Green Islands Magazine MAR-APR '21

Vol. 62 No. 2

MAR•APR ’2

GREEN ISL A NDS Summit Metro Parks

Bi-monthly Magazine

ON THE INSIDE

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DISCOVER

Centennial Tour

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EXPLORE Programs and Events

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ENJOY A Century of Service and Sharing

Your Metro Parks are funded by a small Summit County real-estate tax.

This magazine is an example of your public dollars at work.

Our parks are like green islands in an urban landscape.

BOARD of PARK

commissioners

IN THIS ISSUE Eastern Bluebird . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Take the Centennial Tour . . . . . . . . . 4 Centennial Spotlight: F.A. Seiberling . . . . 6 Programs & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 A Century of Service and Sharing . . . . 4 SMP Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Reforesting 00 Acres for 00 Years . . . 20 BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS Herb Newman Chair Joel D. Bailey Tonya Block Mark A. Spisak Tina Ughrin Lisa M. King Executive Director EDITORS Stephanie Walton Chief of Marketing & Communications Mike Greene Education & Recreation Manager Lindsay Smith Marketing & Public Relations Manager DESIGN & ART DIRECTION Jennie Levy Graphic Designer Karl Simonson Graphic Designer Summit Metro Parks 975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron, OH 4433-5837

Joel D. Bailey

Mark A. Spisak Tonya Block

Herb Newman Tina Ughrin

The park district’s governing body is appointed by the Summit County Probate Judge. Commissioners serve overlapping three-year terms and are assisted by the executive director, who oversees the work of full-time and part-time employees, seasonal workers and volunteers.

VIRTUAL

Administrative Offices: 330-867-55 F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm: 330-865-8065 Liberty Park Nature Center: 330-487-0493 Seasonal Information: 330-865-8060 Volunteer Information: 330-865-8047 Photos contributed by: • Akron-Summit County Public Library • Rob Blair • Jerry Cannon • Christy Counterman • Doug Dawes • Charlotte Gintert • Tami Hill • Jennie Levy • JJ Prekop Jr. • Bob Roach • Karl Simonson • Sheila Stransky • Sharon Stump • Bert Szabo • Craig Walton • Bob Wilkinson This magazine is mailed free of charge to Summit County residents. To join the mailing list, send your name and mailing address to contact@summitmetroparks.org or call 330-867-55.

Green Islands can be downloaded online: summitmetroparks.org

Keep an eye out for details on the 202 Mother’s Day 5K! Due to the continued public health emergency, the race will once again be virtual this year.

Visit http://bit.ly/MD5K2021 for the latest information.

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©202 Summit Metro Parks

summitmetroparks.org

Then & NOW

YO U R B AC K YA R D

EASTERN BLUEBIRD

Marlo Perdicas, Park Biologist

The eastern bluebird has delighted Ohioans for decades with its flashy coloration and conspicuous behavior.

In the early 20 th century, bluebird populations saw rapid decline due to habitat loss, pesticide use and the introduction of non-native birds such as the European starling and house sparrow.

In 978, the North American Bluebird Society was founded to promote education and conservation of the species. The society led a continent-wide effort to place nesting boxes throughout their range.

Together with our volunteers, Summit Metro Parks has monitored bluebird nest boxes since the 970s. Long-time volunteer Lew Monagen has monitored the same boxes in Hampton Hills and

summitmetroparks.org

O’Neil Woods Metro Parks since the establishment of our official monitoring program in 993.

“Over the years I’ve had a lot of encouragement from folks like former park district employee Bert Szabo and the Akron Audubon Society. My interest in bluebirds and monitoring started in Richfield where my grandfather had a farm,” recalled Monagen. “He talked about bluebirds when we were baling hay and how scarce they were.”

Thanks to efforts of concerned birders all over the United States and the establishment of nest box monitoring programs like ours, populations of eastern bluebirds are currently stable.

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r w ebs it Vis it o u

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lo re a

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nnial cente

tour

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Take the Centennial Tour Experience the vast array of landscapes,

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wildlife and recreational activities 17

available at 20 Summit Metro Parks locations! Take the Centennial Tour to enjoy the beauty of Summit County while learning how the park district

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protects natural and cultural resources,

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connects people to nature and benefits from the support of community.

Track your progress with a FREE

Centennial Tour pocket guide, available at our nature centers and administrative offices when they reopen. The guide

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can also be found in kiosks and online.

Earn a commemorative leather tag

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upon completion. Learn more at summitmetroparks100.org/ centennial-tour.

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summitmetroparks.org

YOUR BACK YARD FOR OO YEARS

stops & locations Protecting Natural Resources 1 Cascade Valley Metro Park 354 Sackett Ave., Akron

2 Liberty Park

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9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

3 Munroe Falls Metro Park 088 North Ave., Tallmadge

4 Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park 694 Christman Rd., Green

5 springfield bog Metro Park 400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

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Celebrating cultural heritage

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6 Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park 5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula

7 Goodyear Heights Metro Park 2077 Newton St., Akron

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8 Gorge Metro Park

60 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls

9 Central Towpath Trail 4 Ira Ave., Akron

10 South Towpath Trail

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2749 North St., Clinton

Connecting people to nature 11 F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm 828 Smith Rd., Akron

12 Firestone Metro Park 2400 Harrington Rd., Akron

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13 Hampton Hills Metro Park 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron

14 Silver Creek Metro Park 57 S. Medina Line Rd., Norton

15 Bike & Hike Trail

33 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Honoring community support 16 furnace run Metro Park 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

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17 O’Neil Woods Metro Park 2550 Martin Rd., Akron

18 Sand Run Metro Park 300 Sand Run Pkwy, Akron

19 Wood Hollow Metro Park 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

20 Freedom Trail

765 Northeast Ave., Tallmadge

summitmetroparks.org

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Centennial SPOTLIGHT:

F.A. Seiberling A Driving Force in a Young Park District

Megan Shaeffer, PhD, Cultural Resource Coordinator Many people know Franklin Augustus Seiberling as one of the co-founders of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.

F.A., along with his brother Charles, opened the first factory in Akron in 898 and his innovations and patents helped the company fuel tremendous economic growth in Northeast Ohio in the early twentieth century. What is less known is how Seiberling was a powerful force behind the creation of the Akron Metropolitan Park District, which we know today as Summit Metro Parks. Seiberling’s drive to preserve the green spaces of the Cuyahoga Valley stemmed from his desire to enhance the lives of his employees at Goodyear and to improve the quality of life in Akron and the surrounding area.

Sand Run

Seiberling played many important roles in the inception

is comprise Metro Park d of land th at once part of Stan H was

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and early development of the fledgling park district. In

y we t ardens.

924 he proposed the donation of a large piece of his estate, which formed the core of Sand Run Metro Park as we know it today. Seiberling also suggested this property as the location of what would become Sand Run Parkway.

