Arrowhead - Jan/Feb 2024

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

January-February 2024 Volume 64, Number 1

BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE Watch ice carvers at the Fire & Ice Walk, learn about nocturnal winter animals at Nature at Night, and tap some trees at Maple Sugaring! These and more inside! | Pgs. 4-5

APRIL'S SOLAR ECLIPSE Prepare for and learn about the celestial event of the decade with the Astronomy Speaker Series! | Pg. 12

RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM Sit in and learn about research topics including biological diversity and invasive species from Metro Parks staff and other local organizations. | Pg. 8

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM

INSIDE Park Updates 2 Honor Roll 3 Seasonal Programs 4-5 Guided Winter Hikes 6-7 Nature 8 Special Indoor Events 9 Recreation 10 Kids & Family 11 Solar Eclipse 12

James E. Ziemnik Director, Lorain County Metro Parks 2024 BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS: Sherrill M. “Cookie” McLoda • Chairman Joseph E. Hribar • Vice Chairman Kenneth M. Lieux • Commissioner James Walther • Probate Court Judge

Park Updates Dear Park Visitor, It is with sincere gratitude that we thank the residents of Lorain County for their overwhelming support of Issue 23 in November. The 2023 levy passed in November with a resounding 67% of the votes being FOR Issue 23. Our staff strives to provide memorable experiences in clean and safe parks daily. The passage of this levy allows Lorain County Metro Parks to continue its mission to protect the best land, build quality parks, and maintain them at the highest quality.

We look forward to preserving existing parks, providing new connections for our communities, and offering everyone recreational, educational, and cultural opportunities.

We are proud that the residents of Lorain County see the value in our park system, and we look forward to continuing the standard of excellence our visitors have come to expect.

Sincerely, James E. Ziemnik, Director

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM

(440) 458-5121 L O R A I N C O U N T Y M E T R O PA R K S L O C AT I O N S & F A C I L I T I E S : • Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation

913 North Lake St., Amherst, Ohio 44001

• Amherst HealthPlex

• Cascade Park

387 Furnace St., Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 458-5121

Pine Tree Picnic Area:

4951 French Creek Rd., Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054

North Coast Inland Trail Butternut Ridge Trailhead:

44342 Butternut Ridge Rd., 47160 Hollstein Dr., Amherst, OH 44001 • Cassell Reservation • Indian Hollow Reservation Oberlin, OH 44074 815 High Bridge Rd., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 (440) 984-3470 Gateway Trailhead: Sheldon Woods: • Black River Reservation Charlemont Reservation 38744 Parsons Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 6275 Gateway Blvd., Elyria, OH 44035 (440) 324-5481 48600 New London Eastern Rd., Royal Oaks: • The North Star Preserve/Henry’s Barn: New London, Ohio 44851 Bur Oak: 46223 U.S. Rt. 20, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 1057 Parson Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 6150 Ford Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 • Columbia Reservation • Kopf Family Golf Course at Cherry Ridge • Sandy Ridge Reservation 25145 Royalton Rd., Columbia Station, Days Dam: 6195 Otten Rd., N. Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 1211 West River Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 Ohio 44028 2720 E. 31st St., Lorain, Ohio 44055 (440) 327-3626 (440) 324-3713 (440) 236-3254 High Meadows: • Schoepfle Garden • Kopf Family Reservation Briarwood Lodge: 1750 Ford Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 11106 Market St., Birmingham, Ohio 44889 32649 Electric Blvd., 25250 Briarwood Dr., Columbia Station, (440) 965-7237 • Caley Reservation Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 Ohio 44028 18207 West Rd., Wellington, Ohio 44090 (440) 387-8107 • Splash Zone • Forest Hills Golf Course 95 W. Hamilton, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 • Carlisle Reservation • Kipton Reservation 41971 Oberlin-Elyria Rd., (440) 774-5059 St. Route 511, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 (440) 458-5121 Elyria, Ohio 44035 • Vermilion River Reservation • Lakeview Park Carlisle Visitor Center: (440) 323-2632 51211 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain, Ohio 44052 12882 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, Ohio 44050 • French Creek Reservation (440) 967-7310 • Miller Nature Preserve Duck Pond Picnic Area: Burrell Homestead: • Wellington Reservation (440) 937-0764 12550 Diagonal Rd., 2792 E. River, Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054 535 Jones Rd., Wellington, Ohio 44090 LaGrange, Ohio 44050 Main Entrance/Conservatory: (440) 647-2509 French Creek Nature Center: 2739 Center Rd., Avon OH 44011 Equestrian Center/ 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, Avon Wetlands Trailhead: Nielsen Observatory: Ohio 44054 35120 Riegelsberger Rd., Avon OH 44011 13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 949-5200

SPONSORS

Thank you to the generous sponsors of our Holiday Lights event at Carlisle Reservation!

