trails? Naturalist-led hikes along the designated trails will be available through October. Look for naturalist-led walks starting on page 24.

For a list of the designated hikes and directions, and to download the Walking Works form, check our website at www.clevelandmetroparks.com. Walking Works forms are also available at Cleveland Metroparks Nature Centers.

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GET ON THE FAST TRACK TO BETTER GOLF If you have ever thought about playing golf, then Cleveland Metroparks Academy of Golf is for you. Whether you are a beginner or returning to the game, the Academy of Golf offers golf learning opportunities on everything you’ll need to know to step onto a golf course and play with confidence. Classes fill up early. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for class schedules and to register. For more information, call 440-232-7247.

Beginners - An Introduction to Golf - Covers the basics of the full swing, chipping and putting, basic golf terms, rules and etiquette. All participants completing the course will be given a pass to a Cleveland Metroparks short course. Seven students per class. Students should be beginners to 25 handicap.

Date Time Women Only Tue. July 3 Sat. July 7

6:30 - 8 p.m.

9 - 10:30 a.m.

Number of Sessions

Location

Fee

Instructor

5 6

Seneca Manakiki

$145 $170

Taylor Kochensparger

Beginners II - 200/300 Series - Reinforces the fundamentals and tries to advance the skill levels needed to be more successful and confident on the golf course. Graduates of this course receive a 9-hole golf pass. Five students per class. Call 216-641-1864 for more information.

Wed. July 11

6:30 - 8 p.m.

4

Washington

$140 Short

Intermediate Series - The Next Step - 300 Series - Refine previously-learned skills and help convert them to use on the golf course. Less emphasis on fundamentals and more time spent on game management, specialty shots, and situational golf. A brief video analysis for each student is included. Graduates of this course also receive a 9-hole golf pass. Call 216-641-1864 for more information.

Women Only Mon. July 2 Mon. July 9 Tue. July 31

6:30 - 8 p.m.

6:30 - 8 p.m.

6:30 - 8 p.m.

5 4 4

Seneca Washington Washington

$160 $140 $140

Taylor Staker Staker

The Golf Swing - The Fundamentals - 500 Series - Covers all aspects of a solid,

fundamental golf swing, including grip, set-up and swing. The class will provide general, fundamental and basic instruction useful for players of every skill level, gender and age. Seven students per class.

Wed. July 11 Thu. July 12 Wed. Aug 15

10 - 11:30 a.m.

6:30 - 8 p.m.

6:30 - 8 p.m.

Seneca Shawnee Seneca

$35 $35 $35

Taylor Pflibsen Taylor

The Short Game - Putting and Chipping - 500 Series - Reviews basics of successful

around the green shots and provides general, fundamental and basic instruction that is useful for players of every skill level, gender and age. Seven students per class.

Thu. July 19 Wed. July 25 Wed. Aug. 29

6 - 7:30 p.m.

10 - 11:30 a.m.

6:30 - 8 p.m.

Shawnee Seneca Seneca

$35 $35 $35

Pflibsen Taylor Taylor

The Golf Swing - Hitting Woods Complete - 200/300 Series - Covers all aspects of hitting woods from off the tee, in the fairway and rough. The first session covers hitting your driver off the tee and the second covers how to hit fairway woods. Also covered is the effectiveness of hybrids versus fairway woods. Seven students per class.

Wed. July 11

6 - 7:30 p.m.

2

Sleepy Hollow

$70 Fiander

Junior Programs Junior “Fun”damental Series -

Designed like our Adult Beginners classes, juniors will get a chance to learn the basics, but have fun too. Full swing, putting and chipping will be covered by our best junior instructors.

Six participants per class. Call 440-232-7184 for more information. Ages 12 – 17.

Tue. July 10 Wed. July 18 Fri. July 27

4 - 5 p.m.

4 - 5 p.m.

4 - 5 p.m.

4 4 4

Shawnee Hills Sleepy Hollow Sleepy Hollow

$85 $85 $85

Pflibsen Pflibsen Pflibsen

Little Birdie Class - Series 200 - Designed for parents seeking to get their toddlers, ages 3 to 5, in the game of golf. This introductory class will give parent and child the basics in putting, chipping, pitching, and the full swing. Equipment and experience is not necessary. Maximum of 32 students per class. For more information call, 440-526-0043. Fee is $105 for one child and one adult.

Tue. July 3 12

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4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Emerald Necklace, July 2012

5

Seneca

$105

Taylor

Swing Into Summer Golf Father/Son Golf Tournaments Bring your family two-some for these events designed for dads and sons.

Senior Greater Cleveland Amateur Championship Wednesday and Thursday, July 18 & 19

Saturday, July 7 Fathers and pee wees, ages 6 - 9

Big Met Golf Course • Rocky River Reservation

Mastick Woods Golf Course • Rocky River Reservation

This 36-hole contest for those 50 and older allows senior duffers to compete for bragging rights to the title of best senior golfer in the area. For more information, call 440-331-1070.

9-hole play (modified alternate shot) - $25 per team Sunday, July 8 Fathers and cadets, ages 10 - 13

$75 per player

Little Met Golf Course • Rocky River Reservation 9-hole play (modified scramble) - $35 per team

Course Championships

Saturday, July 14 Fathers and juniors, ages 14 - 17 18-hole play (front 9 - scramble, back 9 - better ball) -

All course championships are 36-hole events. Top finishers qualify for the 54-hole Greater Cleveland Amateur Championship to be played at Manakiki Golf Course, August 10 - 12.

$60 per team

Saturday, July 21 & Sunday, July 22

Sunday, July 15 Two adult players, ages 18 & over

Big Met Golf Course - $95 per player

Sleepy Hollow Golf Course • Brecksville Reservation

Saturday, July 28 & Sunday, July 29

8 a.m. shotgun start - 18-hole play (front 9 - scramble, back 9 - better ball) - $140 per team (includes golf cart, hamburger/hot dog roast)

Shawnee Hills Golf Course - $95 per player

Big Met Golf Course • Rocky River Reservation

Moonlight Golf Friday, July 13 • 9:30 p.m.

Shawnee Hills Par 3 • 440-232-7184 AND Friday, July 27 • 9:15 p.m.

Mastick Woods • 216-267-5626 Golfers challenge their night vision and play nine holes with a Nitelite golf ball - it glows in the dark! A shotgun start takes players into a night world of golf, with glowing golf balls, tees and greens. Registration is required, and space is limited. The fee is $25 per person. Players should plan on arriving 30 minutes before the listed start time.

Manakiki Golf Course - $105 per player

Sleepy Hollow Golf Course - $105 per player

Women’s Greater Cleveland Amateur Championship Saturday and Sunday, August 4 & 5 Shawnee Hills Golf Course • Bedford Reservation $75 per player Women can test their skills against other female golfers in this 36-hole event. The event is open to women of any age. However, it is recommended that participants have a handicap index of 18.4 or less. For more information, call 440-232-7184.

Moonlight Golf continues on: August 17 • Mastick Woods • 9 p.m.

September 28 • Little Met • 7:30 p.m.

October 19 • Mastick Woods • 6:45 p.m.

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Cleveland Metroparks Zoo celebrates 130 years of connecting people with wildlife Cleveland Metroparks Zoo celebrates its 130th anniversary this year, and it has come a long way since 1882 when philanthropist Jeptha Wade donated 73 acres and 14 deer to the city of Cleveland. His gift created Wade Park and what would eventually become the Cleveland Zoo. Over the course of three centuries the Zoo has gone through a lot of changes, most significantly, a move across town in 1907 to make way for the construction of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The Zoo was actually split between Wade Park and Brookside Park from 1908 until 1914 when the last animals, a group of bears, was moved to the West Side.

The Zoo was quite a different place in the early days. An animal report from 1888 listed the Zoo’s collection as including two black bears, two “catamounts” (mountain lions), a family of raccoons, a pair of foxes and a colony of prairie dogs. By 1890 there were alligators, a tiger, an anteater, an armadillo, coyotes and at least nine different types of monkeys at the Zoo.

Zoo News

Here’s a look back at some other notable dates from Zoo history: 1901 – First lions are donated to the Zoo by a circus owner.

1907 – First elephant, Minnie, arrives, sponsored by a Cleveland Press campaign.

1911 – The city begins growing crops in Brookside Park to feed the Zoo’s animals.

1927 – Balto, the “sled dog that saved Nome,” and several other dogs from his team, arrive at the Zoo. 1935 – Monkey Island opens.

1949 – A football game between the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers is held to raise money for the Zoo. The game ended in a tie but raised $25,000 for the Zoo. 1956 – Zoo charges admission for the first time, 25 cents for those ages 12 and older.

1961 – Walt Disney visits the Zoo as a guest of Zoo Society President Vernon Stouffer.

1965 – Ostrich races are held at the Zoo for the first time.

1981 – Zoo Amphitheatre opens on the site of an old City of Cleveland swimming pool.

1985 – Cleveland Aquarium closes and moves its collection of Top: Sea lion pool, 1939 fish and invertebrates to the Zoo. Middle: Child and lamb at Children’s Farm, 1950s Bottom: Pachyderm Building Schreckengost Sculpture, 1950s 1992 – The RainForest opens.

1993 – Zoo surpasses one million annual attendence visitor mark for the first time.

1997 – Wolf Wilderness opens.

2000 – Australian Adventure opens.

2011 – African Elephant Crossing opens.

Joe Yachanin Marketing & Public Relations Specialist

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all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Emerald Necklace, July 2012

Summer ‘Hot Spots’ at the Zoo

EdZooCation Calendar

Summer is full of activity at the Zoo, and Hot Spots are the key to getting close to the action and making the most of your visit!

July

This summer, the Ballarat Theatre in Australian Adventure is transformed into Camp Ballarat for a new live animal presentation. Three shows featuring animals from the Land Down Under are performed daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. through September 3.

