Programs & Events Guide FEB '16

facebook.com/summitmetroparks instagram/summitmetroparks

PROGRAMS & EVENTS FEB ’6 vol. 6 no. 2

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

medium.com/@metro_parks pinterest.com/metroparks

FEB ’6

PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID CLEVELAND, OH

vol. 6 no. 2

PERMIT NO. 49

follow @metro_parks youtube.com/summitmetroparks summitmetroparks.org

PROGRAMS & EVENTS GUIDE A M O N T H LY S C H E D U L E F RO M S U M M I T M E T RO PA R K S

Please share this publication and recycle it when finished.

Sunday, February 2, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 25, 6 – 7:30 p.m. HOPPING GOOD TIME

HIKE FOR COCOA

Children ages 5 to 0 learn about local amphibians and make a craft. Where are these critters outdoors and when should we expect to see them again? Program includes a glimpse of live animals. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join us for a winter’s walk, then warm up with a cup of hot cocoa. We will search for signs of wildlife on our way. CVS/Oxbow: 06 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Tuesday, February 23, 9 – 0:30 a.m.

CARDIO HIKE Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended.

SC/Big Oak: 599 Medina Line Rd., Norton

CRYSTAL PALACE HIKE Every year beautiful, colorful icicles form along the Cuyahoga River, creating a “Crystal Palace.” Join a naturalist and discover first-hand the beauty of water in winter.

G/Main Entrance: 60 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls Wednesday, February 24,  – 3 p.m.

Saturday, February 27,  – 3 p.m.

Wednesday, February 24, 7 – 9 p.m.

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: EXPLORING THE TAMARACK BOG Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County and enter the world of the Tamarack Bog, a living relic of Ohio’s Ice Age. Learn about the beauty of the bog and its rare, exotic plants through slides and the eyes of a passionate environmental biologist.

Presented by Randall Mitchell, Professor of Biology, The University of Akron. FASN/ Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, February 26, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 27,  – 3 p.m.

OWL PROWL

WINTER BIRD HIKE

Explore for owls with a naturalist. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Search for raptors, horned larks and other winter birds of the prairie. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. SFB: 400 Portage

Friday, February 26, 7 – 9 p.m.

Sunday, February 28,  – 2:30 p.m.

RADICALLY REPURPOSED: T-SHIRTS

THINKING BUGS AND BIRDS

Give worn-out, wrong-sized or extra T-shirts a second life! Discover how to turn these cozy items into home decorations, gifts or even pet toys. Bring a pair of scissors and any T-shirts you would like to re-use. (Some will be provided.) FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (2/3)

Saturday, February 27, 0 a.m. –  p.m.

DROP-IN BIRD FEEDERS To celebrate National Bird-Feeding Month, visit the Nature Realm to help us feed the birds. Make a feeder at the bird window, and then head outdoors to hang the snacks.

Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

LEDGES TRAIL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR We’ll hike Ledges Trail each month, taking a photographic record of the seasons. In December, we’ll review the year in pictures.

You can take your own pictures or just enjoy the hikes. This trail is not recommended for strollers. LP/Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty

THIS MONTH:

☎ Programs with this icon require advance registration, beginning on the date in parentheses, by calling 330-865-8065.

Friday, February 5, 6 – 8 p.m.

Saturday, February 6,  – 2:30 p.m.

KICK THE COLD

LICENSE PLATE BIRD HOUSE

Fed up with winter and the cold? Take a brief hike around Maple Loop, and then enjoy a campfire in the new shelter. Marshmallows and roasting sticks will be provided. LP/

Learn how to attract wrens to your back yard, then build a license plate birdhouse.

Limit one kit per family. Participation is required to purchase a $0 kit. Space is limited. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd.,

Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Akron

Thursday, February 4 9:30 – 0 a.m. & 0:30 –  a.m.

Saturday, February 6, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

NATURE STORIES

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Kids 8 months to 3 years old, with adult companions, join a naturalist for this interactive, nature-inspired story time.

Sunday, February 28, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (/23)

Join a naturalist for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd.,

Discover how to invite the natural world into your life by adding just one plant! We will critique native plant catalogs, discuss which plants do best, and get you excited for spring.

