Voices of Nature Winter 2013 - Geauga Park District

JanuaryARTS IN NATUREShutterbugs Camera ClubThursday, January 3, 7-9 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterImprove your camera skills! Monthlyinstructional sessions and critiques ofmember photos. See Things to Do onthe website for topics. All skill levelswelcome.Trash to Treasure: Jewelryfrom Recycled MaterialsWednesday, January 23,6:30-8:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterDesign & create earrings, a braceletor necklace from discarded jewelry,and other recyclable materials. Fee:$12 for instruction/materials.Maple Town Tune TradersJam SessionThursday, January 24, 7-9 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterSingers and musicians: Share songsand tunes in all genres each 4thThursday. Acoustic and gentlyamplified instruments and vocals.Snacks to share welcome.discARTed Recycled ArtExhibition OpeningSaturday, January 26, 2-4 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterMeet regional artists and viewartwork from recycled materials.Enjoy live music and refreshments.Runs through March 2013.AstronomyChagrin Valley AstronomicalSociety Monthly MeetingSaturday, January 5, 7:30-10 PMSunnybrook Preserve, LodgeBusiness meeting for anyoneinterested in astronomy. Night skyviewing if clear with a chance toview the tail end of the QuadrantidMeteor Showers. Learn more atchagrinvalleyastronomy.org.The Sky TonightPlanetarium ShowSundays, January 6, 13, 20 & 27,2-3 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterJoin us every Sunday afternoonduring building open house hours(1-4 PM) for a preview of what tolook for in the sky this month.Galileo’s DiscoveriesFridays, January 11 & 25, 7-9 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterDon’t miss your chance to re-live thediscoveries made by Galileo and seewhat he saw!NEW ICON for programsonly partially accessibleprograms in detailBring In Your Telescope!Saturday, January 19, 6-8 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterWhether it’s a 400-year-old antiqueor a new model, we’ll help youclean and figure out your telescopesso that you can get back to skywatching.Full Moon: Wolf MoonSaturday, January 26, 5-7 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterLearn about our moon and othermoons in our solar system, thenwatch the full moon rise over thepark, weather permitting.EXPLORE THEOUTDOORSFinding Life in theDead of WinterSaturday, January 5, 3-4:30 PMThe Rookery, Great Blue Heron LodgeIndoor presentation on winterwildlife survival strategies andoutdoor exploration for signs ofwinter-active wildlife.Sledding and SnowflakesSunday, January 13, 2-3:30 PMOrchard Hills Park, Parking Lot Lodgeand Sledding HillGrab the gang for a fun afternoon ofsledding and other snow activities!Hot chocolate and snacks provided.Dependent upon snow.Geauga WalkersTuesdays, 1-2:30 PMJanuary 15: Bessie BennerMetzenbaum ParkJanuary 22: The RookeryJoin other active seniors on weeklyhikes, 1-1½ miles long. Held yearround.Canceled if the temperatureis 20° or lower. Naturalist leads listedhikes. Call Geauga Senior Center forfull schedule: 440-279-2137.Timbertots: Nature ExplorerAdventure (Ages 3-5 w/adult)Saturday, January 19, 10-11 AMThe Rookery, Great Blue Heron LodgeTuesday, January 22,10-11 AM or 1-2 PMBig Creek Park, Cherry RoomPreschoolers and their adults willsearch for animal clues indoors andout. Dress accordingly. Designed for aspecified age group; older or youngersiblings will not be consideredregistered participants.Ski The West WoodsSaturday, January 19,1:30-3:30 PMThe West Woods, Turkey RidgeSki the forested hilly trails of thiswinter wonderland. Becomes a hikeif no snow. Call 440-279-0880 after10 AM on program day to checkconditions.Blood on the Snow:Winter PredatorsSaturday, January 19, 3-4:30 PMSunnybrook Preserve, LodgeIndoor overview of winter predatoryhabits of wildlife, followed by anoutdoor investigation of actual orrecreated kill sites to determine“who done it?”Walking in a WinterWonderlandSaturday, January 26, 1-2:30 PMBig Creek Park, Aspen GroveExperience the wonders of winter aswe hike through forests and fields todiscover signs of the season.Full Moon SkiSaturday, January 26, 7-8:30 PMOrchard Hills Park, Parking LotSki this winter wonderland by thelight of the full moon. Becomes ahike if no snow. Call 440-279-0880after 2 PM on program day to checkconditions.NATURE INDOORSWhite-nose Syndrome in BatsSaturday, January 12, 