LORAIN COUNTY

Leadership Lorain County, Lorain Public Library System, Northwest Bank, and WOBL Radio Inc.

Honor Roll Ursula Gordon, LaGrange Thomas E. King, Elyria Jeanette Wysmierski, Knoxville, TN Patsie and Jenee Campana Foundation Community Foundation of Lorain County The Desich Sales Institute Leadership Lorain County Lorain County Community College Lorain Public Library System Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Co-op PERI Chapter 83 Lorain County WOBL Radio Inc.

Adopt-A-Raptor

Cathy Case, North Ridgeville (Gift to Dick Egy) Sandy Fialkowski, Grafton Linda Kacsandy, Avon Lake (Gift to Zelli Kacsandy) Margaret A. Molnar, Lorain (Gift to Thomas A. Williams in memory of Lois Williams) Nicole Strick, Lorain (in memory of Roberta A. Schau) Bill and Linda Wallis, Amherst Mikaela Weigel, Grafton (Gift to Deb Weigel)

The Honor Roll is our way of publicly thanking individuals, families, organizations, & corporations for their donations to the Lorain County Metro Parks be it through volunteer services, monetary gifts, or other. If you would like information about making a donation, please contact the Public Information Office at (440) 458-5121.

Gift was given in Honor of:

Gift was given in Memory of:

Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda by Caroline Hawes, Amherst Mitchel Belis by Joe & Cheryl Hribar, Vermilion Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Susan Buehler Sterling Bradley by Jeannie Bradley, Sheffield Village Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by The Bob and Claudia Cullin by Clyde and Sonja DiAngelo, Steubenville Lori Campana, Bay Village John Robert Dawson by Ric and Pam Fulton, Marblehead Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Dennis and John Robert Dawson by Michael and Kerri Mazzone, Seven Hills Christina Davidson, Oberlin John Robert Dawson by Lloyd and Judith Miller, Grafton Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Joe & Cheryl John Robert Dawson by Rabon and Andrea Smith, Grafton Hribar, Vermilion Diane Friebert by Sarah Friebert, Cleveland Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Robert June "Jil" Grignon by The Atwood Family, Whittier Leghart, Amherst Cole Lieux by Judith Bobel, Tumecula, CA Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Harry and Cole Lieux by Richard and Denny Fogel and Family, Elyria Myra Lindstrom, Akron Cole Lieux by Mary Haskins, Elyria Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Tammy Cole Lieux by Joe & Cheryl Hribar, Vermilion McLoda, Berlin Heights Cole Lieux by Joani Longbrake, Lagrange Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Richard and Cole Lieux by Bobbi and Eugene Myers, Elyria Jacqueline Miller, Dover Andrew Majkut by Natalie and John Dague, Elyria Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Shirley New Helen McClements by Ann Pollock, Madison, WI Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by Joyce Towner, Tom and Helen McClements by Janice McClements, N. Olmsted Lorain Tom and Helen McClements by Carol Slater, Bowling Green Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda and Les Kreeger by John and Lisa Charles E. Merrick by David and Debra Bright, Lorain White, Elyria David A. Wilkes by Georgianne and Richard Tarrant, Vermilion

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

3

Seasonal Events SPECIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE PARK DISTRICT DURING THIS WINTER SEASON

FIRE & ICE LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’

WALK

FIRE & ICE WALK

Sat., Jan 20 | 11 am-3 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow side $4/person | Children 3 & under: FREE

Take a wintry walk in the beautiful Vermilion River Valley through cool ice sculptures and warm firepits. Enjoy ice carving demonstrations, roast s’mores (while supplies last), visit with sled dogs, and meet Frozen characters. Weather permitting, naturalist-led snowshoe hikes will also be held. Food vendors will be selling warm treats and hot beverages. Registration is just $4 per person (3 and under free) and is required for all attendees.

Registration closes 1/18 but sells out quickly so don’t wait! For questions, contact the Vermilion River Reservation at (440) 967-7310.

