Fontenelle Forest Oct - Dec Leaflet by Fontenelle Forest

Leaflet

The Newsletter of Fontenelle Forest October - December 2013

OCTOBER IS MEMBER APPRECIATION MONTH AT FONTENELLE FOREST

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

INFORMATION Phone: Web:

402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org

Officer s

Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Neale Woods

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North Bellevue, NE 68005

14323 Edith Marie Avenue Omaha, NE 68112

Thomas D. Stalnaker \ President Jim Hawkins \ President-Elect Angela Burmeister \ Secretary Ben Miller \ Treasurer Michael Berry \ Advisor

STAFF

Director s Angela Athy Catherine M. Barmettler Virginia Bowers Ann Christiansen Frank Comisar Ben Del Rosario David M. Dvorak Lorraine A. Egger Janice M. Fonda Paul J. Halbur Michael J. Hamilton Jon T. Hansen Christine Jacobsen Gary Johnson

St a ff Debra Beck

Janet Stander

Naturalist Jim Beebe

Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation

Ranger / NWNC Property Supervisor

Jamie Vann

Candy Bless

Naturalist

Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator

Ronnie Wells

Elizabeth Chalen

Manager of Programming and Outreach

Exhibits, Special Projects, and Events Coordinator

Linda Dennis

Deborah Woracek

Education Assistant

Manager of Summer Day Camps

H on or ar y Tr u stees Mogens Bay George F. Haddix Rhonda A. and Howard L. Hawks Gerry and Bruce Lauritzen Marilyn Mammel Nancy and Mike McCarthy Cynthia C. and Thomas F. McGowan Ann Pape Suzanne and Walter Scott Ann Stinson

Kareen Hickman

Development Associate Betsy Finch

Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation Gary Garabrandt

Ranger Renae Groves

Finance Staff Accountant Catherine Kuper

Educator Denise Lewis

Educator/Raptor Recovery Paul Lahowetz

Facilities Superintendent Matt Miller

Facilities Attendant Kate Murphy

Educator Josh Preister

Ranger / FFNC Property Supervisor Stacey Schmid-Coury

Public Relations Assistant Alex Shiffermiller

Visitor Service Supervisor Barb Shiffermiller

Manager of Customer Service Joan Soverns

Part-Time Educators Katie Aiello Kyle Anderson John Artherton Amy Campagna Julianne Carbonell Kathy Fischer Michelle Foss Sandy Gibbons Dianne Guinn Janie Helt Seth Krone-Keith Alex Martin Matt Miller Jo Murray Jean Neneman Bruce Noble Dorie Stone Lindsay Thomsen Chris Vosicka

OUR MISSION To provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature.

Visitor Services Assistants Helen Beebe Brian Mark Conover Nick Woodard

We want to inspire current and future generations to care for the natural world.

Manager of Donor Relations and Membership

October - December 2013 O

Howard J. Kaslow Kara Krehbiel Gerry Morrow Lauritzen Julie Liakos Bill Lydiatt Keith Navratil Athena Ramos Neal S. Ratzlaff Robert D. Rose Julee Sauer Levi Scheppers Laura Stoss Kristin Williams

MEMBERS ONLY Mem b e rs h i p B e ne f it s As a Fontenelle Forest Member, your benefits include: • FREE members-only events and other programming • 10% discount at The Gift Shop at Fontenelle Forest • FREE admission to Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods for 12 • Subscription to Fontenelle Forest’s newsletter “The Leaflet” months • Free or discounted admission to over 100 nature centers nation◊ 26 miles of marked trails within the extraordinary wide through ANCA Loess Hills • Every time you visit, two of your guests can receive ½ priced ◊ Two wheelchair accessible boardwalks with Missouri River admission and wetland views • Monthly discounts at attractions across the metro area with the ◊ Diverse ecosystems, hidden lakes, and rare wildflowers Metro Arts and Culture Pass ◊ A premier birding location with over 246 recorded species • Discounts on Summer Camps ◊ Family-friendly exhibits ◊ Acorn Acres: A forest playscape with nine exploration areas • Access to trails before and after hours ◊ Habitat Hollow for indoor play and learning For more details and information please check our website, fontenel◊ Unique entertainment options: critter encounters, guided leforest.org /membership hikes, children’s programs

Dea l A l e r t - M e tro A r ts & Cult ure Pass Use your Fontenelle Forest membership card to get discounts at local attractions across the metro. For more information go to facebook.com/metroartspass. Visit or contact the featured organizations below to take advantage!

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

The Rose Theater $10.00 tickets to “Robin Hood”

Strategic Air & Space Museum $10 Adult Admission (reg. $12/$11), $5 Child Admission (regularly $6)

Omaha Children’s Museum $1.00 off Admission (per person max 6)

Omaha Performing Arts 15% off Tickets to “The Sounds of Christmas” Use Code: ArtsPass (11/29/13 performance only)

DECEMBER The Durham Museum 10% off all Purchases in the Hitchcock Museum Shop Nebraskans For the Arts Buy One, Gift One. Buy an individual or friend membership, gift one of equal value

O c t o be r i s M e m be r Appre cia t io n M on th October is Member Appreciation Month!!! It’s an ENTIRE month dedicated to celebrating YOU! • Prizes and giveaways ◊ Enter to win a prize each time you visit the nature center - make sure to check in at the Front Desk to be entered. Winners will be drawn once a week throughout the month on Thursdays ◊ Once a week a Facebook Fontenelle Forest Fan will be chosen to receive a prize • Discounts ◊ 20% off in the Gift Shop ◊ FOUR of your guests can be admitted at half price each time you visit ◊ Gift Memberships are $5 off each level ◊ Referral bonus: if your friend signs up for a membership at the same time as you, you both receive an extra month on your membership • Exclusive Events at FFNC ◊ Oct. 3 Shakespeare on Tour – 12th Night 6-7:30pm —Featuring Nebraska Shakespeare ◊ Oct. 12 Trick or Treat in the Forest 2-7pm —Featuring Ballet Nebraska & Strategic Air and Space Museum ◊ Oct. 18 Community Art Unveiling 5:30-8pm —Featuring Girls Inc., Completely Kids, Arts for All, & Bart Vargas ◊ Oct. 26 Book Reading & Sculpture Reveal 11am-3pm —Featuring Kirk Vaughn-Robinson ◊ Oct. 31 Beer on the Boardwalk (21+) 5:30-8:00pm —Featuring Lucky Bucket Brewery and Backwoods Visit our website for details of the fun and festivities. Fontenelleforest.org/weloveyou. You won’t want to miss this!