In 925 he became a member of the park board; in that same year Seiberling accepted the park’s first official land donation, Courtney Park (a small triangle of land at the

rling F.A. Seibe ealm Nature R ated in was dedic .

June 966

corner of Portage Path and Merriman Road), and oversaw a park plan developed by the Olmsted Brothers landscape architecture firm. These actions created the foundation of the park district we all enjoy today!

We are grateful to Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens for providing biographical resources that were used for this article.

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summitmetroparks.org

Summit Metro Parks continues to monitor COVID-9 safety guidance and this program schedule is subject to change. Please call 330-865-8065 or visit summitmetroparks.org for the latest information.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS Wednesday, March 3, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

MARCH

VIRTUAL: RAIN GARDENS 0

NATURALISTS WILL BE UTILIZING ZOOM, A FREE WEB-CONFERENCING SITE, TO DELIVER VIRTUAL PROGRAMS. To attend a virtual program, visit https://zoom.us/join and key in the Meeting ID number found in the program description.

Build a unique habitat, manage stormwater and do something good for our planet! Join a master rain-gardener online to learn why rain gardens matter, how to pick appropriate plants and how to plan a rain garden right in your own yard.

Zoom meeting ID: 864 4077 4854

SELF-GUIDED: EYE SPY

Rd., Peninsula

Get fit while you sit!

Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system.

It is designed for all ages and abilities!

Monday, March , 6 a.m. –  p.m.

Hit the trail any time during the month of March for a nature-themed game of Eye Spy! Begin by downloading or printing this month’s Eye Spy list from our “Publications & Downloads” page, then enjoy a stroll along Quarry Trail in search of plants, animals and historic remnants of the quarry’s past along the way. You can also complete your search using the March  Instagram post (@summitmetroparks). Bring a camera to document your finds. DLQ: 5779 Riverview

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX

2:30 –  p.m.

Monday, March  Zoom meeting ID: 832 2537 3796

Thursday, March 4,  – 2:30 p.m.

SEARCH FOR SYMPLOCARPUS Embark on a self-guided hunt for Symplocarpus foetidus — an extreme early bloomer better known as skunk cabbage and arguably our most bizarre wildflower! Chat with park naturalists before you begin for the information needed to guide your search.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

CV/Oxbow Area: 06 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Saturday, March 6,  – 2:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: KNOTS OF FUN WITH HERBS

Thursday, March 4 Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, March 8 Zoom meeting ID: 853 9287 9474

Thursday, March  Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, March 5 Zoom meeting ID: 893 6252 3226

Thursday, March 8 Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, March 22 Zoom meeting ID: 845 679 8274

Thursday, March 25

Join us online to discover the benefits of herbs and how they can easily spice up traditional recipes. Participants will need yarn and an old bowl or cup that will be repurposed to create a crafty indoor hanging garden!

Zoom meeting ID: 896 803 8646

Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, March 29 Zoom meeting ID: 896 827 5640

Wednesday, March 3 Zoom meeting ID: 842 2248 380

☎ (2/25)

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Call: 330-865-8065 Advance registration required, beginning at 0 a.m. on the date in parentheses.

(date) Registration start date Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

summitmetroparks.org

BHT Bike & Hike Trail C Confluence CV Cascade Valley DLQ Deep Lock Quarry

Zoom: https://zoom.us/join Key in the Meeting ID number found in the program description.

FASN F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm F Firestone FR Furnace Run FT Freedom Trail GYH Goodyear Heights

G Gorge HH Hampton Hills LP Liberty Park MF Munroe Falls NR Nimisila Reservoir

Centennial-themed programs and events.

ONW O’Neil Woods SC Silver Creek SFB Springfield Bog SLNC Summit Lake Nature Center

SR Sand Run TT Towpath Trail WH Wood Hollow

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PROGRAMS & EVENTS | MAR ’21

Saturday, March 6, 6 – 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 3, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: HISTORY OF SUMMIT LAKE Zoom on a journey back more than 00 years to 97 when Summit Beach Park opened on the northeast shore of Summit Lake. We will explore the history of these waters and what has changed over a century as we celebrate the centennial anniversary of Summit Metro Parks.

Zoom meeting ID: 875 0069 6467

MINDFULNESS HIKE

Wednesday, March 0 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron

Sunday, March 4, 7 – 8 p.m.

Join our interpretive artist online for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A sketchbook/journal, pencil/pen and computer are required.

A Zoom invitation will be

SUNSET PRAIRIE HIKE

Thursday, March , :30 – 2 p.m.

Relish the extra hour of sunlight by taking an evening prairie hike with a naturalist. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot birds and other critters. Please dress appropriately for the weather.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. SFB: 400 Portage Line Rd.,

VIRTUAL: AMPHIBIANS FOR KIDS

Springfield Twp.

☎ (3/2)

Saturday, March 6, 8 –  p.m.

Winter snow is melting and the sounds of spring are filling the forest! Kids ages 7 to 4, gather around for an online exploration of the wild and wet world of amphibians. Get ready for a hoppin’ good time!

Zoom

CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF STARS

Thursday, March , 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join a naturalist as we gaze upon the stars.

Telescopes will be set up to view various celestial objects. Learn about the planets that are visible and the upcoming spring constellations along with their myths and legends.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

☎ (2/28)

Sunday, March 7,  – 2 p.m.

VIRTUAL: OHIO & ERIE CANAL HISTORY Join us online to discover how the Ohio & Erie Canal impacted and influenced the region during its heyday in the late 9th and early 20th centuries. Then, learn how an industrial thruway became a recreational pathway and healthy habitat for a variety of plants and animals.

Zoom meeting ID: 825 8634 7324

Monday, March 8, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

SELF-GUIDED: HISTORY HIKE Take part in a self-guided hike to learn about the history of one of our newest Metro Parks: Wood Hollow. Informational signage will be posted along the trail from March 8 through March 4. WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

☎ (3/5)

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING

emailed to participants after registering.

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Take some time for yourself to reconnect with nature. Join a naturalist for a hike along Spring Hollow Trail and learn several techniques to become more mindful and present in the moment. Dress appropriately for the weather.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. HH/Main Entrance: 2925

meeting ID: 893 3699 3332

VIRTUAL: AMPHIBIANS FOR ADULTS Join a naturalist online to learn about the fascinating and bizarre lives of frogs, salamanders, toads and more. We’ll talk about life cycles, migration, what amphibians can teach us about water quality and tips for inviting these creatures to your own back yard.

