Newburgh Magazine August 2020 by Newburgh Magazine

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EDITOR Megan Purazrang newburghmagazine@gmail.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Maegan Saalwaechter

CONTRIBUTORS Maegan Saalwaechter Wyatt Squires Warrick County Soil and

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Hello, Newburgh! Summer is slowly coming to an end, but that does not mean outdoor activities are lacking! Our August 2020 magazine is your recreation guide to Warrick County and offers information about state parks that are just a quick drive away. For those who take advantage of â&#x20AC;&#x153;off road cycling,â&#x20AC;? we share how to plan your next mountain biking experience without leaving the area. Learn more about the history behind the trails and how to choose the path for you. We also highlight outdoor recreation sites like Lynnville Park, Scales Lake Park and Friedman Park Butterfly Garden for those looking for quality family time. Lynnville Park offers 1,000 acres for camping, hiking, kayaking and wildlife sightings while Scales Lake offers outdoor recreation activities and a petting zoo. Friedman Park, located just outside of Newburgh has paved trails, wetlands and a beautiful garden to observe. We would love to hear about your summer adventures close to home! Please feel free to share your stories and photos by emailing us directly at newburghmagazine@gmail.com Newburgh Magazine wishes you a happy end to summer and we look forward to sharing more in our upcoming editions.

Water Conservation District

PHOTOS Luke A. Douglas IDNR/Outdoor Indiana magazine Wyatt Squires Warrick County Soil and Water Conservation District

TO ADVERTISE Bob Rigg brigg@warricknews.com Phone: 812-641-2001

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Newburgh REALLY! TAKE ME!

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CONTENTS

August 2020

PHOTO BY: WYATT SQUIRES

PLAYGROUND

RUNNING GUIDE

How to avoid common play equipment injuries

Work your way up to running a 5K in 4-6 weeks

STATE PARKS

CAMPING

Explore the great outdoors with this parks guide

Get the family outdoors with these safe and simple camping tips

OFF-ROAD CYCLING

HUNTING

Plan your next biking trail experience

A little preparation ensures youngsters have a great first hunting trip

PROXIMITY

TECHNOLOGY

Local parks offer close to home adventures

Try a digital detox on your next family outing or vacation August 2020 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE 1

GO OUT AND

PLAY

PRIORITIZE PLAYGROUND SAFETY AT HOME OR IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD WRITER: MAEGAN SAALWAECHTER

Physical activity is good for both the body and mind. As the world confronted the fallout of the COVID-19 outbreak, many people struggled to cope with the stress sparked by stay-at-home measures, school closures and job loss. Perhaps that’s why the reopening of parks was met with such joy, as people now had access to the great outdoors at a point when that access could be incredibly beneficial. Park playground equipment and swing set apparatuses in backyard jungle gyms are exciting places for children to be active outdoors. Play equipment gives children opportunities to exercise and engage with friends. Despite all the benefits of playing outside on playground equipment, many youngsters get hurt on playgrounds every year. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says each year more than 220,000 children under age 14 are treated in hospital emergency rooms across the United States for playground-related injuries. The Canadian Public Health Association reports that 1,841 children in Canada under the age of 18 required hospitalization between the years of 2014 and 2015. The same organization says fractures are the most common playground injury, followed by contusions/abrasions and lacerations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adds that playgrounds present an elevated risk for internal injuries, concussions, dislocations, and amputations. Children also may suffocate if hooded sweatshirt drawstrings get tangled. All children are at risk for injuries, but statistics indicate girls sustain injuries slightly more often than boys. Children between the ages of five and nine have higher rates of emergency department visits for these types of injuries, according to the CDC. When visiting reopened parks consider these strategies to prevent injuries and ensure visits are safe and enjoyable.