October - December 2013

MEMBERS ONLY October 3 6:00p.m. - 7:30p.m. FFNC

October 12 2:00p.m. - 7:00p.m. FFNC $7 (includes food, trick or treat bag, games, prizes, & fun)

Shakespeare in the Forest: Featuring Nebraska Shakespeare Enjoy the autumn evening and free popcorn while watching Nebraska Shakespear Perform Shakespeare’s comedy “Twelth Night.” A post show discussion will be held immediately following the performance. Trick or Treat in the Forest **BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND** Join us for the most unique Trick or Treat experience—in the Forest! You’ll meet many of the critters who live here, and a few who are just visiting, as you stroll the boardwalk for all of your treats. New this year is our partnership with Ballet Nebraska, appearing as our animals, and Strategic Air and Space Museum, who will entertain us with an amazing science show. There will be food, a hay maze, games, prizes, treats, and entertainment! This is one event you will not want to miss! Come early to enjoy the food then get involved with the fun and games after or explore the games first and eat afterwards. Make your costume out of recycled materials and be entered to win a prize! Registration is required.

October 31 5:30p.m. - 8:00p.m. FFNC

Beer on the Boardwalk Come celebrate the final day of Member Appreciation Month and All Hallows’ Eve in style: the last chance to see the Green Revolution eco-zibit, beer sampling from a favorite local brewery-Lucky Bucket, snacks, fun, and music! Backwoods will be joining the festivities with demonstrations and give-a-ways. The evening will end with a Zombie Hike led by a mostly dead Naturalist for those adventurous souls. A top prize will be given for the best Nature Zombie costume. Must be 21 or over to attend. Registration is preferred.

December 14 Session 1 8:30a.m. – 9:30a.m. (peanut free) Session 2 10:00a.m. – 11:00a.m. Session 3 12:30p.m. – 1:30p.m. Session 4 2:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. FFNC $7 per Gingerbread House

Gingerbread Houses Bring your best architectural ideas to create a fabulous “Gingerbread House.” The building site, house, loads of candy construction materials, landscaping trees, and yard decorations are provided. Each session is limited to 15 houses so make your reservations early as this event fills up quickly!

October - December 2013 O

December 31 3:00p.m. - 5:00p.m. FFNC

Nature’s New Year’s Eve Join us as we celebrate the New Year with a family-friendly celebration. We will make our own noisemakers, learn what the animals do for winter, listen to a story or two, and go outside to hike and welcome in the year 2014 (with London time not our time).We will have a snack and toast the New Year with hot cocoa after our outdoor adventure. Hurry! Registration required. Space is limited.

PROGRAMS Programs are listed in chronological order October 2 6:30p.m. - 8:30p.m. WLC Leader(s): Eric Scholar

Night Hike in the Wetlands Join our naturalist for a walk in the wetlands. Practice using your deer ears and owl eyes to heighten your awareness as darkness falls. We will explore the world of crepuscular animals (those who come out at dawn and dusk) and search the wetlands for signs of night life. Please wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. No flashlights necessary.

October 3 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m. $12 per year FF members only FFNC

Bird Club Club member Eric Scholar will provide a review of the high and low points from the club’s recent trip to North Dakota. There will be two field trips in October. The first will occur at Hitchcock Nature Center north of Crescent Iowa on Saturday, October 12 when club members are invited to drop by the Hawk Watch any time between 9:00a.m. and 3:00p.m. The second trip will occur on Saturday, October 26 to Boyer Chute NWR and will focus on finding sparrows. Watch your Bird Club newsletter for more details.

October 6 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Clem Klaphake & Dianne Guinn

Family Sundays in the Forest: Missouri River Valley Raptor Migration – Aren’t Raptors Cool? Master Naturalist Clem Klaphake will discuss the migration of hawks, eagles, falcons, kites, and vultures that occurs every fall here in the Missouri River valley. As an experienced raptor watcher and counter, Clem will discuss these birds, their migration routes and when they are likely to pass through eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. A short musical video on raptors will be included. Following the presentation you will get to meet a live raptor up close with Master Naturalist Dianne Guinn.

October 8 9:45a.m. – 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Catherine Kuper

SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature One Hundred Years of the Forest In celebration of our Centennial year, Gary Garabrandt, former Director of Science & Stewardship, will present a program about the history of Fontenelle Forest. This is sure to be an entertaining and enlightening program. He will include artifacts with his program.

JUST FOR CHILDREN Mud Pies now meets four days per week, Monday - Thursday. Mud Pies is a family program encouraging adult/child interaction focused around a weekly nature theme. Parent groups, day cares, and preschools are accepted on Fridays only by appointment. Contact Kate Murphy at kmurphy@fontenelleforest. org for more information and availability of times. Monday - Thursday 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC

Mud Pies Drop by to explore nature activities with your child. One adult is required for every two children. A different natural science topic is introduced each week through interactive stations within “Habitat Hollow.” Check the calendar at fontenelleforest.org to learn the weekly topic. For ages 5 and younger.

October 20 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Deborah Woracek

Miss Spider’s Soiree Miss Spider’s having a tea party in honor of Mother Nature’s fall colors and you are invited! Let’s celebrate autumn with a spidery tea party. We’ll have spider activities, spider treats, and learn some fun facts about spiders. We will then go outside to find spider webs. Mother Nature will be there to share some of her favorite Miss Spider stories. So wear your dress-up clothes (the hike will be a short boardwalk hike) and come join us as we have an old-fashioned tea party. For ages five and under. Registration required. Space is limited. Animal Tales Come and hear a tale or two about nature and the living things in it. It will be fun and educational. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Stories are geared toward young children. Animal Tales Come and hear a tale or two about nature and the living things in it. It will be fun and educational. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Stories are geared toward young children.

November 9 12:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

December 21 12:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

October - December 2013

October 13 9:00a.m. – 11:00a.m. WLC Leader(s): Bob Fuchs

October 13 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Mic Burt

Canoeing the Great Marsh Autumn in the Great Marsh is a time of transition, both in colors and in creatures. Join us as the season first touches the trees of the wetlands. We will head out on the water to watch the day unfold and explore parts of the Great Marsh that few visitors get to see. No canoe experience needed. Limited to 14 participants, ages 16 and over. Registration is required. Family Sundays in the Forest: Reptiles: Heads, Scales, & Tails Snakes, lizards, and turtles oh my! Come discover what reptiles can be found in Fontenelle Forest, and where the best places are to look for these scaly creatures. Learn about what makes reptiles unique and why they are an important part of the ecosystem, and even meet some live reptiles!

