Arrowhead - March/April 2020

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

March-April 2020 | Volume 60, Number 2

HIKING STICK PROGRAM Take part in 10 different hikes at 6 different park to get your very own hiking stick! Complete list of hikes inside!

SUMMER CAMPS Over 10 different Summer Camp options for kids and adults!

Boating Camp, Theatre Camp, Nature Camp and more! | Pgs. 4 & 5

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM

INSIDE Black River Celebration 2 Make a Difference 3 Summer Camps 4&5 It's In Our Nature 6 Hiking Stick Program (Insert) Healthy Lorain County 7 Kids & Family 8&9 Earth Week 10 & 11 Cultural Arts 12

James E. Ziemnik Director, Lorain County Metro Parks 2020 BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS: Kenneth M. Lieux • Chairman Sherrill M. “Cookie” McLoda • Vice Chairman Joseph E. Hribar • Commissioner James Walther • Probate Court Judge LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM

(440) 458-5121

Black River Celebration The Black River has a transformative history.

In 2020, Lorain County Metro Parks will partner with a variety of organizations that celebrate the Black River every day. In showcasing this wonderful resource, it is our intent to celebrate its many accomplishments and foster an appreciation for future generations.

What does the Black River mean to you? It connects communities, with the watershed spanning 466 miles. It offers a huge economic boost. For each $1 invested into the river, $3.35 is generated back in the regional economy. The Black River is thriving habitat for local wildlife and is a wonderful recreational resource for activities like boating, fishing, and paddling.

Once called the “river of fish tumors”, the Black River has made a tremendous comeback through 20 projects completed by the Black River Area of Concern (AOC) aimed to remediate and restore the river. With a history shaped by industry, community, and advocacy, the Black River has an incredible past of industrial, agricultural, and urban uses, all of which come with an environmental impact.

So please join the Lorain County Metro Parks in celebrating this extraordinary resource that is right in our backyard.

C e l e b r a t i o n 2020 will be filled with programs and events to celebrate our accomplishments in and around the Black River. To name a few: • Black River Cleanup – A kick-off to the celebration doing what we do best, making an environmental impact in a collaborative effort.

• Earth Week Programming • Family Canoe Adventures on the Black River • Black River guided hikes and rides • Summer Camp Programs with Black River theme • Sunset Beach Fest & Lorain County Fair – an introduction to our Black River Exhibit.

• Black River Exhibit at French Creek Nature Center • Black River Fest at Black River Reservation • Black River Bikeway completion and ribbon-cutting

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

Equestrian Center/ Nielsen Observatory:

French Creek Nature Center:

4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054 (440) 949-5200

• North Coast Inland Trail Butternut Ridge Trailhead:

13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, Ohio 44050 44342 Butternut Ridge Rd., 47160 Hollstein Dr., Amherst, OH 44001 • Cascade Park Oberlin, OH 44074 (440) 984-3470 Pine Tree Picnic Area: 387 Furnace St., Elyria, Ohio 44035 Gateway Trailhead: 4951 French Creek Rd., • Black River Reservation (440) 458-5121 6275 Gateway Blvd., Elyria, OH 44035 Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054 (440) 324-5481 • Charlemont Reservation • The North Star Preserve/Henry’s Barn: • Indian Hollow Reservation Bur Oak: 48600 New London Eastern Rd., 46223 U.S. Rt. 20, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 38744 Parsons Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 • Sandy Ridge Reservation 6150 Ford Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 New London, Ohio 44851 Royal Oaks: Days Dam: • Columbia Reservation 6195 Otten Rd., N. Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 2720 E. 31st St., Lorain, Ohio 44055 25145 Royalton Rd., Columbia Station, 1057 Parson Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 (440) 327-3626 Ohio 44028 High Meadows: • Kopf Family Reservation • Schoepfle Garden (440) 236-3254 1750 Ford Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 32649 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake, Ohio 11106 Market St., Birmingham, Ohio 44889 Briarwood Lodge: 44012 (440) 965-7237 • Caley Reservation 25250 Briarwood Dr., Columbia Station, (440) 387-8107 18207 West Rd., Wellington, Ohio 44090 • Splash Zone Ohio 44028 • Kipton Reservation 95 W. Hamilton, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 • Carlisle Reservation • F orest Hills Golf Course St. Route 511, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 (440) 774-5059 (440) 458-5121 41971 Oberlin-Elyria Rd., • L akeview Park • V ermilion River Reservation Carlisle Visitor Center: Elyria, Ohio 44035 1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain, Ohio 44052 51211 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 12882 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 323-2632 (440) 967-7310 • Miller Nature Preserve Duck Pond Picnic Area: • F rench Creek Reservation 2739 Center Rd., Avon OH 44011 • Wellington Reservation 12550 Diagonal Rd., Burrell Homestead: (440) 937-0764 535 Jones Rd., Wellington, Ohio 44090 LaGrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 647-2509 2792 E. River, Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054

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Make a Difference

ICON KEY:

= Pre-registration Required = Minimal Fee Required

GET INVOLVED WITH THE LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

Volu n t e e r

Friends of the Metro Parks

Pancake Breakfast

Opportunities

Sun., Mar. 1 & Mar. 8 | 9 am-1 pm Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange It's Maple Syrup season! Bring the whole family out to LaGrange for a wonderful breakfast sponsored by the Friends of the Metro Parks! Visitors can enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, juice, and coffee! Please pay at door: Adults: $7 | Children (2-10 yrs.): $4 | Children under 2 yrs: Free!