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SUPERVISION: A responsible adult can be the most important factor in preventing or minimizing playground injuries. Supervising play means enforcing rules and monitoring risky antics. GROUND MATERIAL: The type of surface on the play area can reduce severity of injuries from falls. Softer surfaces, such as mulch, wood chips, shredded rubber, or sand reduce impact injuries. Equipment in yards should be surrounded by soft materials. Parents can rally to ensure school and neighborhood playgrounds employ similar materials. AGE APPROPRIATENESS: Children should be guided to equipment designed for their ages. Equipment is typically rated for various age groups. MAINTENANCE: Remove tripping hazards and verify that the equipment is in good working order before allowing children to play. Avoid or replace equipment that has openings that could ensnare a child’s head. Also be on the lookout for loose screws and nails. With the right amount of impact those can puncture or lacerate a child’s skin. Any space where a child can climb or crawl through should be checked thoroughly. CLOTHING: Children should dress appropriately for playground use. That means slip-resistant soles on shoes and well-fitting clothing and avoidance of clothing that can become tangled or get caught on structures. Flip flops and slide sandals increase the risk of slipping on wet surfaces or tripping over the flimsy soles. Instead look for sandals with Velcro straps, those provide support similar to laces. LOCATION: Try staying close to home. The CDC warns that traveling long distances to visit a park may contribute to the spread of COVID-19. That’s because long trips require stops along the way, which exposes travelers to potentially contaminated surfaces.

August 2020 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE 3

PHOTO BY: WYATT SQUIRES

STATE PARKS

THE BEST OF OUR LOCAL

EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS WRITER: WYATT SQUIRES

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LINCOLN STATE PARK Among the rolling hills and thick forest just across the line in Spencer County, Lincoln State Park is the boyhood home of the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln State Park offers 10 miles of hiking trails, two scenic lakes, and an interpretive center highlighting the life of the early settlers in southern Indiana. The park also features campgrounds, cabins and group cottages for weekend trips or longer stays. Visitors can also tour the Colonel Jones Home, the historic home of the merchant and Civil War officer who employed young Lincoln. The 1,747-acre park was established in 1932 as a memorial to Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks. The Little Pigeon Creek Baptist Church and Cemetery, located on the property, is where Lincoln’s sister Sarah is buried. The Sarah Lincoln Woods Nature Preserve is also located in the southernmost portion of the park. The Civilian Conservation Corps, a national program designed to provide jobs for unemployed young men during the Great Depression, was instrumental in establishing the park’s recreational facilities. These include the CCC-built beautiful Lake Lincoln, Lakeside shelter, boat rental building (formerly a ranger cabin) and many trails.

INTERLAKE STATE RECREATION AREA Interlake State Recreation Area (ISRA), which sits former coal mine land straddling Pike and Warrick counties, is a multi-use recreational facility focusing on off-road vehicle (ORV) recreation. Interlake is approximately 3,550 acres with nearly 100 miles of trails and 17 lakes — many of which can be accessed for fishing. The three areas of mining and reclamation create a variety of trail experiences for ORV enthusiasts, horse riders, hikers and mountain bikers. From steep spoil banks to rolling grasslands, man-made lakes and strip pits, Interlake offers a diverse array of topography and scenic views.

BLUE GRASS FISH AND WILDLIFE AREA Blue Grass is one of the best outdoor gems in Warrick County. With space to experience all of nature, it is the perfect place to spend time outdoors. The entire 2,532 acres of land was previously stripmined and features 28 pits and lakes for a total of 600 acres of water. Outdoor enthusiasts may already be familiar with the unique and peaceful scenery perfect for an afternoon kayak trip or sighting the numerous plant and wildlife species in the area. With seven boat ramps and common possibilities of largemouth bass, black and white crappie, catfish and muskie or even bluegill, redear and river species, it’s a must for fishing excursions.

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OFF-ROAD

6 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE August 2020

CYCLING Plan your next trail experience WRITER: WYATT SQUIRES

PHOTOS BY: WYATT SQUIRES

Look no fur ther than right here in Warrick County for a fun mountain biking experience. The trail started 30 years ago when the original trail was built and hosted a race in the inaugural DINO series. The trail used a fire lane between the campground and Pleasant Hill Cemetery then doubled back on a short trail. Races were hosted at the trail throughout the 90s, but there were no races for nearly 10 years before the Evansville YMCA brought racing back to Scales Lake by hosting off-road triathlons between 2009 and 2013. With roots and rocks being consistently removed from the trail, the parks board promptly formed a trail committee in 2011. Since 2010, the Boonville Bike Club has been helping with trail work and bringing local kids to ride at Scales Lake. In 2011, the club hosted an IMBA Trail Care Crew and welcomed members from the newly-formed Evansville Mountain Bike Association. This event prompted a series of trail work days that brought most of the park’s trail stewards together to build safer road crossings and a mile of new singletrack. After expanding after-school bike clubs throughout Warrick County and into Dubois County, the club changed its name to Trail Heads - Southwest Indiana. Since 2011, the club has hosted an annual event at the park, called the Red Dome Trail Fest. Board member Brad Scales, who has been involved in the trail since its inception, said “The trails at Scales Lake Park are some of the best in the world,” he said. “With the rugged landscape left by the coal mines, locals have taken advantage of the unique terrain to create a bike park that is fun for everyone.” Most recently, Trail Heads is nearing completion of a comprehensive skills area at the park complete with a 2.5-mile mountain bike practice loop, pump track, dirt jumps, challenge course,