HEARTS

a glow

WINTER WONDER DAY Sat., Jan. 6 | 11 am-2 pm Cascade Park Free! (Snowshoe rentals: $2 per person per hour)

Sat., Feb. 10 | 6-8 pm Schoepfle Garden, Birmingham $5/person Pre-reg. required by 2/8

Explore winter with your family at Cascade Park for FREE! Registration is requested, but walk-ins are welcome! Enjoy winter crafts, guided hikes, a live animal show, and more! Make a s’more and enjoy hot cocoa by the fire, while supplies last. Weather-permitting activities may include sledding, snow painting, snowshoeing, and snowman building. Snowshoe rentals will be available for $2 per person/per hour (first-come, first-served) CASH ONLY. Snowshoes can only be worn in snow that is 4” or more.

Join us for an evening stroll through the garden with the one(s) you love. Romantic tunes will fill the cool night air as you walk by fire pits and luminaries that will warm and light your way. Enjoy hot beverages and sweet treats as well as a special something to share with a loved one.

NATURE AT NIGHT: WINTERTIME

Fri., Feb. 23 | 6-8 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center $5/person (3 yrs. old & under: Free); Pre-register by Feb. 21

Coyotes howl, trees creak, owls call, ice cracks, and snow silently falls.

Join us at the French Creek Nature Center for an evening dedicated to the mystery of nature during winter nights. Participate in full moon hikes, a silhouette trail, owl pellet dissection, crafts, stargazing, s'mores by the fire, a winter insect station, and 'The Mary and Larry Show' with a special animal guest! Pre-register and pay $5 per participant (3 & under free) by 2/21.

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

4

Arrival times are staggered to reduce wait time for beverages and to allow for spacing along the trail. Register for your start time and pay $5 per person by 2/8.

The illuminated walk is along our ½ mile-paved trail that will be cleared of snow.

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

Seasonal Events SPECIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE PARK DISTRICT DURING THIS WINTER SEASON

2024

MAPLE SUGARING

Feb. 24-25 & Mar. 2-3 Sugar Shack open house: 10 am-Noon Naturalist-led programs/hikes every 30 minutes: 12:30-2:30 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (Sugar Shack) Maple Sugaring Open House and Guided Hikes - Late winter brings the sound of sap dripping into buckets in the Carlisle Reservation sugar bush. Join us for a 45-minute outdoor program that will engage you in the maple sugaring process. Enjoy a visit to the sugar bush, where you will discover how to identify maple trees, tap trees, and collect sap. Then end your visit with a stop at the Sugar Shack where sap will be boiling in the evaporator pan. Discover the process of turning sap into syrup through this demonstration, then enjoy a taste of pure maple syrup—registration is not required.

These guided Naturalist-led hikes step off every 30 minutes from 12:30 pm-2:30 pm. The Sugar Shack will also be open for visitors who just want to drop in and watch the sap cooking in the evaporator pan from 10 am - 12 pm on both Saturdays and Sundays.

FRIENDS OF THE METRO PARKS’ PANCAKE BREAKFAST Sun., Feb. 25 & Sun., Mar. 3 | 9 am-1 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center $8/person | Ages 3-10 yrs.: $4 Ages 2 & under: free Join the Friends of the Metro Parks on Sunday, February 25 and Sunday, March 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Carlisle Visitor Center for a delicious pancake breakfast. The cost is just $8 per person, 10-year-olds and under are $4, and ages 2 and under are free. Breakfast includes orange juice, milk, coffee or tea, sausage links, and all-you-can-eat pancakes! Admission is CASH ONLY.

5

Take a Hike!

= MINIMAL FEE REQUIRED

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’ GUIDED HIKES

HIKING LEVELS:

= EASY

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS HIKE Tue., Jan. 2 | 11 am-12 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods

For the official definition of our hiking levels, please visit us online at LorainCountyMetroParks.com/trails

BASICS OF COMPASS NAVIGATION Tue., Jan. 16 | 11 am-3 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center Wed., Jan. 17 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)

Wed., Jan. 3 | 4-4:45 pm Miller Nature Preserve (Avon)

WALK AND TALK

WALK AND TALK Fri., Jan. 5 | 11:30 am-12:30 pm Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)

WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE Fri., Jan. 5 | 3-4 pm Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)

Wed., Jan. 17 | 11 am-12 pm Kopf Family Reservation, Library Trailhead (Av. Lk.)