Honor Roll

Anonymous Avon Garden Club Black River Audubon Society Bloomfield Family Charitable Fund Community Foundation of Lorain County Bob and Marilyn Fabritius, North Ridgeville Friends of Metro Parks in Lorain County Michaels Arts & Crafts Sarge's #1 Concessions, LLC Matt and Barb Weisman, Elyria Wright's Catering & Concessions, Inc. Kay Zielazienski Rosemary Bors Ziniewicz c/o Chet Ziniewicz, Spencer

Gift was given in Honor of:

Sherrill "Cookie" McLoda by Richard and Jacqueline Miller, Dover, AR Ethel and Norman Shannon by Bob and Marilyn Fabritius, North Ridgeville

Gift was given in Memory of:

Janet Ackerman by Dionne Hummel, Grafton Rosemary Bors Ziniewicz by Chet Ziniewicz, Spencer Buddy Burge by Charlotte and Bruce Burge, Lorain Buddy Burge by Susan Burge, Lorain Buddy Burge by Dave and Maryann Crawford, Avon Buddy Burge by Jim and Karen Miraldi, Lorain Buddy Burge by Donald Schnitzler, Elyria Buddy Burge by Sandra Wanosik, Avon Norma Curren by Joanne Folk, North Ridgeville

FRIENDS OF THE METRO PARKS ORIENTATIONS Tue., Mar. 10 | 10-11 am & 7-8 pm Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange

TEENS AT THE PARK ORIENTATION Tue., Mar. 10 | 7-9 pm Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange

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.

William T. Dalton by Mary L. Cole, North Ridgeville Sondra and Richard Faight (in memory of Becky Brasee) William T. Dalton by Gayle and Nancy Finke, Oberlin (Gift to David Finke) Jeffrey Dworkin, Apex, NC Bonnie Glasbrenner, Lorain (Gift to Cody Glasbrenner) William T. Dalton by Carol and Kurt Miske, Bay Village Barbara Gorenshek, Lorain William T. Dalton by Women in Friendship of St. Dan Haseley, Vermilion Peter Church, North Ridgeville Thomas H. Higgason, North Ridgeville (Gift to Franco, Jean Damasiewicz by Joe & Cheryl Hribar, Vermilion Dominic & Vincenzo Gallo, Max & Kate Redd) Bill Grasmehr by Gail and Allan Jones, Grafton Marlene Jacobs, Elyria (Gift to Brooklyn Wise) Bill Grasmehr by Kathy and Ronald Yates, Lagrange Tudy Masica, North Ridgeville Carmen Higgason Gallo by St. Kevin Maziarz, Elyria (Gift to Gavin Maziarz) Peter Church, North Ridgeville Bill and Jennifer McClintock, Wellington Patricia Jordan by Cletus and Lois Johnson, Grafton Austin Pelyak, Batavia, NY (Gift to Dr. Steve Altic) Patricia Jordan by Annelise Leedy and Thomas M. Deborah D. Power, Parma Kowalski, Catonsville, MD Pamela J. Price, Wakeman (Gift to Kevin Kerwin) Michael Mawson by Lynn and Richard Stuart and Kathy Schiffman, Valley City Gigliotti, Vermilion Shirley and Marshall Searles (in memory of Michael Mawson by Janine Mawson and Family, Lorain Becky Brasee) Steven H. Minnier by Todd Minnier, Nashville, TN Rich and Donna Stevens, Valley City (Gifts to each other) Alice Norman by Barbara Gorenshek, Lorain Don and Yvonne Urig, North Ridgeville Alice Norman by Joe & Cheryl Hribar, Vermilion Joan Vacco, Avon (Gift to Cheryl Gildenmeister) Ed Seber by Laura Seber, Sheffield Village Linda Wilin, North Ridgeville Ruth Wulfhoop, Elyria (Gifts to Ellen R. Otis and Becky A George) Kim and Gilbert Ach, Elyria (Gift to Megan Tracey) Barbara Zorc, Fairview Park Marco Balic, Westlake Evan Smith, Lorain John Buderer, Lorain Anna Snellings, Avon Lake Gilbert Cole (in memory of Becky Brasee) Donald H. Stockman, Brooklyn Eric and Judy Defibaugh, Sheffield Village Susan Stuber, Lagrange (Gift to Malachi Snyder) Greg and Edie Dore, North Bill and Linda Wallis, Elyria Ridgeville (Gift to Cameron Velican) Linda Wilin, North Ridgeville Gloria Dybo, Elyria (in memory of Becky Brasee)

Adopt-a-Raptor

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Summer Camps YOUTH SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS ENTERING KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 12TH GRADE Call-in registration for Lorain County residents begins at 8 a.m. on February 21 and runs through February 27. Call-in and online registrations will open for all participants on February 28.