GREAT LAKES THEATER PERFORMANCE The Great Lakes Theater 206 Outreach Tour performs a one-hour adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “The Secret Adversary.”

There will be a question-and-answer period after the performance. F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, February 27, 0 –  a.m.

DISCOVER!

Sunday, February 28, 3 – 4:30 p.m.

A PEEK AT BEAKS Did You Know? There are many different types of beaks. Get ready for some hands-on fun as you discover the ins and outs of this incredible tool. Each family will get to take home a treat for their backyard birds. SR/ Mingo: 50 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron

☎

Friday, February 5, 9:30 – :30 a.m.

WINTER BIRD WALK Join a naturalist on this walk to search for winter birds of the ledges. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. LP/Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Friday, February 5 0:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. &  – 2:30 p.m.

HOMESCHOOLERS: CAMOUFLAGE Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 0: Discover why camouflage is one of the best adaptations in the natural world! FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (/5)

☎ (/6) $

Sunday, February 7 :30 a.m. –  p.m. & 2 – 3:30 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS Ages 6 to 2 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. FASN/Visitors Center: 828

☎ (/9)

Twinsburg

Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, February 6,  – 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 7,  – 2 p.m.

CARDBOARD CLASSIC

FEEDING TIME

Enjoy some fun in the snow by recycling old items into new sleds. All sleds will be assembled on site.

We will provide some cardboard, duct tape and marshmallows for roasting. If no snow, the program will be rescheduled. GYH/Sled Hill:

Ever wonder what we feed our display animals at the Nature Realm? Ages 5 and older can help us feed the animals and learn more about them. FASN/Visitors Center:

2077 Newton St., Akron

☎

(/5)

828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (/7)

Sunday, February 7,  – 2:30 p.m.

RUSTY BLACKBIRD BIRD WALK Join a naturalist to search for the beautiful yellow eyes of the rusty blackbird, a declining species that winters in Firestone Metro Park.

All other birds will be a bonus. F/Tuscarawas Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Rd., Twinsburg

4

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

These programs and events are examples of your public dollars at work.



FEBRUARY

BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS Herbert Newman Chair Joel D. Bailey Tonya Block Mark A. Spisak Jane Bond Lisa King Executive Director EDITORS Nathan Eppink Chief of Marketing & Communications Mike Greene Interim Interpretive Services Manager

Monday, February 8,  – 2 p.m.

Thursday, February , 7 – 8 p.m.

CARDIO HIKE

YOGA IN THE PARK

Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303

Join a naturalist and certified yoga instructor for an energizing practice to help us make it through the long Ohio winter. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a yoga mat or large towel and drinking water. FASN/

Tuesday, February 9 9:30 – 0 a.m. & 0:30 –  a.m.

NATURE STORIES Kids 8 months to 3 years old, with adult companions, join a naturalist for this interactive, nature-inspired story time.

☎

Wednesday, February 0,  – 2:30 p.m.

Summit Metro Parks 975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron, OH 4433-5837 330-867-55

0303 Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm: 330-865-8065

O&E CANAL: MILLING AND INDUSTRY

Nature Center: 0 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday

Seasonal Information: 330-865-8060 Volunteer Information: 330-865-8047 Photos contributed by: Rob Blair Jerry Cannon Christy Counterman Doug Dawes

Jeff Hill Kevin Lanterman J.J. Prekop Jr. Bob Roach

This guide is mailed free of charge to Summit County residents. To join the mailing list, send your name and mailing address to marketing@summitmetroparks.org or call 330-867-55.

The Programs & Events Guide can be downloaded online: summitmetroparks.org

Join us for a leisurely stroll around Tinkers Creek Area with stops along the way to discover nature and history. LP/Tinkers Creek:

Wednesday, February 0, 7 – 8 p.m.

The Ohio & Erie Canal is credited in part with changing Ohio into an industrial state. Learn about milling and industries along the canal, and how they affected Ohio’s economy. FASN/ Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Children and their adult companions will enjoy a story about our amphibian friends.

After the story, the children will watch the naturalist feed the Nature Realm amphibians.

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (/22)

☎

Thursday, February , 6:30 – 8 p.m.

SMALL FOOTPRINT: POWER SAVERS Printed on FSC®-certified Rolland Enviro00™ Satin, a 00% post-consumer, processed chlorine-free, recycled paper.