2-3:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterLearn about white-nose syndrome,a devastating fungal diseasethat has been decimating batpopulations in the eastern U.S. andwas detected in bats last winter inGeauga County.Ski rentals available from Geiger’s Ski & Sports Haus ▪ 50 Shopping Plaza, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 ▪ 440-247-4900Homeschool Days:Weather Wonders(Ages 5-8 and 9-12)Friday, January 25, 2-3:30 PMBig Creek Park, Cherry RoomHomeschoolers will explorehow weather works with funactivities. Separate sessions forthe two age groups. Adults mayattend (need not register) ordrop off children with waivers.Planting for WildlifeSunday, January 20, 3:30-4:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterLearn the secrets of using good gardeningprinciples and native plants to createbeauty while attracting wildlife. For details,visit perennialspreferred.com/about.traveloguesArmchair AdventuresGirl Scout Adventure in EuropeSunday, January 6, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterJoin Girl Scout Leader Holly Sauder andTroop 1969 to hear about their summer2012 adventures to London, Paris and“OUR CHALET” in Switzerland!Land of the Ice BearsSunday, January 13, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterWest Geauga High School scienceteacher Mike Sustin relates hisexperience in Arctic Svalbard featuringpolar bears, walrus, sea birds andplants of the polar desert.Wildflower Tour of ManitobaSunday, January 20, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterShare Tom Sampliner’s journey fromthe prairies along the Manitoba-U.S.border to the shores of Hudson Bay,exploring the flora and habitats of thisCanadian Province.Wildlife in WhiteSunday, January 27, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterDouble feature! Travel with retiredteacher Jean Strojan to view polar bearsin Churchill Manitoba, then take awinter trek to Wyoming with NaturalistDiane Valen to Jackson Hole andYellowstone.Seasonal specialsFood: What Do Farms Haveto Do With It?Thursday, January 10, 6:30-8:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterJoin the owners of Sugar ValleyMaple, a certified organic, Amishfarm and award-winning producerof maple products in Middlefield.Discuss maple syrup production andits importance in local sustainableagriculture. Sharing of local foods iswelcome.Cub Scouts:AstronomyBeltloop & PinSaturday, January 12, 4-6 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterScouts work on requirementsutilizing the planetarium andspecial exhibits. Programindoors and out, so dress for theweather.www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE 5

In scanning our programlistings, keep an eye out forthe new Nature’s Not to BeMissed designation. Slappedonto several programs eachseason by your friendlynaturalist staff, this sealhighlights programs focusedon unique encounters with nature — those“here today, gone tomorrow” naturalphenomenon you’ll want to prioritize onyour calendar!Calling all writers!Geauga Park District’s 18th AnnualNature Writing Competition is callingfor your prose and poetry entries inadult and youth categories by April 1.Applications are available online and atThe West Woods Nature Center and theMeyer Center in Big Creek Park.Haven’t written anything yet? Getoutside and discover nature’s personalinspiration!Geocaching, the high-tech sport of hide & seek, continues in 2013in Geauga Park District with lake caches that will introduce you todifferent bodies of water where fishing and boating are enjoyed.The first cache of 2013 is a two-part multicache located at BassLake Preserve in Munson Township.This cache expires January 1, 2014.For more information: http://bit.ly/gpdgeocacheN 41° 33.052'W 081° 13.756'Bass Lake, once known as Munson Pond,Was where vacationing Clevelanders could be found.A hotel and cabins were built across the lake.A dance hall was “floated” for a club house to make.Once used by club members, now sporting a new face,The Bass Lake Shelter is a public place.A pair of Bald Eagles have found room to nestAlong these shores where fishing is best.The lake is open to fish from your own boat.Just get a boat permit, but please make noteThat boats on the shore are privately ownedAnd there are currently no trails in this park to roam.Now down the shelter drive is how you proceed,Where a fence post contains the treasure you seek.Department SpotlightUnder Chief Ranger Scott Wilson, GeaugaPark