WILDLIFE TRACKS AND SIGNS HIKE Wed., Jan. 17 | 12:15-1:15 pm Kopf Family Reservation, Library Trailhead (Av. Lk.)

BIGFOOT FLASHLIGHT HIKE

EVERGREENS 101 HIKE

Thur., Jan. 18 | 6-8 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

Sun., Jan. 7 | 1-2 pm Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)

OWL PROWL

COTTONWOOD TRAIL HIKE Tue., Jan. 9 | 10-11:30 am Black River Reservation, Day's Dam (Lorain)

Sun., Jan. 21 | 8:10-9:10 am French Creek Reservation, Pine Tree Picnic Area

MILL HOLLOW RIVER CLIFF HIKE

WALK AND TALK Tue., Jan. 9 | 11:30 am-12:30 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods

Sun., Jan. 21 | 1-2 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow

WATERFALL TREK

WATERFALL TREK Tue., Jan. 9 | 2-4 pm Black River Reservation, Bur Oak (Elyria)

WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE Tue., Jan. 9 | 2:30-3:30 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods

FRENCH CREEK EXTENDED LOOP Thur., Jan. 11 | 10 am-1 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

Tue., Jan. 23 | 10-11 am Cascade Park (Elyria)

WALK AND TALK Tue., Jan. 23 | 11 am-12 pm Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation

WALK AND TALK Wed., Jan. 24 | 11 am-12 pm Cascade Park (Elyria)

NAT CHAT HIKE

TRAIL COFFEE HIKE Sat., Jan. 13 | 8:30 am-12 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

EXPLORE WELLINGTON HIKE

6

= STRENUOUS

SCHOEPFLE GARDEN TOUR

NEW YEAR CHEER HIKE

Tue., Jan. 16 | 9-11 am Wellington Reservation

= MODERATE

Wed., Jan. 24 | 1-2 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)

FULL MOON HIKE

FULL MOON HIKE Thur., Jan. 25 | 6-7 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

ANIMAL SIGNS HIKE Fri., Jan. 26 | 1-2 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)

KIDS STORY-N-STROLL Sat., Jan. 27 | 3-3:45 pm Miller Nature Preserve (Avon)

COFFEE TALK Tue., Jan. 30 | 10:30-11:30 am Cassell Reservation (Vermilion)

DEEP FREEZE PACK WALK Tue., Jan. 30 | 5:30-6:30 pm Wellington Reservation

NAT'L HOT CHOCOLATE DAY HIKE Wed., Jan. 31 | 5-6 pm Wellington Reservation

COFFEE WALK AND TALK Thur., Feb. 1 | 11:30 am-12:30 pm Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)

WINTER TREE I.D. HIKE Thur., Feb. 1 | 3-4 pm Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)

TRAIL COFFEE HIKE Sat., Feb. 3 | 8:30 am-12 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

WATERFALL TREK Sat., Feb. 3 | 2-4 pm Black River Reservation, Bur Oak (Elyria)

WALK AND TALK Tue., Feb. 6 | 11:30 am-12:30 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods

WINTER TREE I.D. HIKE

Thur., Jan. 25 | 5:30-6:30 pm Tue., Feb. 6 | 2:30-3:30 pm Wellington Reservation Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

COFFEE WALK AND TALK

BIGFOOT FLASHLIGHT HUNT

Wed., Feb. 7 | 10:30-11:30 am Cascade Park (Elyria)

Thur., Feb. 15 | 6-8 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

NEW MOON STARGAZING HIKE Fri., Feb. 9 | 7-9 pm Wellington Reservation

FRENCH CREEK EXTENDED LOOP Sat., Feb. 17 | 12:30-3 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

I HEART NATURE WALK

FIRST FLOWERS HIKE

Sat., Feb. 10 | 2-2:45 pm Miller Nature Preserve (Avon)

NAT CHAT HIKE Mon., Feb. 12 | 1-2 pm Indian Hollow Reservation, Royal Oaks (Grafton)

COFFEE TALK

Tue., Feb. 13 | 11 am-3 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

FULL MOON HIKE

COFFEE WALK AND TALK

Sun., Feb. 18 | 3-4 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods

WALK AND TALK Tue., Feb. 20 | 11 am-12 pm Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation

SCHOEPFLE GARDEN TOUR

Thur., Feb. 15 | 1-2 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)

Wed., Feb. 21 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)