Guests might see a kookaburra, marine toad, Parma wallaby, bearded dragon or yellowstreaked lorry.

Professor Wylde’s Kookaburra Live Animal Show in the Savanna Theater, sponsored by Cleveland Public Power and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, takes guests on a trip to Africa in three shows daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. through September 3, and weekend shows that continue through the end of September.

Look for other Hot Spot signs as you travel through the Zoo this summer including elephant crossings at African Elephant Crossing, seal and sea lion training demonstrations, chances to meet the animal keepers, Get Close Animal Encounters, lorikeet feedings and the African Elephant Family Play Maze.

Fifth Third Bank presents the summer season of African Elephant Crossing.

Education Programs at the Zoo

Keeper for a Day - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily Become part of the specialized care that Zoo animals receive. This is a five hour, hands-on experience you won’t forget.

Show Cameo - 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. daily.

Join the cast of Professor Wylde’s Live Animal Show with an on-stage role then bring your group backstage to meet your animal co-stars.

Overnights - 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. the following morning.

It’s a wild overnight experience at Rising Waters Safari Camp available Thursday through Sunday nights.

July 21 • Adult Overnight is the grown-up version of Rising Waters Safari Camp that includes dinner, a cash bar, animal encounters, a night hike, campfire and a behind-the-scenes tour the next morning.

Family Discoveries - 9 to 10:30 a.m. July 21 and 22 Bring the entire family for a special Zoo experience featuring hands-on activities and guided tours. Topics vary by date.

July 21 • Salamanders, Frogs, and Caecialins, Oh My! will show how amphibians survive in the wild and how people can help them.

July 22 • Alien Invaders focuses on non-native plant and animal species of Australia and the U.S. and how to help curb current and future invasions.

August Family Discoveries - 9 to 10:30 a.m. August 11 and 19 August 11 • How Can I Help a Landfill? will explain how to reduce, reuse, and recycle, and how to compost to reduce your home’s landfill contribution.

August 19 • Sustainable Living in the 21st Century will show how changing some daily habits can have a large impact on the health of the environment.

African Art Family Program - 10 a.m. to noon August 18 Work with a skilled artist from Africa as he guides you through different techniques of simple African crafts. Take home your masterpiece at the end of the day.

African Art Program for Adults - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. August 25 and 26 (two-day program) Work with a skilled artist from Africa as he teaches you traditional African art techniques and shares stories of his heritage. Your art will travel home with you at the end of this adventure.

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

For the most up-to-date Zoo information: clemetzoo.com / 216-661-6500 15

The Year of the Pollinator Cleveland Metroparks has designated 2012 as the Year of the Pollinator. As you enjoy your favorite fruits and flowers this summer, think about those wonderful little flying creatures that make them all possible. Bees and beetles, butterflies and hummingbirds are just a few of our pollinators that flit from flower to flower, ensuring us fabulous fruit and flowers!

EarthWords has jumped on the pollinator bandwagon by stocking our shops with a variety of products celebrating these amazing flying wonders.

This year’s Nature Lovers Quilt Block Series features the pollinators: bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Each quilt block kit features a fabric picture, a nature quote, and detailed instructions to complete a beautiful 11” x 11” quilt block. $10 each Naked Bee Orange Blossom Honey Moisturizing Hand and Body Lotion with “all of the good stuff, none of the bad stuff” is our most popular hand and body lotion. The 2.25 oz tube contains 70% organic product and has a bee-utiful fragrance. $5 each Little Bee and Little Butterfly Finger Puppet Book. Give your child a taste of story time magic with these delightful finger puppet board books. $6.95 EarthWords Supports Local Vendors

LOCATIONS/HOURS North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m.

Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m.

CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003

Meet Russell “Buzz” Riopelle, local producer of the honey sold in our shops. Buzz is a retired North Olmsted fireman and former County Bee Inspector. He became interested in beekeeping when he was given a beehive from an abandoned orchard and a fellow firefighter taught him the fundamentals of beekeeping. His interest turned to passion and in the early ‘70s, he and his wife, Nancy, started the River Ridge Honey Farm in Valley City. His apiary (bee yard) produces honey made from the nectar of flowers that bloom in three seasons. Their Ohio Spring Tree honey comes from all the flowering trees and shrubs in the spring. The Ohio Wildflower honey is their summer blend of clover and backyard flowers and roadside wildflowers. The Ohio Fall Flowers is primarily goldenrod and asters which is the major fall nectar source in this area. Throughout the year we carry 16 oz. jars of his seasonal honey. $7.50 each

Shirt of the Month Speaking of pollinators, take note of the Advice from a Honey Bee. “Create a buzz ~ Sip life’s sweet moments ~ Mind your own beeswax ~ Work together ~ Always find your way home ~ Stick close to your honey ~ Bee yourself!” This warm honey colored tee is printed on pre-shrunk, 100% cotton and is available in sizes S –XXL. $18

Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m.

Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store 1 West Drive Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Open daily 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The EarthWords CanalWay shop has been down-sized and will now only feature snacks, beverages and Cleveland Metroparks logo items.

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Visit EarthWords at these July Events July 14 - Nature at Night** - North Chagrin Nature Center July 21 - BrookStock- A Celebration of Music & Nature** - Brookside Reservation July 28 - Area 49: Alien Invasion - CanalWay Center ** T-Shirt Stamping available

Emerald Necklace, July 2012

Programs are inclusive for all abilities

Institute of the Great Outdoors Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 216-341-1704 / 216-341-8528 fax igo@clevelandmetroparks.com www.clevelandmetroparks.com

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.

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. Program fees recover the direct program costs.

Late Registration/Registration Changes All programs require a minimum number of participants and program deadlines are assigned to limit cancellations. Anyone registering after program deadlines will be assessed a $5 per person per program charge. Anyone making class changes will be assessed a $10 change fee. Please note that IGO reserves the right to deny registrations after program deadlines due to limited space, planning, etc.

Confirmation/Cancellation To minimize costs and paper waste, IGO does not mail program confirmations.

Maps for program locations can be found on Cleveland Metroparks website: www. clevelandmetroparks.com on the IGO page. Registrants will be notified if programs are cancelled due to low enrollment or weather.

Program fees and deposits are not refundable unless Cleveland Metroparks finds it necessary to cancel a program. Participants assume risk of all changes in personal health and affairs.

Returned Checks A $20 cash fee will be charged for all checks returned for insufficient funds.

General Information By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the refund policy.

A liability waiver and medical emergency form will be emailed to participants and must be completed and signed prior to participation in all programs.

IGO programs are listed bi-monthly in the Emerald Necklace. For more information call 216-341-1704 or visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.

To register for an IGO program, call 216-341-1704.

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Programs are inclusive for all abilities

Institute of the Great Outdoors All boating programs are funded in part through a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Watercraft.

Paddlesports & Boating Stand Up Paddleboarding: Introduction

Have you ever wanted to learn how to walk-on-water? Try Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), the fastest growing paddlesport in the world, to find out how. Lessons are fun and will teach you how easy it is to balance and maneuver on a board that looks like a surfboard. Participants should anticipate spending time in the water, so you must be comfortable treading water in a personal flotation device. Late fee applies after July 3, 12, 16 & 30 respectively.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 7, 14, 21 • noon - 2 p.m.

July 19 • 6 - 8 p.m.

Wallace Lake July 8, 22 • Noon - 2 p.m.

Hinckley Reservation July 26 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

August 12 • 10 a.m. - noon Wendy Park August 4 • 1 - 3 p.m.

August 5, 18, 26 • 10 a.m. - noon Huntington Reservation Fee: $20 adults/$8 child (10 - 15 years)

Open Paddle Days

After Work Kayak Tours

Join us for kayak tours along various sections of the Cuyahoga River and LaDue Reservoir. Each tour will have a new theme that will entice you to want to learn more about the river in our backyard. Hear stories about wars, discover where the river burned and visit portions with state scenic river designation. No previous paddling experience required.

Late fee applies after July 3, 13, 25 & August 15 respectively.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 13, 20, August 8 • 6 - 9 p.m.

August 12 • 4 - 7 p.m.

Rivergate Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult) July 27, August 10 • 6 - 9 p.m.

LaDue Reservoir August 29, 30 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Upper Cuyahoga River-Eldon Russell Park Fee: $30 (includes boats & equipment)

Kayaking I: Introduction to Kayaking

Learn to kayak with confidence this season. We combine classroom and on-the-water practice to introduce you to equipment, basic paddling strokes and more. Be prepared to get wet! Late fee applies after July 3, 9, & August 2 respectively.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 14 • 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Participants completing the SUP Introduction course can join us the following dates and locations to practice your skills and get more technique advice from staff. This is also a chance for those of you who haven’t yet taken a course to see free SUP demonstrations. If you’re lucky, you might be able to join an impromptu class, so be prepared to get wet. No reservation required.

August 16 • 6 - 9 p.m.

Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult)

Canoeing I: Canoeing Basics

Wallace Lake July 24 • 6 - 9 p.m.

Baldwin Wallace University Fee: $35 (includes boats & equipment)

July 8 • 3 - 7 p.m.

This class covers canoeing basics, boating safety and proper boat control. Participants may be required to complete a capsize drill so come prepared to get wet. Late fee applies after July 3.

Hinckley Reservation

Activity Level: easy

July 28 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult)

August 12 • 1 - 4 p.m.

Date/Time: July 15 • 4 - 7 p.m.

Wendy Park

Hinckley Reservation

August 5, 18, 26, September 1 • 1 - 4 p.m.

Fee: $35 (includes boats & equipment)

Dates/Times: July 7 & 21 • 3 - 7 p.m.