Carlisle Visitor Center: (440) 458-5121 French Creek Nature Center: (440) 949-5200 Mill Hollow Carriage Barn: (440) 967-7310

'Spirit of America' Boating Education Camp June 8-12 OR June 15-19 | 9 am-3 pm *PLEASE NOTE: This camp requires the completion of Amherst HealthPlex, Splash Zone, an application and essay. Download the application and Lorain Harbor Boat Club online or visit Carlisle Visitor Center to get a physical 12-15 years old copy. Registration is currently open for this camp only.

Free Do you want to learn more about boating while spending time on the water this summer?

Take part in this camp and learn safe boating skills directly from certified boating instructors and ODNR Division of Water craft and U.S. Coast Guard officers, earn a required state boating certificate, and become a "Captain of Your Own Vessel!" Space is limited!

April 1 deadline! Commitment to participate in all of the following disciplines is mandatory: • Ohio Boating Education Course (OBEC) • Pool instruction (drowning prevention & equipment preparedness) • 4 days of training on the water in canoes, kayaks, sailboats, motorboats, stand-up paddleboards and personal watercraft (jet skis) • Graduation ceremony and family boating opportunity AGE

Outdoor Adventure Camp July 13-17 OR July 20-24 | 9 am-3 pm Vermilion River Reservation 9-11 years old $160/child Join us for a week full of adventures! Activities will include archery, arts and crafts, hiking, river activities, geocaching, scavenger hunts, survival skills, and so much more!

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Theatre Camps

FRENCH CREEK COMPANY A

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July 6-10 | 10 am-3 pm French Creek Nature Center Entering 6th-8th grade $95/child

FRENCH CREEK COMPANY B

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July 13-17 | 10 am-3 pm French Creek Nature Center Entering 2nd-5th grade $95/child

FRENCH CREEK DRAMA TOTS July 20-31 | 9 am-Noon French Creek Nature Center Entering Pre-K - 1st grade $95/child French Creek is offering theatre camps for ages Pre-K through 8th grade. Our young campers will participate in their own original production while our older campers will be challenged to enhance their skills through a jam-packed, exhilarating week of theatre! More information available online!

Young Birders Camp June 9-10 | 10 am-2 pm June 11 (Field Trip Day) | 9 am-3 pm Carlisle Visitor Center 8-12 years old $75/child This camp immerses your child in nature and birding in this unique field experience camp.

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LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

Nature Camp Explore. Connect. Engage! Nature Camp will foster a love and respect for nature through outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, habitat explorations and much more. Each day of Nature Camp will provide a schedule filled with creative crafts, experiments, outdoor journaling activities, active team games, and plenty of fun nature hikes!

EXPLORERS: YOUNG NATURALISTS

ADVENTURERS: AMAZING ANIMALS!

June 8-12 | 9 am-Noon French Creek Nature Center Entering Kindergarten-1st grade $80/child Come out and play in the great outdoors during this fun-filled week of Camp! This camp is designed for first-time campers. We will explore nature through hands-on activities, games, educational programs, live animals, and more!

June 15-19 | 9 am-3 pm French Creek Nature Center Entering 2nd-3rd grade $130/child Want to learn how to become an adventurer? We will explore all kinds of animals that live on our planet including in their own backyard. This will all be done through hands-on activities, hiking, educational programs, and more!

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Survivor Camp July 27-31 | 9 am-3 pm Vermilion River Reservation 12-14 years old $175/child This camp is full of ultimate adventures for teen outdoor enthusiasts!

Each day will focus on a various aspect of outdoor survival including food and water procurement, shelter building, travel, safety and first aid, fire building, and outdoor navigation. Participants will engage in a final survival challenge on Friday. The Camp will also include plenty of games and traditional camp crafts. This Camp is limited to 10 participants.

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Fishing Camp

Wild World Camp

June 8-12 | 9 am-3 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation Entering 5th-8th grade $120/child This camp is for all levels of fishing experience. It includes lessons in: casting, baiting a hook, knot tying, and catch and release. All that plus new field trips and a fish fry!

We’ll even take some time to go hiking and swimming!

June 15-19 | 9 am-3 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation Entering 5th-8th grade $120/child Learn about birds, bugs, reptiles, mammals, and other wildlife. The week’s events include: hikes, critter catching, swimming, and awesome field trips!

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Grandparents Camp

Youth Explorers Club

Tue., July 7 OR Thur. July 9 | 10 am-2 pm Cascade Park (July 7) & Amherst Beaver Creek (July 9) 5-10 year olds & grandparents $7/person (register child and grandparent) A fun day filled with memory making, play time, take home activities, and a short hike. Remember to bring a picnic lunch to share with each other.

Tuesdays, June 30-Aug. 4 | 10 am-Noon OR 1-3 pm Wellington Reservation 3-6 years old & 7-10 years old $10/child Each week will be a different topic exploring nature, science, recreation, and history with hands-on activities.