August 2020 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE 7

find the right

helmet

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons says cycling is the single largest contributor to head injuries treated in American hospital emergency rooms. So it’s important to find the right protective gear. Consumer Reports suggests evaluating helmets on key features: ventilation, fit adjustments, ease of use, and of course, impact injury prevention. Riders can research Consumer Reports ratings and look for helmets that meet Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Helmets sold in the U.S. are typically CPSC-endorsed. The following are some features cyclists should consider before buying bike helmets. • SIZE: High-end helmets tend to come in multiple sizes that offer a secure and comfortable fit. Many other helmets have a universal sizing ring that fits a wide array of head sizes, according to Eastern Mountain Sports. • STYLE: Helmets come in different shapes and styles. Experiment with helmet shapes to find a style that fits the shape of your own head well. • PLACEMENT: The helmet should be worn horizontally on the head, and shouldn’t be tipped forward or backward. Experts say the front rim should end around an inch above the eyebrows. The helmet should not be too tight, yet not loose enough to move around easily. • EXTRA SAFETY: Doctors now know that something called rotational forces can contribute to brain injury. This means there is a violent stopping that causes the head to be interrupted out of synchrony with the movement of the neck, torso and other lower limbs. Multi-directional Impact Protection System, WaveCel and Shearing Pads Inside (SPIN) technology help address rotational forces.

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GET SOCIAL

Find Trail Heads - Southwest Indiana facebook.com/groups/trailheadsmtb or visit online trailheadsbike.com Find Evansville Mountain Bike Association facebook.com/groups/EMBA1Emba-mtb.org

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dual slalom track, slopestyle trails, and advanced pump track. Trail stewards continue to work hard to maintain the trails and finish the bike park. Be sure to visit the Facebook page of both local organizations for more information on how you can get involved. During warmer months, Cycling Solutions Bicycle Shop hosts a beginner “no-drop” group ride on Tuesday evenings at 6pm. Riders meet in the front parking lot of Scales Lake and ride on the trails as a group. On Thursday evenings at 6 p.m., the Evansville Mountain Bike Association hosts a weekly group ride as well. For kids, Trail Heads hosts a weekly trail camp every Wednesday at the bike park where kids can ride and work on trails along with regular trail work events at the bike park, typically on Sunday. The 10th annual Red Dome Trail Fest is an event to benefit the Trail Heads organization. Originally planned for May, the event is now postponed to Oct. 31, 2020. Pending state and local guidelines, the event plans to include fun for all ages featuring cycling and running events along with a haunted trail. Stay up to date with the Trail Heads Facebook page for more details. Scales Lake is the perfect option for a quick weekend getaway with the family. Nestled northeast of Boonville, Scales Lake Park offers a 66-acre lake for boating and fishing, a beach area for swimming, a petting zoo and hiking trails. With options of cabins, utility-served campsites or primitive camping, Scales Lake can help get the whole family on board for a camping trip. Check out more information or make reservations by going to the Scales Lake website at www.warrickcountyparks.com/scales-lake-park/

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PROXIMITY Scales Lake Park and Friedman Park Butterfly Garden offer close to home adventures WRITER: WARRICK COUNTY & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

SCALES LAKE PARK warrickcountyparks.com/scales-lake-park/ Another beautiful spot to hit is Scales Lake Park in Boonville, Indiana. It is much more than simply a lake with a beach. It has camping, biking, shelters to rent, and even a petting zoo! However, one of the most underrated features of this park is their wooded trails. With almost 10 miles worth of trails dispersed throughout the park, you can easily find some peace and quiet within the woods. One of the easiest trails to find and to hike is the Scales Lake Green trail. It is the first trailhead to the left of the road past the gatehouse and the baseball diamond. On the trail you will pass by many biking obstacles as well as the Skills Area where bikers can practice various maneuvers. A natural feature to take note of along the trail would be the sassafras trees. They are one of the main understory trees in these woods. To enrich your hike, grab a piece of a leaf and crush it in your hand to smell the sweet fragrances of the sassafras. Many compare the scent to Fruit Loops Cereal!Â