Wallace Lake

Huntington Reservation Fee: $10/hour

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Emerald Necklace, July 2012

Programs are inclusive for all abilities

Institute of the Great Outdoors Canoe Tours

Canoeing has always been a part of Ohio history and is still a great way to explore the beauty of our waterways. During our tours, we’ll search for animals, hear stories about the past and enjoy a relaxing day, or night, on the water. Late fee applies after July 3 and 30 respectively.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 21 • 8 - 11 p.m.

August 15 • 6 - 9 p.m.

Upper Cuyahoga River-Eldon Russell Park Fee: $30 (includes boats and equipment)

Kayaking 1.5: Supplemental Skills

This class is designed as a continuing education branch to our Kayaking I course. Anyone who has completed an IGO Kayaking I is invited to learn more advanced paddling strokes, wet exits, rescue techniques, and to practice previously taught skills. Late fees apply after July 9, 16 & August 9.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 22 • 4 - 6 p.m.

July 31, August 23 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Hinckley Reservation Fee: $25 (includes boats and equipment)

Kayaking II: Flat-water Fundamentals Combine Kayaking I and 1.5 in one day. See individual class descriptions for details. Late fee applies after July 13.

Basic Sailing Course

This entry-level course to small boat sailing will consist of both classroom and on-water instruction. Learn how to sail in pairs and solo in small 14-foot sailboats. Boats and safety equipment are provided, but be dressed to get wet as you will practice righting a capsized boat. Late fee applies after July 23 and August 31 respectively.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: August 6 • 4 - 7 p.m. AND August 7 & 8 • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Or September 14 • 4 - 7 p.m. AND September 15 & 16 • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Huntington Reservation Fee: $40 (includes textbook, boats and equipment)

Canoeing I.5: Supplemental to Canoeing

This class is designed as a continuing education branch to our Canoeing I course. Anyone who has completed an IGO Canoeing I class is invited to learn more advanced paddling strokes, capsize drills, rescue techniques and to practice previously taught skills. Late fee applies after July 27.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: August 11 • 10 a.m. - noon

Kayak Camping Presque Isle Eco-Float Weekend Enjoy a relaxing weekend camping and exploring the diverse ecosystem of Presque Isle State Park in Erie, PA. Saturday will be dedicated to kayaking the lagoons and bays while enjoying a guided eco-tour on the water. Prior paddling experience is preferred. Late fee applies after July 23.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Pre-Trip: August 5 • 4 - 7 p.m.

Hinckley Reservation Trip: August 17 - 19 • 5 p.m. - noon Fee: $150 (includes paddling gear, on-site transportation and camping)

Hocking Hills Weekend

Spend your weekend immersed in nature during our camping getaway to Hocking Hills. This popular weekend will be filled with kayaking down the Hocking River and hiking to Old Man’s Cave and other must see destinations.

Late fee applies after August 8.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Pre-Trip: August 22 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Trip: September 7 - 9 Fee: $150 (includes paddling gear, onsite transportation, and camping)

Hinckley Reservation Fee: $25 (includes boats and equipment)

Activity Level: easy Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: July 29 • Noon - 6 p.m.

Hinckley Reservation Fee: $55 (includes boats and equipment)

To register for an IGO program, call 216-341-1704.

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Programs are inclusive for all abilities

Institute of the Great Outdoors Escapes to Nature Plovers, Pipers & Peeps: Shorebirds of the North Coast

Join avid birder/naturalist Jen Brumfield for a daylong adventure designed with shorebirds in mind. During late July through August, Ohio’s wetlands, beaches, reservoirs, and mudflats provide vital habitat for migrating sandpipers.

More than 15 species are possible and the chance for rarities is high. Destinations may change due to mudflat or other habitat conditions, or rare bird sightings.

Late fee applies after July 5.

Activity Level: easy Ages: adults

Jackson Bog: An Ohio Endangered Ecosystem

When is a bog not a bog? Join Naturalist Tim Krynak on a tour to Jackson Bog State Nature Preserve in Stark County.

This unique fen is full of unique plant life and is a result of natural events that occurred more than a million years ago.

Your tour will include a walk through the fen to discover how the Wisconsinian glacier created this diverse area, and why many of the plants are found here and not throughout Ohio. Late fee applies after August 31.

Cape May Hawk Watch

Join Bob Hinkle and Sharon Hosko for the annual fall spectacle of hawk migration in Cape May, New Jersey. Thousands of hawks, eagles and falcons fly past the famous “hawk watch platform” and out across the Delaware Bay toward wintering grounds in the tropics. We’ll travel by motor coach to Cape May, New Jersey and participate in morning hawk watches and visit the Jersey shore looking for seabirds and migrating warblers. Late fee applies after September 5.

Activity Level: easy

Activity Level: easy

Ages: adults

Ages: adults

Pre-trip: September 19 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Pre-trip symposium: July 19 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Trip Date: September 15 • 8:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.

CanalWay Center

Garfield Park Nature Center

Trip Dates: October 14 -18

Trip: July 27 • 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Cost: $55

Fee: $625 (includes transportation, shuttle service, lodging and breakfast)

Garfield Park Nature Center (Transportation also available at Columbia Road RTA ParkN-Ride, located off of I-90, at 6:45 a.m.)

Garfield Park Nature Center

Fee: $55 (Includes transportation, lunch and snacks)

For Youth Only Youth Watersports Camp Splish, splash…I’m kayaking down the Cuyahoga? Learn to kayak, stand up paddleboard, row and paddle a dragon boat; build a boat using only cardboard and duck tape; and make your own water quality monitoring system. Spend the first two days of camp at Wendy Park on the water then join us at Rivergate, along the Cuyahoga River, learning to row with our partners at the Cleveland Rowing Foundation. You’ll also paddle a dragon boat in the Cuyahoga River and learn the history of this ancient sport during your last two days of camp.

Please bring a packed lunch. Mention seeing this in the July Emerald Necklace and the late fee is waived.

Ages: 12 - 15 years Dates/Times: July 16 - 19 • 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. or July 23 - 26 • 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ages: 10 - 12 years July 30 - Aug 2 • 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Wendy Park and Rivergate Fee: $195 (equipment included) 20

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Emerald Necklace, July 2012

Youth Kayaking & SUP Camp

Have fun on the water learning two new sports. We’ll explore nature from a new perspective as you learn to “walk on water” stand up paddleboard (SUP) style, then devote some time learning how to kayak. Be prepared to get wet as you learn paddle strokes, etiquette, and safety. Late fee applies after July 25.

Ages: 10 - 13 years Date/Time: August 9 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hinckley Lake Boathouse Fee: $45 (equipment included)

Youth Paddle: Lake

With the new school year starting, enjoy one last fun paddle around Hinckley Lake. You’ll learn basic paddling strokes before heading on the water. Be prepared for some exciting kayaking games! Late fee applies after July 30.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 10 - 15 years Date/Time: August 11 • 1 - 4 p.m.

Hinckley Lake Boathouse • Hinckley Reservation Fee: $25 (includes boats and equipment)

Youth Paddle: River

Leave the adults behind and join us for an easy trip along the Upper Cuyahoga River.

We’ll look for beaver, river otter, and other wildlife. You’re sure to find something exciting to tell your friends about on this three-mile section of calm, scenic river.

Late fee applies after August 10.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 10 - 15 years Date/Time: August 25 • 1 - 4 p.m.

Upper Cuyahoga River-Eldon Russell Park Fee: $25 (includes boats and equipment)

Programs are inclusive for all abilities

Institute of the Great Outdoors OUTDOOR RECREATION SKILLS Mountain Bike Lessons: Beginner Build basic skills to enjoy negotiating beginner level mountain bike trails with confidence. Discover how to prepare for a ride, avoid beginner pitfalls and find your limitations while having fun on the trail. Body position, shifting, braking, trail etiquette and “hills and holes” are just a few topics that will be covered. All participants must bring their own mountain bike and ensure that they are in good/safe working condition. We strongly recommend that the bike be fully serviced by a competent person. Helmets required. Late fee applies after July 3, 24, August 10 and 24 respectively.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 10 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

August 7 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

August 25 • 9 - 11 a.m.

Mountain Bike Lessons: Intermediate

This class is designed for mountain bike riders with a little experience who want to continue building skills. Learn techniques to increase speed and acquire skills for wheel hops, steep grades and “ride-able drop offs”. You’ll also learn to dial in your bike set-up, braking and cornering techniques, and more.

All participants must bring their own mountain bike and ensure that they are in good/safe working condition. We strongly recommend that the bike be fully serviced by a competent person.

Helmets required. Late fee applies after July 6, 13, and August 7 respectively.

Pre-requisite: completion of beginner class.

Ledges to Lake Adventure Race

Combine the thrills of Hinckley Reservation in this fun but challenging race. Start with a threemile run on the bridle trail then hop into your kayak or canoe and paddle two miles around Hinckley Lake.

After the lake portion, racers will road bike nine miles to the finish line. The course is perfect for both beginners and advanced racers.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult) September 22 Hinckley Reservation

Activity Level: moderate

Fees: (before September 3) Individual $55, Team $80, Relay $100 /

Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult)

(after September 3) Individual $75, Team $100, Relay $120

Dates/Times: July 21 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

July 28 • 9 - 11 a.m.

August 21 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Royalview Picnic Area Mill Stream Run Reservation

September 8 • 9 - 11 a.m.

Royalview Picnic Area Mill Stream Run Reservation

Fee: $20

Fee: $15

Beginner Backpacking Trip

GPS Treasure Hunt

Discover treasure in Garfield Park Reservation! Stop by Garfield Park Nature Center on the following dates for a brief lesson on how to use a GPS and then go out and search for hidden treasure. A limited number of GPS units will be available, so call to reserve a unit.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult) Dates/Times: July 15, August 25 Noon - 3 p.m.