Unplug, save your socks and paint items white.

Join us for a bi-monthly conversation about ways to become energy-efficient this year.

Bring a notebook and a head full of ideas.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions join a naturalist to discover the benefits and fun of snow. Program includes a short hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.

Friday, February 2 0:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

FASN/Visitors Center 828 Smith Rd., Akron (2/5)

☎

Friday, February 2, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

EXPLORING THE NIGHT SKIES It’s a great month for stargazing! Many bright stars are visible. Learn about the stars of the winter hexagon and the constellations associated with them. F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron

INTRO TO ARCHERY Learn international-style target archery and test your marksmanship at our indoor range.

Good for beginning and practiced archers.

Equipment and instruction provided.

F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron (/26)

☎

Saturday, February 3, 0:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older) Saturday, February 3,  – 2:30 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older) Sunday, February 4,  – 2:30 p.m.

FOR ADULTS (8 and older) Sunday, February 4, 3 – 4:30 p.m.

FOR SENIORS (55 and older)

Thursday, February  0:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

ANIMAL TALES

KINDEREALM: SNOW

☎(/24)

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (/23)

WEEKDAY WALKERS

Liberty Park: 330-487-0493

Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

DESIGN & ART DIRECTION Jennie Levy Graphic Design Coordinator Karl Simonson Graphic Design Coordinator

Visitors Center: 0 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday

FEBRUARY

ARCHERY GAMES

©206 Summit Metro Parks

☎

Friday, February 3, :30 a.m. –  p.m.

No leaves? No problem! Leaves are just one of many ways to identify trees. Learn how to tell your trees apart using different characteristics. WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

☎ (/29) $

F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron (2/9)

☎

Friday, February 9, 0:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

FOR SENIORS (55 and older) Friday, February 9, :30 – 3:30 p.m.

FOR ADULTS (8 and older) Saturday, February 20, 0:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older) Saturday, February 20, :30 – 3:30 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older)

☎

Tuesday, February 6, 6 – 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, February 7, 6 – 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, February 7 0 a.m. – 2 p.m. &  – 3 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS Join a naturalist-artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith

☎ (2/2)

Saturday, February 3,  – 3 p.m.

Rd., Akron

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE

Thursday, February 8,  a.m. –2:30 p.m.

You hiked eight trails to earn the 205 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff was harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. GYH/ Main Entrance: 2077 Newton St., Akron

Play different games to build archery skills.

Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs.

Equipment and instruction provided.

☎

SR/Shady Hollow: 750 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron (/30) $

WILDLIFE & WOOD WORKSHOP: SQUIRREL FEEDER

Akron

☎

Monday, February 22 0:30 – :30 a.m.

GYH/Pavilion 2077 Newton St., Akron (2/5)

Over two nights, weave a pot-shaped basket using new techniques to add a colorful pattern.

Basket measures 8 inches tall. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Materials fee: $20.

Saturday, February 3,  – 2:30 p.m.

Discover the types of squirrels you can attract to your back yard, then build a squirrel-in-thejar feeder. Limit one kit per family. Participation is required to purchase a $5 kit. Space is limited. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd.,

Wednesday, February 7 0:30 – :30 a.m.

F/Coventry Oaks 40 Axline Ave., Akron (2/5)

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: BASKETS

WINTER TREE I.D.

Sunday, February 4, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

“LOVE IS IN THE AIR” HIKE Bring someone you love for a Valentine’s Day hike on Pheasant Run Trail. Along the way, learn how some of our animal friends show their affection for one another. SC/Pheasant

FROSTED MEADOW HIKE Traverse the frosted meadow and look for signs of wildlife. MF/Tallmadge Meadows: 088 North Ave., Tallmadge

Thursday, February 8, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

MIGRATION: THRUSHES Get a jump start on migration by brushing up on the thrushes and their look-alikes. Join a naturalist for identification tips, songs and habitats. For new and experienced birders.

Friday, February 9,  – 3 p.m.

Monday, February 5,  a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

HOMESCHOOLERS: CAMOUFLAGE

WINTER HIKE

Homeschoolers, ages  to 4: Join a naturalist to discover how animals and plants can hide, mimic and disguise themselves.