October 17 7:00p.m. FFNC

Photographers Club Program to be announced.

October 18 5:30p.m. – 8:30p.m. FFNC

Community Project Launch Party Join us for snacks, drinks, and togetherness as we celebrate the unveiling of community art project created by Bart Vargas, Girls, Inc., Completely Kids, and Arts for All. The project features a recycled art piece in celebration of our exhibit Green Revolution.

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG October - December 2013 O

October 19 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m. FFNC

Raptors...Live! Drop in to meet our amazing raptors! Owls, hawks, and more. See and learn about these amazing feathered wildlife ambassadors. Photographs are encouraged.

October 19 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Tad Leeper

Nature’s Extreme Make-overs Come experience how the Forest reuses and recycles dead, dying, and hollow trees for habitat and homes for wild animals, large and small. Together we will discover how nature ‘creates life’ in dead trees. Join us for a tree story and a short guided forest walk to learn about tree ‘animal inns’ that provide shelter, nest sites, and feeding areas for many kinds of wild critters. Be sure to wear outdoor clothes and comfortable shoes for our up-close look at some of the ‘extreme make-overs’ in Fontenelle Forest.

October 20 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Wanda Pendley & Mary Lou Alfieri

Family Sundays in the Forest: It’s a Bag! It’s a Shirt! It’s a T-shirt Tote! Give new life to an old t-shirt during this fun family activity. Using old t-shirts, we will create and decorate bags that will be perfect for carrying produce, gym clothes, treasures, and everything in between. Bring a favorite shirt from home, or use one of the many nature-themed shirts we will have available. Registration for this program is required. Limit 20 participants.

October 26 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Elizabeth Chalen

Dirt Time - A Tracking Adventure Learning to track animals requires many hours in the field, often on your hands and knees, studying animal signs up close. This is the dirt time, literally time to look and dig and track in the dirt. It is only through this regular dirt time that we can hone our skills as trackers, and this is our opportunity to get together with others who are interested in learning more about the animals who call this forest home. All are welcome, and no prior experience tracking is needed. Come prepared for the weather and the great possibility of muddy boots...the more mud, the easier it is to find tracks!

FONTENELLE FOREST INVITES YOU

October 26 11:00a.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Book Launch: “Chorus of the Forest” Come meet author/sculptor Kirk VaughnRobinson as he debuts his new book featuring Fontenelle Forest, “Chorus of the Forest.” Featuring Kit and the Beast, this tale tells a story of being yourself, celebrating your uniqueness, and why bringing something home from the forest isn’t the best of ideas. In conjunction with the book, Kirk will be unveiling the Kit and Beast sculptures along the boardwalk. Books and souvenirs will be available for sale and Kirk will be signing copies as well.

October 27 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Family Sundays in the Forest: Green Homes It is becoming easier and easier to incorporate green practices into our daily lives, from recycling to growing your own food….so where do our houses fit in with all of this? Join us for an afternoon program on green home building designs, and learn what some local home owners are doing to improve their homes, both for themselves and the environment. This is the perfect way to get ideas and information. You can see some of these designs and practices during the 2013 Omaha Green Home Tour on November 2nd.

November 2 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Aksarben Aquarium, Schramm Park State Recreation Area Leader:(s) Rick Schmid

Bird Banding Get a people’s-eye-view of our feathered friends as we capture live birds, “tag” them with tiny light-weight leg bands, and release them back into the wild. Drop by any time between 9:00am and 11:00am and stay as little or as long as you like. All ages are welcome and anyone who wishes to may touch a live bird. We welcome donations of bird seed, which can be made through Wild Birds Unlimited in Rockbrook Plaza (402.399.9976).

November 2 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader:(s) Debbie Beck

Critter Encounters A number of critters will be out for you to see and touch. Come enjoy and learn about some of our education animals on staff at the forest.

November 7 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. WLC Leader(s): Sharon Draper & Ted Leeper

Silent Night Hike Late autumn at the Forest wetlands is a time of many seasonal changes. Join us on a silent night hike along the Great Marsh as we explore nature’s ‘borderlands’ and the many transitions that take place around the wetlands habitat. Ages 12 and over. Please wear appropriate hiking footwear and warm clothing.

November 7 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m. $12 per year FF members only FFNC

Bird Club A representative from Spring Creek Prairie near Denton, NE will provide an introduction to the Spring Creek Audubon Center and Prairie with an emphasis on their successful land management efforts for prairie birds. The November field trip will be to Squaw Creek NWR near Mound City, MO at a date to be determined later. Watch your Bird Club newsletter for more details.

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

October - December 2013

November 9 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Mary Lou Alfieri & Wanda Pendley

Over 50 Hike Take a leisurely stroll through the forest with some of our seasoned naturalists in this hike just for those over 50. We will head out to explore the wonders of the forest in November, and take our time appreciating the small and large creatures who call this forest home. Join us for conversation and camaraderie on the trail!

November 9 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader:(s) Rick Schmid

November 9 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m. FFNC

Raptors...Live! Drop in to meet our amazing raptors! Owls, hawks, and more. See and learn about these amazing feathered wildlife ambassadors. Photographs are encouraged.

November 9 1:30p.m. - 2:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

November 9 3:45p.m. - 4:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

Rock Hound Do you have a rock that you would like to have identified? Bring it to the Rock Hound! Naturalist and Geologist Debbie Beck will help you discover what kind it is. If she can identify it, you will get a signed certificate that is stamped with the Nebraska Geological Seal.

November 10 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Johnny Wells

November 12 9:45a.m. – 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Catherine Kuper

SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature Backyards Birds in Winter Sandy Seibert, of Backyard Birds, will show us the proper birdfeeders to use to attract the winter resident birds to our yards. We will learn what we can do to help our feathered friends survive the winter season.