Zoom meeting ID: 870 7480 940

☎ (3/6)

Monday, March 5, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

SELF-GUIDED: BIRDING WALK Take part in a self-guided hike to learn about some of the birds you might spot while visiting Nimisila Reservoir. Experience this program from March 5 through March 2. NR/Lot C4: 5550 Christman Rd., Green

Monday, March 5, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

SELF-GUIDED: NATURE KNOWLEDGE Enjoy a hike along Oxbow Trail while discovering fun nature facts. Experience this program from March 5 through March 22.

CV/Oxbow: 06 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Friday, March 2,  – 2:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: CHANGING TIMES Join us online to learn how Silver Creek has changed over the years into the park you know and love today!

Zoom meeting ID: 867 354 5349

Saturday, March 3, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

DISTANCE HIKE Lace up your boots and hit the trail for an early spring distance hike! Our planned hike will carry us about 6.5 miles through the woods and around the lake as we enjoy the first signs of spring.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. SC/Boathouse: 57 S. Medina Line Rd., Norton

☎ (3/5)

summitmetroparks.org

VIRTUAL: KINDEREALM QUACK, QUACK, QUACK! Children ages 3 to 6 will dabble and dive into the wonderful, and sometimes noisy, world of waterfowl. Be ready to move around and have some puddle-fun!

Friday, March 5,  – :30 p.m.

Zoom meeting ID: 889 0083 4899

Tuesday, March 23, 6 – 6:30 p.m.

Zoom meeting ID: 865 039 7030

Wednesday, March 7 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 20,  – 2 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing.

No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(3/9)

☎

Wednesday, March 7, 7 – 8 p.m.

VIRTUAL: AMPHIBIAN MIGRATION DISCOVERY Join a naturalist online to discover the sights and sounds of the amphibian migration from the comfort of your own home. We’ll talk about what happens during these magical evenings and meet some of the special species that require vernal pools to survive.

Zoom meeting ID: 883 5794 0289

Friday, March 9, 7 – 8 p.m.

SEARCHING FOR SNIPES Did you know snipes are real animals?

No fooling! Join a naturalist for a short presentation in the shelter, then take a hike to search for this elusive creature along with other strange and secretive nighttime animals.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

☎ (3/3)

Saturday, March 20, 2 –  p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR TEENS Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 3 to 7 are invited to join our interpretive artist for a virtual lesson in nature drawing.

Paper, pencils and a computer are required.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(3/2)

☎

summitmetroparks.org

VIRTUAL: DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE WATERFOWL ID Spring is for the ducks! Join a naturalist online to learn how to identify some of the most common resident and migratory waterfowl spotted within our parks.

Zoom meeting ID: 820 82 2626

Saturday, March 20, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

SUNSET HIKE ON THE VERNAL EQUINOX Celebrate the first day of spring by enjoying a self-guided hike along Meadow Trail and (hopefully) a beautiful sunset as well. Chat with park naturalists before you begin for additional information to guide your way.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

MF/Tallmadge Meadows: 088 North Ave., Tallmadge

Monday, March 22, 6 – 7 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE REALM MYSTERY PICTURES Be prepared for some history fun and nostalgia! We’ll provide images and clues that will help you guess the identity of pictures, both current and historic, related to F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm. The catch? The mystery pictures will be altered just enough to challenge your memory, imagination and focusing skills!

Zoom meeting ID: 859 0600 9585

Tuesday, March 23, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

SELF-GUIDED: CENTENNIAL HISTORY TRAIL Enjoy some fresh air and a look back at the history of F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm through pictures placed along paved trails near the visitors center. This program is available March 23 through March 28. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Sunday, March 2 2 –  p.m. & 2 – 3 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS Join our interpretive artist for this virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 2.

Paper, pencils and a computer are required.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(3/6)

☎

Sunday, March 2,  – 3 p.m.

GEOLOGY OF THE NORTH LEDGES Join a naturalist as we travel back in time over 220 million years, long before the dinosaurs roamed, to learn how the magnificent sandstone ledges of Liberty Park were formed. We will be going off-trail into a conservation area to see some unusual and breathtaking rock formations. Boots are strongly recommended.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

☎ (3/8)

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PROGRAMS & EVENTS | MAR-APR ’21

Wednesday, March 24,  a.m. – 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 27,  – 3 p.m.

VIRTUAL: COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS

Hit the trail on a self-guided search for amphibians. Before your journey, stop by the shelter to chat with naturalists and pick up a scavenger hunt list to guide you on your way.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

Do you miss visiting the birds at the Nature Realm bird window? Let us help you visit the window virtually! A naturalist will identify birds that show up to enjoy some seed and will share some interesting tidbits about the feathered friends we see.

Zoom meeting ID: 833 5734 70

Wednesday, March 24, 8 – 9:30 p.m.

AMPHIBIANS AT NIGHT Hike with a naturalist to discover the source of all that racket.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. BHT/Young Road: 5090 Young Rd., Stow

☎ (3/5)

Friday, March 26, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NIGHT CREATURES Are you excited that spring is here? Let’s listen to some of the crazy creatures we will start to hear more often this season. How well do you know the calls of wild creatures big and small? Come put your knowledge to the test.

Zoom meeting ID: 835 746 946

Saturday, March 27, 9 –  a.m.

WATERFOWL WATCH Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese, sand hill cranes and other migratory birds.

New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for a chance to view these birds during spring migration. We will begin at the Tinkers Creek State Park Area and then caravan to Tinkers Creek Nature Preserve. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303 AuroraHudson Rd., Streetsboro

☎ (3/9)

APRIL

FAMILY HIKE: AMPHIBIANS

WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Sunday, March 28,  – 2:30 p.m.

SPRING STINKS One uses smell to repel, the other to attract.

Join a naturalist to discover the wonderful, smelly world of skunks and skunk cabbage.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron

☎ (3/20)

Sunday, March 28, 6 – 8:30 p.m.

CHECK IN TO THE AMPHIBIAN HOTEL Join a naturalist to see who has checked in for a spring vacation in a five-star vernal pool.

We will look for salamanders, frogs, worms, leeches and other mysterious creatures.

Boots and bug spray are recommended.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

LP/Pond Brook: 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg (3/22)

☎

Wednesday, March 3, 6 – 7 p.m.

VIRTUAL: SUMMIT LAKE WATERFOWL Join us online to learn about some of the birds that call Summit Lake home. Certain birds live there year-round while others make a pit stop along a migratory journey. We will discuss birding tips and will share good birding spots along the Loop Trail and Towpath Trail.

Zoom meeting ID: 893 3483 87

Thursday, April , 6 a.m. –  p.m.

SELF-GUIDED: EYE SPY Hit the trail any time during the month of April for a nature-themed game of Eye Spy! Begin by downloading or printing this month’s Eye Spy list from our “Publications & Downloads” page, then enjoy a stroll along Pheasant Run Trail in search of animals, delicate spring wildflowers and other landmarks along the way. You can also complete your search using the April  Instagram post (@summitmetroparks).