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Park Trekkers Family Camp - Black River Ramblings AGE

Thursdays, June 25-Aug. 6 | 9:30-11:30 am Carlisle Visitor Center 6-10 year olds & their families $10/child

Through hands on activities, games, crafts, hikes and live animal encounters, your family will get to know Lorain County’s most important watershed – the Black River!

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It's In Our Nature

ICON KEY:

= Pre-registration Required = Minimal Fee Required = Live Animal

PROGRAMMING GEARED TOWARD OBSERVING AND LEARNING ABOUT ALL ASPECTS OF NATURE

HIKING LEVELS:

= EASY

R e cu rrin g hi kes WEEKLY WALKERS Mar. 2, 10, 18, & 26 | 8:30-9:30 am Columbia Reservation, Columbia Station

WOODLAND WALKS Every Wednesday Morning* | 9-10 am Kopf Family Reservation, Avon Lake

= MODERATE

Sun., Mar. 8 | 6-7:30 pm Wellington Reservation

FULL MOON HIKE Mon., Mar. 9 | 6:30-8 pm Wellington Reservation

EVENING MARSH HIKE Tue., Mar. 10 | 7-8 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

FLOWER POWER HIKE

WOODCOCK WALKS

Thur., Mar. 12 | 11 am-12 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

Thursdays, Mar. 12, 19, & 26 | 7:15-8:15 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

CAMPFIRE HIKE: COLD HIKE, HOT CHILI

LATE WINTER BIRDING Sat., Mar. 14 | 9-10:30 am Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

Sun., Mar. 1 | 1-2:30 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

SIGNS OF SPRING HIKE

WINTER BIRDING WALK

Sat., Mar. 14 | 1-3 pm Wellington Reservation

Wed., Mar. 4 | 8:30-10:30 am Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

"WHAT'S HAPPENING?" HIKE

EARLY SPRING WILDFLOWERS HIKE Sat., Mar. 14 | 2-3:20 pm French Creek Reservation (Pine Tree Picnic Area)

Wed., Mar. 4 | 2-3 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

PAINTED SHAM-ROCKS HIKE

CAMPFIRE HIKE

Sun., Mar. 15 | 1-2:30 pm Vermilion River Reservation (Carriage Barn)

Sat., Mar. 7 | 1-2:30 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

CAMPFIRE HIKE: SEARCH FOR RAPTORS

INVASIVE SPECIES HIKE

Sun., Mar. 8 | 1-2:30 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

Sun., Mar. 15 | 2-3:30 pm Kopf Family Reservation, Avon Lake

Astronomy Programs

Nielsen Observatory, Carlisle Reservation All programs co-sponsored by Black River Astronomical Society Fri., Mar.. 13* | 8-10 pm

*Cloud date: Sat., Mar. 14

MARCH SKIES

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Fri., Mar. 20* | 8-10 pm

*Cloud date: Sat., Mar. 21

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

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS HIKE

*No hike on Wednesday, Mar. 18

WINTER SKIES

= STRENUOUS

APRIL SKIES Fri., Apr. 17* | 8-10 pm

*Cloud date: Sat., Apr. 18

SPRING SKIES Fri., Apr. 24* | 8-10 pm

*Cloud date: Sat., Apr. 25

SPRING BIRDING TOURS Wed., Mar. 25 & Tue., Apr. 21 | 8:30 am-4 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville Guided van trip to some hotspots. $10/ person; pre-register by 3/23 & 4/17.

BIRDS OF PREY PHOTO OP Sat., Apr. 18 | 11 am-Noon Carlisle Visitor Center, LaGrange Meet up-close and photograph some of our Raptor Center residents! (Weather dependent)

"WHAT'S HAPPENING?" HIKE Wed., Mar. 19 | 2-3 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

OUTER LIMITS HIKE Sat., Mar. 21 | 9-10:30 am Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

SPRING SIGNS & SOUNDS HIKE Sat., Mar. 21 | 2-3 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

HIKE WELLINGTON Sun., Mar. 22 | 1-3 pm Wellington Reservation

FLOWER POWER HIKE Thur., Mar. 26 | 2-3 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

GARLIC MUSTARD PULL Sat., Mar. 28 | 1-3 pm Kopf Family Reservation, Avon Lake

SIGNS OF SPRING HIKE Sat., Mar. 28 | 1-3 pm Wellington Reservation

2020

MAPLE SUGARING Feb. 29, Mar. 1, 7, & 8 | 11:30 am-3:30 pm Carlisle Reservation (Visitor Center) Help us celebrate this special time of year by learning how to take sap from sugar maple trees to turn into maple syrup! We will explore the history and science of Maple Sugaring through hands-on activities geared for all ages.

Train rides through a second sugar bush may also be available, weather permitting.

CRITTER CARE Sat., Mar. 14 | 10-11 am French Creek Nature Center Help feed the nature center animals!

A Healthy Lorain County ICON KEY:

= Pre-registration Required |

RED CROSS ADULT/PEDIATRIC FIRST AID, CPR, AND AED TRAINING Thur., Mar. 5 | 6-8 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin

INDOOR TRIATHLON Sun., Mar. 8 | 9 am-Noon Splash Zone, Oberlin Swimming, cycling, and running (30 minutes each)!