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LYNNVILLE PARK townoflynnville.com/lynnville-park/ Looking for fun outdoor recreation that is close by this summer? Tired of being cooped up at home with the restrictions from the coronavirus? Look no further than Lynnville Park! This beautiful park is located east of Lynnville on highway 68 and is situated on over 1,000 acres. This park was established in 1964 when Peabody Coal mine donated the land to the town for the public’s use. Since that time the town of Lynnville has managed the park for a variety of outdoor enjoyment. If you like to camp, the park has RV camping with full hookups and they also have primitive camping for tents. If you just would like a place to get away for a day, try renting a kayak or john boat and explore the 275-acre lake. While on the lake you will experience wildlife sightings of deer, beaver, quail, muskrats, geese, ducks and blue herons as you enjoy the quiet and beauty of nature. If you want to get away and head to the woods, grab a trail map and explore some of the impressive trails the park has to offer. There is a $2 charge per person at the gate, and they are open from March until November. They also have a shelter house and recreation building that can be rented for events. Grab the family and get out in nature and explore what Warrick County has to offer!

FRIEDMAN PARK BUTTERFLY GARDEN warrickcountyparks.com/friedman-park/ Our last spot is Friedman Park. Oh where to begin! Friedman Park has so much to offer and is located right outside of Newburgh. Many people enjoy the paved walking trails, the amphitheater and the unique playgrounds and if you dare to venture off the pavement there is a nature trail that leads to a beautiful wetland. Our favorite hidden gem is a butterfly garden tucked away in a small locust grove. If you go to the biggest shelter house and walk directly away from the parking lot there is a small mowed trail that will lead you right to it. It was created in memory of a sweet little girl and her father who left this Earth way to soon. The garden was sponsored by Warrick County SWCD and family members, it was created to bring others joy in their memory. There are over 300 plants planted and 30 or more species of wildflowers. The garden was designed to have something blooming every season and attract multiple species of pollinators. There is a gorgeous set of two garden swings and mosaic stones in the shape of butterflies created by family members lining the front. Some even call it the “secret garden” because of its location and whimsical feel.

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STOP BY AND SEE US FOR ALL OF YOUR FALL DECORATIONS NEEDS!! WE ALSO HAVE MUMS!! August 2020 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE 15

G N I N RUN B E G IN N E R â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

WRITER: MAEGAN SAALWAECHTER

16 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE August 2020

Work your way up to running a nonstop mile. Getting started requires the right gear, habits and some patience. Running is a way of life for many individuals. When others witness just how fit and content some runners seem to be, they may want to follow suit. It has many health benefits. In a 2015 study published in Neuropharmacology, researchers discovered that running can cause the same kind of neurochemical adaptations in brain reward pathways as some addictive drugs. Runners can get a happy “high” from the sport. Running also can help a person lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Runner’s World magazine indicates that regular running exercise boosts the afterburn, also known as excess post oxygen consumption, or the number of calories one burns after exercise. What is important is to keep negative reasoning out. Don’t think of it as you have to run today. Instead have a positive mindset that you are able to run. The more negative prerun thoughts you have, the more you will dread actually running. Now, getting star ted with running is not as simple as lacing up one’s sneakers and hitting the road. To be safe, prospective runners can consider these tips.

GEAR Wear comfortable clothing and shoes so you can run without discomfort. When choosing a running shoe you want to look for arch support, zero or a low drop heel and flexibility in the toe area. Minimal cushion in the heel allows you to feel the terrain you are running on. Naturally when you walk or run your toes spread, which is good, so having a little stretch in the front of the shoe will allow for proper foot movement.