2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

BHT Bike & Hike Trail CVN Cascade Valley / North CVS Cascade Valley / South DLQ Deep Lock Quarry

☎

Saturday, February 20, 8 – 0:30 a.m.

HIKE & BREAKFAST: HEARTFUL Join us for a brisk winter hike and hearty breakfast. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. GYH/Pavilion: 2077 Newton St., Akron

☎ (2/6)

Saturday, February 20, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS Join a naturalist for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, February 20, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

WINTER AT THE LEDGES See firsthand how forces in nature created and continue to reshape the ledges in Liberty Park. Join a naturalist to discover the beauty, intricacy and mystery of nature in winter. LP/ Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Sunday, February 2,  – 3:30 p.m.

SPRING FELT WREATH Get ready for spring by decorating a wreath with old wool sweaters. Bring an old, bright sweater that has been washed in hot water and put through the dryer. We will provide ideas, tools for felting the wool and embellishments. Cost: $5 to purchase the wreath. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (2/2) $

“COUCH TO 5K” INFO SESSION

Enjoy this leisurely hike to discover the beauty of Ohio in winter. HH/Main Entrance:

☎

Tuesday, February 23 0:30 – :30 a.m.

LP/Nature Center 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (2/5)

Sunday, February 2, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Run: 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Registration required: 330-865-8065 (date) Registration start date $ Fee

2

Saturday, February 3 0:30 – :30 a.m.

FASN/Visitors Center 828 Smith Rd., Akron (2/5)

Learn about our running program that, in just 0 weeks, will get you off the couch and completing a 5K! During this info session, you will have an opportunity to meet trainers, ask questions and sign up for the program.

SR/Mingo: 50 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron

☎ (/5)

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

summitmetroparks.org

GYH Goodyear Heights G Gorge HH Hampton Hills LP Liberty Park

MF Munroe Falls ONW O’Neil Woods SR Sand Run SC Silver Creek

SFB Springfield Bog TT Towpath Trail WH Wood Hollow

3

FEBRUARY

BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS Herbert Newman Chair Joel D. Bailey Tonya Block Mark A. Spisak Jane Bond Lisa King Executive Director EDITORS Nathan Eppink Chief of Marketing & Communications Mike Greene Interim Interpretive Services Manager

Monday, February 8,  – 2 p.m.

Thursday, February , 7 – 8 p.m.

CARDIO HIKE

YOGA IN THE PARK

Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303

Join a naturalist and certified yoga instructor for an energizing practice to help us make it through the long Ohio winter. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a yoga mat or large towel and drinking water. FASN/

Tuesday, February 9 9:30 – 0 a.m. & 0:30 –  a.m.

NATURE STORIES Kids 8 months to 3 years old, with adult companions, join a naturalist for this interactive, nature-inspired story time.

☎

Wednesday, February 0,  – 2:30 p.m.

Summit Metro Parks 975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron, OH 4433-5837 330-867-55

0303 Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm: 330-865-8065

O&E CANAL: MILLING AND INDUSTRY

Nature Center: 0 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday

Seasonal Information: 330-865-8060 Volunteer Information: 330-865-8047 Photos contributed by: Rob Blair Jerry Cannon Christy Counterman Doug Dawes

Jeff Hill Kevin Lanterman J.J. Prekop Jr. Bob Roach

This guide is mailed free of charge to Summit County residents. To join the mailing list, send your name and mailing address to marketing@summitmetroparks.org or call 330-867-55.

The Programs & Events Guide can be downloaded online: summitmetroparks.org

Join us for a leisurely stroll around Tinkers Creek Area with stops along the way to discover nature and history. LP/Tinkers Creek:

Wednesday, February 0, 7 – 8 p.m.

The Ohio & Erie Canal is credited in part with changing Ohio into an industrial state. Learn about milling and industries along the canal, and how they affected Ohio’s economy. FASN/ Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Children and their adult companions will enjoy a story about our amphibian friends.

After the story, the children will watch the naturalist feed the Nature Realm amphibians.

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (/22)

☎

Thursday, February , 6:30 – 8 p.m.