November 16 9:00a.m. - 4:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Elizabeth Chalen

Teacher Naturalist 101: Introduction to the Forest Do you love the outdoors? Are you interested in helping others connect with nature? Become a Teacher Naturalist! Teacher Naturalists are volunteers who run weekend programs for the public, attend fascinating lectures and programs by experts on field biology and other natural history topics, and contribute to special programs that the Forest offers year-round. Taking the first step is easy! Join us for our TN 101: Introduction to the Forest course and you will be well on your way to becoming a Teacher Naturalist. All persons interested in becoming Teacher Naturalists must attend TN 101. TN 101 will not only brief prospective volunteers on the benefits and responsibilities of their position, but will also provide invaluable training in the areas of field identification, animal care, forest resources, and natural education. Registration is required for this training. If you have questions or want to know more about this day of fun, contact Elizabeth Chalen at echalen@fontenelleforest.org or 402.731.3140 x 1026. Registration required. This course is offered free of cost for volunteers and lunch will be provided.

November 17 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Dianne Guinn & Ingrid Johnson

Family Sundays in the Forest: Composting and Recycling - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Come out to the forest and gain knowledge on how to build a compost bin. Learn what can and what shouldn’t be put into compost, and why composting is so beneficial. We will also learn about local recycling options. A one hour guided hike at 2:00p.m. will focus on nature’s recyclers.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Winter Walk What happens in the forest as the weather turns cooler? Let’s head out to see for ourselves! The trees lose their leaves, animals burrow underground, and the green all fades away. As the forest prepares for the cool winter weather, each creature has its own way of adapting to the fading daylight and the colder temperatures. When the snow begins to fall, a whole new world opens up for us to explore! This hike will open our eyes to the wonders of winter!

FOR 10 CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG October - December 2013 O

November 21 7:00p.m. FFNC

Photographers Club Program to be announced.

December 5 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m. $12 per year FF members only FFNC

November 22 - 24

NEALE WOODS TRAILS CLOSED FOR DEER HUNT These managed hunts are designed to control the deer population.

November 23 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Elizabeth Chalen

Bird Club The bird club normally does not meet in December, but this year there will be a December meeting but none in January 2014. Deb Bercaw will present at the December meeting on the various websites, apps, and other electronic media available to assist birders. There will be no club field trip in December, but members are encouraged to participate in the various Christmas Bird Counts being held around the area.

December 7 - 8

FONTENELLE FOREST TRAILS CLOSED FOR DEER HUNT Fontenelle Forest Nature Center will be open regular hours. These managed hunts are designed to control the deer population. December 7 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Aksarben Aquarium, Schramm Park State Recreation Area Leader:(s) Rick Schmid

December 10 9:45a.m. – 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Catherine Kuper

SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature Evergreens for All Seasons This is the time of year when many celebrations center around evergreens. Fontenelle Forest Ranger, Josh Preister will fill us in on the difference between pine, spruce, and fir. The morning will also include a “tree lab” for participants to examine and identify common evergreens. Bring your best observation skills as we explore the world of the evergreens.

November 24 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Wanda Pendley & Mary Lou Alfieri

Family Sundays in the Forest: Turkey Talk Gear up for Thanksgiving by learning all about the bird of the month: the turkey. We will make turkey hats and head out into the forest in search of turkey tracks, feathers, and maybe even track down a turkey! Learn everything you need to know about our feathered friends of the forest so you can wow your family and friends on Thanksgiving day!

November 28 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

Turkey Day Traipse Start your holiday off right by getting out for some fresh air and a brisk walk before the day’s feasting begins. Join us for this morning jaunt into the forest and dress appropriately for the weather. Please note: December 13- 15 the Nature Center is closed, but trails are FONTENELLE FOREST TRAILS CLOSED FOR DEER HUNT open. Fontenelle Forest Nature Center will be open regular hours. These managed hunts are designed to control the deer population. Family Sundays in the Forest: Those Secret Little Hiding Places It’s cold outside and yet you still might see some of our native animals out. But what about those you don’t see? Where might Photographers Club December 19 they be hiding to keep warm? Join us as Favorite Member photos from the past 7:00p.m. we seek out some unusual places mamyear. FFNC mals, birds, and insects go to spend the cold days and nights of winter.

December 1 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Sharon Draper

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

October - December 2013

December 21 1:30p.m. - 2:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

December 21 3:45p.m. - 4:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

December 22 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Bob Goetschkes

December 28 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Elizabeth Chalen

December 29 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Bob Fuchs

Family Hike Join Naturalist Debbie Beck for an exploration hike through the forest. We will discover what the forest has in store for us, and enjoy what is revealed along our way. Dress for the weather; children must be accompanied by an adult. Rock Hound Do you have a rock that you would like to have identified? Bring it to the Rock Hound! Naturalist and Geologist Debbie Beck will help you discover what kind it is. If she can identify it, you will get a signed certificate that is stamped with the Nebraska Geological Seal. Family Sundays in the Forest: A Great Snowshoeing Adventure Join us as we head into the Forest on snowshoes to explore a wintry wonderland. Snowshoes are available for rental at Fontenelle Forest, and our naturalist will not only show you how to use them, but will lead you on some great trails to try them out. No snow yet? No worries, we will still check out the snowshoes, then head out for a hike. This program is best for 10 and older.

Par ty Wh ere th e Wild Th in gs L i ve! Make your child’s next birthday memorable by celebrating it at the Forest! Each party includes a Naturalist led hike, games, and one very cool animal visitor (rabbit, snake, toad, salamander or turtle – it is your choice!). There will be time allotted for eating, singing, and gift-opening. Admission to Fontenelle Forest is included for all participants for that day. One adult must be present for every four children in attendance. Prices are non-refundable unless Fontenelle cancels due to the weather. Available Dates: Saturday, October 26 November 16 December 28th. Available Times: 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. 1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m. Camp Brewster Lodge $130.00 FF members plus $50.00 refundable cleaning deposit $150.00 non-members plus $50.00 refundable cleaning deposit Ages: 4-10 (12 child limit per party) Registration required. Call Debra Beck 402.731.3140 x1017 Registration and payment must be received 2 weeks in advance of party date.

Scou tin g at Fon ten elle Forest

Contact the Scouts Registrar as Fontenelle Forests’ new Scout programs are in the works. If you are interested in details on new guided hikes and badges, contact Kathy Fischer at kfischer@fontenelleforest. org or check out our website at http://www.fontenelleforest.org/programs-a-education/scouts.

Teen Natu r alists! If you have a high school student who loves nature, contact Naturalist Jamie Vann at jvann@FontenelleForest.org for information on the Teen Naturalist Trainee program.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Winter Walk Winter is a wonderful time in the Forest, and we will head out to find out why. We will search for animal signs such as tracks, signs of insects, squirrel nest and burrows. With the leaves off the trees and no green grasses growing on the ground, it is much easier to find where the animals are hiding out and spending their time. Let’s explore this (usually) hidden world. We will be on the trails, so dress for walking in possible snow.