HABITS Your parents didn’t tell you to sit up straight just for giggles. It’s known that good posture is

HEEL STRIKE

important and it is especially so for running. Your feet and other elements of running depend on the upper body. Make a conscious effort to practice good posture while doing desk work, grocer y shopping or riding in the car. Proper foot strikes is one element that relies on posture. You want to stand tall and lead forward with your hips. Hip extension will open your stride in the back. If your hips are tight and you don’t have that extension then your foot has no guidance. There are three types of footstrikes all of which are good in certain scenarios, but too much of any of the three can present problems or injuries. HEEL STRIKE - This is where the heel hits the ground first. A heel strike leaves the foot on the ground for long periods of time which is considered high impact. Example: You will use a heel strike when going down a steep hill or making hard and quick turns. MIDFOOT STRIKE - For most runners, this foot strike is a common injurypreventative way to run. The ball of your foot and heel touch the ground simultaneously. With this pattern you’ll notice that you will maintain consistent and high speeds plus a higher running cadence. FOREFOOT STRIKE - The main impact in this footstrike is in the ball of the foot. To obtain this pattern it is like your body is leaning forward thus allowing frequent cramps in the calves and Achilles tendon to occur. However, this footstrike is important when running uphill or powering through the finish line.

MIDFOOT STRIKE

5K want to

RUN? Do you want to start training for a 5K? Have you began a running routine and want to put your skills to the test? Tri-State Fitness is partnering with Azzip Pizza for their first Azzip Fun Run on August 29. There are timed and un-timed races so you can pick your pace. $2 of each entry will be donated for the 24 Carrot Challenge and Azzip will match. Proceeds will help fight food insecurity in the tri-state area over the summer. No late or same day registration. Register at www.tristatefit.com/ azzip.html - Race rain or shine. Subject to cancelation due to COVID-19.

FOREFOOT STRIKE

August 2020 NEWBURGH MAGAZINE 17

The landing of your foot is one part of your running style. The other is cadence. You want to pick up your feet and not shuffle. Warm up those legs and muscles by doing high knees and butt kicks. Breathing is cr ucial for r unning, your diaphragm stabilizes your hips so relearn how to belly breathe, practice diaphragm breathing, and nose breathing which is good for the first and last 2-3 minutes of your run because it forces your diaphragm to open up. Develop good form to reduce stress on the body. When studying elite r unners, most take around 180 steps per minute, which is roughly 30 more steps than amateurs. Short, quick steps mean the feet spend less time in contact with the ground, leading to smaller impacts with each contact.

TRAINING Weak feet are created by our need to feel comfortable. Kick off the thick socks and squishy shoes and walk around barefoot. Doing so trains your foot to grip the ground and strengthen your arch. Core muscles are what keep your torso upright. When running, that core strength allows the pelvis, hips and lower back which will help exert less energy. Add strengthening and mobility workouts to your schedule. Surprisingly, you’ve learned that you run with you upper body just as much as you do with your legs. Your arms keep ever ything fluid and in motion. Relax your shoulders, keep your arm at at 90 degree angle and drive your elbows back. Keep

[

those fists going in a north/south motion and don’t cross them over your chest.

SCHEDULE Stretch before and after runs. You want to get the muscles moving before and then work on them when they are nice and loose. Creating a routine and sticking to it is most important. Pick which days you want to run allowing 4 days to rest (rest days should include some strengthening workouts). You need to walk before you can run. Forget about establishing distance or timed trials. Rather, it’s more important to just get outside (or indoors) and run. A good beginning running target is 20 minutes, three days a week. Gradually increase the number of days and minutes spent running as you develop endurance. Beginners need to start out slowly to avoid injur y. However, running more slowly is effective for seasoned runners as well. Slow miles can help a person enjoy running as a sport.

DID YOU KNOW? Running on a variety of surfaces instead of sticking to just one surface may help runners reduce their risk of injur y. Officials with the USA Track and Field’s Sports Medicine and Science Committee recommend that runners var y their runs so they run on pavement, trails and tracks. While it helps to run on various surfaces, researchers do not believe one par ticular surface is better than another.

make a

PLAN

Set a 4 week goal to run a single mile without stopping, but you can repeat weeks 2 and 3 until you have built up the endurance and feel ready for week 4. Take one-minute walking breaks as needed. Use your car to map out a mile or use a marked track or trail. Remember to run 3 days a week and do stretches or strength training on some of the rest days. Week 1 - Walk 3/4 of a mile and jog the last 1/4 Week 2 - Walk 1/2 of a mile and jog the last half Week 3 - Walk 1/4 of a mile and jog the last 3/4 Week 4 - Jog for the entire mile - Maegan’s personal pace plan

INJURY HOTSPOTS AND WHEN TO STOP RUNNING RUNNERS KNEE

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Pain on the inside or outside of the knee immediately

Arch pain and tenderness that doesn’t fade even once

upon waking and doesn’t go away throughout the day.

you’ve warmed up.