Thur., Feb. 15 | 5:30-6:30 pm Wellington Reservation

Sat., Feb. 24 | 6-7 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center

WINTER WANDERINGS HIKE

THE SOUNDS OF NATURE: WINTER HIKE

PUPPY LOVE PACK WALK

FULL MOON HIKE

Sat., Feb. 24 | 6:30-7:30 pm Wellington Reservation

Mon., Feb. 19 | 12:30-4 pm Cascade Park (Elyria)

BASICS OF COMPASS NAVIGATION

Thur., Feb. 22 | 9-9:45 am Miller Nature Preserve (Avon)

Sun., Feb. 18 | 1-2 pm Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)

WINTER SURVIVAL CAMP

Tue., Feb. 13 | 10:30-11:30 am Cassell Reservation (Vermilion)

HOME TWEET HOME HIKE

Mon., Feb. 26 | 11 am-12 pm Kopf Family Reservation, Library Trailhead (Av. Lk.)

COFFEE TALK Tue., Feb. 27 | 10:30-11:30 am Cassell Reservation (Vermilion)

WATERFALL TREK Wed., Feb. 28 | 10-11 am Cascade Park (Elyria)

COTTONWOOD TRAIL HIKE Wed., Feb. 21 | 10-11:30 am Black River Reservation, Day's Dam (Lorain)

Discover the beauty of the winter season by joining a Lorain County Metro Parks Naturalist on a guided hike while exploring Lorain County Metro Parks! Our naturalists have planned many opportunities to get outside this winter, take in some fresh air, and explore the many trails of Lorain County Metro Parks. So, bundle up, lace up your boots, and come out to your favorite park to discover nature’s frozen winter wonderland!

HIKING STICK PROGRAM The Annual Lorain County Metro Parks Hiking Stick Program will kick off again this year on April 1. Watch for news on this in upcoming Arrowheads and through our social media on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

It's In Our Nature INFORMATION CENTERED AROUND OBSERVING AND LEARNING ABOUT ALL ASPECTS OF NATURE

RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION SYMPOSIUM Saturday, February 3 | 1-3 pm Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange Free!

Every year, the Lorain County Metro Parks grants Special Permits for research projects to be conducted by individuals, universities, and other groups on park property. In addition, LCMP staff collect data on various topics to aid in programming, management, and conservation decisions.

We are pleased to announce the first-ever Research and Conservation Symposium, where researchers will be presenting their findings to the public.

This symposium will be held on Saturday, February 3, from 1-3 pm at the Carlisle Visitor Center and is open to the public (no registration required). Presenters include organizations such as the University of Akron, Baldwin Wallace University, Oberlin College, Black River Audubon Society, and Midwest Biodiversity Institute, as well as LCMP staff. Research topics include biological diversity, bluebird nesting success, and invasive species within the metro parks.

Stop by to meet the researchers and view their poster presentations. Light refreshments will be available beginning at 2 pm. If you are unable to attend the symposium, the research posters will be on display in the Carlisle Visitor Center’s Art Gallery during the month of February.

SMALL-SCALE NATURE Sat., Jan. 27 | 1:30-2:30 pm Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange Free!

Sun., Jan. 14, 28, Feb. 11, & 25 | 1:30-2:30 pm French Creek Nature Center, Sheffield Free! (Pre-registration required)

We have all been amazed by the beauty and wonder of birds, wildflowers, and other examples of nature, but just as much awe (if not more) can be observed in the smallest forms of life—such as insects, mosses, and plankton. “Small-Scale Nature” is a program series that is held at the Carlisle Visitor Center’s Discovery Den. Specimens are placed under microscopes so that everyone can see their intricacies, color, and behavior.

This winter, we will be focusing on small, invertebrate forms of life that thrive in the cold. In addition, everyone is welcome to bring their own objects to view under the microscopes during the programs. Stop by and be amazed!

8

WILD ENCOUNTERS Join a naturalist for a meet and greet with the animals of French Creek.

Each session will be an educational program about one of our animals and include an activity or craft. For ages 2-12 with adult companion. Live animal.

Pre-register your child only at least one day in advance of the program.

BACKYARD BIRD COUNT Sat., Feb. 17 | 8:30-10 am French Creek Nature Center, Sheffield Free!

Join us at the French Creek Nature Center's bird watching area and participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count! Learn about common backyard birds and how to attract them to your feeders. The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real time snapshot of where the birds are across the continent.