District’s Ranger Department iscomprised of seven full-time rangersand one part-time ranger responsiblefor patrolling more than 9,500 acres ofpark land in Geauga County. Rangers arecertified peace officers in the State of Ohiowho are well trained and dedicated to keeping your parks safe. They routinelyrespond to calls for help and assistance from park patrons, and enforce rules andregulations to keep everyone safe and your public properties protected. Rangers alsoperform bicycle and boat patrols, and work with other Geauga County law enforcementand safety forces on a regular basis. The Ranger Department is dispatched throughthe Geauga County Sheriff’s Office dispatch center and will respond to emergency 911calls and non-emergency calls at 440-286-1234. If you wish to contact the rangers withquestion or concerns, call 440-279-0814 and leave a message; a ranger will call you back.NEW! Observatory H tlineFor updates about night sky conditions and program statuses atObservatory Park, call the NEW Observatory Hotline at 440-279-0820.Park Closure AlertsTune in to NewsChannel 5’s Closing Connection or WKYC TV-3’s iAlertfor weather-related facility closures or delayed openings.6 VOICES OF NATURE • www.geaugaparkdistrict.orgFebruaryat a glance2-2 Groundhog vs. Science2-2 CVAS Monthly Meeting2-3 Timbertots2-3 Planetarium Show2-3 Travelogue: Boundry Waters2-5 Geauga Walkers2-7 Timbertots2-7 Shutterbugs Camera Club2-8 Ohio’s Place in Astronomy2-9 Sweet Maple Treats2-10 Planetarium Show2-10 Travelogue: Kenya2-10 Animal Amore Stroll2-15 Backyard Bird Count2-15 Winter Campfire & Hike2-16 Backyard Bird Count2-16 Happy Bird Day2-17 Backyard Bird Count2-17 Planetarium Show2-17 Travelogue: Iceland2-18 Backyard Bird Count2-18 Crinkleroots2-18 Muskrateers2-19 Geauga Walkers2-22 Ohio’s Place in Astronomy2-23 Maple 101 Workshop2-23 discARTed Family Day2-24 Planetarium Show2-24 Travelogue: Out West by Bus2-24 Full Moon: Snow Moon2-24 Full Moon Ski2-28 Jam Session

February programs in detail www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE 7ARTS IN NATUREShutterbugs Camera ClubThursday, February 7, 7-9 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterAll levels of experience are welcometo participate in monthly meetings,which include instructional sessionsand group critiques of memberphotos. See Things to Do onthe website for topics/optionalassignments.discARTed Family DaySaturday, February 23, 1-4 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterBring your family and createmake-n-take projects from recycledmaterials between 1-4 PM, then viewdiscARTed, a diverse collection ofunique artwork by regional artisansfrom discarded/found materials. Freeand fun for all ages!Maple Town Tune TradersJam SessionThursday, February 28, 7-9 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterSingers and musicians: Share songsand tunes in all genres each 4thThursday. Acoustic and gentlyamplified instruments and vocals.Snacks to share welcome.AstronomyChagrin Valley AstronomicalSociety Monthly MeetingSaturday, February 2, 7:30-10 PMSunnybrook Preserve, LodgeBusiness meeting for anyoneinterested in astronomy. Night skyviewing when clear. Learn more atchagrinvalleyastronomy.org.The Sky TonightPlanetarium ShowSundays, February 3, 10, 17 & 24,2-3 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterJoin us every Sunday afternoonduring building open house hours(1-4 PM) for a preview of what tolook for in the sky this month.Ohio’s Place In AstronomyFridays, February 8 & 22, 7-9 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterDid you know Ohio has more thana dozen active observatories?Telescopes in outer space may getall the glory, but plenty of amazingdiscoveries have been made righthere in Ohio. From Henrietta Leavittto Michelson and Morley, a lotof great discoverers had an Ohioconnection. Come learn all aboutthem!NEW ICON for programsonly partially accessibleFull Moon: Snow MoonSunday, February 24, 5-7 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterLearn about our moon and someof the other moons in our solarsystem, then watch the nearly fullmoon rise over the park.EXPLORE THEOUTDOORSWeatherwise:Groundhog vs. ScienceSaturday, February 2, 2-4 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterExplore legendary predictions basedon Nature’s weather forecasters. Agroundhog-style treat will follow.Geauga WalkersTuesdays, 1-2:30 PMFebruary 5: Mountain Run Station,Shelter Parking LotFebruary 19: Walter C. Best WildlifePreserve, Shelter Parking LotJoin other active seniors on weeklyhikes, 1-1½ miles long. Held yearround.Canceled if the temperatureis 20° or lower. Naturalist leads listedhikes. Call Geauga Senior Center forfull schedule: 440-279-2137.Animal Amore StrollSunday, February 10,3:30-4:30 PMThe West WoodsCelebrate Valentine’s Day with atrue-false quiz as we take a stroll onthe Discovery Trail. Feel free to bringsnowshoes if snow is deep.Winter Campfire andNight HikeFriday, February 15, 7:30-9 PMSunnybrook Preserve, LodgeGather around a blazing campfirewith hot chocolate for a story ortwo, then journey into the darknessto experience the magical world ofnature at night!Full Moon SkiSunday, February 24,6:30-8:30 PMHeadwaters Park, Rt. 322 LotJoin a naturalist to ski The MapleHighlands and Buckeye Trails bythe light of the full “snow” moon.Becomes a hike if there is no snow.Call 440-279-0880 after 2 PM onprogram day to check conditions.Ski rental available in advance fromGeiger’s Ski & Sports Haus, 50Shopping Plaza, Chagrin Falls, OH,44022, 440-247-4900.Timbertots: Squirrel Party!(Ages 3-5 w/adult)Sunday, February 3, 2-3 PMOrchard Hills Park, LodgeThursday, February 7,10-11 AM or 1-2 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterJoin Nora the Explorer to discover what squirrels do in the winter. Programwill be indoors and out, and is designed for a specified age group; older oryounger siblings will not be considered registered participants.Crinkleroots: Amazing Owls (Ages 6-8)Muskrateers: Owls, Up Close and Personal (Ages 9-11)Monday, February 18, 10-11:30 AMSwine Creek Reservation, LodgeSeparate sessions for Crinkleroots and Muskrateers. Kidslearn about these amazing nocturnal predators throughhands-on activities including dissecting an owl pellet.Indoors and outdoors. These are DROP OFF programs forthe designated age groups and cannot accommodateadditional people for planned activities.Please pick up children at 11:30 AM at the lodge.NATURE INDOORSGreat Backyard Bird CountFriday through Monday,February 15, 16, 17 & 18,Noon-4 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterStop by anytime during thedesignated hours and help countwinter birds as part of this annualnationwide count. Also, learn whichkinds of seeds and feeders are themost successful.Happy Bird DaySaturday, February 16, 1-4 PMThe West Woods Nature Center1 PM: Backyard Birds of Winter2 PM: Bird Feeding Basics & Beyond3 PM: Bird HousingBird Bonuses (while supplies last):Make a sturdy plastic jar chickadeehouse, make up a bag of superseed mix, and receive an ODNR birdbooklet & bird song CD.traveloguesArmchair AdventuresPaddling North A Week in theBoundary WatersSunday, February 3, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterJourney by canoe late in the seasonto Minnesota’s Boundary WatersCanoe Area with paddlers Bruce andSusan Bennett. Fall colors, gorgeousscenery and wildlife abound in thisrugged lake region.Adventures in KenyaSunday, February 10, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterAccompany Roger Horvath and hisfamily to safari camps and nativevillages in this program documentingtheir recent journey to Africa.Explorers in IcelandSunday, February 17, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterJoin Bill and Sue Berger and theirgranddaughter, Kaitlin, for awesomephotos and stories of puffins, whales,thermal geology, waterfalls and theirGPS named Penelope.Out West by Bus:12 Parks/26 DaysSunday, February 24, 2-3 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterPicture a motorcoach with a groupof 40 Kenston high-schoolers ontheir “field experience,” then addnumerous national parks, monumentsand forests, plus a drive over a Sierramountain pass. See this 6,500-milephoto journey presentation by busdriver Karen Morgan.Seasonal specialsSweet Maple: How to MakeMaple Candy, Cream andOther Sweet TreatsSaturday, February 9, 2-4 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterJoin award-winning makers of mapleproducts as they demonstrate sweetways to use Geauga County maplesyrup.Maple 101 WorkshopSaturday, February 23, 9 AM-NoonSwine Creek Reservation,Lodge & Sugar HouseBeginners and experiencedproducers will learn everythingfrom tree identification and sugarbush management to producingthe finished product, includingtapping, collecting methods,canning and packaging. Registrationtaken through the co-presenter,the Geauga County OSU ExtensionOffice, at 440-834-4656.