SMALL FOOTPRINT: POWER SAVERS Printed on FSC®-certified Rolland Enviro00™ Satin, a 00% post-consumer, processed chlorine-free, recycled paper.

Unplug, save your socks and paint items white.

Join us for a bi-monthly conversation about ways to become energy-efficient this year.

Bring a notebook and a head full of ideas.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions join a naturalist to discover the benefits and fun of snow. Program includes a short hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.

Friday, February 2 0:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

FASN/Visitors Center 828 Smith Rd., Akron (2/5)

☎

Friday, February 2, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

EXPLORING THE NIGHT SKIES It’s a great month for stargazing! Many bright stars are visible. Learn about the stars of the winter hexagon and the constellations associated with them. F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron

INTRO TO ARCHERY Learn international-style target archery and test your marksmanship at our indoor range.

Good for beginning and practiced archers.

Equipment and instruction provided.

F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron (/26)

☎

Saturday, February 3, 0:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older) Saturday, February 3,  – 2:30 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older) Sunday, February 4,  – 2:30 p.m.

FOR ADULTS (8 and older) Sunday, February 4, 3 – 4:30 p.m.

FOR SENIORS (55 and older)

Thursday, February  0:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 2 p.m.

ANIMAL TALES

KINDEREALM: SNOW

☎(/24)

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (/23)

WEEKDAY WALKERS

Liberty Park: 330-487-0493

Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

DESIGN & ART DIRECTION Jennie Levy Graphic Design Coordinator Karl Simonson Graphic Design Coordinator

Visitors Center: 0 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday

FEBRUARY

ARCHERY GAMES

©206 Summit Metro Parks

☎

Friday, February 3, :30 a.m. –  p.m.

No leaves? No problem! Leaves are just one of many ways to identify trees. Learn how to tell your trees apart using different characteristics. WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

☎ (/29) $

F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron (2/9)

☎

Friday, February 9, 0:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

FOR SENIORS (55 and older) Friday, February 9, :30 – 3:30 p.m.

FOR ADULTS (8 and older) Saturday, February 20, 0:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older) Saturday, February 20, :30 – 3:30 p.m.

FOR COUPLES (8 and older)

☎

Tuesday, February 6, 6 – 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, February 7, 6 – 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, February 7 0 a.m. – 2 p.m. &  – 3 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS Join a naturalist-artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith

☎ (2/2)

Saturday, February 3,  – 3 p.m.

Rd., Akron

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE

Thursday, February 8,  a.m. –2:30 p.m.

You hiked eight trails to earn the 205 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff was harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. GYH/ Main Entrance: 2077 Newton St., Akron

Play different games to build archery skills.

Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs.

Equipment and instruction provided.

☎

SR/Shady Hollow: 750 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron (/30) $

WILDLIFE & WOOD WORKSHOP: SQUIRREL FEEDER

Akron

☎

Monday, February 22 0:30 – :30 a.m.

GYH/Pavilion 2077 Newton St., Akron (2/5)

Over two nights, weave a pot-shaped basket using new techniques to add a colorful pattern.

Basket measures 8 inches tall. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Materials fee: $20.

Saturday, February 3,  – 2:30 p.m.

Discover the types of squirrels you can attract to your back yard, then build a squirrel-in-thejar feeder. Limit one kit per family. Participation is required to purchase a $5 kit. Space is limited. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd.,

Wednesday, February 7 0:30 – :30 a.m.

F/Coventry Oaks 40 Axline Ave., Akron (2/5)

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: BASKETS

WINTER TREE I.D.

Sunday, February 4, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

“LOVE IS IN THE AIR” HIKE Bring someone you love for a Valentine’s Day hike on Pheasant Run Trail. Along the way, learn how some of our animal friends show their affection for one another. SC/Pheasant

FROSTED MEADOW HIKE Traverse the frosted meadow and look for signs of wildlife. MF/Tallmadge Meadows: 088 North Ave., Tallmadge

Thursday, February 8, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

MIGRATION: THRUSHES Get a jump start on migration by brushing up on the thrushes and their look-alikes. Join a naturalist for identification tips, songs and habitats. For new and experienced birders.

Friday, February 9,  – 3 p.m.

