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Lorain County Metro Parks

September-October 2021 Volume 61, Number 5

LORAIN CO UNT Y METRO PA RKS

BOO-THRU OCTOBER 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, & 24

Halloween Boo-Thru This fall, we are bringing back this family-friendly drive-through event bigger and better than ever! | Pgs. 6 & 7

Autumn is here! As the leaves start to change color, a beautiful backdrop of scenery arrives. Check out 4 of our favorite places to take in the fall color! | Pg. 4

Connect to a Cause Help the Carlisle Reservation Raptor Center continue to operate by donating during this 12-hour fundraising event hosted by the Community Foundation | Pg. 2 Pictured: Indian Hollow Reservation's mountain bike trail during autumn.

LorainCountyMetroParks.com

Inside Park Updates 2 Cultural Arts/Honor Roll 3 Park Vistas 4 Recreation 5 Halloween 6&7 Nature 8&9 Special Events 10 Autumn Harvest 11 "Make your own Mask" Activity Sheet 12

James E. Ziemnik Director, Lorain County Metro Parks 2021 Board of Park Commissioners: Sherrill M. “Cookie” McLoda • Chairman Joseph E. Hribar • Vice Chairman Kenneth M. Lieux • Commissioner James Walther • Probate Court Judge LorainCountyMetroParks.com

(440) 458-5121

Park Updates CONNECT TO A CAUSE

The Community Foundation of Lorain County is yet again hosting Connect to a Cause. This event is a 12-hour fundraising competition that enables community members to donate directly to the local charities of their choice. Organizations like the Lorain County Metro Parks benefit from generous donations and receive a portion of funding match from the Community Foundation. In 2020, the Lorain County Metro Parks received over $14,000 through this campaign. Connect to a Cause 2021 takes place on Thursday, September 16. This year, our campaign efforts will directly benefit our Raptor Center at Carlisle Visitor Center. • The Raptor Center has been able to operate solely on donations since 2006. • At this time, seven non-releasable birds call the Raptor Center home. • On average, it costs $25 a day to feed our seven birds. This cost does not include medications or veterinary fees. On September 16, donations will be accepted via credit/debit card at www.peoplewhocare.org/c2c2021. To donate by check, please endorse to Community Foundation. Checks must be postmarked or delivered in-person to the Foundation office (9080 Leavitt Road, Elyria OH 44035) by 8:00 pm on September 16. Questions may be directed to our Administration Office at (440) 458-5121 or pr@loraincountymetroparks.com. We truly appreciate your consideration and continued support of the Lorain County Metro Parks.

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., 11106 Market St., Birmingham, Ohio 44889 Briarwood Lodge: Avon Lake, Ohio 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

To ensure the safety of our actors and patrons we produced our season entirely outdoors. In the adventure that is learning how to move things from the comfort of our theatre into the great outdoors, we have learned a lot and we look forward to keeping outdoor theatre in our coming seasons. We end our season with Eric Coble’s “Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe” in the Bacon Woods Amphitheatre at Vermilion River Reservation. Unlike our previous shows, all three performances will start at 7:00pm to ensure nightfall makes an appearance at each show. For those looking to get into the spooky season spirit, it doesn’t get better than this.

Music Under

The Stars with

Edgar Allan Poe

Sept. 17, 18, & 19 | 7 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods Amphitheater General Admission: $10 | Available at www.loraincountymetroparks.com/theatre or (440) 458-5121 Edgar Allan Poe stands alone in the flickering darkness of his mind, trying desperately to convince himself - and us that he’s not mad. The spell he weaves brings us a highly theatrical adaptation of four tales Poe himself considered his best, “The Raven,” “The Fall of the House of Usher,” “The Pit and the Pendulum,” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.”

Honor Roll Harriet Alger Bill Boyd Bart and Jodi Carducci Phillip Chow Helen Hribar Valerie Kovacs Glen Miskov Maria, Pete and Christopher Mutnansky Valerie Kovacs Alana Powell Michelle Pullin Kristine Ann Thonnings Jymmie Wetherbee and Cynthya Aguilar Wetherbee Body and Mind Dispensary

Adopt-A-Raptor

Shari and Jackie Caffo, North Olmsted Tony Case, Medina (Gift to Lexi Vassel) Ava Cook, Porter, TX Deborah Fegan, Columbia Station (Gift to Ezra Settonni) Jacqueline A. Johns, Lorain John Kirkpatrick, LaGrange Millie Luce, Vermilion

Sun., Sept. 12 | 6-8 pm Lakeview Park, Lorain Free! Don’t miss the last concert of the season at Lakeview Park with Latin City Soul’s performance on Sunday September 12th from 6:00-8:00pm by the historic Lakeview Fountain.