= Fee Required

GET PHYSICAL WITH THE LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

SPLASH ZONE WALK-A-THON ON NATIONAL WALKING DAY

PADDLING CLASSES

Thur., Apr. 2 | 11 am-1 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin Come and walk as little of as much as you like to help us celebrate. Earn raffle tickets for participating (1 winner per month; also entered into final drawing in May).

Sun., Mar. 15 | 9 am-Noon Splash Zone, Oberlin Beginning canoeing course. Ages 16-18 with participating adult. $50/person; pre-reg. by March 8.

Sat., Mar. 14 | 5:30-7:30 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin Come watch this family-friendly fantasy adventure on the big screen while floating in the pool!

KAYAK RESCUE REVIEW

RED CROSS LIFEGUARD TRAINING

WILDERNESS & REMOTE FIRST AID Mon., Mar. 30 & Mon., Apr. 6 | 5-9 pm Sat., Apr. 4 | 9 am-5 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin

NATIONAL VIRTUAL VACATION DAY Mon., Mar. 30 | 6:15-6:30 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin Winter got you down? Didn't get to go on a fancy spring break vacation? Come for a pool party!

KAYAK CLASS: LEVEL 1 Sun., Mar. 29 | 9 am-Noon Splash Zone, Oberlin Beginner kayak paddling on the water program.

Ages 16-18 with participating adult. $50/person; pre-reg. by March 22.

DIVE-IN MOVIE: "ABOMINABLE"

Thur., Mar. 19 | 7-9 pm Tue.-Fri., Mar. 24-27 | 11 am-4 pm Thur., Apr. 2 | 7-9 pm Tue.-Fri., Apr. 7-10 | 11 am-4 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin

CANOE CLASS: LEVEL 1

Tue., Apr. 14 | 6-8 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin $7/person; pre-register by March 7.

Yoga at Lakeview Tuesdays & Thursdays | 8:30-9:30 am Lakeview Park (Sunset Terrace), Lorain Whether you are a first-timer or a longtime practitioner, this free class will work for you. Bring your yoga mat and join everyone inside Sunset Terrace!

Swimming Lessons

Mondays | 5:30 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin

Thursdays | 5:30 pm Amherst HealthPlex

FitWalks is a FREE walking program for all ages and abilities! No memberhsip is required. Walk with friends all year-round on the indoor track or outside on the outdoor path. Get fit at no cost to you!

FitWalks sponsored by:

LEARN TO SWIM: SESSION 2

LEARN TO SWIM: SPRING SESSION

Mondays, Beginning on Mar. 9 | Beginning at 5:00 pm Wednesdays, Beginning on Mar. 11 | Beginning at 5:00 pm Saturdays, Beginning on Mar. 14 | Beginning at 9:00 am Splash Zone, Oberlin These 6-week swim lesson classes are for all ages and includes the following class levels: Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4 (6+ yrs.), Adult Beginner, Adult Intermediate, Parent & Child 1 (6-18 mo.), Parent & Child 2 (19 mo.-3 yrs.), Preschool 1, 2, 3, and 4 (3-5 yrs.). Swimmers choose between Monday, Wednesday, or Saturday classes. Preregistration required. Members: $40, Non-Members: $55.

Saturdays, Beginning on Mar. 21 | Beginning at 9:00 am Sundays, Beginning on Mar. 22 | Beginning at 10:00 am Amherst HealthPlex These 6-week swim lesson classes are for all ages and includes the following class levels: Levels 1, 2, and 3 (6+ yrs.), Parent & Child 1 (6-18 mo.), Parent & Child 2 (19 mo.-3 yrs.), Preschool 1, 2, and 3 (3-5 yrs.). Swimmers choose between Saturday or Sunday classes. Pre-registration required. Members: $40, Non-Members: $55. Can’t make it in person to register for swim lessons on registration day? Online registrations will now be available!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

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Kids & Family

ICON KEY:

= Pre-registration Required = Minimal Fee Required

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’ FAMILY-ORIENTED PROGRAMMING

ECO KIDS

KIDDIE CRAFT CLUB

Lakeview Park, Lorain Learn about the environment with a story and activities! For preschoolers and their adult companion.

French Creek Nature Center Fun nature crafts for preschoolers and their parents.

LIFE CYCLES Mon., Mar. 2 | 10-11 am

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE!

WATER

Mon., Apr. 20 | 10-11 am

Tue., Mar. 17 | 10-11 am

BIG STORIES, LITTLE ACTORS

FLOWERS & BUGS Tue., Apr. 21 | 10-11 am

PRESCHOOL NATURE KIDS

Kopf Family Reservation, Avon Lake Public Library Activities, crafts, and outdoor exploration (weather permitting) focused on nature's nestbuilders and invasive species.

NESTS

GARDEN SPROUTS

Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Preschoolers & adult learn can learn about kites and safety and Earth Day through activities & craft.