Respect your TrustGeauga Park District has earned the trust of voters formore than 50 years, and we respect your trust. Our goalin each issue is to explore some aspect of Park Districtfiscal operations and to make the process clear andunderstandable.Why Are Funds CarriedOver Each Year?In the wake of the 2012 General Election, we, theBoard of Park Commissioners, would like to expressour sincere gratitude to you, the voters, for passingGeauga Park District’s 1-mill replacement levy, whichwill take the place of two 1-mill levies that expireat the end of 2012 and will be collected for the lasttime in 2013.During the campaign, we heard many voters ask,“What is the purpose of carryover funds?”Geauga Park District is supported by levies for afixed period of time, and a fixed millage is collectedannually, but costs of projects vary. To make surethe dollars allocated each year will cover the manyservices offered, we work with staff to establishlong-range plans that take annual projected revenueinto account. Some of this revenue is then “carriedover” to cover the costs of these current and futurePark District projects.As we said during the levy campaign, in order towork within the reduced income that was requestedand achieved with the passage of this levy, weestablished a plan to maintain good care of thecurrently open parks and to allow for a few capitalimprovements of higher priority.Most years, asphalt repairs and repaving will occur insome parks. Facilities will receive regular maintenanceas needed. You will continue to see a great varietyof nature education classes that enhance schoolcurricula, public programs for all ages, and some newprogram offerings never seen before.Over time, we hope to complete the work that hasalready begun on The Maple Highlands Trail and atObservatory Park; both projects have the potentialto provide far-reaching benefits to Geauga Countytourism and economic development. We, the board,hope to consider some land acquisition as fundspermit, as well.This planning ahead demonstrates responsible fiscalmanagement of the funds invested by GeaugaCounty taxpayers. It is an honor to serve the residentsof this fine county by providing oversight of GeaugaPark District’s superior services, and we want you toknow that we do respect your trust.Sincerely, yourBoard of ParkCommissioners,Jim Patterson,John Leech &Michael J.PetruzielloJim MarquardtJeffery FanninAmphibian Awakening: The Big NightMid to late March, 8-9:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterRegister your name on a call list towitness the natural phenomenonof spring breeding behavior ofWood Frogs, Spring Peepers andlarge salamanders as they travel towoodland pools on a warm, rainy night.Program anticipated to occur in mid to lateMarch when warm conditions bring amphibiansto breeding pools. Frogs will move in the earlyevening; salamanders, late evening. Expecta call in the late afternoon on the day of, orpossibly the day before, the program. Dress forthe weather; bring flashlights.8 VOICES OF NATURE • www.geaugaparkdistrict.orgMarch at a glance3-2 Spring’s Early Expressions3-2 CVAS Monthly Meeting3-3 Sap’s-A-Risin’3-3 Planetarium Show3-5 Geauga Walkers3-7 Shutterbugs Camera Club3-8 Ohio’s Mound Builders3-9 Geocache Day: Winter3-9 Maple Madness Tour3-9 Tree Tappers Ball3-10 Sap’s-A-Risin’3-10 Maple Madness Tour3-10 Planetarium Show3-14 Timbertots3-16 Timbertots3-16 Maple Madness Tour3-17 Sap’s-A-Risin’3-17 Maple Madness Tour3-17 Planetarium Show3-19 Geauga Walkers3-20 Spring Equinox Hike3-20 “Scrap” Book Workshop3-22 Ohio’s Mound Builders3-23 Cub Scouts: Wildlife3-23 Egg Hunt: Nature Style3-23 Affelder Falls Hike3-24 Vernal Poolooza3-24 Planetarium Show3-27 Full Moon: Worm Moon3-28 Jam Session3-29 Birding Geauga3-30 Waterfowl Welcome