Bring a camera to document your finds. SC/ Pheasant Run: 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Thursday, April , 6 – 7 p.m.

VIRTUAL: FOOLS FOR NATURE Join us online to celebrate April Fools’ Day by learning about some of the daring, sometimes foolish adventures naturalists had during the age of discovery.

Zoom meeting ID: 829 436 6578

Saturday, April 3, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

DISTANCE HIKE Lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail for a distance hike. Enjoy the morning air while hiking 4.5 miles of challenging terrain.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (3/26)

☎ 0

summitmetroparks.org

| SEPTEMBER | APR ’21 GREEN ISLANDSPROGRAMS & EVENTS • OCTOBER ’7

Sunday, April 4,  – 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 0, 0 – 0:30 a.m.

VIRTUAL: HISTORY OF SUMMIT LAKE Join us online to learn about how the unique history of this area relates to the ongoing revitalization of Summit Lake.

Zoom meeting ID: 879 803 9867

Wednesday, April 7 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING Join our interpretive artist online for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A sketchbook/journal, pencil/pen and computer are required.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(3/27)

☎

Thursday, April 8, 6 – 7 p.m.

VIRTUAL: SMP & SCOUTING Learn the history of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts at Summit Metro Parks. From trails and trees to bird houses and picnic benches, scouts have left many marks on the parks!

Zoom meeting ID: 87 3362 32

VIRTUAL: SPRING NATURE TALES Families with youngsters are invited to enjoy a virtual story time about spring!

Zoom meeting ID: 892 978 2226

Saturday, April 0, 7:30 – 9 p.m.

DANCE WITH THE WOODCOCK

Wednesday, April 4, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join a naturalist to look for woodcocks as they “dance” in the twilight. Learn how to enhance your chances of seeing these interesting, but elusive, birds.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Nature Center: 9999

Join a naturalist online to learn how to identify spring-flowering ephemerals you may see this time of year, as well as hotspots within the parks for the best views of these beauties.

Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

☎ (4/2)

WATERFOWL WATCH Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese, sandhill cranes and other migratory birds.

New and experienced birders can meet at Tinkers Creek State Park Area and then caravan to Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303 Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

☎ (4/3)

SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL Bring the family out for some exercise and fun exploration with a self-guided story trail based on the book “Flower Garden.” Available on Overlook Trail from April 3 through April 8.

CV/Overlook: 354 Sackett Ave., Akron

Wednesday, April 4 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing.

No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(4/6)

DRIVE-IN: NIGHT SKY

Zoom meeting ID: 895 5922 2474

Sunday, April , 9 –  a.m.

Tuesday, April 3, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

Friday, April 9, 8:30 – 9:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: SPRING WILDFLOWER ID

☎

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX Get fit while you sit!

Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system.

It is designed for all ages and abilities!

2:30 –  p.m.

Thursday, April  Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, April 5 Zoom meeting ID: 868 963 2750

Thursday, April 8 Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, April 2 Zoom meeting ID: 878 6498 269

Thursday, April 5 Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Monday, April 9 Zoom meeting ID: 84 68 7995

Wednesday, April 2 Zoom meeting ID: 875 7973 0498

Thursday, April 22

Join a naturalist for a drive-in program on the science and history of our night sky. We’ll remain socially distanced in our cars for this informative radio program, so please arrive early to get a good parking spot! HH/Main

Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

Entrance: 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd. Akron

Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634

summitmetroparks.org

Monday, April 26 Zoom meeting ID: 8 28 3352

Thursday, April 29



VIRTUAL: KINDEREALM GROWING GARDENS Calling all seedlings ages 3 to 6! Join us virtually with a parent/guardian to learn about gardens and the benefits they provide to the planet.

Saturday, April 3, 0 – 0:30 a.m.

Wednesday, April 28, 6:30 – 7 p.m.

Zoom meeting ID: 872 329 680

Zoom meeting ID: 80 9954 7605

Saturday, April 3,  – :30 a.m.

Zoom meeting ID: 879 089 4048

Thursday, April 5, 6 – 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 7, 2 –  p.m.

VIRTUAL: RAIN GARDENS 20

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR TEENS

Build a unique habitat, manage stormwater and do something good for our planet! Join a master rain-gardener naturalist to build upon knowledge from our Rain Gardens 0 program and transform your planned garden into a reality!

Zoom meeting ID: 830 298 284

Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 3 to 7 are invited to join our interpretive artist for a virtual lesson in nature drawing. Paper, pencils and a computer are required.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(4/0)

☎

Friday, April 6, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Discover the wildflowers that are popping up in the park! A naturalist will show you these beautiful gems along the trail and share interesting tidbits about the plants.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Thursday, April 22, :30 – 2:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: EARTH DAY FOR KIDS

SC/Pheasant Run: 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton (4/9)

It’s Earth Day! Kids ages 7 to 4 are invited to join a naturalist online and explore what makes Earth special and discover ways to keep our planet beautiful.

Zoom meeting

☎

Saturday, April 7, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

LET’S GO TO THE FISHING HOLE!

LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303 Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro (4/2)

☎

SELF-GUIDED: CELEBRATE EARTH WEEK Visitors of all ages can enjoy a self-guided hike featuring inventions inspired by Mother Nature. This experience will be available along Cherry Lane Trail from April 9 through April 26.

WILDFLOWER HIKE

Kids ages 5 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Tinkers Creek Lake. Some rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must be there to supervise their children and if they want to fish, must have a current Ohio fishing license.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

Monday, April 9, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

ID: 834 4265 40

Thursday, April 22, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 7, 6 – 7 p.m.

VIRTUAL: SMP 00 YEARS STRONG The value of parks was clear during the events of last year, but our history shows that people have always seen the importance of parks in our communities. Our park district’s strong beginnings shine through today – let’s explore who and what helped us become what we are now 00 years later.

Zoom meeting ID: 849 709 5722

EARTH DAY WILDFLOWER HIKE Join a naturalist as we discover the difference between squirrel corn and Dutchman’s breeches, stinking Benjamins, and wood poppy. Learn which insects are important to many of our native wildflowers.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (4/6)

☎

Thursday, April 22, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 8 2 –  p.m. & 2 – 3 p.m.

VIRTUAL: EARTH DAY FOR ADULTS

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS

It’s Earth Day! Join a naturalist online to discover the history of this holiday, meaningful ways you can celebrate and the amazing ecosystem services our wonderful planet offers us.

Zoom meeting ID: 86 944 3439

Join our interpretive artist for this virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 2.

Paper, pencils and a computer are required.

A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering.

(4/3)

☎

2

summitmetroparks.org

| SEPTEMBER | APR ’21 GREEN ISLANDSPROGRAMS & EVENTS • OCTOBER ’7

Wednesday, April 28, 0 – :30 a.m.