Have you ever wanted to go backpacking but were nervous about going to the bathroom in the woods? Join us for an overnight trip to experience and learn about backpacking essentials including backcountry hygiene, cooking, safety, and more. Don’t worry; a port-a-john will be available for this introductory field-based class. Late fee applies after August 9.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 14 years & up (with participating adult)

August 15 • 5 - 8 p.m.

Pre-trip meeting: August 23 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Fee: $5

Garfield Park Nature Center Trip dates: September 1 • 1 p.m. September 2 • noon Hinckley Reservation Fee: $55

IGO also offers Team Building, Private Lessons and Group classes.

Contact us weekdays from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. to find out more at 216-341-1704.

To register for an IGO program, call 216-341-1704.

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Lake Erie Nature & Science Center As the brilliant summer sun warms our backs and encourages a season of outdoor exploration, join us for a few educational and entertaining programs that are perfect for the blossoming season.

Our Summer Activity Guide is brimming with wet, wild and out-of-this-world fun for the whole family – check it out at www.lensc.org or call 440-871-2900 for full program details and registration information.

‘Wonders of Wildlife’ Summer Camp

Tuesday - Friday, July 10 - 13 • 9 a.m. - Noon.

Fee: $175/child, members $150/child (for children who have completed Grades 1 - 4) Get outside and explore the variety of wonderful wildlife that shares our world with us. Each day will focus on live animals and the amazing things that they do to survive. Experience hands on encounters with Center wildlife. Hike your favorite trails and explore new ones. Enjoy Huntington Reservation and play animal themed games with your camp friends. You might even get a chance to video some of your summer camp adventures to share with other campers and camp staff. Pre-registration required.

Animals a la Mode

Friday, July 13 • 6:30 p.m.

Fee: $5/person (children 1 & under FREE) Live animals (and maybe YOU) take center stage in this upbeat, interactive and educational show. The whole family will be captivated as Miss Maggie presents our collection of furry, feathered and scaled creatures. And the fun doesn’t stop there cap it all off with a serving of delicious ice cream! Pre-registration required.

Wanderers Field Biology Overnight Camp Monday - Friday, July 16 – 20 (9 a.m. Monday - 5 p.m. Friday) Fee: $500/child, members $450/child (for children who have completed Grades 6 - 9 and are ages 12–15)

Wanderers, we have some exciting new places for you to discover this year! We will spend our first day exploring natural waterfalls and trails in the Cuyahoga Valley, then overnight in the national park’s recently acquired Stanford Youth Hostel!

After an adventure in Hinckley Reservation, Wednesday will find us exploring the far reaches of Geauga County, ending up at the brand new Observatory Park, where we will explore the heavens with telescopes and spend the night camping in tents. Thursday we will be stomping in the clear, cool, clean waters of the gorgeous, wildlife-filled Stebbins Gulch of Holden Arboretum! We will explore the trails, streams and carvings of South Chagrin Reservation and swim at Fairport Harbor.

We’ll spend a night in the Punderson State Park cabins and, of course, we’ll end our fabulous tour of northeast Ohio’s natural history right back at the Center! Pre-registration required.

Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs * Twinkle Tots

Monthly SkyQuest: Astronauts on the Moon

Thursdays & Saturdays • 11 a.m.

Fee: $1/person (including infants) This is a program designed to introduce the youngest astronomer in your family to the planetarium. Watch lights dance across the sky, see some magic and learn what’s new in space. Like the nighttime sky, our program changes with the seasons!

Children should be able to sit for about 15 minutes. Best for ages 0 – 2.

Stellar Stars

Wednesdays • 11 a.m.

Saturdays • Noon Fee: $2/person Grab your passport, blast off and travel through space to explore a new destination in our solar system. Learn about a different picture in the stars each week. Watch lights moving to music, and take home a coloring page. Complete your passport and receive a special treat! Great for ages 3 - 5.

Saturdays, July 7, 14, 21, and 28 • 1:30 p.m.

Saturdays, July 7 & 21 p.m.

Fee: $3/person

43 years ago this month, humans first walked on the Moon. What did we learn from those six Americans who visited our celestial neighbor and what have we learned since?

Join us this month as we celebrate perhaps humankind’s most remarkable technological achievement and talk about what to expect next in the exploration of Earth’s only known natural satellite. Recommended for ages 7 and up.

Sunday Under the Stars

Sundays • 11 a.m., Noon & 1 p.m.

Fee: $2/person Join us for an out-of-this-world experience the whole family can enjoy! We’ll start with a demonstration of how our planetarium really is a “magical” place for our youngest visitors and then talk about a special subject of interest for all ages. We’ll conclude with a look at what’s going on in the sky tonight. Best for ages 2 and up.

Telescope Viewing Saturdays, July 7 & 21 Free

Join us in the field outside the Center as we explore the night sky! Telescope viewing takes place following the evening Monthly SkyQuest program on the first and third Saturdays of every month, weather permitting.

*Planetarium seating is first-come, first-served. Door closes promptly and no one will be admitted after posted program start time.

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

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Emerald Necklace, July 2012

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July Events by Location

•

Monthly Morning with the Birds

Cleveland Metroparks is celebrating the “Year of the Pollinator.”

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

Off-site programs

14 • Biking the Back Roads 29 • BIKE - TRAIN - BIKE!

(BeR) Bedford Reservation

7 • Brunch in the Park 8 • Creek Walk 14 • Extreme Hike in Bedford 17 • Bedford Meadow Walk 22 • Tour de Necklace 28 • Woodlands of Bedford: Annual Tinker’s Creek Stream Walk 29 • Beat the Heat Hike

(BCR) Big Creek Reservation 11 • Pond Dipping

(BrR) Brecksville Reservation 15 • Critters in the Creek 28 • Dog Days

(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 6 • For Women Only 7 • Flowers and Fruits of Summer 27 • Extreme Hiking

(BR) Brookside Reservation

21 • BrookStock - A Celebration of Music & Nature

(CWC) CanalWay Center

Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Off E. 49th St., Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Hts. 216-206-1000 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 216-206-1003 1 - 31 • Hunt of the Month 1 - 8/31 • Artist’s Display 6 • 13 • 27 • CanalWay Cart Tours - Northern Route 7 • 14 • CanalWay Cart Tours - Southern Route 10 • 31 • What’s Growing at CanalWay? 13 • Stroller School: Down on the Farm 13 • CanalWay Sunset Concert 14 • MAPS Naturalist Program 14 • Acoustic Players Circle 18 • Family Adventure - Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal 20 • Treasure Hunt Adventure - GPS for Beginners of All Ages 27 • Preschool: Camouflage 27 • Questing - An Introduction to Adventure!

(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 21 • Euclid Creek Reservation Rocks

(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance, Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 3 • Nature Detecting 10 • Birds and Bugs 15 • Flying Squirrels 20 • Nature’s Olympics 24 • Summer Morning Hike 27 • Grasshopper Safari

(HiR) Hinckley Reservation

Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store Open daily 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., 330-278-2160 3 • Voyageur Full Moon Paddle 15 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle 17 • Hiking for the Young at Heart 20 • Dive-In Movie I: Elf 23 - 27 • American Red Cross Junior Lifeguarding

(HuR) Huntington Reservation 21 • Microplastic Beach Sampling 28 • Volunteer to Adopt-A-Beach

(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation 7 • 8 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle 25 • Salamander Hunt

(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation

1 • Sunday Bird Walk 6 • 20 • North Chagrin Reservation Trail 8 • Morning in the Meadow 24 • Concert in the Park 28 • Home is Where the Water Is

(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-449-0511 2 - 28 • Doug West Photography Show 7 • Carousel Hike 11 • Mid-Week After Work Hike 13 • Friday Movie Night: Coral Seas 14 • Nature at Night 21 • Dog Hike 22 • Greening Our Home 24 • Stroller Science 25 • Trail Trackers - Wetlands 27 • North Chagrin Reservation Trail 27 • Late Nights with Nature 29 • Snake Hunt!

Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 2 • 16 • Bi-monthly Meeting

(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 14 • 21 • MAPS Banding Program 19 • Bike the Canal

(RRR) Rocky River Reservation

1 • Insect Safari 5 • 12 • 19 • 26 • Stinchcomb Concert Series 13 • 27 • Cedar Valley Square Dance 14 • Summer Night Flashers 15 • Good Old Summertime 21 • Campfire 28 • Meadow Exploration 31 • A Grand Picnic

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.

(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 44070 440-734-6660 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-734-7576 1 - 29 • Gallery Wall: Gary Sluzewski Pastels 3 • Full Moon Hike 6 • Pond Walk 7 • Salute to Snakes 7 • Snakes of the World 8 • Rocky River Ramble 10 • Books Alive! Hoot 12 • Walk n’ Chalk 12 • Inviting the Planet to Dinner: Tea 14 • Second Saturday Storytelling: Tales from the Silk Road 16 • 17 • Little Explorers: Snakes 17 • Rain Barrel Workshop 18 • 19 • Junior Explorers: Reptiles and Amphibians 21 • Pond Exploration 24 • Books Alive! The Trumpet of the Swan 25 • 26 • 27 • Junior Eco Chefs 26 • 27 • Beginning Explorers: Animal Adventures 28 • Pollinator Power 28 • The Buzz on Bees 28 • Cinema Saturday Night: America’s Wildest Refuge - Arctic National Wildlife Refuge 29 • Welcome to the (Milkweed) Neighborhood 29 • School of the Wilds: Insect Song 30 • Look Under Logs Cuyahoga Astronomical Association 9 • Monthly Meeting Cleveland Fishing Association 16 • Monthly Meeting

(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation

ook About Lodge L Open for scheduled programs. Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91, Bentleyville 440-247-7075 5 • 12 • 19 • 26 • Story Time at the Arboretum 7 • Daring and Dangerous 7 • Great American Campout 14 • 24 • Artist in the Park 14 • Nature Journaling Through the Seasons 15 • One Trail, Twelve Times 15 • Look About Lodge Summer Concert: The Chardon Polka Band 21 • Nature Writing: Butterflies 22 • Ravine Hike for Adults 22 • Look About Lodge Summer Concert: The Kharma Kings 27 • “Drawn” to the Dark: Moth Art 28 • Drawing Big Bugs and Blooms 28 • S’more Extravaganza 29 • Recycled Crafternoon 29 • Puppets at the Arboretum 29 • Look About Lodge Silkscreening 29 • Look About Lodge Summer Concert: Erie Height Brass Ensemble Cleveland Natural Science Club 21 • Monthly Meeting

(WCR) West Creek Reservation 12 • Birds and Bugs 31 • Hidden Story Hike

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July

Events Calendar 1 • Sunday Sunday Bird Walk

July brings fledglings into the mix of birds we may find.