ARTS IN NATUREShutterbugs Camera ClubThursday, March 7, 7-9 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterWelcome spring with your camera!Monthly instructional sessions andcritiques of member photos. All skilllevels welcome. See Things To Doon the website for topics/optionalassignments.“Scrap” Book-MakingWorkshopWednesday, March 20,6:30-8:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterCreate a handmade book utilizingcast-offs from the interior designindustry and other landfill boundmaterials. Fee: $12 for instruction/materials.Maple Town Tune TradersJam SessionThursday, March 28, 7-9 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterSingers and musicians: Share songsand tunes in all genres each 4thThursday. Acoustic and gentlyamplified instruments and vocals.Snacks to share welcome.AstronomyChagrin Valley AstronomicalSociety Monthly MeetingSaturday, March 2, 7:30-10 PMSunnybrook Preserve, LodgeBusiness meeting for anyoneinterested in astronomy. Night skyviewing when clear. Learn more atchagrinvalleyastronomy.org.MarchTimbertots:Maple Sugar Time!(Ages 3-5 w/adult)Thursday, March 14,10-11 AM or 1-2 PMSaturday, March 16, 10-11 AMSwine Creek Reservation, SugarHouse Woods Edge Parking LotCollecting sap with small buckets andvisiting the sugar house are some of thefun things we’ll do to learn about howwe get maple syrup! Program entirelyoutdoors, so dress for the weather.Snow boots encouraged. Activities aredesigned for a specified age group;older or younger siblings will not beconsidered participants.Bear Cub Scouts: SharingYour World with WildlifeSaturday, March 23, 9:30-11:30 AMThe West Woods Nature CenterBear Cub Scouts work on requirements forthis badge. Program entirely indoors. Bring aplastic pop bottle or juice or milk jug to makea recycled bird feeder.The Sky TonightPlanetarium ShowSundays, March 3,10, 17 & 24,2-3 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterJoin us every Sunday afternoonduring building open house hours(1-4 PM) for a preview of what tolook for in the sky this month.Ohio’s Mound BuildersFridays, March 8 & 22, 7-9 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterBetween Lake Erie and the OhioRiver, Ohio’s ancient people createdcareful structures with relationshipsto the sky. Explore secrets about theculture of these first residents.Spring Equinox HikeWednesday, March 20,7-8:30 AMObservatory ParkWatch the sun rise on the first dayof spring and find out the reasonsfor the seasons.Full Moon: Worm MoonWednesday, March 27, 8-10 PMObservatory Park, RobertMcCullough Science CenterLearn about our moon and some ofthe other moons in our solar system,then watch the full moon rise overthe park.EXPLORE THEOUTDOORSprograms in detailSpring’s Early ExpressionsSaturday, March 2,11 AM-12:30 PMOrchard Hills Park, Lodge3-4:30 PMWalter C. Best Wildlife Preserve,Sunset ShelterJoin us for a walk and seek outspring as heralded by mammalactivity, early bird migration andsap flow as winter’s grip weakensin the last weeks of winter.Geauga WalkersTuesdays, 1-2:30 PMMarch 5: The Maple Highlands Trail-North, Big Creek Spur Parking LotMarch 19: Swine Creek ReservationJoin other active seniors on weeklyhikes, 1-1½ miles long. Held yearround.Canceled if the temperatureis 20° or lower. Naturalist leads listedhikes. Call Geauga Senior Center forfull schedule: 440-279-2137.Geocache Day: WinterSaturday, March 9, 9 AM-5 PMSwine Creek Reservation, LodgeSearch for one-day geocachesin four different Geauga parkswith chances to win prizes. Beginanytime during posted hours, butparticipants must end at SwineCreek’s lodge between 1-4 PM.Instructions will be posted onthe website beginning March 1.Registration required by phone onlyat 440-279-0894.Affelder Falls HikeSaturday, March 23, 2-3:30 PMThe West Woods, Affelder HouseHike to the unforgettable AffelderFalls and witness its full glory!Dress for the weather with possiblesnow-covered terrain. Great photoopportunities!Vernal PooloozaSunday, March 24, 2-3:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterLearn what makes atrue vernal pool in thisindoor/outdoor programfocusing on the pools atThe West Woods. Learn howthey are managed, then walk theDiscovery Trail to see the pools andlook for amphibian and aquaticinvertebrate activity.Waterfowl WelcomeSaturday, March 30,9-10:30 AMOffsite, LaDue ReservoirA bird outing for early springmigrants, briefly afoot at LaDuemarina followed by carpoolingalong the reservoir, pausing to usespotting scopes to view CommonLoons, Bald Eagles, ducks, and more.Meet at the marina parking area atValley and Washington streets, eastof Route 44 (Auburn Corners).NATURE INDOORSBest Bets for Birding Geauga:Wings of