WEEKDAY WALKERS RE-IMAGINED Chat with a naturalist at the Old Mill trailhead before you begin your hike for additional information to guide an exploration of nature and history.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. FR/Brushwood: 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Thursday, April 29, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

GOOD GARDENS: SEED SWAP AND STARTING WORKSHOP Friday, April 23, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 25, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: BIRDING BY EAR

BUMBLEBEES AND THEIR FRIENDS

Join a naturalist to prepare yourself for birding by ear during the spring and summer months.

We’ll talk tips, tricks and common birds to set you off on the right “wing.” Decent speakers or headphones are recommended, but not required!

Zoom meeting ID: 863 420 206

Saturday, April 24, 0 – :30 a.m.

SPRING WILDFLOWER HIKE Hike with a naturalist to learn about some of the common native wildflowers that call Sand Run home.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. SR/Wadsworth: 400 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron

☎ (4/8)

Saturday, April 24, 2 –  p.m.

KIDS FISHING It’s that time of year again! Join a naturalist to kick off the fishing season (socially distanced) at Little Turtle Pond. Children ages 5 and under (accompanied by an adult) are invited to get outside and fish! Bait and poles provided.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. F/Little Turtle Pond: 2400 Harrington Rd., Akron

☎ (4/7)

Sunday, April 25, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT Hike about five miles at a moderate pace along a gorgeous section of the Towpath Trail. Beginners are welcome but talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others.

TT/Vanderhoof: 2445 Vanderhoof Rd., New Franklin (4/9)

☎

Join a naturalist to learn about some of the 455 native bees found in Ohio, including bumblebees. After a presentation, we will search Ledges Trail for recently emerged queen bumblebees.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

2077 Newton St., Akron

☎ (4/5)

☎ (4/20)

Monday, April 26, 6 a.m. –  p.m.

SELF-GUIDED: WILDFLOWER WALK Hike Ledges Trail between April 26 and May 2 to discover delicate spring blooms of all shapes and sizes. Interpretive signs will be posted along the way to guide your learning experience! LP/Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Monday, April 26, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

SPRING BIRD WALK It’s migration time! New and experienced birders can join a naturalist in search of birds from warblers to waterfowl. Binoculars are recommended.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. LP/Pond Brook: 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg

☎ (4/2)

Monday, April 26, 6 – 6:30 p.m.

NATURE STORIES WITH MOTHER NATURE Mother Nature is calling all young ones for a nature themed story time! Gather around as we explore a nature tale told by none other than Mother Nature herself.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. FASN/Seneca Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

summitmetroparks.org

Bring seeds to share, donate or trade with fellow gardeners. A short workshop and demonstration will cover the best practices for starting seeds indoors as well as directly sowing outside. Meet at the Community Garden near the main entrance.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. GYH/Main Entrance:

☎ (4/23)

Friday, April 30,  – 2:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: VIOLETS, TOOTHWORT & TRILLIUM, OH MY! Ready to learn about wildflowers? Let’s peek at what is in bloom through Zoom. See vivid pictures and learn about historical uses of these plants and the unusual ways they were named. The naturalist will suggest great locations to view them in the Metro Parks.

Zoom meeting ID: 88 66 3399

Friday, April 30, 4 – 5:30 p.m.

SUMMIT LAKE SCENERY Join a naturalist for a hike around the Summit Lake Loop Trail. Observe your surroundings in the heart of spring as nature prepares for summer.

Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. Summit Lake: 390 W. Crosier St., Akron

☎ (4/24)

LOOKING FOR EVEN MORE TO DO? Visit the Summit Metro Parks YouTube channel (youtube.com/summitmetroparks) to see new videos from our naturalists full of educational, entertaining topics.

3

A Century of Service Scouts give back to the Christy Counterman, Marketing Assistant Janean Kazimir, Interpretive Naturalist

B

oy Scouts and Girl Scouts have had a

Metro Park near the Old Portage Area.

long history alongside Summit Metro

After a ceremony that began with songs,

Parks. Even before the park district

the park district’s Director-Secretary

was founded, Boy Scouts were camping

Harold S. Wagner addressed the

at what is now Gorge Metro Park in a

group with a speech on “Trees and the

cabin they built dubbed “Old Slabsides.”

Necessity of Reforestation.”

Our mutual friendship has flourished ever since, officially beginning in the

Girl Scout Tree Planting Festival on April 30, 966 at Virginia Kendall Park

920s when the Girl Scouts hosted tree plantings at Sand Run and Goodyear Heights Metro Parks. Over the years, Scouts have recreated in our parks as well as volunteered time and talent to grow them into what they are today, thus inspiring new generations of Girl Scouts plant pines at Sand Run Metro Park on May 4, 1929.

4

caretakers for our “Green Islands.”

Virginia Kendall Park, once part of our district but now managed by Cuyahoga

Girl Scouts

Valley National Park, was the site of the

The first record of Girl Scouts planting

park district’s third annual Girl Scout

trees in the Metropolitan Park District

Tree Planting Festival, held each year on

was on May 4, 929. About 250 girls

the Saturday closest to Arbor Day. April

planted over 2,000 trees in Sand Run

30, 966 brought a steady downpour, summitmetroparks.org

YOUR BACK YARD FOR OO YEARS

and Sharing: parks that give to them but that didn’t deter almost ,000 girls

nature study, singing and more to girls

and their helpers representing 60 troops

that might not otherwise experience an

from planting close to 5,000 trees in less

adventure in the woods. The day camp

than two hours. One Brownie Scout

tradition has been carried on in the parks

commented “It was easier than last year.

by our naturalists in recent years, where

We didn’t have to water!”

kids of all ages can enjoy and learn about

Official planting events continued through 985, with over 00,000 trees added to the landscape at Sand Run, Goodyear Heights, Furnace Run, Virginia Kendall, Hampton Hills, Firestone, Munroe Falls and Silver Creek Metro Parks. Boy Scouts have maintained some of the trees throughout the years, protecting them from invasive plants that would crowd them out.

the great outdoors.

Boy Scouts

Cooking food outdoors was a specialty of the Boy Scouts in the early days of the park district. According to a 939 story in the Akron Beacon Journal, members of Troop 77 prepared picnic dinners for their parents over six campfires at Camp Waupaca, on land that later became part of O’Neil Woods Metro Park. Pictured

u

Parks provide opportunities to learn

on Sand Run Parkway circa 930,

outdoor skills of all kinds. Beginning in

these Scouts take a break from serving.

928, day camps were held in the parks

Note the packing plant, now a wellness

each summer. In 952, a camp at Furnace

center and office complex on Merriman

Run Metro Park taught cooking, crafts,

Road, in the background of the video.

summitmetroparks.org

Scouts try their hand at grilling in this 969 snapshot from Goodyear Heights Metro Park.