Join us as we search out these new arrivals and the summer plumages that July brings.

Some binoculars will be available to borrow.

8 - 10 a.m. NCR Wilson Mills Rd. parking lot Ages: adults & teens Terrain: one hill, 2 miles Hunt of the Month

Summer is here, it is time to go outside and ride bikes! We have hidden 20 bikes throughout CanalWay Center. See how many you can find and then go outside for a bike ride along the Towpath. Through July 31.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC Artist’s Display

Cari Miller likes to make art that makes people smile.

Her work is distinguished by its bright colors and simplified, often whimsical images. Miller often uses found objects to create art that is as “green” as it is fun. Through August 31.

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.

Insect Safari

The air is alive with insects looking for flowers, and pollination is the name of the game. Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski and gently catch some of these beautiful creatures yourself to get an upclose and personal view.

2 - 3:30 p.m. RRR Lewis Rd. Riding Ring parking lot Terrain: flat, muddy, 0.5 mile 440-734-6660

2 • Monday Doug West Photography Show

Doug has been a bird photographer since 2006. His images have appeared in local publications, calendars, Birds and Bloom Magazine, Popular Photography and the North American Nature Photographers Association.

Doug’s photography can be viewed through July 28.

9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. NCNC

Gallery Wall: Gary Sluzewski

Rivers flow in nature and art. View the river, then view rivers interpreted through art on our Gallery Wall by Artist Gary Sluzewski. A regular contributor to the M.D. Garage Gallery in CVNP. Sluzewski’s pastels are exceptional. Through July 29.

9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. RRNC

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Emerald Necklace, July 2012

Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East

Voyageur Full Moon Paddle

Nature’s Shadows and Silhouettes - Let’s see three of your best pictures where the shadow or silhouette is the main theme. Remember to keep it natural.

8 - 10 p.m. NCNC

This historic program offers three fantastic experiences: an evening paddle in a 34-ft canoe, a history lesson on the Fur Trade, and a unique view of a full moon on Hinckley Lake, hosted by Cleveland Metroparks living history voyageurs.

6 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 9 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Ages: individuals, families, and groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530

3 • Tuesday Nature Detecting

Are you seeing everything that you could be while you are outside? Take part in a hike and nature scavenger hunt to find out. Naturalist Natalie Moore will share with you what some of our findings can tell us about our local animals and forests.

3 - 4:30 p.m. GPNC Ages: 8 years & up Terrain: easy, 1.2 miles

Full Moon Hike

The forest comes alive on summer evenings!

Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski to search out the bugs, bats, and beavers that come out to play as the sun goes down.

8:30 - 10 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, some stairs, 1.5 miles

5 • Thursday Story Time at the Arboretum

Kids can join a naturalist at the Arboretum in South Chagrin Reservation for a story and some nature fun!

Plan on coming early or staying after for some outdoor playtime with friends.

Weather permitting.

11 a.m. SCR The Arboretum Stinchcomb Concert Series The GeezeCats (see page 6 for details)

6 • Friday North Chagrin Reservation Trail

Get to know the trails in North Chagrin Reservation with Naturalist Angelec Hillsman. This morning we will hike bridle, Squire’s Lane, Hemlock, Scenic Loop and White Pine Loop trails.

9:30 a.m. - noon NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: moderate, boardwalk, 5 - 6 miles Pond Walk

Explore part of West Channel Pond from the trail. We will be looking for turtles, frogs and birds that live around the pond on this easy hike and get credit for a Walking Works hike.

10 - 11 a.m. RRNC Terrain: some steps, 0.5 mile For Women Only

Come join other women for exercise and camaraderie as we recharge after a busy week.

Today’s hike will take us through several forest types as we trek along the Hemlock Loop Trail and get credit for a Walking Works hike.

10 a.m. - noon BNC Ages: adult women Terrain: moderate, hills, 3 miles

CanalWay Cart Tours Northern Route

If you have found the terrain too difficult for walking but would like to see the park, join us for one of these tours focusing on the natural and cultural history of the northern Cuyahoga River valley. Each tour accommodates seven passengers and lasts one hour.

10:30 a.m. or noon CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000 North Chagrin Reservation Trail

Get to know the trails in North Chagrin Reservation with Naturalist Angelec Hillsman.

This afternoon we will hike bridle, Buckeye, Castle Valley and Squire’s Lane trails.

2 - 4:30 p.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: hilly, rugged, 5 miles

7 • Saturday Flowers and Fruits of Summer

The fireworks may be over, but there are still plenty of colorful displays in nature.

This hike with Naturalist Debra Shankland will feature the interesting life cycles of spring and summer wildflowers.

10 a.m. - noon BNC Terrain: hills, 2.5 miles CanalWay Cart Tours Southern Route

For those who have been on our northern tour and want to see more of the reservation, this cart tour takes you south along the towpath. We will focus on the natural and cultural history of the area.

Each tour accommodates seven passengers.

10:30 a.m. or noon CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000

Brunch in the Park

Daring and Dangerous

Join us for a hike into the past at Viaduct Park. We will search for the sights and sounds of summer along our way. Bring your own place setting to enjoy brunch upon our return to the picnic area.

10:30 a.m. - noon BeR Willis Picnic Area Terrain: easy, 0.6 mile Register beginning July 1 216-341-3152

This year-long series will follow the example of the books, The Daring Book for Girls and The Dangerous Book for Boys.

This month we’ll spend an evening camping out in South Chagrin Reservation.

Additional instructions will be provided when you register.

3 p.m. SCR Ages: 7 - 12 years with adult Fee: $20/child; $15/adult Register by July 3 440-247-7075

Voyageur Canoe Paddle

Join Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters for an hour-long paddle in a BIG canoe. This living history program gives you a chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe, sing and hear tales from fur trade men of long ago. A perfect program for those who seek historic adventure!

11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. MSRR Wallace Lake Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530 Salute to Snakes!

Celebrate the slithery ones today at Rocky River Nature Center. Live animals, hikes, crafts, and more make this a fun day for the whole family!

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. RRNC Carousel Hike

Experience the ups and downs of the trails here at North Chagrin Reservation.

We’ll trek through a beechmaple forest, catch aweinspiring views from one of our gorges and wrap it up with an uphill stair climb on the Castle Valley trail.

12:30 - 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: bridle trails, hills, 4 miles Snakes of the World

What’s the biggest snake in the world? The most venomous? How do they swallow such huge meals whole?

You’ll find the answers to these questions and more during this indoor presentation.

1 - 2 p.m. RRNC

Great American Campout

Spend an evening camping out in South Chagrin Reservation. We’ll send you a list of everything you’ll need to bring, including a tent, when you register. We’ll enjoy dinner, fun outdoor activities, a night hike, camping out and breakfast around the fire.

5 p.m. SCR Ages: 7 years & up with adult Fee: $15 per person Register by July 3 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com

8 • Sunday Rocky River Ramble

Exercise body and mind on a hike through the trails and up and down the hills near Rocky River Nature Center.

Learn about the technique of walking meditation and let nature guide you toward greater mindfulness of the world around you.

8 - 10:30 a.m. RRNC Ages: adults Terrain: flat, hills, stairs, 3 miles Morning in the Meadow

Grab your morning brew and enjoy a walk along the all purpose trail with Naturalist Mindy Murdock. We’ll stop along the way to appreciate our meadow wildflowers, celebrate the summer morning and hope to glimpse bluebirds leaving their nest.

9 - 11 a.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: paved trail, easy, 3 - 3.5 miles

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Creek Walk

Books Alive! Hoot

Enjoy the cool water as we hike a section of Tinker’s Creek. Wear shoes and clothes to get wet as we will be in the water exploring the banks and turning rocks in search of salamanders.

1:30 - 3 p.m. BeR Bridal Veil Falls parking lot Terrain: moderate, wet rocks 216-341-3152

Owls, habitat, and a Florida mystery are all rolled into this exciting story by Carl Hiaasen. Read the book, then join Naturalist Kathy Schmidt to learn more about owls and how we can help create habitat for Ohio wildlife.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. RRNC Ages: 8 - 12 years Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile Register beginning June 26 440-734-6660

Voyageur Canoe Paddle (see 7/7 for details)

11 • Wednesday

9 • Monday Cuyahoga Astronomical Association

Double Stars - Susan Petsche revisits double stars. Most stars are not like our sun. They are members of groups and they share a common gravitational center with other stars. Learn about the beautiful color variety found among these double stars and learn the best ways to observe them.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC

10 • Tuesday What’s Growing at CanalWay?

See our newly planted butterfly, container, shade, and vegetable gardens. Learn about the plants and how you can help us maintain them. If you would like to help regularly, we can get you on your way to becoming a registered volunteer. Cancelled if raining.

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. CWC Ages: 16 years - adult

Pond Dipping

Stop by Lake Abram pond dipping deck and see what creatures you can find living in the water. Naturalists John Miller and Sharon Hosko will provide instructions and pond dipping nets. Stay for a few minutes or a few hours.