Early SpringFriday, March 29, 7-8:30 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterFind out when and where toexperience the early stages of springmigration with waterfowl/waterbirds,cranes, herons, vultures and passerinessuch as Phoebes, swallows, sparrowsand blackbirds.Seasonal specialsSap’s-A-Risin’Sundays, March 3,10 & 17,Noon-4 PMSwine Creek Reservation, Lodge,Sugar House & GroundsVisit Geauga Park District’s sugarhouse, sugar bush and lodge to learnhow the maple sugaring industry hasevolved. Help gather sap in the sugarbush, enjoy historical interactions withcostumed interpreters, see sap boilingin the sugar house and have a taste,then warm up with live music andmaple treats in the lodge.Maple Madness TourSaturdays & Sundays,March 9 & 10 and 16 & 17,10 AM-5 PMSwine Creek Reservation,Sugar HouseGeauga Park District is a featuredstop on this statewide drive-ityourselftour of local maple sugaringoperations. Maps are available atohiomapleproducers.com; Amish sugarbushes included on Saturdays. For tourinformation call 440-834-1415Silver AnniversaryTree Tapper’s BallSaturday, March 9, 7:30-10:30 PMOffsite, Parkman Community House,16295 Main Market (Rt. 422),Parkman, OH 44080Celebrate the maple season with our25th annual old-fashioned squaredance. Novices needn’t feel like saps;all dances are taught in fun fashion.“The Wild Spiles” provide rip-snortin’,old-time string band music for roofraisin’entertainment. Dress casually.Registration begins February 20; limitof eight per registering group.Egg Hunt: Nature StyleSaturday, March 23, 1-4 PMThe West Woods Nature CenterCelebrating spring? Needsomething to do? Pay attention tothis clue: On a rhyming scavengerhunt you will go, to discover eggscellentfacts you did not know!Fun for the whole family. Drop inanytime during program hoursto pick up a scavenger hunt card.Participants will turn in answers fora fun prize.NEW ICON for programsonly partially accessiblewww.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE 9Affelder Falls - photo by John Kolar

kid’s cornerDid you know February isNational Bird-Feeding Month?Spread the L-O-V-E to the BIRDS this Valentine’s Day bymaking this natural Valentine (with an adult, of course).Supplies:- 3 cups mixed bird seed- 2 – 1/4 ounce unflavored gelatin packets- Cookie cutter or mold- Straw- Twine/stringDirections:Sprinkle both packages of gelatin over 1/2 cupcold water, and let this sit a couple minutes untilthe gelatin has absorbed the water. Heat 1 3/4 cupswater in a pan, then add the gelatin mixture. Stiruntil dissolved.Stir in 3 cups bird seed. Allow mixture to cool, orwait till the gelatin is thick and coats all the seed.Pack seed mixture inside the cookie cutter.Place a piece of straw into the seed mixture toleave a hole for hanging the bird feeder. Allowmixture to harden, then remove it from thecookie cutter. (We placed ours in the freezer forabout an hour to speed things up.)Add a piece of twine for hanging and TA DAAHH,you’re finished! Hang your creation in yourfavorite tree for the birds enjoy!Match the Featherto the bird belowABCDEBald EagleCardinalBlue JayBarred Owl12345Welcome to the Joke Bird LineWhat do you give a sick bird?What does a duck like to eat with soup?What do you call a woodpeckerwith no beak?Calling all writers!Hey kids! Here’s your chance to show off yourwriting skills with your nature stories and poems.Geauga Park District is holding its annual Nature Writing Contest.Stories (prose) must be less than 800 words, and all stories andpoems must be about nature. Send your story or poem to Geauga ParkDistrict by April 1, 2013. Applications are available online and at TheWest Woods and The Meyer Center in Big Creek Park. Good Luck!10 VOICES OF NATURE • www.geaugaparkdistrict.orgDid youknow...?TheCardinalis OHIO’SSTATEBIRD!Answers: A-3, B-5, C-2, D-1, E-4;tweetment, quackers, a headbangerWild TurkeyIn honor of the discARTedRecycled Art Exhibition, on displayJanuary 26 through March 31 atThe West Woods Nature Center,try thinking of ways to recycleyour trash into treasures!Such “art supplies” may helpyou create a pop bottle birdfeeder, a juice carton birdhouse (pictured left), or the snowangel art madeof all differentkinds of birdseed (picturedright).