Coffee and tea will be provided. Registration is encouraged but not required.

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

Indoor Events SPECIAL INDOOR EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE PARK DISTRICT DURING THIS WINTER SEASON

A NIGHT OUT

with friends

TABLE GAME NIGHTS

"LEAP" DAY Thur., Feb. 29 | 9:30-10 am & 1:30-2 pm French Creek Nature Center, Sheffield Free! (Pre-registration required for child only) Celebrate Leap Day with a story, craft, and a special visit from our hoppy friend. For ages 2-6 with adult companion. Live animal. Register your child only by Feb. 28.

Thur., Jan. 18 & Feb. 29 | 6-8 pm Wellington Reservation Free!

Grab your friends! We will be hosting a monthly table game night in the Wellington Reservation Visitor Center meeting room. Feel free to bring games or use one of ours. Snacks will be provided, but feel free to bring a (non-alcoholic) drink for yourself. We hope to see you there!

TRIVIA NIGHTS Thur., Jan. 25 & Feb. 29 | 6:30-8 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Free! (Pre-registration required) Enjoy a FREE, fun, and friendly trivia competition in the Orchid Room at Miller Nature Preserve!

Prizes will be awarded. Play individually or as a team of up to 6 members. Pre-register each person attending. Alcoholic (for ages 21 & up) and non-alcoholic beverages along with snacks will be available for purchase courtesy of the Orchid Cafe.

FEBRUARY

29

FRIENDS OF THE METRO PARKS

GARAGE SALE Sat., Jan. 27 | 9 am-3 pm Sun., Jan. 28 | 10 am-12 pm Carlisle Visitor Center Free to attend! (Cash only event)

Stop by the Carlisle Visitor Center in LaGrange to do some shopping to support the Friends of the Metro Parks! On Sunday only, visitors will be able to purchase a $5 "fill-a-bag". This is a "cash only" event.

Looking to donate your items to the garage sale? Donations are welcome on designated drop-off dates/times: Sunday, Jan. 21 from 1-4 pm; Monday, Jan. 22 from 1-7 pm; and Wednesday, Jan. 24 from 4-7 pm. The following items are not accepted for this event: clothing, shoes, large furniture, artificial Christmas trees, or electronics. For questions, contact the garage sale committee at (440) 213-4173 or skipthepenguin8@gmail.com.

9

A Healthy Lorain County VARIOUS CLASSES AND PROGRAMS TO ENRICH YOUR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

KAYAK SKILLS: CAPSIZE RECOVERY

Sun., Jan. 21 & Sun., Feb. 4 | 9-11:30 am Amherst HealthPlex $15/person; Pre-registration required Learn how to keep yourself safe while kayaking!

In this 2-hour session, you will learn how to exit a capsized kayak, perform a self-rescue, and perform a t-rescue with a partner. This will take place in the pool, so wear clothing that can get wet.

Provided: Kayak, life jacket What to bring: Clothes that can get wet, change of clothes, towel

Splash Zone & Amherst HealthPlex ds ar gu Ligfee ntly Needed!

Ur

If you or someone you know are interested in a lifeguard position complete an application online at loraincountymetroparks.com/employment or visit LCMP Administration Offices at Carlisle Visitor Center to complete an application in person. Lifeguards receive free training and certification to meet requirements.

Lifeguards are entitled to receive a 50% discount on a reccenter membership. Bonus opportunities are available.

REQUIREMENTS:

• At least 15 years of age and reliable transportation.

• Red Cross Lifeguard certified or willing to obtain certification prior to employment • CPR/First Aid certified or willing to obtain certification prior to employment • Willing and able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

JUNIOR CAVS

Game Dates: Saturdays, from Feb. 3-Mar. 23 (Possible playoff game: Mar. 30) Game Times: 10 am (2nd-3rd grade) | 10:45 am (4th-5th grd.) | 11:35 am (6th-8th grd.)

Splash Zone, Oberlin $75/child Jr. Cavs is coming back to Splash Zone for a 2024 Winter/Spring season! Please register your child according to their grade level. This is a fun, co-ed league that is meant to teach kids to love the sport of basketball. No prior basketball experience is required! Registration price includes two tickets to a Cavs game, a Jr. Cavs jersey as well as an 8-game season. We need a minimum of at least 10 kids per age group to ensure the season runs. We will need both volunteer coaches and referees! Please reach out to Morgan at mperichak@loraincountymetroparks.com to volunteer or to ask any questions.