Monday, February 5,  a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

HOMESCHOOLERS: CAMOUFLAGE

WINTER HIKE

Homeschoolers, ages  to 4: Join a naturalist to discover how animals and plants can hide, mimic and disguise themselves.

2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

BHT Bike & Hike Trail CVN Cascade Valley / North CVS Cascade Valley / South DLQ Deep Lock Quarry

☎

Saturday, February 20, 8 – 0:30 a.m.

HIKE & BREAKFAST: HEARTFUL Join us for a brisk winter hike and hearty breakfast. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. GYH/Pavilion: 2077 Newton St., Akron

☎ (2/6)

Saturday, February 20, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS Join a naturalist for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, February 20, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

WINTER AT THE LEDGES See firsthand how forces in nature created and continue to reshape the ledges in Liberty Park. Join a naturalist to discover the beauty, intricacy and mystery of nature in winter. LP/ Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Sunday, February 2,  – 3:30 p.m.

SPRING FELT WREATH Get ready for spring by decorating a wreath with old wool sweaters. Bring an old, bright sweater that has been washed in hot water and put through the dryer. We will provide ideas, tools for felting the wool and embellishments. Cost: $5 to purchase the wreath. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (2/2) $

“COUCH TO 5K” INFO SESSION

Enjoy this leisurely hike to discover the beauty of Ohio in winter. HH/Main Entrance:

☎

Tuesday, February 23 0:30 – :30 a.m.

LP/Nature Center 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (2/5)

Sunday, February 2, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Run: 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Registration required: 330-865-8065 (date) Registration start date $ Fee

2

Saturday, February 3 0:30 – :30 a.m.

FASN/Visitors Center 828 Smith Rd., Akron (2/5)

Learn about our running program that, in just 0 weeks, will get you off the couch and completing a 5K! During this info session, you will have an opportunity to meet trainers, ask questions and sign up for the program.

SR/Mingo: 50 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron

☎ (/5)

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

summitmetroparks.org

GYH Goodyear Heights G Gorge HH Hampton Hills LP Liberty Park

MF Munroe Falls ONW O’Neil Woods SR Sand Run SC Silver Creek

SFB Springfield Bog TT Towpath Trail WH Wood Hollow

3

facebook.com/summitmetroparks instagram/summitmetroparks

PROGRAMS & EVENTS FEB ’6 vol. 6 no. 2

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

medium.com/@metro_parks pinterest.com/metroparks

FEB ’6

PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID CLEVELAND, OH

vol. 6 no. 2

PERMIT NO. 49

follow @metro_parks youtube.com/summitmetroparks summitmetroparks.org

PROGRAMS & EVENTS GUIDE A M O N T H LY S C H E D U L E F RO M S U M M I T M E T RO PA R K S

Please share this publication and recycle it when finished.

Sunday, February 2, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 25, 6 – 7:30 p.m. HOPPING GOOD TIME

HIKE FOR COCOA

Children ages 5 to 0 learn about local amphibians and make a craft. Where are these critters outdoors and when should we expect to see them again? Program includes a glimpse of live animals. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join us for a winter’s walk, then warm up with a cup of hot cocoa. We will search for signs of wildlife on our way. CVS/Oxbow: 06 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Tuesday, February 23, 9 – 0:30 a.m.

CARDIO HIKE Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended.

SC/Big Oak: 599 Medina Line Rd., Norton

CRYSTAL PALACE HIKE Every year beautiful, colorful icicles form along the Cuyahoga River, creating a “Crystal Palace.” Join a naturalist and discover first-hand the beauty of water in winter.

G/Main Entrance: 60 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls Wednesday, February 24,  – 3 p.m.

Saturday, February 27,  – 3 p.m.

Wednesday, February 24, 7 – 9 p.m.

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: EXPLORING THE TAMARACK BOG Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County and enter the world of the Tamarack Bog, a living relic of Ohio’s Ice Age. Learn about the beauty of the bog and its rare, exotic plants through slides and the eyes of a passionate environmental biologist.

Presented by Randall Mitchell, Professor of Biology, The University of Akron. FASN/ Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, February 26, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 27,  – 3 p.m.

OWL PROWL

WINTER BIRD HIKE

Explore for owls with a naturalist. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Search for raptors, horned larks and other winter birds of the prairie. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. SFB: 400 Portage

Friday, February 26, 7 – 9 p.m.