FOUNDATIONThe mission of Geauga Park District Foundation is to build enduring assets for Geauga Park District.The Foundation will foster a legacy of philanthropy for Geauga Park District through community engagement and investment.Mind, Body and SpiritA horseback ride at Headwaters Park to see the fall colors reflected off the reservoir and feel therhythmic gait of my horse while I take in my surroundings just melts away the tasks and deadlinesof a busy work week. GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT HEALS MY MIND.The challenge of re-learning to ride a bike on The Maple Highlands Trail, or a snowy hike withPaige Orvis and Amanda Stith at The West Woods with a park donor, is a wake up call that Ihave spent too much time at my desk. GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT HELPS MY BODY.The fragrant smell of greens mixed with the sounds of holiday music and the feel of a warm,crackling fire at Swine Creek Lodge during the making of my annual centerpiece reminds me thatthe household “To-Do List” is not my top priority as I make new friends and enjoy the reason forthe season. GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT RENEWS MY SPIRIT.Cristine LewisGeauga Park District FoundationTrustee & Thompson Resident“To me, one of the biggestbenefits to be found at ourbeautiful parks is personalwellness.”Why I GiveAlthough Bill Schwing and Margaret Bayless live in Shaker Heights, they feel connectedto Geauga Park District. As volunteers and donors, their support makes them more thanpark visitors — they are partners.While counting snakes may sound like a nightmare for most people, Bill Schwingconsiders capturing these reptiles a unique opportunity to learn more about localwildlife. Once a week during the summer, Bill braves mosquitoes and poison ivy tosee what may be hiding under boards provided by Field Naturalist Tami Gingrich.“We carefully capture the snakes, identify the species, record the snakes’ length andweight, and then return the snakes unharmed,” Bill said. Through this study, GeaugaPark District can evaluate the impact of various factors on wildlife in order to decidehow to develop a park. For Bill, it is not all science and hard work, either. Standingon a hillside on a perfect summer day, watching butterflies float over a field to land onwaiting flowers, Bill has a chance to connect with the natural world; he says that isreward enough.Bill and Margaret also love Orchard Hills Park in Chester Township. They visit so oftenthat when one of their beloved dogs, Callahan, passed away, they chose it as the place to honor his memory. A memorial benchwith a custom-made plaque marks the peaceful spot dedicated to Callahan. “He now hasthe perfect place to watch the seasons change at his favorite park,” said Margaret. Bill,Margaret and their two other canine friends visit Callahan’s bench regularly.Because of Bill’s reptile survey work at Observatory Park, the couple also made acontribution to the Observatory Park Capital Campaign. Their passion for nature ledthem to Geauga Park District, and their commitment to the Park District’s mission ledthem to give through the Geauga Park District Foundation. Dedicated partners like Billand Margaret help to perpetuate the legacy of preserving, conserving and protecting thatpark supporters have created here in Geauga County.Minni lying by Callahan’s memorial benchGeauga Park District Foundation 2013 Board of Trustees9160 Robinson Road, Chardon, OH 44024 • foundation@geaugaparkdistrict.orgPaula AveniDavid ChewJan FittsDave FordBill FranzRichard J. FrenchieJeff HydeJohn JanochKathy LeavenworthCristine LewisEd MeyersDoug NemeckayMary Beth O’NeillBob PageDave SimkoJeff SuszynskiTrevor WilsonGary Witoskywww.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE 11

Geauga Park District9160 Robinson RoadChardon, OH 44024-9148park locationsBass Lake Preserve11445 Lakeview Drive, Munson Twp.Beartown Lakes Reservation18870 Quinn Road, Auburn/Bainbridge Twps.Bessie Benner Metzenbaum Park7940 Cedar Road, Chester Twp.Big Creek Park9160 Robinson Road, Chardon Twp.Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve15681 Old Rider Road, Burton/Newbury Twps.Chickagami Park17957 Tavern Road, Parkman Twp.The West Woods - Park & Nature Center9465 Kinsman Road (Rt. 87), Russell Twp.The West Woods - Affelder House15139 Chillicothe Road, Russell Twp.Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve11620 Ravenna Road, Munson Twp.Whitlam Woods12500 Pearl Road, Hambden Twp.BIGCREEKSPURParkPreserveEntranceMaple Highlands TrailEldon Russell Park16315 Rapids Road, Troy Twp.Frohring Meadows16780 Savage Road, Bainbridge Twp.Headwaters Park13365 Old State Road, Huntsburg/Claridon Twps.HEATH ROADTHWING ROADBASS LAKEPRESERVEWOODINROAD PARKMOUNTAINRUN STATIONGAR HWYWHITNEY ROADPLANK ROADOBSERVATORYPARKThe Maple Highlands TrailBig Creek Spur9280 Ravenna Road, Chardon Twp.The Maple Highlands TrailMountain Run Station12601 Chardon Windsor Road, Hambden Twp.SUNNYBROOKPRESERVECHILLICOTHE ROADHEATH ROADMADISON ROADObservatory Park10610 Clay Street, Montville Twp.Orchard Hills Park11340 Caves Road, Chester Twp.CHAGRINFALLSADAMSSunnybrook Preserve12474 Heath Road, Chester Twp.Swine Creek Reservation16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield/Parkman Twps.TAVERN ROADMADISON RDCHICKAGAMIPARKThe Rookery10110 Cedar Road, Munson Twp.McCALL ROADPrinted on recycled paper using 25% post-consumer waste. FSC CertifiedThis publication was printed exclusively with Biolocity - environmentally responsible inksFor more information on parks, programs or events,call Geauga Park District at 440-286-9516or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.