ACHILLES TENDONITIS

SHINSPLINTS

Severe pain and swelling above your heel, even when

Tenderness down the leg, especially if you hop on it. If

not running. Standing up on your toes causes pain.

walking (not just running) hurts, it could be a fracture.

HAMSTRING ISSUES

ILIOTIBIAL BAND SYNDROME

Sharp, sudden, strong pain and possibly even a snap or

Pain on the outside of the knee that radiates up and

pop sound while running.

down your leg when just walking down a hill or stairs.

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]

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SAFE & SIMPLE

FA M I LY C A M P I N G M A D E

CONTRIBUTED CONTENT

For nature lovers, perhaps nothing is more enjoyable than packing up the camping gear, traveling to a favorite campsite and getting away from it all while sleeping under the stars. Such an experience can be transformative, turning first-time campers into lifelong enthusiasts. The oppor tunity to turn youngsters into nature enthusiasts who can’t wait to spend time outside may be one reason why so many families go camping. A 2018 report Kampgrounds of America found that 52 percent of campers have children, making camping among the most popular and family-friendly ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Camping with youngsters can help families make lasting memories. Parents who have never before taken their children camping may benefit from employing a few strategies to make the trip as fun as possible. MAKE A TRIAL RUN IN THE BACKYARD: A night camping in the backyard won’t be exactly the same as a night in the woods, where wildlife, and particularly insects, may be less welcoming hosts. But a backyard camping night can acclimate children to their sleeping bags and their tents. A fun night sleeping under the stars in the backyard also may make kids more enthusiastic about an upcoming camping trip in the woods. PLAN THE FAMILY MENU IN ADVANCE: Plan the menu in advance so you can ensure everyone will continue to eat healthy. But make sure to include a few kid-friendly camping classics, like s’mores, in the meal plan as well.

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GO OVER SAFETY EARLY AND OFTEN: Use every opportunity to explain camping safety measures to youngsters in advance of your trip. Emphasize the importance of staying together in the woods, and teach youngsters how to identify potentially harmful plants like poison ivy, making sure they know to avoid coming into contact with these and other poisonous plants. Contact your local parks department, or the campground where you will be staying, for some additional advice on camping safety. LET KIDS HELP: Youngsters may be more excited about camping if they’re allowed to choose certain equipment, including their sleeping bags and tents. Before visiting your nearby camping retailer, explain to kids that tents come in various styles because they’re designed to protect campers from certain elements that may be more common in certain areas than others. Such an explanation can make it easy to explain to youngsters why you’re purchasing certain items, even if those items weren’t kids’ top choices. PREPARE A CAMP-FRIENDLY FIRST-AID KIT: Bandages and topical antibiotic creams are part and parcel of any first-aid kit, regardless of where you’re going. But the elements pose a different set of challenges that require a more extensive first-aid kit. When designing a first-aid kit for your camping trip, be sure to include all the usual items but also overthe-counter medications that can treat pain, allergies, constipation, and diarrhea. An extra gallon or two of water also makes for a wise addition to campers’ firstaid kits.

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PHOTOS COURTESY: IDNR/OUTDOOR INDIANA MAGAZINE

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YOUNGSTERS’

FIRST HUNTING TRIP PRE-TRIP PREPARATION ON THE PART OF MOMS AND DADS CAN MAKE A FIRST HUNTING TRIP SUCCESSFUL A young person’s first hunting trip can be an incredible experience, sparking a lifelong love and appreciation for nature and wildlife. Parents who grew up hunting likely remember their first hunting trip and want to recreate that experience for their own children. As memorable as a first hunting trip can be, parents of current youngsters might not recall all the pre-trip preparation their own folks did to make that first hunting experience so memorable. Such preparation can ensure today’s youngsters enjoy the same magical experience their parents did when going hunting for the first time. MAKE SURE KIDS ARE READY: Kids’ maturity levels merit consideration before taking them hunting for the first time. Children may experience a range of emotions on their first hunting trips. Such emotions can include excitement, nervousness, sadness, and/ or guilt. Parents should assess their children’s maturity levels prior to announcing a trip to make sure they’re ready for that emotional roller coaster. Kids mature at their own pace, so assess each child individually, resisting the temptation to assume one child is ready at a given age because an older sibling was ready at the same age. The American Forest Foundation recommends parents first take their youngsters along as hunting apprentices, which allows them to participate in the rituals of the hunt while their parents can gauge how mature they are to handle the hunt itself. MAKE SURE KIDS CAN HANDLE THEIR GUNS: Wide Open Spaces, a website devoted to providing up-to-date information for hunters, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts, notes the importance of kids knowing how to use their guns before they go hunting for the first time. Kids should know how to load and unload, check the chamber and turn the safety on and off. Kids should be confident