Sunday, February 28,  – 2:30 p.m.

RADICALLY REPURPOSED: T-SHIRTS

THINKING BUGS AND BIRDS

Give worn-out, wrong-sized or extra T-shirts a second life! Discover how to turn these cozy items into home decorations, gifts or even pet toys. Bring a pair of scissors and any T-shirts you would like to re-use. (Some will be provided.) FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (2/3)

Saturday, February 27, 0 a.m. –  p.m.

DROP-IN BIRD FEEDERS To celebrate National Bird-Feeding Month, visit the Nature Realm to help us feed the birds. Make a feeder at the bird window, and then head outdoors to hang the snacks.

Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

LEDGES TRAIL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR We’ll hike Ledges Trail each month, taking a photographic record of the seasons. In December, we’ll review the year in pictures.

You can take your own pictures or just enjoy the hikes. This trail is not recommended for strollers. LP/Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty

THIS MONTH:

☎ Programs with this icon require advance registration, beginning on the date in parentheses, by calling 330-865-8065.

Friday, February 5, 6 – 8 p.m.

Saturday, February 6,  – 2:30 p.m.

KICK THE COLD

LICENSE PLATE BIRD HOUSE

Fed up with winter and the cold? Take a brief hike around Maple Loop, and then enjoy a campfire in the new shelter. Marshmallows and roasting sticks will be provided. LP/

Learn how to attract wrens to your back yard, then build a license plate birdhouse.

Limit one kit per family. Participation is required to purchase a $0 kit. Space is limited. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd.,

Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Akron

Thursday, February 4 9:30 – 0 a.m. & 0:30 –  a.m.

Saturday, February 6, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

NATURE STORIES

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Kids 8 months to 3 years old, with adult companions, join a naturalist for this interactive, nature-inspired story time.

Sunday, February 28, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (/23)

Join a naturalist for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd.,

Discover how to invite the natural world into your life by adding just one plant! We will critique native plant catalogs, discuss which plants do best, and get you excited for spring.

GREAT LAKES THEATER PERFORMANCE The Great Lakes Theater 206 Outreach Tour performs a one-hour adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “The Secret Adversary.”

There will be a question-and-answer period after the performance. F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, February 27, 0 –  a.m.

DISCOVER!

Sunday, February 28, 3 – 4:30 p.m.

A PEEK AT BEAKS Did You Know? There are many different types of beaks. Get ready for some hands-on fun as you discover the ins and outs of this incredible tool. Each family will get to take home a treat for their backyard birds. SR/ Mingo: 50 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron

☎

Friday, February 5, 9:30 – :30 a.m.

WINTER BIRD WALK Join a naturalist on this walk to search for winter birds of the ledges. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. LP/Twinsburg Ledges: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Friday, February 5 0:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. &  – 2:30 p.m.

HOMESCHOOLERS: CAMOUFLAGE Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 0: Discover why camouflage is one of the best adaptations in the natural world! FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (/5)

☎ (/6) $

Sunday, February 7 :30 a.m. –  p.m. & 2 – 3:30 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS Ages 6 to 2 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. FASN/Visitors Center: 828

☎ (/9)

Twinsburg

Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, February 6,  – 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 7,  – 2 p.m.

CARDBOARD CLASSIC

FEEDING TIME

Enjoy some fun in the snow by recycling old items into new sleds. All sleds will be assembled on site.

We will provide some cardboard, duct tape and marshmallows for roasting. If no snow, the program will be rescheduled. GYH/Sled Hill:

Ever wonder what we feed our display animals at the Nature Realm? Ages 5 and older can help us feed the animals and learn more about them. FASN/Visitors Center:

2077 Newton St., Akron

☎

(/5)

828 Smith Rd., Akron

☎ (/7)

Sunday, February 7,  – 2:30 p.m.

RUSTY BLACKBIRD BIRD WALK Join a naturalist to search for the beautiful yellow eyes of the rusty blackbird, a declining species that winters in Firestone Metro Park.

All other birds will be a bonus. F/Tuscarawas Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Rd., Twinsburg

4

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

These programs and events are examples of your public dollars at work.