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.

Steve and Paula Novak, Collins (Gifts to Rebecca Safron Wolfe and Benjamin Wolfe) Gail Petry, Grafton (Gifts to Fiona and Elliott Smith) Colin Smith, Amherst Patricia and Clare Sweeney, Avon Lake (Gift to Mike Sweeney) Helen Terpylak, Oberlin (Gifts to Lea and Dillan Stumphauzer) Mikaela Weigel, Grafton Richard V. Whelan Jr., North Ridgeville Linda Wilin, North Ridgeville

Gift was given in Honor of: Ginny McCaskey by Megan Johnson, Dover, DE Marvin W. Rinker by Bill Hicks Marvin W. Rinker by Gloria Hobor Marvin W. Rinker by John and Darlene Mahilo Marvin W. Rinker by Kaye Nelson Marvin W. Rinker by Loretta Trafton Marvin W. Rinker by Mary Trent

Gift was given in Memory of: Norma Autullo by Avon Garden Club, Avon Sam Battista by Jane Battista, Wellington

Ann H. Buchanan by John and Marilyn Remensky, Carnegie, PA Rosemary M. Carrero by Anna M. Laureano, Lorain John Figueroa by Laurie Cox, Lorain Dick and Mary Jo Hooven by Rick, Gina and Peggy Hooven June Kearney by Avon Garden Club, Avon June Kearney by Joseph and Susan Kearney, Avon Roger C. Lehman by Lisa and Alex Lehman, Lorain William Manierre Jr. by Lynda Maguire, Oberlin Lila Sprague McGinnis by Lila's Friday Writers, Bay Village Lila Sprague McGinnis by Relatives of Lila Sprague McGinnis, Maplewood, MN Glen Miller by Tom and Barb Diedrick and Family, Elyria Stasia and Guenter Neumann by Bob and Lori Campana, Bay Village James Rallis by Friends and Family of James Rallis, Oberlin John and Ardeth Roby by Melissa Smith and Family of John Roby, Amherst Paul Lee Setliff by Ron and Bernece Pickens, Elyria Edward J. Suggs by The Suggs Family c/o Altheda Bradley, Reynoldsburg Christopher J. Walsh by Gary and Sally Dvorak, Perrysville

Park Vistas Beautiful Locations to view sunsets, scenery, and wildlife

Fish Creek Overlook

French Creek Reservation

(access from Pine Tree Picnic Area)

4951 French Creek Rd., Sheffield Village, OH 44054

Photo courtesy of Phoebe Marie Nelson

Century Park

Century Park 1955 E. Erie Ave., Lorain, OH 44055

Hike into the woods at the French Creek Reservation to find this unique overlook! Follow a footpath from the Fish Creek bridge to view this scenic creek from the circular platform. The overlook is southwest of the Fish Creek bridge.

Make time for a fall Lake Erie sunset! Century Park in Lorain is one of our newest park locations. Plenty of benches can be found along the ridge providing a wonderful sunset viewing opportunity.

Sandy Ridge Observation Mound

Sandy Ridge Reservation 6195 Otten Rd., North Ridgeville, OH 44039

Check out the observation mound at the Sandy Ridge Reservation! This destination is found along the 2-mile-long Sandy Ridge Trail. It allows visitors to view the marsh from above. Also, find a few benches to rest and enjoy this scenic location.

Indian Hollow Bridge

Indian Hollow Reservation

(access from Sheldon Woods entrance)

38744 Parson Rd., Grafton, OH 44044

Get a spectacular view of the west branch of the Black River while crossing over the footbridge found at the Indian Hollow Reservation – Sheldon Woods. This is a great place to view the fall color change.

Recreation Get Physical with the Lorain County Metro Parks Join us every Wednesday through September on our weekly guided kayak trips! These are guided paddling trips with all equipment provided including life-jacket, paddle, and boat. Participants are not required to take a level one class prior to trip. However, we do suggest participants to have previous paddling experience. Open to ages 18 and up (16-17 with participating adult). A brief skills refresher will be provided prior to each trip. Below is our schedule with the theme of each paddle! Registration is available online or by calling (440) 458-5121.