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG October - December 2013 O

1 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Night Hike in the Wetlands 6:30p.m. - 8:30p.m.|WLC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Shakespeare in the Forest*** 6:00p.m. - 7:30p.m.|FFNC p. 4 Bird Club*** 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

Thursday

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Wednesday

8 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Tuesday

7 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Monday

6 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Sunday

Family Sunday: Raptors 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

14 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

october

13 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Photographers Club 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

The Rose: $10 Tickets to “Robin Hood” Omaha Children’s Museum: $1 off Admission (per person max 6)

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals

Canoeing the Great Marsh 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.|WLC p. 6 Family Sunday: Reptiles 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Family Sunday: T-shirt Tote 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7 Miss Spider’s Soiree 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

Family Sunday: Green Homes 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Beer on the Boardwalk*** 5:30p.m. - 8:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4 Green Revolution: Last Day

Friday

Saturday

Community Project Launch Party 5:30p.m. - 8:30p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Raptors…Live! 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m.|FFNC p. 6 Nature’s Extreme Make-overs 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 6

Trick or Treat in the Forest*** 2:00p.m. - 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4

Dirt Time: A Tracking Adventure 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|WLC p. 7 Book Launch: “Chorus of the Forest” 11:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

CB - Camp Brewster HWLC - Hitchcock Wetlands Learning Center CLF - Camp Logan Fontenelle FFNC - Fontenelle Forest Nature Center CW - Camp Wakonda NWNC - Neale Woods Nature Center

***Denotes members only program

Monday

Tuesday

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Deer Hunt: Neale Woods Trails closed. Family Sunday: Turkey Talk 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 8

5 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Thursday

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

FFNC Closed for the Holiday Turkey Day Traipse 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.|FFNC p. 9

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Photographers Club 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 8

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Silent Night Hike 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m.|WLC p. 7 Bird Club*** 7:00p.m. - 9:00 p.m.|FFNC p. 7

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

november

***Denotes members only program

Family Sunday: Composting 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 8

Family Sunday: Winter Walk 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 8

Wednesday CB - Camp Brewster HWLC - Hitchcock Wetlands Learning Center CLF - Camp Logan Fontenelle FFNC - Fontenelle Forest Nature Center CW - Camp Wakonda NWNC - Neale Woods Nature Center

Strategic Air and Space Museum: $10 Adult Admission (regularly $12/$11), $5 Child Admission (Regularly $6) Omaha Performing Arts: 15% off Tickets to “The Sounds of Christmas” Use Code: ArtsPass (11/29/13 performance only)

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals:

Sunday

Deer Hunt: Neale Woods Trails closed.

Friday

Deer Hunt: Neale Woods Trails closed. Dirt Time: A Tracking Adventure 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|WLC p. 9

Teacher Naturalist 101: Introduction to the Forest 9:00a.m. - 4:00p.m.|FFNC p. 8

Bird Banding 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Aksarben Aquarium|p. 7 Critter Encounters 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

Saturday

Thursday

Wednesday

3 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Tuesday

2 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Monday

1 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Sunday

Family Sunday: Hiding Places 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Friday

Saturday

Deer Hunt: Fontenelle Forest Trails closed. Nature Center will remain open. Bird Banding 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Aksarben Aquarium|p. 9

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Bird Club*** 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

8 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Deer Hunt: Fontenelle Forest Trails closed. Nature Center will remain open.

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Deer Hunt: Fontenelle Forest Trails closed. Nature Center will remain open.

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 9

Deer Hunt: Fontenelle Forest Trails closed. Nature Center will remain open. Gingerbread Houses*** Multiple Sessions Available FFNC|p. 4

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

FFNC Closed for the Holiday

***Denotes members only program

CB - Camp Brewster HWLC - Hitchcock Wetlands Learning Center CLF - Camp Logan Fontenelle FFNC - Fontenelle Forest Nature Center CW - Camp Wakonda NWNC - Neale Woods Nature Center

Dirt Time: A Tracking Adventure 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|WLC p. 10

16 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

december Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals

15 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5

22 Winter Camp 8:30a.m. - 12:00p.m.|CB p. 15

Deer Hunt: Fontenelle Forest Trails closed. Nature Center will remain open.

Family Sunday: Snowshoeing 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 10

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Photographers Club 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Winter Camp 8:30a.m. - 3:30p.m.|CB p. 15

Family Sunday: Winter Walk 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 10

Winter Camp 8:30a.m. - 3:30p.m.|CB p. 15 Nature’s New Year’s Eve*** 3:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

The Durham Museum: 10% off All Purchases in the Hitchcock Museum Shop Nebraskans for the Arts: Buy One, Gift One Buy an Individual or Friend Membership, Gift One of Equal Value

A do pt a n A n i ma l Okeetee Corn Snake, the Classic Corn Snake

By Deborah Woracek, Naturalist This Leaflet’s featured animal is our Okeetee Cornsnake (pantherophis guttata guttata). Related to fox snakes (elaphe vulpine spp.) and Great Plains rat snake (pantherophis guttata emoryi), the corn snakes are more common in southeastern United States than they are in our area. The corn snakes are known for being the calmest of this family of snakes and Okeetees are known to be the most laid-back of the corn snakes. Originally found in one region of South Carolina, this particular color-phase of corn snake has brilliant red blotches on an orange background that are edged in black. These beautiful animals are sometimes called the red rat snake, and like all the other ‘rat’ snakes, are constrictors and very beneficial to farmers for the rodent control they provide. In fact farmers were the first to call them corn snakes. The term was first used around 1676. The farmers then stored their corn on the cobs in wooden framed buildings called cribs. The rodents moved in followed by the local snakes to eat the rodents hence, ‘corn’ snakes. Our resident Okeetee corn snake is now 9 years old and is a 3rd generation captive bred…selectively bred for calmness and bright colors. In the wild, corn snakes can live 15-20 years with captive corn snakes living longer. Their diet consists of rodents, bird eggs, and in Florida they will eat small lizards, etc. They can be found in open fields, forest openings, palmetto flatwoods in Florida, and also in abandoned buildings on farms. In the North, they hibernate and in the Southeast where it is warmer they will come out of brumation on warm winter days to soak up the sun. Think about giving the adoption of our ‘red rat snake’ as a stocking stuffer or holiday gift! If you do adopt him, you will receive an official adoption certificate, a beautiful portrait of him, a family guest pass, an animal fact sheet, the Fontenelle Forest animal history of this snake, and your name will be posted on his cage in animal care. All of this for the small price of $100.00. A visit to your personal animal can also be arranged if you wish. If you have any questions or want to arrange a visit, feel free to call Deborah at 402.731.3140 x1016 or email her at: dworacek@fontenelleforest.org.