10 a.m. - noon BCR Lake Abram Trailhead Terrain: flat, wet, .02 mile 440-526-1012 Mid-Week After Work Hike

Unwind after sitting at your desk all day with an invigorating after work hike. We’ll trek a portion of the bridle trail towards Ox Lane and loop back on Castle Valley trail.

5:30 - 7 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults Terrain: dirt trail, hills, stairs 2.5 miles

Birds and Bugs

The forest, ponds and creeks of Garfield Park Reservation provide an urban refuge for nearly 30 species of nesting birds. Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield to seek out orioles, kingbirds, grosbeaks and more. We’ll keep an eye out for the horde of multi-colored butterflies and dragonflies.

Binoculars recommended.

9:30 - 11 a.m. GPNC Terrain: easy, 1 mile

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Emerald Necklace, July 2012

12 • Thursday Birds and Bugs

The forests, grasslands, and riparian corridor of West Creek provide a refuge for nearly 50 species of nesting birds, including spotted sandpiper, belted kingfisher, scarlet tanager, and rose-breasted grosbeak. Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield to seek out songbirds on breeding territories and multi-colored butterflies and dragonflies too.

9 - 10:30 a.m. WCR Ages: adults, young adults Terrain: moderate trails but slow pace, 1.5 miles 216-341-9225 Walk n’ Chalk

Explore Fort Hill Trail for signs of animal life. We’ll look high and low for clues like tracks, scat, and calls. When we return to the nature center, you can make a chalk drawing of your favorite animal for all to see. Earn credit towards your Walking Works shield.

10 - 11:30 a.m. RRNC Ages: 7 - 12 years Terrain: flat, stairs, 1.5 miles

Inviting the Planet to Dinner: Tea

Whether iced or hot, herbal or black, tea has ancient appeal. Learn about fair trade organic tea from teahouse master and certified herbologist, Sarah Hurt. Her local business, t by Sarah, provides hand blended teas and tisanes for our healthy lifestyle.

Tastings are tea inspired.

7 - 8:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Fee: $10 (tastings) Register beginning June 25 440-734-6660 Stinchcomb Memorial Concert Series: Oolong Guru’s (see page 6 for details) Story Time at the Arboretum (see 7/5 for details)

13 • Friday Stroller School: Down on the Farm

Let’s stroll down to the old farming area in the valley and see what used to live and grow here. We will have fun with a story, song, puppets and more! Children must be in a stroller. In case of rain we will stay indoors.

10 - 11:15 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000

Friday Movie Night: Coral Seas

Be prepared for the colorful world of the coral reefs, which some have nicknamed the rainforests of the sea.

Narrated by Naturalist David Attenborough witness how coral reefs are formed, colorful schools of fish battle for territory, the haunting songs of humpback whales and more.

7:30 - 8:45 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, 9 years & over with adult CanalWay Sunset Concert Haywire

If Rockabilly and Roots Rock Band sound is your thing, then CanalWay Center is where you need to be. This Northeast Ohio band Haywire will give tribute to Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash, along with their own original upbeat tunes. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on.

7:30 - 9 p.m. CWC Cedar Valley Square Dance

Grab a partner or join another solo dancer to do-si-do on the grounds of Frostville Museum.

Round and line dances for everyone make this a terrific event for family, friends and neighbors as Frank Koenig calls the squares and teaches the moves. Refreshments available.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRR Frostville Museum 440-734-6660 CanalWay Cart Tours Northern Route (see 7/6 for details)

14 • Saturday MAPS Banding Programs

Join us along the Lower 40 Loop Trail as we catch and band summer resident birds such as gray catbirds and yellow warblers. The birds are more active in the early morning so the earlier you stop by the better. Banding will be canceled due to rain.

7 - 11 a.m. OECR Terrain: one hill 216-206-1000

MAPS Naturalist Program

Meet a naturalist at CanalWay Center bright and early to hike down to the MAPS site.

We will see what birds are nesting in our valley this summer. We will visit with the bird banders and answer your banding questions.

9 - 10 a.m. CWC Terrain: one hill 216-206-1000 Extreme Hike in Bedford

Join Naturalist Valerie Fetzer for a long hike in Bedford Reservation. During this loop hike, we will tour spectacular scenery and tackle challenging terrain. We will hike the north and south sides of Tinker’s Creek. Come prepared with appropriate footwear, snacks, and plenty of water.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. BeR Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Terrain: hills, creek crossing, 8 miles 440-734-6660 Biking the Back Roads Mill Creek MetroParks Bikeway

This picturesque bikeway will take us through the center of beautiful Mahoning County, past nature preserves, a MetroParks farm, and many historic remnants of the old Erie Railroad. Like the other rides, we will head off the Bikeway and explore the side roads.

9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Terrain: 30 miles Registration required 440-786-8530 Artist in the Park

Naturalist-Artist Stefanie Verish will be at Wiley Creek, sketching the wildlife. Stop by for a look, or bring your own supplies and join her in an artistic endeavor. Weather permitting.

10 a.m. - noon SCR Jackson Field

Nature Journaling Through the Seasons

We will take note of the subtle and not-so-subtle changes as the seasons take their turn and reflect on our observations in a nature journal of our own creation. You may want to bring your camera and a pair of binoculars.

1 - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years - adult Fee: $20 (first-time participants only) Terrain: some hills, slow-paced Register by July 12 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Acoustic Players Circle

Join this well-established player’s circle to swap songs, chords and styles of playing. Professional abilities not needed, just a desire to have fun and learn from fellow musicians. Listeners are always welcome. Theme for this month: Celebrating Woody. (This year would’ve been Woody Guthrie’s 100th birthday.)

1 - 3 p.m. CWC Second Saturday Storytelling

Tales from the Silk Road Caravans carrying silk, Persian carpets, spices and other exotic goods along the ancient Silk Road also carried travelers. Traditional tales shared at firesides travelled from China to the Black Sea, inspiring tonight’s presentation by the Hassanali Family Storytellers.

Following refreshments, you may share a tale.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults, older students Summer Night Flashers

Lightning bugs, alias fireflies, are one of summer’s wonders. Join Naturalist Gretchen Motts to discover what makes them so interesting. Bring a plastic jar to catch several fireflies. At the end of the evening, we will have a special ceremony as we release the ones we captured.

8 - 9:30 p.m. RRR Lagoon Picnic Area Ages: 3 years & up with adult Register beginning June 29 440-734-6660

CanalWay Cart Tours Southern Route (see 7/7 for details) Nature at Night (see page 6 for details)

15 • Sunday Voyageur Canoe Paddle

Join Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters for an hour-long paddle in a BIG canoe. This living history program gives you a chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe, sing and hear tales of fur trade men of long ago. A perfect program for those who seek historic adventure!

11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Critters in the Creek

There is an amazing diversity of life in our creeks! Spend the afternoon in Chippewa Creek. We’ll use nets to catch (and release) fish, salamanders and other aquatic creatures. Be prepared to get wet.

1 - 3 p.m. BrR Plateau Picnic Area Terrain: wet, slippery, 0.5 mile Register beginning July 1 440-526-1012 One Trail, Twelve Times

Seasons come and go but do we really pay attention to nature’s changing landscape? Walk with Naturalist Barb Holtz to discover how the plant and animal life on one trail transforms over the course of a year.

1:30 - 3:30 p.m. SCR Quarry Rock Picnic Area Terrain: hilly, 2 miles Flying Squirrels

Our new resident “Sail” will make his debut in this intriguing program. Don’t miss your chance to find out about this extraordinary mammal’s behavior and its amazing ability to “fly.”

2 - 3:30 p.m. GPNC

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Look About Lodge Summer Concert: The Chardon Polka Band

The Chardon Polka Band plays traditional polkas reminiscent of The Lawrence Welk Show, but sometimes morphs into punk-rock renditions of the same songs. A little something for every age. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs - picnics welcome! Free but donations welcome.

6 - 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Good Old Summertime (see page 6 for details)

16 • Monday Little Explorers

Snakes are amazing reptiles.

They are covered with scales and have unusual ways to eat and move. Learn more about them through a story, activities, simple craft and walk to see their habitat.

10 - 11:15 a.m. or 1 - 2:15 p.m. RRNC Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult Terrain: some steps, 0.5 mile Register beginning July 2 440-734-6660 Cleveland Fishing Association

Lake Erie Conditions for Fishing - Kevin Kayle, Ohio Department of Resources, discusses the condition of Lake Erie and the algae problem on Lake Erie last year. He will tell of plans to counter the algae and describe other Lake Erie issues.

7 - 8:30 p.m. RRNC Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East

Greater Impact Using Two Colors - Here’s the challenge…Only two colors allowed to create the wow! Bring in three pictures and discuss how you handled each.

8 - 10 p.m. NCNC

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17 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart

There’s nothing quite like the beauty of Hinckley Lake in the morning. Experience it for yourself on this naturalistguided hike and get credit for a Walking Works hike.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store parking lot Terrain: moderate, 3.5 miles 440-526-1012 Bedford Meadow Walk

Meet Naturalist Beth Whiteley at the end of Old Button Road and explore the meadows of Circle Emerald. As we hike we will be looking for signs of wildlife including birds, dragonflies and butterflies that are commonly found in this grassy area.

10 - 11:30 a.m. BeR Circle Emerald Field 216-341-3152 Rain Barrel Workshop

Make your own rain barrel to collect and store rainwater that would otherwise be lost to runoff or diverted to a storm drain. Use collected water to water lawns and gardens. Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District’s Jared Bartley guides you.

6:30 - 8 p.m. RRNC Fee: $60 (barrel/all parts) Register by July 12 440-734-6660 Little Explorers (see 7/16 for details)

18 • Wednesday Junior Explorers: Reptiles and Amphibians

Join us for two days of exploration, July 18 and 19. While here, you will learn about these fascinating creatures and then have the opportunity to search for them in their natural habitat. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet and muddy.