Starting at minute 6:06, see the Boy Scouts (pictured) in action in this historic video on YouTube: http://bit.ly/SMPscouts.

5

GREEN ISLANDS MAGAZINE

continued from page 5

t In 959, Boy Scouts gathered and

Troop 382 headed up by Eagle Scout

planted nuts under the direction of park

candidate Joshua Thompson built and

staff, helping to reforest park areas for

installed sensory-friendly additions to

the future. More recent nut plantings

the Liberty Park Nature Play area.

have resulted in thousands of small trees covering the landscape, most notably at the developing Valley View Area of Starting at minute 7:6, see the Boy Scouts (pictured) in action in this historic video on YouTube: http://bit.ly/SMP1959.

Cascade Valley Metro Park.

Countless hours of service and improvements, coupled with opportunities to learn about and conserve nature, contribute to the

Boy Scout Troop 20 has been serving

Scouting experience. Their projects

refreshments since the first year of the

have stood the test of time and serve

Silver Creek Fall Family Outing in 997.

to connect adult Scouts back to the

t In 209, visitors enjoyed 4 crates of

parks and to their communities. Our

apples, 25 giant bags of popcorn, almost

parks are wholly richer as a result.

 gallons of cider and more than 400 dozen cookies. Adam Lehman, a refreshment volunteer for more than 0 years, delights each time a visitor comes to the window for a drink and asks the price — when he says “free,” they can’t believe it! As a volunteer, Lehman is one of the Scouts who entertains the crowds as our mascot Cheeks the Chipmunk.

Since 988, 65 Eagle Scouts have earned their awards by completing projects in the parks, including construction of benches, picnic tables, trails, bat boxes and bluebird houses. Fernwood Loop

We want to hear your Scouting story. Do you

have a fond recollection of visiting Summit Metro Parks? Perhaps you have the Tree Planting patch you earned at one of the annual events. Visit summitmetroparks00.org to share your memories, or call 330-28-4502 to leave a voice message.

Trail at F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm was created in 979 by Life Scouts who first transplanted wildflowers and ferns along the proposed path Troop 382 created this tracing turtle, largerthan-life flowers and a giant xylophone for Liberty Park’s Nature Play area.

6

and later constructed the trail.

t More recently, volunteers from

Thank you to the Tallmadge Historical Society, Girl Scouts of North East Ohio and Ron Lehman (Boy Scout for 54 years, Eagle Scout and former Scoutmaster) for the use of their collections for our story.

summitmetroparks.org

The Summit Metro Parks Foundation is a 50(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established in 99 to further the goals and mission of Summit Metro Parks. We are grateful to the many people, organizations, businesses and agencies who made gifts, grants and sponsorships January  through December 3, 2020.

These donations and other forms of support create thriving parks that are a cornerstone of Summit County’s quality of life, and benefit the park district’s charitable, educational and scientific initiatives.

DONOR LISTING Robert Abdenour Akron Garden Club Albrecht Family Foundation & Acme Fresh Market in memory of Laura Ritter Allio Mark S. & Michelle Allio in honor of Viji Alur Ganesh Kumaraswamy

in honor of Dan L. Buie Danielle Buie Burning River Endurance Run Runner-Fundraisers & Western Reserve Racing, LLC. Kelly Byer in memory of Joan D. Carlson Keidan Cares Fund of The Columbus Foundation Kim Bennett

Anonymous (4)

John & Susan Goldsberry

Anonymous (5), Network for Good

Lee & Robin Woodard

Julie Miller

John & Sally Price

Jordan Dennis

Eileen Speranza

Chrissy DeVono in honor of Bonnie DiDomenico Michael, Riley, & Nicolle DiDomenico The Drew-Lyons-AndersonShevlin-Ward Family The Dreamcatcher Fund in memory of Mark Allan Dunaye Anonymous

Sharon Wenzel in honor of Fred & Linda Ertley The Ertley children in memory of Jeanne Ruth Faggella Gabrielle Fuller in memory of Dorothy Falk Frederick & Christine Brannan Kandy & Richard Pearson

Candice Carlyon

Richfield Chiropractic Center, LLC

David Chaney

Cindy & Mario Aiello

Melaine Alexis Chema

Allison Ball

Jane E. Bond

Lois D. Arnold

Gail E. Cheslock

Lynnet Banaszak

Carol Ann Callaghan

ArtsNow

in memory of Angelo and Nada Ciriello and their son Mark

Rodney & Diane Biskoski

Joan Deschamps

Corky & Moe Davis

June L. Dockus

Michael Dunaye

Barbara Beth Free

Barbara Dunaye

Deborah E. Jesiolowski

Mary Lynn Dunaye-Martin

Karen J. Kell

Brenda Gille, Timothy Justice & Kelly Justice

Andrea Kolleth

Anonymous Donor Advised Fund at The Chicago Community Foundation

in honor of Lisa Aurilio Shana Earle, Brian Lapolla & Kris Grayem Paula Balazs Phil & Mindy Bartholomae John Beck in honor of Marlene Bednarik ExxonMobil Foundation Kate Bilinski Bokom Foundation, George & Susan Klein, Trustees in memory of Lisa Anne Botnick Ellen W. Botnick Kirsten Bowen in memory of Shirley Braidich Christy Counterman David & Mary Crandell Evelyn Gunning The Kirt Family Shirley L. Koehler Nancy J. Pallo Deb Walton in memory of Astrid Brashear Linda Brashear Bridgestone Americas Akron Trust Fund

Lisa Ciriello in honor of Jane & Doug Clokey Scott McHenry in memory of Christopher J. Consilio Lisa Almenar, Katrina Stoneman & Diana Wheeler in memory of Chad Cook

Mark Daniel Goldstein Robert Griffith

Robert & Jean Bouchard

Andy & Suzanne Hines

Robert Faulkner

Fairlawn Professional Firefighters Local 4164

Gretchen Moore Dennis & Marsene Pryor in memory of Ernie Corpening Phillip & Patricia Safford in memory of J.C. & Virginia Damitz Kathleen A. Damitz in memory of Rose Ann Dannemiller Jessica Ogden in honor of Bryan Daugherty Valerie Daugherty in memory of Fred Deitrick Theodore J. Forsberg in honor of Daniel C. Demko Daniel C. & Dianne Demko

Thomas Kyle Krill Beckie LaSalle

Stephanie Fall in memory of Margaret Fauser (McConnell)

Sandra J. Mills Lois Murray Margaret Olds Janet M. Schrader Carolyn G. & Jeffrey W. Wadelin in memory of Jeff Fetzer John F. & Janice R. Fetzer

Craig & Marissa McLean

Mary Kay Finn

Aleah A. Marx

in honor of Helen Fire

Mary Parker Thomas F. & Patricia L. Pickett Colleen Radclif Sherry Vassel Janet & Sonny Cynthia L. Wilson Greg Dunham