Ne br a s k a Ma s t e r N a t ura lis t P rog ra m RIGHT IN MY OWN BACKYARD: A Celebration of Nebraska’s Natural Wonders

An Event for Families and Nature Lovers at Fontenelle Forest Benefiting the Nebraska Master Naturalist Program Saturday, October 5th, 2013 5:00p.m. – 8:00p.m. Adults $15.00 | Children 12 and under FREE! Come EXPLORE Natural Nebraska with Nebraska Master Naturalists and friends! Your generous contribution will help us raise funds (and friends) for our dedicated Nebraska Master Naturalist volunteers! We welcome you to explore the outdoors along the scenic Fontenelle Forest boardwalk as Master Naturalists lead you on exciting animal and

October - December 2013 O

naturalist adventures. While you’re here sample tasty Nebraska faire and learn from Nebraska’s conservation leaders about opportunities in your own backyard! You’ll even get a peek at the Green Revolution exhibit now on display inside the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center! All registration fees support your Nebraska Master Naturalist volunteers. This event is rain or shine. Registration available at http://NATURALIST.unl.edu starting in September.

Natu r al Selection s By Deborah Woracek, Naturalist October Our hills and valleys give us a gradual change from the greens of summer to the beiges and yellows of fall. The show offs that provide the accents in our color palette are the scarlet poison ivies and sumacs. However, if the weather is just right, we could see an overnight change! If acorns, hickories, and walnuts are hard to find, in October the competition for them will become quite fierce as many animals are looking for their share of this year’s supply. Turkeys dig them up just as fast as squirrels ‘plant’ them, woodpeckers and mice hide them, and the deer simply eat them. The marsh is busy with the beavers building their cached supply of winter food. While overhead the skies are vibrant with the sights and sounds of migrating birds. The deer will start the beginnings of the rut. Nights are quieter as the last of the summer insects no longer call. The nights also bring the strong autumn winds which blow down the yellow leaves turning them into golden rafts as they spin down the stream. The trails are busy with all things preparing for the days to come! November With the advent of early winter one can easily see which trees saw squirrel activity during the summer as the squirrel leaf nests are revealed. The turkeys can be seen circling each other testing to settle who will be the ringleader of the ‘winter gangs’ of males. Meanwhile, the deer are still in rut with some bucks not even eating this time of year. Geese and other migrants can be heard overhead as they journey to warmer climes where the waters don’t freeze. Upon looking carefully one can see the raptors as they float by up very high in the sky…it’s always a great way to test your own eyesight! Chickadees are defending winter feeding areas and are joined by the titmice, whitebreasted nuthatches, and downy woodpeckers. These species form the winter ‘mixed’ flocks that are so entertaining along our upland trails and around local birdfeeders. Eagles are seen occasionally along the river. Our Barred Owls will call in the late afternoon and into the night. Much can be seen and heard on a quiet November walk! December Now is the time of year to ‘read’ the stories that can be found in the mud or snow along our trails. The fox leaves his calling card beside the raccoon’s signature. We can learn yesterday’s menus if we investigate the scat. The trees and bushes reveal small critter activity at their bases if one looks close enough. Chewed nuts and pods show us that the animals are switching to their winter diets. Juncos or snowbirds arrive from up north and can be seen hopping under the feeders to scratch up some seeds. They leave their tell-tale double prints in the snow and mud. Unbelievably, the fox squirrels start the courting chases along the bare branches of the trees with the females giving birth to the year’s first litter in February. We simply need to take a closer look to realize that the winter forest is a very busy place. Come, rent some snowshoes, and see for yourself.

WINTER CAMPS

Fontenelle Forest welcomes you to a winter adventure of discovery where the quiet wild of nature offers an unparalleled opportunity for your child to learn. Winter Day Camps feature learning through play and are taught by FFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s year-round professional educators. Our staff is committed to providing your child with high quality, positive experiences. Whether your child creates a work of art, discovers a new world on a hike, or learns a new skill, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure that they will bring home memories and knowledge that will last a lifetime. Registration will begin online November 1 and cost will be announced at that time. Space is limited. We require proof of age for each camper.

December 23 8:30a.m. - 12:00p.m. CB

Winter Camp Session 1: Pre-Holiday Parent Break This is a fantastic way for parents who want to finish up some private shopping to drop their kids off for a half day of winter camp. We will spend time making gifts, exploring the winter forest, and enjoying winter stories. Camp is for children currently in 1st grade through 8th grade.

October - December 2013 O

December 30 - 31 & January 2 - 3 8:30a.m. - 3:30p.m. CB

Winter Camp Session 2: Post-Holiday Blues Buster Sign up for one day or for all four days of Winter Day Camp at Fontenelle Forest. Spend the day hiking, playing games, creating art, reading stories, and exploring. The outdoor activities will depend on weather conditions. A snack is provided. Bring lunch and extra socks in case we play in snow. Winter camp is for children currently in 1st grade through 8th grade.

C urren t Vo l u n t ee r Ne e ds

Deer Sentry

Apple Pies

Coverage Needed: November 22 - 24 Neale Woods December 7 & 8 Fontenelle Forest Nature Center December 13 - 15 Fontenelle Forest Nature Center January 11 - 12 Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Coverage Needed: Every two - three weeks, ongoing Do you love to bake? Our team of Apple Pie bakers is looking for a few extra volunteers to help this fall to make our fabulous apple pies. All pies are sold in the Fontenelle Forest gift shop. Volunteer Trail and Land Stewardship

Coverage Needed: October 12 8:30a.m. - 12:00p.m. November 16 8:30a.m. - 12:00p.m. Fontenelle Forest provides a monthly opportunity for volunteers to assist our Rangers with land and trail projects. These projects help preserve the land and forest so current and future generations can experience the quiet wild of nature. No special skills required except a love of being outdoors and a willingness to get dirty. All volunteers are asked to wear long pants and bring work gloves, if they have them. We will provide a light breakfast and lunch. Bug spray is also provided by the Forest. First time volunteers interested in participating in the Volunteer Land and Trail Stewardship Group, please contact Kareen Hickman, Development Associate. Current volunteers will be contacted by the Rangers.