Sunset Paddle Sept. 1 | 7-9 pm Lakeview Park, Lorain

Sunrise Paddle Sept. 8 | 6-8 am Century Beach, Lorain

Heronry Adventure Sept. 15 | 12-2 pm French Creek Kayak Launch

For over 20 years, Lorain has been a site for the “Spirit of America” youth boating education program. Lorain County Metro Parks became the sponsoring organization for this program in 2015 and today continues to provide the program PREMIER YOUTH BOATING EDUCATION free of charge to Lorain County students. LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS While the COVID-19 pandemic prevented us from facilitating the program in 2020, we were able to get back on the water this summer! The program included the Ohio Boating Education Course and a water safety and boat rescue session at the Splash Zone. They also spent four days on the water during boating camp at the Lorain Harbor Boat Club. Students learned how to operate powerboats, sailboats, and personal watercraft. Students also took part in on-water paddling activities including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. In addition, students spent an afternoon touring the Lorain Coastguard station and boats. In all, we had 17 “Spirit of America” 2021 graduates. This opportunity for our local youth is made possible due to the generosity

Fall Colors Paddle Sept. 22 | 12-2 pm Wellington Reservation

Lighthouse Paddle Sept. 29 | 12-2 pm Lorain Harbor Boat Club

of many. Thank you to the “Spirit of America” foundation for the curriculum and ongoing support, Lorain Harbor Boat Club for providing the clubhouse for our classroom space and dockage for boats, Oasis Marinas for providing extra dockage for our powerboats, Spitzer Marina for powerboat rack storage, LoCo Yaks for parking and paddling accessibility assistance, and Lorain Coastguard station - Coastguard Auxiliary for providing station tours and sharing a wealth of knowledge for our students. Lastly, thank you to our crew of enthusiastic and experienced volunteers who assist us in facilitating the program. We are incredibly grateful for the support and looking forward to graduating even more students in 2022!

Halloween

SPOOKY, HALLOWEEN EVENTS, CRAFTS, AND COSTUME IDEAS

WAYS TO MAKE

Each year on Halloween decorations. This year, g and making homemade

LEGO COSTUME

LORAI N COUNT Y METRO PARKS

HALLOWEEN BOO-THRU Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays, Oct. 15, 16, 17, and 22, 23, & 24 | 5-9 pm Carlisle Reservation, Equestrian Center, LaGrange $10/vehicle (Pre-registration is required; Registration opens Sept. 1) This fall, we are bringing back Halloween BOO-THRU 2021 bigger and better than ever! This family-friendly drive-through event will host some of your favorite seasonal attractions but will also feature new displays and more live actors. This event will be held at the Carlisle Reservation Equestrian Center, 13630 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, Ohio 44050. Drive slowly in the comfort of your vehicle along the Halloween Trail to enjoy the playfully spooky attractions, which should take approximately 20 minutes. This event is pre-registration only and is $10 per car. This fee is non-refundable or exchangeable. Registration opens Wednesday, September 1. Register online and bring your printed

BOO-THRU OCTOBER 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, & 24

receipt with you to the event, or be prepared to show the receipt on your phone. We are taking registrations for every 15-minute time block between 5 pm and 8:45 pm Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. You will need to arrive with your printed receipt during the 15-minute time block you registered for online. You will not be permitted to exit your vehicle or ride on the outside of a vehicle (i.e. truck beds) during the drive-through experience. There are no restrooms available at this drive-through event. This event will take place in inclement weather and no refunds will be issued. However, for closures/delays due to severe weather, follow our Facebook page, or call (440) 458-5121.

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT: WWW.LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM/HALLOWEEN

Boo Bash 6

SUPPLIES: • 1 large, rectangularshaped box big enough to fit around your trickor-treater. (Spray paint lids work well as Lego) • 6 plastic cups of the same size • Your choice of color paint (spray or paint on) • Hot glue or superglue. • Scissors • It is optional to have yo same color clothes as t

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Measure and cut out a top and the sides for yo arms. (It is alright if the The main point of focus the front!) 2. Cut bottoms out of all s same length resemblin 3. Glue cup bottoms onto 2 across and 3 down. 4. Once the glue is dry, pai box....All done!