Kurt Fire in memory of Barbara Fongheiser Kevin M. Fongheiser Theodore J. Forsberg Michelle Fox Amy Garrett Dale Garrison

Lisa Edens

Larry H. Wallerstien & Shelia G. Garten

in memory of Alice Egan

in memory of Janet Gaydos

Scott & Annmarie Demko

Kathy Gabelman

Christopher & Jenny Demko

Milt & Mary Beth Hettinger

Mike Demko

Eileen & Tom Ivan

Jessica Anderson Denny & Kathy Burns

continued on page 8 foundation.summitmetroparks.org

7

Deborah Devol

Joyce E. Butler

James R . Hostler

Aubrey Marovich

Brittany Dugan

Gary & Carole Harwood

Hillary Miller-Folb

in memory of Roberta Martin

John A. Gaydos

Verneda Hawkins

John Sederwall

Janice E. Gregg

Michael T. Hayes

Rebecca Jarvis

Susan Hackel

Kerry Helstein

in memory of Perry Johnson

Joseph J. Harp Dennis & Norma Jordan

Michele Hendrick

Bill & Shelley Kritek in memory of John (Jack) Kane

Erika Pintoff Herb & Dianne Newman

Richard & Patricia Franklin in memory of James Manton Mather

Timothy Nichols Joli Oliver

Sarah Mather Reding, Melissa Mather

in honor of Janine Oreskovich

in memory of Patricia McAnlis

Lisa Almenar

Kathryn Kaszar

Scott Hertle

Firestone Park Prime Timers

Sara Kostek

in honor of John & Charlotte Hiller

Mrs. Martha Adams & Family

Thomas & Rita McCaffrey

Samuele Palcko

Chris & Pat Crago

in memory of Paul E. McGhee

William & Caroline Parry

Carla Dittman McBain Dave, Karen, Nicole and Nicholas Neila James & Judith Rambacher Linda Recht Leah Recht Melissa Recht & Brian Boyd Nancy Roth Linda & Wayne Sanders II Leslie Stoyer Melinda M. Torres Judith E. Trefz in memory of Dale Gerus Douglas & Patricia Broemsen Mark & Carla Forestieri Pamela B. Gerus Sharlene Jochym David & Natalie Meszaros Donald H. & Janet L. Plas Rosemary A. Rivera Irving & Beth Sugerman Nile & Judith Walker Pamela B. Gerus in memory of Anthony J. Gradisher Caroline S. Gradisher In memory of Kay C. Greathouse

Their Loving Family in memory of Christopher Edward Hines The Nixdorf-Walzer Family in memory of Onyx Hudak Huey Family in memory of Jim Huff Katie Austin Paula Calhoun David J. Carmany Shelly & Max Dennison Douglas Dzurilla

Diana G. Gay

Megan Kane

Julie Wert

Sandy Riveron

Cheryl Dulabaum McQueen

Jonathan Riveron

in memory of Robert E. Mercer

in honor of Marilyn Bednar Kasarda & John Kasarda Carolyn Good and Lauren Bednar in memory of Lilly Kelly Michael & Jane Smedley Casey Kiel

Zach Elmore

Mary A. Kincaid

Anna Frascone

in honor of The Kist Family

Neal Frey Amy Glick Jenn (Midcap) Harper Robert Harpley Michele Henry Catherine Howard Beverly J. Huff Mark Komives

Gail Kandel in memory of Audrey & Hugh Kleasen David L. Stroud in memory of Mona Shank Klingler John Klingler Laura Klingler Janice Kroeger

Joseph Clapp

Russ, Paul, & Pat Motz

John R. Daily

in memory of Gerald M. Reeves

James & Gail McCready

Anonymous

Charlene Nash

in memory of Richard B. Remington Sr.

Daniel J. & Sally H. O’Brien

Cynthia A. Peterson

John L. Shulan

in memory of Diane Renzi

in memory of Bill Miller

Leo & Marci Bailey

Carol Miller

Howard Essner

Milton James Foundation, Inc.

Charles & Melissa Hickson

in honor of Terrie “Sunflower” Moeller

Robert Price Jo Ellen Pryce

Christopher Lanni

Nicole Roberts

Alicia Michelle Monteith Brentt, Rosalyn & Carson Moore in memory of Eleanor Grace Moritz E. Stewart Moritz & Dr. Maura K. O’Shea

Rick & Alita Rogers Jacqueline Ross in memory of Vincent Paul Rowland Susan Emmerich

Dave Komito

Nadia Mullin

Richard and Gale Harr

in memory of Donald & Virginia Neidert

Kathryn Hartz

Betty Darrah, Carol Neidert, Margaret Neidert, Patricia Gay, Joan Neidert, Jeff Neidert, & Luba Shirley

Ron Koly Family

Paige, Dave, Kate & Daniel Krabill

Jerry & Kathleen Proper

William and Kathleen Mauk

Ted & Hazel Krist

The Bruce & Erica Greer Family Foundation

Jacob, Michelle, & Josh Mauk

Michele Kurilec

Ray Hancart

Eugene Opryszko

Christopher Lanni

Jedidiah Rex

in honor of Ed Lewis

Joyce, Christine, & Family & Andrew, Stacy, & Family

in memory of Mildred Poole

Donna Long

Maxwell Lyman

in memory of Elizabeth “Betty” Hartzell

Bill & Linda Robb

Antje S. Barnett

Jo-Ann Moritz

Dennis & Sandra Lance

Alayna Harstine

Carolyn E. & Wade A. Christian

Carl Komer

Samantha Kovach

Scott & Marian Harmount

Anonymous

James D. & Joyce E. Lackey

Michael Richard Lyman

Nick & Gail Bleibtrey

in memory of Joe Pillitiere

Phyllis Knepper

Meagan Longanecker

Michele Hendrick

Karin Orr

Kyle Krstolic

Springfield High School Staff

in honor of Bob Harmon & Stephanie Harmon

Jen M. Harvey

Glen A. Hoffman

Taku Kopp

in honor of Olga & Bob Harbour

8

in honor of Judy Hendrick

Janet Murray

Brent, Nathalina, & Miette Schloneger Stanley & Alma Schloneger Madison Spreitzer Sonya Szabo-Reynolds Raquel J. Teare Robin Tryon Rebecca Yourko

Virginia T. Goetz in memory of Jacqueline Lindquist Kira M. Sandmann in memory of Bill & Trudy Loeb Betty J. Levinson in honor of Finn Martin Lugo Sean Thornton