Get a jump start on addressing your holiday cards or catch up on your Netflix queue while volunteering as a Deer Sentry! Each year, staff alongside community volunteers conduct managed deer hunts on properties owned by Fontenelle Forest. These hunts aim to control the deer population for the health of the forest as well as the deer. Fontenelle Forest is seeking volunteers to serve as Deer Sentries to be stationed at key posts along roads leading to the deer hunt sites. This important role helps ensure the safety of our visitors by not allowing them to enter the trails while hunting is in progress. Sign up individually or with a friend. To sign up for any of these volunteer opportunities, please contact Kareen Hickman, Development Associate at 402.731.3140 x1024 or khickman@fontenelleforest.org.

OUR SONG OF THANKS

Volunteer Appreciation Day

Trick or Treat in the Forest

Coverage Needed: October 12 1:30p.m. - 4:30p.m. 4:30p.m. - 7:30p.m. Owls, Spiders and Bats, oh my! Help create a ghoulish Halloween experience for members of all ages.

Sunday, November 3 12:30p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:00p.m.

De-Construct Green Revolution All Fontenelle Forest Volunteers are invited to attend. Join us for lunch, a short program, volunteer appreciation, and special activities just for our volunteers.

Coverage Needed: November 4 - November 7 Fontenelle Forest will be destructing its recycled and repurposed eco-zibit. Activities will be both inside and out. Materials used in the exhibit will be put back into recycling programs throughout our city.

Registration Required. fontenelleforest.org/volunteer

October - December 2013 O

FOREST SUPPORT Pa t ron M e m b e rs hip

tion across the entire state of Nebraska. An increase in the support of Patron memberships will help us to continue.

Sit down and relax. Take a deep breath. Open your mind. We invite you to join us as we take a trip back in to time to the year 2000. Go ahead, time travel with us, we are already there, so we will wait. Welcome! Take a look around. See how different, and how the same, everything looks. We survived that Y2K scare with no visibles scars and American Online and Time Warner are joining to become one company. A few other key events happened during this year: • The Tate Modern opens in London. • After nine years, Grand Prix Formula One returns to U.S. at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. • Tiger Woods becomes the youngest player to win a Grand Slam in Golf. • Microsoft releases Windows 2000. • The Latest Harry Potter Book Is Published “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.” • The World’s largest Ferris Wheel or Observation Wheel ( The London Eye ) is opened. • Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, a 26,000 square foot building opens in Bellevue, Nebraska. Would you please pick up that newspaper over there? Let’s look at how prices compare to our current year of 2013. Year 2000

Year 2013

Average cost of a new home

$215,100

$322,700

Cost of a gallon of gas US postage stamp

$1.26 $.33

$3.38 $.46

Loaf of bread Dozen eggs 1 pair of Nike shoes Fontenelle Forest Patron Level Membership

$1.72 $.89 $70.00 $100.00

$2.20 $2.00 $159.98 $100.00

Beginning January 1, 2014 our Patron Level Memberships will begin at $150.00. For details about renewing or becoming a Patron Member, please contact Joan Soverns, Manager of Donor Relations and Membership, at 402.731.3140 x1022 or by email jsoverns@fontenelleforest.org

Wh o Do We Ser ve? Education

Formal School Visits/Field Trips • 1,513 Archdiocese of Omaha Catholic Schools, eight inner-city schools: Pre-K– 8th Grade • 5,151 Bellevue Public Schools, Sarpy County: Pre-K – 6th Grade • 408 Council Bluffs Community – High Schools Programs • 820 Kiewit Summer Fun Club • 1,017 Omaha Public Schools, All: Webology, 4th Grade • 2,754 Omaha Public Schools, All: H2Omaha, 6th Grade • 828 Omaha Public Schools, Western Hills Magnet Center: Expeditionary, 2nd – 6th Grade • 1,977 Educational Self-Guide Groups • 7,990 Youth Environmental Education Program: Omaha Public Schools and other school districts including Council Bluffs Community School District, Elkhorn Public Schools, Gretna Public Schools, Millard Public Schools, Westside Community Schools Onsite & Outreach Education • 338 Boy and Girl Scout Programs • 2,744 Mud Pies (Early education program for children and their parents) • 526 Nature Discovery Camps • 2,609 Speaker Series, Live Animal Demonstrations, Teacher Workshops, Bird Banding, Other • 3,571 SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature • 342 Workshops (Continuing education for teachers)

Wow, the cost of things sure have gone up, except for that bottom line a Fontenelle Forest patron level membership - still $100!

Visitors

90,000+ Annually Looks like our time in 2000 is coming to a close. Would you now journey with us into the near future, please? Let’s go to January 1, 2014. We notice right away a very important change! Fontenelle Forest Patron Level Membership now costs $150. The generous support of our members and Patron members have helped us continue with our belief that teaching children about the natural world should be regarded as one of the most important lessons in their lives. Fontenelle Forest provides extensive environmental education programs to over 30,000 youth each year. With our recent addition of Raptor Recovery, we now provide that extensive educa-

• 2,000 acres of upland and lowland forest, native prairies, wetlands, lakes and waterways • 26 miles of marked and maintained trails • Two fully handicap accessible boardwalk trails • 200 public education programs, activities, and major science exhibits • Acorn Acres, an outdoor playscape for children with nine activity areas • Habitat Hollow interactive exhibit gallery for children Volunteers

Areas of Service • Administration, Apple Pie Bakers & General Maintenance • Board of Directors • Education/Teacher Naturalist • Environmental Projects/ Land Stewards and Land Management • Special Events • Guild of Fontenelle Forest

October - December 2013 O

CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT Ju ne 1 6 , 2 0 1 3 - Aug us t 1 5 , 2 0 1 3 Distinguishing Paton ($1000 - $2499) David D. and Dawn Johnson Howard J. and Gloria C. Kaslow Greg Severson & Deb McElroy Sustaining Patron ($500 - $999) John A. and Janis Haggstrom Bryan and Heather Schneider Michael and Brenda Whealy Supporting Patron ($250 - $499) Susan Ames Rivers Frank and Cheril Comisar Robert D. Rose and Kathleen Crawford-Rose Russ A. and Jean A. Hankins Shari Hofschire James and Christine Jacobsen Todd and Susan Rivers Thomas D. and Denese H. Stalnaker Patrons ($100 - $249) Barbara Babbitt Derek and Melissa Bees Ronald and Chris Blumkin Roger and Diane Brunner Julie S. Collins Jim and Kim Conroy Miles and Laurel Davis Harold and Geraldine Dibelka Gary and Elizabeth Edwards Ed and Lynn Fleming Adam and Joey Gaines Tracy A. and Rebecca Gies Roger and Jackie Harned Robert and Suzanne Hasiak Theresa S. Hatcher Laura Hulsey and Roland Duncan Beth Jenckes James R. Kellett Bryan and Melissa Kenney Michael J. and Carol LaCroix Terri Madison and Sarah Konigsberg Joan Mellor Jerry and Kathy Monson Ann Pape Roland Peschel Don Preister and Mary Ann Krzemien Jeff and Bonnie Quandt Patricia Regan Lila Rickel