KITES

Fri., Mar. 20 | 10-11 am

Thur., Mar. 5 | 10:15-11 am

FLOWERS & BUGS

EARTH RANGERS

ANIMAL TRACKS

KITES AND WIND

Vermilion River Reservation, Carriage Barn Preschoolers and an adult will take part in a "Growing up Wild" program about animal tracks and animals with a backbone!

Thur., Apr. 16 | 10-11 am

Wed., Mar. 25 | 10-11 am

"THE BOOK WITH NO PICTURES" Wed., Apr. 15 | 10-11 am

Thur., Apr. 2 | 10:15-11 am

PRESCHOOL WILD ADVENTURES

ANIMALS WITH A BACKBONE

"HOW TO CATCH A LEPRECHAUN"

EARTH DAY

Fri., Apr. 17 | 10-11 am

Tue., Mar. 31 | 10-11 am

French Creek Nature Center Performance-based, interactive program for children Preschool1st Grade. Activities and games focus on introducing attendees to movement, rhythm, drama and character.

Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Children 6-12 yrs. can learn about & make a simple kite as well as learn about Earth Day. $3/person (Free for members), pre-register by March 25.

Sat., Mar. 28 | 2-3 pm

EARTH DAY Sat., Apr. 18 | 2-3 pm

PARK PALS

Carlisle Visitor Center

STORYTIME ADVENTURES

Wed., Apr. 22 & Wed., Apr. 29 | 10-11 am Amherst HealthPlex Enjoy fun stories, crafts, and activities while making new friends! $2/person.

BIRD NESTS Wed., Mar. 25 | 10-11 am & 2-3pm Why do birds build nests? Let's learn through a story, craft, hike, and live animal. Child and adult.

HURRAY FOR EARTH DAY!

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Wed., Apr. 22 | 10-11 am & 2-3pm Celebrate Earth Day with reading The Lorax, hands-on activities, hike, and making a recycled craft!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

CELEBRATE DR. SEUSS DAY

KIDS SPRING CRAFT

Mon., Mar. 2 | 10 am-Noon Sat., Mar. 21 & Fri., Apr. 17 | 10-11 am Splash Zone Schoepfle Garden, Visitor Center You�'re here for a story, you might as well stay.

Make easy crafts to celebrate spring!

We'�ll swim & do crafts, hip, hip, hooray!

BUBBLES! A costume, a costume, a costume you say?

Fri., Apr. 17 | 2:15-3 pm Come dressed in your best; the Dr. Suess way. $2/person (members), $3.50/person (non-members) Miller Nature Preserve See this amazing program! Maybe get inside a READING WITH A RANGER big bubble. Free for members; $3/person (nonSat., Mar. 7 | 11 am-Noon members); children under 3 are free.

Kopf Family Reservation, Avon Lake Public Library GIRLSCOUTS DAISIES: EARTHAPPRECIATION Enjoy a story about Spring, followed by a craft Sun., Apr. 26 | 2-3 pm for all ages.

French Creek Nature Center TINY DANCERS Learn how to take care of the Earth and plant Sat., Mar. 7 | 2-3 pm flowers to take home! Pre-register by 4/22.

French Creek Nature Center Children get an up-close and personal Ballet and Tap "FAIRIES, WIZARDS, GNOMES, AND lesson from a dancer! $2/person, pre-register by 3/1. UNICORN HOMES!" SEASONAL DISPLAY Daily, Apr. 22-Aug. 9 | 10 am-5 pm ST. PADDY'S DAY CELEBRATION Miller Nature Preserve Sat., Mar. 14 | Noon-2 pm This unique exhibit is back by popular demand, French Creek Nature Center but we are welcoming gnomes, unicorns, and Live music, snacks, crafts, fairy gardens and more to join our ‘forces’! You can design your more surprises to come! very own garden and enter it to be placed within the display. Local clubs, businesses, and SCIENCE EXPLORERS: SPACE greenhouses will also have featured displays!

Sat., Mar. 21 | 10-11:30 am Outdoor displays begin June 1. $2/person.

French Creek Nature Center Learn about space and receive a star seeker map to take home! $2/person, pre-register by 3/18.

Easter programs DIP, DIVE, AND DUNK EGG HUNT Sun., Apr. 5 | 5-5:45 pm & 6-6:45 pm Amherst HealthPlex Bring your swimsuits, towels, goggles, and baskets to see how many eggs you can find in the pool! Eggs will be floating and sunken. Eggs can be redeemed for prizes, find a golden egg to win a special prize! $3.50/person.

EASTER PARTY Sun., Apr. 5 | 5:30-8 pm Splash Zone, Oberlin Join us for an evening of Easter fun! We will have swimming, crafts, and an easter egg hunt. Cost is $3.50/person and all children under the age of 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

BOOGIE WITH THE BUNNY Fri., Apr. 10 | 2-4 pm French Creek Nature Center Come dance, hunt for eggs, and get your photo taken with the Bunny at this free event!

WELLINGTON EASTER BREAKFAST Sat., Apr. 11 | 9 am-Noon Wellington Reservation Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast. Cost is $6/person; pre-register by April 6.

BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY Sat., Apr. 11 | 10-11 am & 11 am-1 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Bring a camera for pics with Easter Bunny, breakfast, and an egg hunt at 11 am! $11/adult, $8/kids; pre-register by 4/5.

WELLINGTON EASTER EGG SCRAMBLE Sat., Apr. 11 | 10-11 am Wellington Reservation Free Easter Egg Scramble and a visit from the Easter Bunny! Geared towards children age 1 to 10.

SCHOEPFLE EGG HUNT UNICORN DAY

IT'S BACK!

Sun., Mar. 1 | 2-3:30 pm French Creek Nature Center The first time around, Unicorn Day was such a hit that we've brought it back! Glitter, crafts, rainbows, and snacks! $2/person, pre-register by February 23.

Sat., Apr. 11 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden Search for eggs, crafts, and activities for all!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

9

Earth Week

ICON KEY:

= Pre-registration Required = Minimal Fee Required = Live Animal

PROGRAMS AND EVENTS GEARED TOWARD CELEBRATING EARTH WEEK

Earth Week Celebration l April 20-26

Celebrate living on Earth through a variety of hands-on activities, hikes, opportunities to make a difference, and so much more!

Keep up-to-date with us on social media and on our website during Earth Week to get the latest info, games and activities!

CRITTER CARE: EARTH WEEK EDITION Mon., Apr. 20 | 2-3:15 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center Help feed the nature center animals and make a recycled material craft to take home! Live animal.

SPRING BIRDING TOUR: HOT SPOTS Tue., Apr. 21 | 8:30 am-4 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville Guided van trip to some hotspots. Space is limited.

Pre-register by 4/17.

INVASIVE PLANT PULL Tue., Apr. 21 | 1-2:30 pm Columbia Reservation Help pull invasion vegetation. Boots, long pants & gloves recommended. (Hiking Stick Program: Level 2)

VERMILION RIVER CLEAN-UP HIKE Tue., Apr. 21 | 1-2 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Carriage Barn Pick up trash as we hike along the Vermilion River Valley. Gloves and bags provided. (HSP: level 2)

EVENING SIGHTS AND SOUNDS HIKE Tue., Apr. 21 | 7-8 pm Miller Nature Preserve Enjoy the sights and sounds of the woods on an April evening. (HSP: level 2)

ZERO POWER LUNCH HOUR

ZERO-WASTE COOKOUT

Wed., Apr. 22 | Noon-1 pm French Creek Reservation (Nature Center) Join French Creek crew for lunch (not provided) outside as we power down the building for Earth Week!

Sat., Apr. 25 | Noon-2 pm Vermilion River Reservation (Shelter #2) Pack your picnic without single-use waste.

Prizes and "Wildlife Live!" after the cookout.

Pre-Register by 4/21.

WOODLAND WALK Wed., Apr. 22 | 9-10 am Kopf Family Reservation Join in a brisk walk along the paved trails every Wednesday morning, weather permitting. (HSP: level 2)

E-CYCLING CHALLENGE Wed., Apr. 22-Fri., Apr. 24 | 9 am-6 pm Amherst HealthPlex We challenge you! Bring us your unwanted and old electronics and make Earth Day,every day!

HIKE CHARLEMONT Wed., Apr. 22 | 1-3 pm Charlemont Reservation Join us for a fun hike! (HSP: level 3)

WEDNESDAY MORNING BIRDING Wed., Apr. 22 | 7:30-10 am Sandy Ridge Reservation (HSP: level 2)

Pa rsle y

WEEKLY WALKERS Wed., Apr. 22 | 8:30-9:30 am Columbia Reservation Nice weekly hike through the park! (HSP: level 2)

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HERB FAIR Sat., Apr. 25 & Sun., Apr. 26 | 10 am-4 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Carriage Barn Purchase garden plants, accessories, arts and crafts at this FREE annual event!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

OWL PROWL Thur., Apr. 23 | 7-8:30 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center We’ll learn about and look for Ohio’s most common owls on this leisurely hike. (HSP: level 1)

LOW-COST GARDENING

SENIOR MORNING IN THE GARDEN Thur., Apr. 23 | 9:30-11 am Schoepfle Garden, Visitor Center Gardening tips, tram rides, tours and coffee for seniors.

STARTING SPRING SEEDS Thur., Apr. 23 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve Get a head start with Michael on the growing season. Supplies included. Pre-Register by 4/19.

Members: $3/Non-members: $5

Sat., Apr. 25 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden, Visitor Center Get tips to reduce costs when gardening and also ways to reduce our impact on nature. Pre-register by 4/23.

GARLIC MUSTARD PULL Sat., Apr. 25 | 10 am-Noon Kopf Family Reservation Gloves, long pants/sleeves, and sturdy footwear recommended. (HSP: level 2)

SPRING WILDFLOWER HIKE Sat., Apr. 25 | 1-3 pm Wellington Reservation Look for Spring wildflowers in bloom. (HSP: level 1)

TREE TALK HIKE

REDUCE YOUR USE Thur., Apr. 23 | 3:30-5 pm Cascade Park, Elyria Learn of ways to reduce the use of single use plastics in your home and become more than a "wishful recycler". Pre-register by April 20.