with their guns, feeling comfortable enough to pull their firearms to their shoulders, get the gun’s sights on the animal and pull the trigger. TEMPER YOUNGSTERS’ EXPECTATIONS: Hunting is a rewarding hobby, but also one that requires a lot of work. Weather also can be unpleasant during hunting season, and that can quickly spoil youngsters’ impressions of hunting. Temper kids’ expectations in advance of a hunting trip so they know it won’t necessarily be all fun. In addition, let children know many hunting trips end without a kill. DRESS APPROPRIATELY AND FITTINGLY: Don’t forget to make sure that kids are going to be comfortable out in the field. Not just mentally, but physically. Ill fitting clothes will leave kids too hot, too cold or complaining of being uncomfortable. Shop around for kids size hunting apparel which includes coats, pants, waders, boots, hats, gloves, and much more. Depending on the game to be hunted, attire will be patterned in camouflage to blend into surroundings or blaze orange to set hunters apart and make them more visible to fellow outdoorsmen. Deer cannot distinguish color, so bright orange is commonly worn during deer season. Sales associates from popular outdoor equipment retailers can advise about appropriate attire. Considerations to habitat and weather should be made. FOCUS ON THE FUN FACTOR: The AFF notes that surveys indicate that young hunters are more excited to have fun and enjoy quality outdoor time than they are by the prospect of bagging and taking home a trophy animal. Parents should focus on the fun and the beauty of nature when taking youngsters hunting to ensure kids have as good a time as possible.

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GOLFING I N T H E E R A O F S O C I A L D I S TA N C I N G There is no reason golfers cannot still enjoy a summer on the links Golfers enthusiastically look forward to the day when their favorite courses reopen to players each year. That anticipation was even greater in 2020, when social distancing measures forced many courses to stay closed even as the weather warmed up. Thankfully for golfers, golf courses were among the first businesses given the green light to reopen as governments began to lift restrictions. Golfing in the era of social distancing may not be quite the same as it was prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, but golfers can still have fun as they hit the links. That’s especially true when they take steps to understand just what it means to golf while social distancing prior to teeing off. ASSESS YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH BEFORE GOING TO THE GOLF COURSE: Golf attracts athletes from all age groups, including some that are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, age is a risk factor for COVID-19, as older adults are more vulnerable to severe illness if they are infected with the virus than younger adults. Social distancing requires a collective effort on the part of everyone to keep vulnerable people safe, and golfers are no exception. Golfers young and old who are under the weather or experiencing even mild symptoms of COVID-19 should avoid golf courses until they feel better. In addition, young golfers can choose tee times when they’re less likely to come into contact with older golfers. Early morning tee times tend to be popular among older golfers, but speak with staff at the course to see if they have rules in place to safeguard older golfers. If they do, respect those rules. If they don’t, work with staff to choose a tee time when you’re less likely to be around older golfers. DISINFECT CLUBS BEFORE OR AFTER PLAYING: Disinfecting clubs and other equipment before and after playing is a simple measure that can reduce golfers’ risk of getting the virus or spreading it if they have it but are asymptomatic. Simply wipe down clubs and other equipment with disinfectant or an alcohol-based cleanser that is at least 60 percent alcohol. If playing with a friend, resist the urge to share clubs, no matter how tempting it may be to take your playing partner’s new driver for a spin on the first hole.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: LUKE A. DOUGLAS

REFUSE VALET SERVICE: Many courses have temporarily stopped offering valet services to help prevent the spread of COVID19. Golfers who visit a club that is not taking such precautions can opt to refuse the service. Doing so decreases the risk of getting or spreading the virus by limiting the number of people with whom you come into direct contact. PACK SUPPLIES: Contact the course in advance to determine if the dining room is open and if the course is providing hand sanitizer at each tee. At-risk golfers may want to skip dining at the course after their round is over, opting to pack their own lunch or eat when they arrive home after playing. If the course is not offering hand sanitizer at each hole, pack your own as an extra precaution.