Practice Days/Times: All practices are scheduled and held by the volunteer coaches and will not be determined until the start of the season. Volunteer coaches will be coordinating and choosing a weekday evening that will work with everyone's schedule. Most practices will be held Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings between 5 pm-7 pm.

10

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

Kids & Family LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS' FAMILY- AND CHILD-ORIENTED PROGRAMMING

2024 SUMMER CAMPS Summer Camps are back at Lorain County Metro Parks! Each one of our camps aims to get children outside to experience nature, be active, and explore. Camps this year include Nature Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, Junior Wild Wonders Camp, Teen Survivor Camp, a Youth Theatre Production, and more!

Detailed information can be at loraincountymetroparks.com/summer-camps.

LORAIN COUNTY RESIDENTS EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION Registration will be available online and by phone (listed below) and is open for Lorain County residents April 3-9. Registration opens for everyone on April 10.

French Creek Nature Center: (440) 949-5200 Carlisle Visitor Center: (440) 458-5121 Vermilion River Reservation: (440) 967-7310 Online registration requires a household account to be created in our registration system. Visit loraincountymetroparks.com/my-account to create your account and be ready for early bird registration. Spots are limited and fill up quickly. Don’t let account creation slow you down—sign up for your account today!

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

HOMESCH EXPLORERS E N G A G E

I N

N A T U R E ,

H I S T O R Y ,

L A N D

S C I E N C E

Geared for children learning at home, this program series is offered throughout the park district to engage children in nature, science, history, the arts, and recreation! The programs focus on learning and exploring Ohio’s “wild” side. Children will learn through educational biofacts, nature hikes, activities, games, crafts, or through a live animal demonstration!

Program fees are $3.00 per student. To accommodate as many students as possible only students within the age range listed in the program description will be permitted to attend, and participation waivers are required.

Registration opens one month prior to the program date.

For more information and to register online, visit: loraincountymetroparks.com/homeschool-explorers

WILDLIFE TRACKS Thur., Jan. 11 | 10-11:30 am Columbia Reservation - Briarwood Lodge, Columbia Station

WINTER WEATHER SCIENCE Wed., Feb. 7 | 10-11:30 am Cascade Park - Nature Center, Elyria

UNREAL ANIMALS Tue., Mar. 19 | 10-11:30 am Vermilion River Reservation - Carriage Barn

ARCHERY Thur., Apr. 25 | 10-11:30 am Black River Reservation - High Meadows, Elyria

BIRDS Tue., May 14 | 10-11:30 am Sandy Ridge Reservation, N. Ridgeville

PLANTING SEEDS Tue., May 21 | 10-11:30 am Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

VERNAL POOLS Wed., Apr. 17 | 1-2:30 pm Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

11

Astronomy CELESTIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE PARK DISTRICT

TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE Monday,

APRIL 8, 2024

EVENT: 11 A.M. - 5 P.M. Partial Eclipse: 1:59 - 4:29 p.m.

Totality: 3:13 - 3:17 p.m.

LAKEVIEW PARK,

CARLISLE EQUESTRIAN CENTER,

1800 W Erie Ave., Lorain

13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange

Join us for the celestial event of the decade – the total solar eclipse! Lorain County is in the path of totality for this unique event which means that the sun will be completely shadowed by Earth’s Moon here. Celebrate this event with information and an excellent viewing location at the Nielsen Observatory at Carlisle Reservation Equestrian Center in LaGrange and Lakeview Park in Lorain. Black River Astronomical Society will have telescopes available for viewing as well as members who will share solar eclipse information. A limited number of free protective solar eclipse glasses will be available at our eclipse viewing stations on a first-come, first-served basis.

ASTRONOMY SPEAKER SERIES In the months leading up to the eclipse, the Lorain County Metro Parks will host various Astronomy lectures to help educate about April's total solar eclipse. Various members of the Black River Astronomical Society will show the path of the eclipse, discuss how to safely view and photograph the eclipse, and show photos of what you can expect to see during this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Wed., Jan. 10 | 7-8 pm Wellington Reservation Free!

Wed., Feb. 14 | 7-8 pm Carlisle Visitor Center Free!

Wed., Mar. 13 | 7-8 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Carriage Barn Free!

Wed., Mar. 20 | 7-8 pm French Creek Nature Center Free!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

Fri., Apr. 5 | 7-8 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation Free!