Sat., Apr. 25 | 2-3 pm Miller Nature Preserve Celebrate trees, their importance to us, how we use them daily, and how to ID them.

(HSP: level 1)

SCIENCE EXPLORERS: EARTH WEEK CLEANUP CHALLENGE Sat., Apr. 25 | 2-3:30 pm Kopf Family Reservation A friendly competition-based cleanup.

Pre-register by 4/22. $2/person (HSP: level 2)

FLOWER POWER HIKE Thur., Apr. 30 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve Discover plants & flowers on trails, in gardens, & conservatory. (HSP: level 2)

Astronomy

Carlisle Reservation, Nielsen Observatory

program co-sponsored by Black River Astronomical Society SPRING SKIES Fri., Apr. 24* | 9-11 pm

*Cloud date: Sat., Apr. 25 Additional Astronomy programs listed on page 6!

LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121

11

Cultural Arts

ICON KEY:

= Pre-registration Required = Minimal Fee Required

DISCOVER ARTS, THEATRE & HISTORY DRAWING & WATERCOLOR CLASSES at Miller Nature Preserve, Avon All Drawing Classes: 9:30-11:30 am All Watercolor Classes: 12:30-2:30 pm Mon., Mar. 2 Mon., Mar. 23 Mon., Mar. 9 Mon., Mar. 30 Mon., Mar. 16 Mon., Apr. 6

Mon., Apr. 20 Mon., Apr. 27

EXPLORING WATERCOLOR CLASSES at French Creek Nature Center, Classroom All Exploring Watercolor Classes: 10:30 am-12:30 pm Thur., Mar. 5 Thur., Mar. 12 Thur., Mar. 19

Thur., Mar. 26 Thur., Apr. 2 Thur., Apr. 9

Thur., Apr. 23 Thur., Apr. 30

COOKING CLASSES at Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Homemade Pasta & Sauce | Tue., Mar. 3 | 2-4 pm Cinnamon Rolls | Tue., Mar. 10 | 2-4 pm Evening in Tuscany | Tue., Mar. 31 | 6:30-8:30 pm French Macarons | Tue., Apr. 7 | 2-4 pm Tiramisu | Tue., Apr. 21 | 2-4 pm Brachiole | Tue., Apr. 28 | 2-4 pm

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE Apr. 24-May 10 | Fri. & Sat. at 7:30 pm | Sun. at 3 pm French Creek Theatre (French Creek Nature Center) Ten strangers arrive on an isolated island after receiving mysterious invitations. Stranded by a violent storm, their holiday soon turns deadly as scandalous secrets are revealed, and one-by-one they begin to die. (Play for ages 12+) IMPROV SKILLS Thur., Mar. 12 | 5-6 pm French Creek Nature Center Improv class for grades 5 & 6. Free Class!

FRENCH CREEK CINEMA French Creek Nature Center Song of the Sea | Sat., Mar. 21 | 2-3:30 pm The Prince of Egypt | Sat., Apr. 5 | 2-3:30 pm $1 admission includes popcorn!

HISTORICAL TOURS & ACTIVITIES

BACON HOUSE TOUR: CANDLE DIPPING SCHOEPFLE HOUSE & GARDEN TOURS Sat., Mar. 7 | 10-11:30 am Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon House Tour this historical home and make a handdipped candle to take home!

Sat., Mar. 14 & Sat. Apr. 11 | 2-3 pm Schoepfle Garden, Birmingham Visit Mr. Schoepfle's house to learn more about our wonderful benefactor.

ROAD TO FREEDOM

SMALL CEMENT CABBAGE LEAF BOWL

AN INTERACTIVE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD EXPERIENCE

Wed., Mar. 11 | 9:30-11 am Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Paint a cement leaf to keep. Perfect for jewelry!

Sat., Apr. 4 | 4-9 pm French Creek Reservation, Pine Tree Picnic Area Experience history through a unique role-play event focused on the Underground Railroad.

Walking reenactment will last approximately one hour; scheduled groups leave Shelter #1, returning via shuttle bus. Weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes recommended. Mature content - 8 years and older; please no strollers, walkers, or wheelchairs for safety reasons. $5/person; pre-register by April 3. Program is also available for homeschoolers. Visit our website to pre-register per time block and for more info.

CARD-MAKING CLASSES Tue., Mar. 17 & Tue., Apr. 21 | 6-8:30 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon

FERN BALL FUN! Thur., Mar. 26 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Make a fern ball craft to take home.

WOODCARVERS Wed., Mar. 18 & Wed., Apr. 15 | 7-9 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Carriage Barn Lorain County Woodcarvers open carve night, the public is welcome!

g n i n e d Gar GARDEN AND LANSCAPE BEDS

Sat., Mar. 28 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden Learn how to design and prep your garden and landscape beds for spring. Pre-register by March 26.

COLOR, LANSCAPING & EXTERIOR DESIGN CONCEPTS Wed., Apr. 8 | 3-4 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon Barbara Richardson of Emerald & Violet shows landscaping with color to highlight your home.