HOMEMADE COSTUM

Sometimes, all it takes is your costume memorabl created with the same home! Black eyeliner, pin and white eyeshadow o your own wardrobe or pi the character, and you’ve For the zombie look, all black eyeshadow for th eyeliner for the cracks! of chapstick and then d lips, so it sticks! Want to a recipe for homemade f

Sat., Oct. 30 | 1-2 pm & 2:30-3:30 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center Classroom $5/child (accompanying adult is free) Are you looking for Halloween fun that is wickedly good for the whole family? Join us for Halloween-themed stories, crafts, games, treats, and entertainment! Halloween costumes are encouraged. Registered children will receive a Halloween goodie bag. Space is limited; ALL participants must preregister by 10/24. LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS

GREEN!

Halloween

E THE HOLIDAY AN ECO-FRIENDLY CELEBRATION!

n, many find themselves buying costumes they will wear once and one-time-use go Hallow-GREEN and save money by creating costumes from items in your home e treats! Follow these tips and you’ll have your own very Homemade Halloween!

SCUBA DIVER COSTUME

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our child wear the their Lego underneath.

square hole on the our child’s head and ey are very large holes. s for this costume is

six plastic cups to the ng a Lego. o box evenly apart with

int the entirety of the

SUPPLIES: • Black shirt and pants • Two 2 liter bottles of the same shape • Paint color of your choice • Black tape (or any colored tape will do) • String • Swimming goggles • Swim fins if you have them! INSTRUCTIONS 1. This costume is easy because it contains items you are likely to already have around the house! 2. Wash out, dry, and remove the label from bottles. 3. Paint both bottles and their caps the same color (ideally, they will match the goggles you have!) 4. Lay 1 large piece of string longways down each bottle, so they are even. 5. Use your colored tape to create three rings around each bottle, as seen in the photo, taping the string to the bottles. 6. Tie each string end together to create a loop for each bottle. 7. Tape the two bottles together on the side the string is taped. Air tank pack completed! 8. Add your black clothes, swim fins, and goggles, and you are ready to trick or treat homemade style!

FESTIVE CANDY CORN-SHAPED TREATS Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes INGREDIENTS: For the yellow layer: For the white layer: • 2 ½ cups mini marshmallows • ¾ cup mini marshmallows • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 tablespoon butter • big pinch of salt • big pinch of salt • 5 drops yellow food gel • ¾ cup crisp rice cereal • 2 ¼ cups crisp rice cereal • First, spray an 8 or 9” cake For the orange layer: pan with cooking spray (or • 1 ¾ cups mini marshmallows grease with extra butter). • 2 tablespoons butter • big pinch of salt • 5 drops yellow food gel • 1-2 drops red food gel • 1 ¼ cups + 2 tablespoons crisp rice cereal INSTRUCTIONS • In a large microwave-safe bowl, make the yellow layer: combine the marshmallows, butter, and salt. Microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds, stirring until melted. If it’s not smooth and melty, return it to the microwave for another 15 seconds. Then, stir in the food coloring, followed by the rice cereal. Stir until well-blended. • Using your hands, press the yellow layer around the edges of the pan to make a ring. See photo for reference. You may butter your hands to make it easier. Try to pack it firmly against the edges of the pan. • Using the same bowl, repeat the process for the orange layer. • Using a clean bowl, make the white layer in the microwave, pressing it into the center of the pan. • Allow everything to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing into triangles.

ME MAKEUP

a little bit of makeup to make le. These looks below can be makeup mom likely has at nk or red blush or eyeshadow, or concealer. Find clothes in ick a hairdo to fit along with e completed the look! l you need is green, grey, or he dark spots and lips, and Make sure to put on a layer dab on the eyeshadow for the o make it even scarier? Here is fake blood!

FAKE BLOOD RECIPE INGREDIENTS: • 2 Tbsp corn syrup • ¼ tsp cocoa mix • 2 drops red food • add some onion coloring flakes for texture

.COM | (440) 458-5121

NEED SOME INSPIRATION?

Check out the back page of the Arrowhead for a free Halloween mask cut out to decorate at home!

It's In Our Nature Information centered around observing and learning about all aspects of nature

s u p e r

Spiders

here seems to be two basic reactions with people when it comes to spiders- “Cool, check out this spider!!!” or “Gross! A spider, kill it!!!” You may not be a fan of spiders but maybe you can appreciate what they do for us, and how they do it. Spiders are arachnids, they all have: • • • • •

eight legs two main body parts; the abdomen and the cephalothorax chelicerae (aka- mouthparts) multiple eyes- most have eight eyes, but some have six or four spinnerets for spinning silk

Spiders, for the most part, are insectivores. That means they eat insects. And that’s one of the reasons they are so beneficial to humans. Their untold consumption of insects helps out farmers crops and even your backyard garden. They also kill and eat disease-carrying insects like cockroaches, flies, and mosquitos. And spiders, in turn are food for many other animals including birds. Spider silk and venom is being studied by scientists as well.