10 a.m. - noon RRNC Ages: 8 - 9 years Register beginning July 2 440-734-6660

Emerald Necklace, July 2012

Family Adventure Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal

Doug Kusak leads a history/nature bicycle adventure on Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation’s all purpose trail.

We’ll travel at a leisurely, family-friendly pace as we pedal north to the Overlook.

Helmet required.

7 - 9 p.m. CWC Terrain: easy to moderate, paved, 3 miles Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000

19 • Thursday Bike the Canal

Join Jill and Doug to bike the entire length of Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation. We will break for ice cream at the turnaround point - bring your own money. Limited rentals available - call for details.

6 - 9 p.m. OECR Harvard Rd. parking lot Fee: $1 Terrain: all purpose trail, one hill, 12 miles Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000 Junior Explorers: Reptiles and Amphibians (see 7/18 for details) Story Time at the Arboretum (see 7/5 for details) Stinchcomb Concert Series Abbey Road (see page 6 for details)

20 • Friday

Treasure Hunt Adventure - GPS for Beginners of All Ages

Want to learn how to use a handheld GPS? Doug Kusak teaches you how. He hides stuff, you find it. Bring your handheld GPS or borrow one of ours (ID required).

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000 Nature’s Olympics

Become a Nature Olympian at Garfield Park. Take part in hikes, games, and activities that challenge you to work with your fellow “Olympians” in order to take the gold.

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. GPNC Ages: 8 - 12 years Register between July 1 - 18 216-341-3152 Dive-In Movie I: Elf (see page 9 for details)

21 • Saturday Microplastic Beach Sampling

Join Dr. Marcus Eriksen from The 5 Gyres Institute as he demonstrates how to sample small bits of plastic, or microplastics, on the beach. Learn how our beaches compare to other Great Lake beaches and how to prevent plastic pollution on our beaches and in the lake.

9 - 11 a.m. HuR Huntington Beach Water Tower Terrain: stairs, sand

North Chagrin Reservation Trail

Nature Writing: Butterflies

Get to know the trails in North Chagrin Reservation with Naturalist Angelec Hillsman. Today we will hike Foster’s Run, Buckeye and Sylvan Loop trails.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. NCR A.B. Williams Memorial Woods parking lot Terrain: hilly, moderate, 4.5 miles

Butterflies bring beauty via their scaled wings and serve as pollinators. What in nature equals the magic of caterpillars packaging themselves inside a chrysalis for dramatic emergence as butterflies?

Writers Jenny Clark and Linda Tuthill will lead us through writing prompts about butterflies and their life stories.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 16 years - adult Fee: $25 Terrain: easy, 0.5 mile Register by July 18 440-247-7075

Dog Hike

Bring your best friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. We’ll hike the wooded trails of North Chagrin Reservation. Dogs must be leashed.

10 - 11:30 a.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, 2 - 3 miles Euclid Creek Reservation Rocks

Once famous for its bluestone quarry, there are remnants of the quarry days still to be seen. We’ll hike into seldomtraveled areas to see a unique rock formation and larger pieces of sandstone. Earn credit towards your Walking Works shield.

1 - 2:30 p.m. ECR Welsh Woods Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: uphill, rocky, 2 miles 440-473-3370 Pond Exploration

Stop by during the hours below to learn more about the creatures that live in West Channel Pond. You will have an opportunity to catch them yourself and see them up close.

1 - 3 p.m. RRNC Campfire

Meet at Rocky River’s Trailside Amphitheater (along the trail behind the nature center) for a campfire with stories and songs. Singers Gus and Kathy Ubaldi will join us tonight.

When the fire dies down, we will gather around to roast marshmallows.

7 - 8:15 p.m. RRNC 440-734-6660 Cleveland Natural Science Club

Come out for the early edition of the Cleveland Natural Science Club and bring the kids! Jungle Bob Tuma is bringing a variety of animals with him to introduce to us!

4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge MAPS Banding Programs (see 7/14 for details) BrookStock A Celebration of Music & Nature (see page 2 for details)

22 • Sunday

23 • Monday

Tour de Necklace Bedford Reservation

American Red Cross Junior Lifeguarding

The July ride begins in Bedford Reservation at Viaduct Park where we will learn some of the early history of Bedford.

The ride continues through Bedford Reservation and onto the Akron-Cleveland Bike Trail. We will retrace our journey back to Viaduct Park.

9:30 a.m. BeR Viaduct Park Terrain: rolling hills, 18 miles Registration required 440-786-8530

This five-day program gives young adults a jumpstart into a lifeguarding job. It provides a foundation in aquatic knowledge, leadership, attitudes and a variety of lifesaving skills. Call for required prerequisites. Through July 27 - participants must attend all five days.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. HiR Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Ages: 11 - 15 years Fee: $58 ($38 Ledge Pool season pass holder) Register by July 18 440-331-8111

Greening Our Home

With rising energy costs and concerns over chemicals in our homes, this program focuses on simple ways to make your home not only cleaner but greener.

Participants will leave with information and several recipes for green cleaners.

1 - 2 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults Ravine Hike for Adults

Get your feet wet as we explore one of South Chagrin Reservation’s spectacular ravines. We’ll traipse along creek and hillside as we discover this unique habitat. A great way to stay cool on a summer afternoon.

1:30 - 3:30 p.m. SCR Squaw Rock Picnic Area parking lot Ages: adults Terrain: off-trail, moderate, 1.5 miles Look About Lodge Summer Concert: The Kharma Kings

The Karma Kings are a cover band, playing some of the great tunes of the past decades and popular hits of today.

Bring a blanket or lawn chairs - picnics welcome! Free but donations welcome.

6 - 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

24 • Tuesday Books Alive!

The Trumpet of the Swan

E.B. White’s fanciful story tells the tale of Louis the Trumpeter Swan. Read the book, then we’ll separate trumpeter swan fact from fiction in today’s program.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. RRNC Ages: 7 - 11 years Terrain: hilly, 1 mile Register beginning July 3 440-734-6660 Summer Morning Hike

Come hike beautiful Garfield Park on a summer morning!

As we walk we will learn the history of one of the oldest city parks in the Cleveland area.

10 - 11:30 a.m. GPNC Terrain: some paved, small hills, 2 miles Stroller Science

Beat the summer heat by cooling off in the creek. We’ll get our feet wet while searching for creek critters. We’ll use nets and other tools to catch and look at critters up close.

Bring wettable shoes (no sandals), a towel, and a change of clothes.

10:15 - 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: paved, easy, 0.5 mile Artist in the Park (see 7/14 for details)

Noon - 2 p.m.

Concert In The Park

Music of “Americana” will be presented by Hillcrest Concert Band, Paul Lawrence, conductor, and Madison Community Band, Brian Lago, conductor. There will be music from America’s history and different geographic areas, music that defines who we are, our dreams, hopes and ideals, and the beauty of our great land.

7:30 - 8:30 p.m. NCR Forest Picnic Area

25 • Wednesday Junior Eco Chefs

Connecting the planet to the plate can start with the kids.

Have your children join EcoChef Rae Endreola for three days of learning earth friendly kitchen tips and fun, healthy recipes inspired by the season. Class will end with a themed meal prepared for the parents.

9 a.m. - noon RRNC Ages: 9 - 12 years Fee: $45 (includes lunch) Register beginning June 28 440-734-6660 Trail Trackers - Wetlands

Wetlands are important to people as well as nature. We’ll explore Sanctuary Marsh with dip nets and other activities.

Discover what animals live in the marsh and where the water goes. Wear shoes that can get muddy.

10 - 11 a.m. or 1 - 2 p.m. NCNC Terrain: muddy, uneven, 0.5 mile Register beginning July 2 440-473-3370 Salamander Hunt

Join Naturalist Valerie Fetzer on an adventure through the wet areas of Mill Stream Run Reservation. We will search under every nook and cranny in search of stream-dwelling salamanders. If we are lucky, we will find other amphibians as well.

2 - 4 p.m. MSRR Royalview Trailhead Ages: 7 - 10 years Terrain: wet, muddy Register beginning July 5 440-734-6660

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26 • Thursday Beginning Explorers: Animal Adventurers

Can you camouflage like a frog, run fast as a deer, and make a den like a fox? Play games, hike, explore the stream, and muck in mud to discover secrets of life as an animal. Participants must attend both days.

10 a.m. - noon RRNC Ages: 5 - 7 years Register beginning July 6 440-734-6660 Stinchcomb Concert Series Brigid’s Cross (see page 6 for details) Story Time at the Arboretum (see 7/5 for details) Junior Eco Chefs (see 7/25 for details)

27 • Friday Extreme Hiking

Let’s get out and hit the trail.

We will stick to the forest and gorge to keep us a little cooler before the heat of the day really sets in.

8:30 - 11 a.m. BNC Terrain: rocky, hills, 6 - 7 miles Preschool: Camouflage

Bring your preschooler to CanalWay to learn about how animals use camouflage. We will find some animals are hiding in plain sight. And answer the question of why some animals are harder to find than others?

10 - 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 - 5 years with adult Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000 Grasshopper Safari

Bring your favorite grown up and come help us hunt through the meadow for grasshoppers! We will use sweep nets to catch, study and release these fascinating creatures. Back at the nature center we will do grasshopper-themed activities and make a fun grasshopper craft!

1 - 2:30 p.m. GPNC Ages: 4 - 7 with adult Registration required 216-341-3152 30

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Questing An Introduction to Adventure!

Doug Kusak introduces you to the realm of Questing - using rhyming clues, riddles, handdrawn maps, and your wits to find a hidden treasure (the Quest box) while discovering a sense of place. We’ll make a Quest stamp and go Questing together.