Trista Hughes

M.G. O’Neil Foundation

in memory of Barbara Jaggers

Toby Mackenzie

Laura Ginsberg

Michael Marcinkoski

John R. Bresnahan

Susan Herbster Elizabeth Pfeiffer Joseph S. Rowland

in memory of Doug & Normagene Neumann Douglas & Elizabeth Neumann

Karen Hartz Semer Michael G. & Mary R. Zubovic Running Forward and Giving Back

in memory of Richard A. Newgent

Ronald A. & Kimberly R. Sabo

Rachel Begun

Sarah Saddleton

Mary Jane Jane Detroyer

in memory of Arlene “Sam” Sampiero

Lisa Drayer Keri Gans

Denise Laible & Karen Goewey

Risa Goldberg

Rachel Sanders

Alyssa Gelbard LePack

Linda & Wayne Sanders II

Amy Lyn Morse

Joyce E. Sawinska

Sherry Moss

foundation.summitmetroparks.org

SUMMIT METRO PARKS FOUNDATION

in honor of Michael Schauer Stacy Tucker in honor of The Schirra Family John P. & Susan M. Schirra in honor of Jeffrey Schmitt Adam J. Schmitt Sharon Schnall & R. Drew Sellers George E. Seccombe Edward & Cheryl Sliva Richey & Sandra Smith in honor of Amy Soccorsi Adam J. Schmitt

Daniel & Barbara Ciofani Emily K. Cohen Cuyahoga Valley Federation of Teachers Jodi A. Denham John G. Eaton Edward S. & Linda J. Ferriss Kathy P. Gardner Margaret Garriga Thomas D. & Vicky L. Gray

Peter & Diane Kalgreen Cathy Kantin

in honor of The Stroud Family

Dennis K. & Pamela E. Loughry

John & Pamela Montgomery in memory of Louise Sunderland Betty Channell & Family Mark Szeremet in memory of Sally Marian Tenney

Tim W. Miller Liz Mulroy Claudia E. Nichols Samantha Palmer Taylor Ramm John Robert Renner

Lea & Marianne Rowland

Kay & Bridget Sciscento

in memory of William Tenney

Jane See

Lynn Spetrino Vincent

Nick & Maureen Katanic

Travis & Colleen Vincent

Julie Ann Miller

Sarah J. Vradenburg

Karen Salemi

Blaine & Carla J. Wyckoff

Robert & Colleen Tigelman

Glenn & Michelle Yasco Cathie Zelinsky

John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

Sisler McFawn Foundation

2O2O Summit Metro Parks / Summit Metro Parks Foundation

SPONSORS Akron Children’s Hospital Akron Life Magazine Albrecht Family Foundation and Acme Fresh Market

Cleveland Clinic Akron General

Vertical Runner Western Reserve Hospital

House of Plants, Inc. Summa Health

Summit Metro Parks Foundation

Green Islands Legacy Society

Lyndsey Walker

Dalton Tidwell

Bryan Wallace

Jessica Toth Robert Trogdon

The Sean & Nancy Ward Charitable Foundation

in memory of Donald L. Trusler

Jenelle Wass

Lawrence Halter

Tom & Cheryl Wells

David Kulchar & Nanci Ronk

in memory of James Michael Wilson

Patricia Laube

GOJO Industries

Timothy & Joyce Macal

Joan Marie Bryan

in memory of Kevin Vincent

Jacqueline Ross Foundation

The Silver Lake Book Club Denise H. Stuart

Vertical Runner, Vince Rucci

First Energy Foundation

Gregory & Laura Sherwood

David Hill

John Farrell

DuPont Clear Into the Future

• The JPB Foundation • John S. and James L. Knight Foundation • The Kresge Foundation • The Rockefeller Foundation

Debbie & Doug Shearer

Beverly B. Ankrim

in honor of Meghan Thornton

Bridgestone Americas Akron Trust Fund

Janet Palcko

Karen E. Rudar

Yolanda Reeves

Reimagining the Civic Commons – Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, convener

Nicole McCandless

Paul C. & Polly A. Dilworth in memory of William & Sally Tenney

• Civic Affairs – William C. & Betty J. Zekan • Capital Fund

Dewey & Denise Hornsby

Kevin Street

in memory of Violet Louise Sunderland

GR ANTS Akron Community Foundation

David Griffin

Andrea & Sidney Stanberger

David L. Stroud

2O2O Summit Metro Parks Foundation

Cathy & Bob Buck

in memory of Doris Yeager Christy Counterman

Kip & Kelly Anderson Wendy Benes Donna J. Bennett

We’re grateful to those who have made a planned gift to the Summit Metro Parks Foundation or Summit Metro Parks. Those who have done so are recognized here as part of the Green Islands Legacy Society. Planned gifts (such as bequests) to the Summit Metro Parks Endowment Fund are a wonderful way to make a lasting difference for your parks.

Elizabeth Baker

David Jones

Charles E. & Ruth A. Shea

Alice M. Bittner

Kathryn Kilpatrick

James & Letha Skinner

Bruce H. Buchholzer

Susan Korosa

Marion L. Taylor

Edna L. Carlson

Harold F. Levinson

Marilyn Vernon

Helen S. Coup

Joan Leslie Long

Mildred C. Walzer

Cynthia A. Deli

Emil A. Merkle

Hoyt & Merdith Wells

George E. Seccombe

foundation.summitmetroparks.org

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G R E E N ISLANDS Vol. 62 No. 2

MAR•APR ’2

975 Treaty Line Rd. Akron, OH 4433-5837

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Reforesting 00 Acres for 00 Years Jen M. Harvey, Chief of Philanthropy Della Day, Manager of Volunteer Programs

As symbols of the park district’s long-

$00 helps fill the Centennial Groves

term stability and growth, trees are also

with beautiful, beneficial trees while also

vitally important to the environment

supporting care of the trees for the next

and our community’s physical and

00 years.

mental health. They provide clean air, wildlife habitat and beautiful forests for everyone to enjoy. For these reasons and more, Summit Metro Parks is celebrating its centennial by reforesting In October 2020, Lois Arnold stands by a sapling with Jen Harvey in the Centennial Grove at Munroe Falls Metro Park.

To help get the reforestation initiative underway, local resident Lois Arnold funded the planting of the first Centennial Grove, located at the

00 acres in 202.

Tallmadge Meadows Area of Munroe

To achieve this goal, the park district will

commitment to help combat the impacts

plant a series of Centennial Groves at

of climate change, Ms. Arnold’s gift

parks throughout the county in 202.

provided a five-acre grove consisting of

The Summit County community has

27 species of native trees that she hopes

long shown a strong commitment to

will inspire others to get involved.

its parks and green spaces, and the public is invited to help by volunteering at a planting event or by sponsoring a Centennial Tree through the Summit

Falls Metro Park. As part of her personal

Visit summitmetroparks00.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities or to explore giving options.

Metro Parks Foundation. A donation of

20

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