Nature &

The natural world holds many secrets. Part of the fun of a nature hike is the promise of uncovering something that is new to you. Whether it’s a new bird, a new plant, or an unfamiliar animal track, there is always something unique to discover. As long as people have been encountering wildlife, they have been making up stories about what they see! Some animals get all the “good vibes” stories without trying. Owls, cardinals, butterflies and other “mysterious” animals are seen by people as messengers, or as wise beings. They can also be seen as omens of good fortune.

Common types of

spiders found locally

Experiments are being done to make a synthetic silk that could be made into parachutes, netting, even bullet proof vests. There are also tests being done to make a pain-killer with spider venom to replace the use of opiates. Spiders are everywhere. There is a saying that “you are always within six feet of a spider”. In some areas like a meadow or forest that may be true. But in your house, probably not (but maybe!). When you take a closer look at what they do for us, possibly some of that fear turns to respect. And next time instead of squishing the spider, gently put it back outside to do its job.

While we can’t say for certain, the one great thing that seeing these animals up close is that you had a cool wildlife encounter on your trip to the forest. Other animals aren’t so lucky in their reputations. Ever hear that picking up a toad could give you warts? Or that picking up a baby bird will cause it to smell like humans and the mother will reject the foreign smell? Have you ever heard that vultures or ravens are harbingers of death and destruction? While the stories themselves aren’t true, the intent for most myths is to foster respect for our fellow creatures and to leave them undisturbed in their natural habitat. Sometimes, we catch a glimpse of things that are more mysterious than normal. As humans need to have an explanation for things, we often will make up stories and legends to explain what we’re seeing. The allure to find the truth is so strong that some people dedicate their whole life to cryptozoology. Cryptozoology is the study of and search for legendary animals in order to evaluate the possibility

Orbweaver (pictured left) - spin intricate circular webs. A very pretty example is the Marbles Orbweaver which turns bright orange, usually in October. Wolf Spider - Large, brown and hairy these spiders run down their insect prey. The females are good mothers, carrying their babies on their backs. Crab Spider - ambush hunters, they hide in plain sight and wait their meal to come to them. Some like the Red-banded Crab Spider can change colors to match the flower they are sitting in. Fishing Spider - our largest spiders with a leg span of up to 4 inches. They eat aquatic insects as well as small fish and tadpoles Jumping Spider - curious, colorful and acrobatic are words that describe these diminutive spiders. The Bold Jumper can often be found indoors on sunny windowsills. They will turn to face any movement.

of their existence. Believe it or not, Ohio boasts many claims to animals that are unusual and mysterious. Frequently reported is the Grassman, Ohio's version of Bigfoot, a cryptid that's been reported throughout the world.Ohioalsohasuniquesightings,likeanamphibianhumanoid called the Loveland Frog (pictured above). Of course, don’t forget the Lake Erie Monster! If you’re interested in learning more about cryptozoology, you can virtually visit the International Cryptozoology Museum at: www.cryptozoologymuseum.com. Remember, no matter what kind of animals you’re looking for during your next stroll out in nature, there is always more than meets the eye in our forests. Happy wildlife watching!

www.LorainCountyMetroParks.com | (440) 458-5121

As an Ohio summer fades into autumn, the days get colder & shorter, and pumpkin spice seems to be everywhere and on everything, our state’s deciduous trees begin preparation for the coming winter months and their season/stage of “dormancy,” a period of inactivity and rest. Because a green plant’s food-making ability and processes (photosynthesis) depends on sunlight & moisture -both of which are in short supply in winter- woody plants like trees & shrubs maintain minimum cell activity during winter by using the food energy already stored in its tissues. Therefore, as deciduous trees near the end of their food-making period each autumn, the amount of the pigment chlorophyll in their leaves (needed for photosynthesis) begins to decrease, which in turn causes them to lose their green color. It is when chlorophyll begins to break down and disappear that, depending on the tree species, the yellow, gold, or orange pigments (xanthophylls and carotenoids), also present in the leaves, are then revealed and are responsible for these particular colors which are hidden by the chlorophyll during spring