October - December 2013 O

Richard H. and Carolyn Sieling Ross Silcock Roxane and Stanley Smith Jim and Pam Sorrell Bradley Stebbins Joan L. Wallace Donations America First Foundation Angela and Jeff Athy Paul & Oscar Giger Foundation Norma Goltl Fred Hawkins, Jr. Gilbert M. and Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation Christine and James Jacobsen Michelle and Karla Kobie Douglas and Marie McIntosh Dale and Sue Miller Ric and Vickie Olsen Carol and Pat Schuster Jennifer and Randy Tindell

Erosion Abatement & Restoration Project Jim and Mary Hawkins Lozier Foundation Nebraska Environmental Trust Papio-Missouri River Natural Resource District R. Joe Dennis Foundation Forest Sustainer

Black Walnut Friend of the Forest Methodist Health System Sarpy County Tourism

Shagbark Hickory J. William and Ruth Lind Scott Fund Kiewit Companies Foundation Webology

An Education Program for Omaha Public School Fourth Grade Students

Corporate and Foundation Giving Audubon Society of Omaha

Omaha Schools Foundation Wells Fargo H2Omaha: Missouri River Science Education Initiative

Tributes

An Education Program for Omaha Public School Sixth Grade Students

In Memory of Robert and Shirley Linderholm Terry and Theresa Fichtner Larry and Pamela Maatsch Dean and Claudia Shaffer In-Kind Gifts James Jarzabek and Teresa Meyer Ruth Tussey and Sally Rau Wright/Jensen/Paragon Printing A Special Thank You to Our Donors & Sponsors Catholic School Program

An Education Program for Students in the Omaha Archdiocese Friend of the Forest

Embark: Journey Into Nature Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community Environmental Expeditionary Learning Initiative: An Education Program

for Western Hills Magnet Center Lincoln Financial Foundation

Omaha Schools Foundation William Leopard Charitable Lead Trust Interpretive Trail Kiosk Sponsor Bob and Evelyn Veach Foundation Youth Environmental Education Program GFH and SAH Foundation H. Lee and Carol Gendler Charitable Fund Lawrence R. and Jeanette James Foundation Mammel Foundation The Miller Foundation Robert H. Storz Foundation

A S pec i a l T h a n k Yo u t o Our Gre e n Revolu tion Sp on sor s

William R. Patrick Foundation

KPMG Vo lunt e e r s Thank You to our many talented volunteers! Your work here at Fontenelle Forest helps provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature! Thank you for volunteering in June â&#x20AC;&#x201C; August 2013. Patty Albright Mary Lou Alfieri Kyle Anderson Richard Behrens Emma Betz Jerry Boganowski April Bowing Michael Burke Mic Burt Vincent Cammarata Julianne Carbonell Frank Carnaby Ruihong Chen Dolan Collins Sean Crowell Dawn Daniel-Conlon Sydney Davis Evan Davis Bob Dinslage Sharon Draper Laura Edwards Andrew Edwards Darrell Eich Patricia Eich Marty Elftmann Tom Engel

Nelli Falzgraf Michelle Foss Robert Fuchs Alan Fusco Hanco Germishuys Grant Glazer Bob Goetschkes Philip Goldsmith Susan Graf Keilandra Greer Betty Grenon Dianne Guinn Madeline Hall Russ Hankins Rachel Hauxwell Tim Hickman Cynthia Hill Kristin Hoffman Jenny Hula Duane Hulbert ZhenJie Jiang Brent Johannes Kate Johnson Ingrid Johnson Michele Jones Lisa Jorgensen

Clem Klaphake Jeffrey Lane Maria Lara-Rivas Tad Leeper Djon Lidoine Louis Lostroh Tillman Lowrey Chuqi Luo Missy Magnuson Justine Marshall Dean McVicker Courtney Mitchell Sandra Murdoch Kate Murphy Johanna Murray Jarl Nelson Heidi Neumann Bonnie Newman Jane Palmer Joseph Palmer Wanda Pendley Linda Plock Ashley Podwinski Susan Poling Sajan Poudyal Jeanne Pricer

Jeff Quandt Julia Ramirez Lorena Ramirez Donald Ranheim Enrique Rivas Raphael Rivas Mary Jo Rome Rob Schindler Eric Scholar Second Unitarian Church Brittany Soriano Robert Starr SummerWorks Omaha Justin Svrdlin Archana Tamang William Tarbox Yue Tawg Zechariah Taylor Ray Turkle Joseph Vavak Gang Wang Johnny Wells Kimberly Wilson Zhon Zhon

October - December 2013

NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Omaha, NE Permit No. 679

1111 Bellevue Blvd. North Bellevue, NE 68005 www.fontenelleforest.org Address service requested

GENERAL INFORMATION Phone: 402.731.3140 Email: info@fontenelleforest.org Web: fontenelleforest.org Find us on: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Neale Woods

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005

14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, NE 68112

•

• •

•

Hours October 1 - October 31 Mon-Fri

8:00a.m. - 6:00p.m.

Sat-Sun

8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

Hours November 1 - December 31 Daily

8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

Closed November 28, December 25, & January 1 •

Trails open dawn to dusk for FF members Non-members admitted before close have trail access until dusk Fontenelle Forest trails closed December 7-8, December 13-15, and January 11-12 for managed deer hunt

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members Free One Day Membership October 1 - 31 $8 All Ages 2+

Beginning November 1 $7 Adult | $6 Senior | $5 Child (2-17)

•

Trails open year round, dawn to dusk Neale Woods closed November 22-24 for managed deer hunt Nature center CLOSED for renovation

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members Free One Day Membership $5 Adult | $4 Senior (62+) | $3 Child (2-17)

Experience the Quiet Wild

of Nature