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THE BENEFITS OF A

CRUISE

M A K E T H E I D E A L G E TA W AY F O R T H O S E WHO WANT TO COMBINE R&R WITH THE THRILL OF VISITING EXOTIC LOCALES Vacations come in many forms. Some people want nothing more out of their vacations than to get some rest and relaxation on a beach while others prefer the adventure of traveling to faraway lands and seeing some sights. Would-be vacationers who aren’t sure where they fall on that spectrum might be surprised to learn there’s one type of vacation that provides both R&R and adventure. Cruise ships are loaded with luxur y amenities that passengers might expect to find in high-end resorts. And because cruise ships typically dock in various ports during their time at sea, travelers who want to experience new and unique cultures can get their fill of adventure. Some people may only know cr uise ships from the stories they hear of ships stranded at sea. For example, in early spring of 2019, a Viking Sky ship suffered an engine failure, temporarily stranding the ship and its roughly 1,300 passengers off the coast of Nor way. As scar y as that situation may have seemed, it’s important to recognize that the ship was ultimately towed to safety, and all passengers and crew were okay. In fact, a 2017 study from the cruise and tourism consultancy group G.P. Wild notes that while worldwide cruise ship capacity grew by more than 41.5 percent between 2009 and 2016, the number of significant operational incidents in that same

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period declined to just 19.4 incidents per year. Safety is just one of the many reasons why would-be vacationers may want to take to the high seas on their next getaway. CONVENIENCE: People who want to jetset around the world don’t need a jet to do so. In fact, a cruise ship is a much more convenient way to visit multiple locales on a single trip. Cruise passengers won’t have to worry about checking in and out of multiple hotels, which also saves them the hassle of unpacking and repacking their bags several times during their trips. FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Many cruise lines offer cruise vacation packages that cater to families. Packages vary by cruise line, but such offerings tend to have kid-specific activities planned throughout the trip, affording parents a chance to get some alone time together. Many cruise lines even boast late-night kids’ activities, giving parents a chance to enjoy romantic dinners together. VARIETY: Like resorts, cruise ships come in various shapes and sizes. Some travelers may want the feel of being on a floating city, while others may want something more intimate. Many cruise lines offer both experiences and everything in between.

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try out a

DIGITAL DETOX “Cleanse” diets are designed to help people clear their bodies of foods that might have an adverse effect on their health. Many people find such diets effective, prompting others to wonder if a digital cleanse, particularly while on vacation, might produce equally beneficial results. Advances in technology make it possible for people to essentially be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Free Wi-Fi is available at restaurants, rest stops and hotels and beckoning people to stay connected. In fact, according to information from Hotels.com, free hotel Wi-Fi has become the most sought after amenity at resorts and places to stay. But is there a price to pay by remaining so available to work and other outside influences while traveling for recreation? Studies have shown that unplugging while on vacation — or at other times — can boost meaningful conversations and more. The study, “Can you connect with me now? How the presence of mobile communication technology influences face-to-face conversation quality,” indicates devices can negatively impact closeness, connection and conversation quality, essentially interfering with human relationships.

CONTRIBUTED WRITER

Phones and other digital devices also force people to multitask. Evidence suggests that multitasking isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, leading to preventable errors and actually delaying the completion of tasks. A 2010 study from researchers in France found that the human brain can handle two complicated tasks relatively easily because it has two lobes that can divide responsibility equally between the two. Add a third task, however, and it can overwhelm the frontal cortex and increase mistakes. Trying to multitask on vacation can lead to stressful feelings and not being fully immersed in the experience. Being connected while on vacation may leave a person dealing with stresses they normally would avoid until returning home. A study published in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life indicates that stress accrued on vacation can cause people to feel like they had lower energy at work after returning from a relaxing vacation. Taking a step back from their phones, tablets and laptops while vacationing can help people make the most of their getaways. Such a break can promote mindfulness, encourage people to try new things and lead to more meaningful conversations with travel companions.

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