1 - 4 p.m. CWC Ages: 8 years - adult (under 18 with adult) Fee: $5 (for materials) Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000 North Chagrin Reservation Trail

Get to know the trails in North Chagrin Reservation with Naturalist Angelec Hillsman. Today we will hike Sanctuary Marsh, Buttermilk Falls, Wildlife Management and Hickory Fox trails.

2 - 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, 4 miles “Drawn” to the Dark: Moth Art

Moths have beautiful wing patterns often unappreciated, as these insects are nocturnal.

Come and learn more about these pollinators of the night, draw them in, and draw them again with chalk pastels.

8:30 - 10:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years - adult Register by July 23 440-247-7075 Late Nights with Nature

Most of us have seen butterflies, but moths tend to go unnoticed. Here is an opportunity to go “mothing” to meet these beautiful and underappreciated cousins of the butterfly. Walking along the trail, we’ll see which moths and other nocturnal creatures might make an appearance.

9 - 10:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, 8 years & older with adult Terrain: paved and dirt trails, 1.5 miles

Emerald Necklace, July 2012

CanalWay Cart Tours Northern Route (see 7/6 for details) Junior Eco Chefs (see 7/25 for details) Beginning Explorers: Animal Adventurers (see 7/26 for details) Cedar Valley Square Dance (see 7/13 for details)

28 • Saturday Woodlands of Bedford: Annual Tinker’s Creek Stream Walk

Join Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi on the annual in-stream exploration of this ‘green grand canyon.’ Wear wettable shoes and clothing as we will traverse the stream, floodplain and nearby habitats of this remote area of Tinker’s Creek Gorge. Bring lunch, camera and binoculars.

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. BeR Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Terrain: flat, wet, maybe muddy 216-341-3152 Pollinator Power

The Greater Cleveland Beekeeping Association will be on-hand all day with live bees to help you learn to love these sweet creatures!

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. RRNC Meadow Exploration

The meadow is home to many animals, both large and small. Join us as we search for our small yet beneficial creatures…the insects. We’ll learn to use a net so that we can get an up-close look before releasing them. Wear long pants.

10:30 - 11:30 a.m. RRR Lewis Rd. Riding Ring parking lot Terrain: tall grass, mud, 0.5 mile 440-734-6660 The Buzz on Bees

Bees pollinate and make possible most of the fruits and vegetables we enjoy. Stop down

at the nature center and learn about our dizzying variety of native bee species, and how intrinsically our diets are tied to these busy insects.

1 - 2 p.m. RRNC Terrain: flat, paved, 0.5 mile Volunteer to Adopt-A-Beach

A great hands-on way for businesses, schools, community groups, families and individuals to care for our Great Lake!

Adopters remove litter and conduct science-based beach health assessments. Data collected is used to evaluate existing conditions and make a change for the better.

1 - 2:30 p.m. HuR Huntington Beach Water Tower Terrain: stairs, sand, 0.25 mile 440-331-8111 Drawing Big Bugs and Blooms

Explore a summer field and find beauty in our flowers and pollinators. We will take tiny critters and draw them larger than life. Bring your own drawing supplies and a friend.

1 - 3 p.m. SCR Jackson Field Ages: 10 years - adults Home is Where the Water Is

Visit some natural water features found in North Chagrin Reservation. Some have flowing water while others are old river beds and beaver created wetlands. All provide homes to a wide variety of animals.

1:30 - 4 p.m. NCR Squires Castle parking lot Terrain: level, muddy, 4 miles Dog Days

The dog days of summer are in full swing so grab your favorite canine companion and celebrate with a hike through the woods!

3 - 4:30 p.m. BrR Station Road parking lot Register beginning July 2 440-526-1012

S’more Extravaganza

Come and enjoy an evening around the campfire. Sample some really crazy s’more treats, both sweet and savory!

7 - 9 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Fee: $5/person Register by July 25 440-247-7075 Cinema Saturday Night America’s Wildest Refuge: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

See a place where wilderness is experienced on an epic scale. With sweeping views of the refuge, its wildlife, and interviews with those who know it best, this is an ecological and historical portrait of a remote corner of Alaska.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults, older students

29 • Sunday Beat the Heat Hike

Enjoy the shade of the forest and the sound of tumbling water on this morning hike through Bedford Reservation.

We’ll walk the ridge overlooking Tinker’s Creek before heading down hill to take a closer look.

8 - 9:30 a.m. BeR Egbert Picnic Area Terrain: moderate, steep hill, 1.5 miles 216-341-3152 BIKE - TRAIN - BIKE!

Doug Kusak leads history adventures on bicycle and iron horse. We start at Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Rockside Road Station, ride the rails to Peninsula and then hop on the bikes to pedal.

8:30 a.m.

CVSR Rockside Road Station Ages: adults, 15 years & up with adult (helmet required) Fee: $5 (train fare & use of tour guide system) Terrain: paved, crushed stone, dirt, moderate pace, 13 miles Register beginning July 2 216-206-1000

Welcome to the (Milkweed) Neighborhood!

School of the Wilds: Insect Song

Sabotage, betrayal, lust- is this a Hollywood movie? No, it’s just the drama of life in the milkweed patch! Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski to learn about the fascinating invertebrate species that live in this wildflower community.

10 - 11 a.m. RRNC Ages: adults Terrain: flat, paved, 0.5 mile

Music Professor and Entomologist Lisa Rainsong has applied her trained ear to the world of insects and their diverse sounds. Learn how these little animals make such amazing songs. We will go outside after the lesson and apply what we learned.

2 - 5 p.m. RRNC Terrain: uneven meadow, 0.5 mile

Snake Hunt!

North Chagrin Reservation provides sanctuary for several fascinating Ohio snakes. Join Naturalist Jeff Riebe to search wetlands, fields and forests for Northern water snakes, Eastern garter snakes, and black rat snakes. Wear wettable clothing.

10 - 11:30 a.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, 1 - 2 miles Recycled Crafternoon

Come to Look About Lodge where instructor Linda Zolten Wood will guide you through a remarkable recycled craft using “plarn” (plastic yarn) and collage greeting cards. We will use old plastic grocery bags, magazines, and calendars. Participants encouraged to contribute their recyclables.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years - adult Fee: $15 Register by July 20 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Puppets at the Arboretum

Join us at the South Chagrin Reservation Arboretum for some puppet play! Watch some puppet shows, do some crafts and have plenty of time left over to enjoy some nature-play time. This is a free drop-in program, weather permitting.

Noon - 3 p.m. SCR The Arboretum

Look About Lodge Silkscreening

Bring a blank shirt to Look About Lodge and have one of our several designs silkscreened on while you’re enjoying the concert.

6 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Look About Lodge Summer Concert: Erie Heights Brass Ensemble

Reminiscent of band concerts under the community park gazebo, the talents of this brass ensemble are sure to get toes tapping. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs - picnics welcome! Free but donations welcome.

6 - 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

31 • Tuesday Hidden Story Hike

Cleveland Metroparks newest reservation is full of hidden stories. Discover a few of them with Naturalist Debra Shankland on this hike. Call for meeting location.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. WCR Terrain: moderate, hills, 3 miles 440-526-1012 A Grand Picnic

Grandparents are invited to bring a grandchild (or two) to a special picnic at the Lagoon Picnic Area. There will be games, special activities and a short hike, before we enjoy burgers and dogs.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m. RRR Lagoon Picnic Area Ages: 4 - 8 years with grandparent(s) Fee: $2/adult, $1/child Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile Register beginning July 16 440-734-6660 What’s Growing at CanalWay? (see 7/10 for details)

30 • Monday Look Under Logs!

All kinds of animals live under logs in the forest. Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski to get up close and personal with the likes of beetles, millipedes, sow bugs, and more!

Sturdy shoes and long pants are recommended for this offtrail adventure.

10 - 11:30 a.m. RRNC Ages: 3 years & up with adult Terrain: flat, off-trail, 0.5 mile

Cleveland Metroparks is proud to serve the following products.

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Cleveland, Ohio Permit No. 2911

4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY

printed on recycled paper

Cleveland Metroparks Directory Administrative Offices

216-635-3200/general Cleveland Metroparks information - 24-hours a day.

4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com 24-hour Job Hotline 216-635-3211 Office of the Executive Director 216-635-3214 Office of the Treasurer 216-635-3231 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.

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

Winter Recreation 216-635-3200

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

Golf

Golf Tee Reservations (24 hours) and directions, hours, fees etc.

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

Washington Reservation 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799

Outdoor Education

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

Outdoor Education Facilities CanalWay Center E. 49th Street entrance Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center 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 37374 Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 South Chagrin Reservation 440-247-7075 EarthWords Nature Shops CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store Hinckley 330-278-2160 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 NatureTracks Education Unit/EcoExplorers 216-341-1707 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-871-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 330-278-2160 Wallace Lake Off Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Quarry Rock Café

Swimming

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

Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs Achievement Centers for Children Camp Cheerful 440-238-6200 Mill Stream Run Reservation BAYarts Huntington Reservation 440-871-6543 www.bayarts.net Vento 440-835-4530 Brecksville Historical Society Brecksville Reservation 440-526-7165 Brecksville Stables Brecksville Reservation 440-526-6767 www.brecksvillestables.com Brooklyn Exchange Cabin Hinckley Reservation 330-577-8882 exchangecabin@gmail.com Chagrin Valley Trails and Riding Club South Chagrin Reservation 216-635-3200 Cleveland Archery Club 216-635-3200 Cleveland Natural Science Club 440-247-4005 or 440-247-0151 Hinckley Historical Society Hinckley Reservation 330-278-3159 Huntington Playhouse Huntington Reservation 440-871-8333 www.huntingtonplayhouse.com Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Intergrove Lodge 1-800-852-4474 www.gsneo.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Huntington Reservation 440-871-2900 www.lensc.org Olmsted Historical Society Rocky River Reservation 440-779-0280 www.olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides) www.valleyriding.org

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