and summer. When it comes to the particular pigment that paints leaves, such as maple and sumac, pretty shades of red and purple, it’s the anthocyanins that are behind these popular-forphotographs colors. Anthocyanins develop in leaves as photosynthesis ends, however in order for this particular chemical change to occur, bright sunlight and cool nighttime temperatures are needed. Here in the ~ A l b e r t C a m u s Buckeye State, our beloved autumn colors begin to appear first in the north and move southward. Many factors affect a tree’s autumn appearance such as the species (genetics) of tree, its elevation, the hours of sunlight, as well as the weather conditions for that year. Furthermore, if a tree is stressed by disease, drought, or an early frost, its leaves may brown and fall prematurely. In addition to delighting our leaf-gazing eyes while still on the trees, the “fallen” leaves beneath our feet continue to play various important roles such as providing insulation from freezing winter temperatures for animals and plants, enriching the ground with nutrients to be used by other plants, and when raked into a pile, providing a

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

Gorgeous goldenrods

While other plants are beginning their preparations for insects such as praying mantises, crab spiders, and the winter ahead, goldenrods are native wildflowers migrating dragonflies. The greens, golds and browns of the goldenrod give them the optimal that continue to give us color as others camouflage as they are searching for lose theirs. Goldenrods are part of the their next meal. Once the flowers die sunflower family, Asteraceae, one of back, the seeds are often eaten by birds the world’s largest families of flowering such as chickadees, finches, siskins, plants. There are approx. 60 species of juncos, and small mammals. goldenrods in North America, and these Another use of this plant is as a place species support more than 430 types for insects to deposit their young and as of insects. The nectar of the goldenrod shelter. A visible part of this interaction is what many of these species are after. Their late summer/early fall bloom is the goldenrod gall. A gall is a plant deformity caused by organisms such as period makes it a crucial source of food mites, insects or fungi. As the plant tissue for nectar-feeding birds and insects, Pictured: is forming, the insect will insert an egg especially migrating Monarch butterflies Canada Goldenrod and hummingbirds. Native bees that do not store into the tissue, and the larva that hatches will begin to honey over the winter rely on goldenrod nectar to eat the surrounding plant tissue. The plant responds produce honey that will sustain them. Other daytime by speeding up tissue growth at that part of the insects like wasps, flies, true bugs, beetles, moths and stem, creating a shelter around the developing larva butterflies can be found feeding on these blooms as that overwinters inside, emerging as an adult in the well. With the attraction of this plant to many insects, spring. Even though it is protected, other insects and this can create a hunting ground for other predatory birds will use this as an opportunity to either parasitize

cushioned spot to jump & play in! For fall color information for Ohio including Fall Color Reports, foliage updates, featured locations, and activities visit: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources' Fall Color webpage www.ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/see-the-sights/fall-color/

Fall Foliage

"Find it" Activity While hiking our trails or exploring your yards, try to find the below using your senses of sight, hearing, smell, & touch! Remember: “Leaves of three, let it be!” -may be poison ivy.

A leaf that… is a compound leaf is a simple leaf has two different colors is similar in color to something you are wearing has been chewed on by an animal has an insect gall on it has a serrated (toothed) edge has a smooth edge is making a sound feels fuzzy to the touch feels like paper is shiny has one point has lobes is falling to the ground is on the ground decomposing smells good is big as your hand crinkles in your hand has bristles on its tips is an “evergreen” needle-shaped leaf makes you smile the larva or extract it for food. Goldenrod has also been a resource for humans over the years. It has been used to create green, yellow and gold dyes for fabric and yarn, experimentation in making latex, and Native Americans once used the plants as a source of healing infusions, food, making baskets and as incense.

Yours to Explore Autumn Season rides and Educational events Nature at Night Fri., Sept. 10 | 7:30-10:30 p.m. Carlisle Reservation, Equestrian Center $5/person (children under 2: free); Pre-registration required

LO RAI N COUNT Y M E T RO PARKS

Nature takes on a whole new ambiance when the sun sets and the stars and moon rise in the night sky. Join us for a brand-new event at Carlisle Reservation Equestrian Center to discover what’s happening at Nature at Night! Explore the trail on a night hike, listen to a story, and sing campfire songs while snacking on popcorn and s'mores around the campfire. Plus, you’ll create a nocturnal craft and view the night sky using telescopes with Black River Astronomical Society members. Discover hands-on activities to help you learn more about our native nocturnal animals like owls, bats, and coyotes. Observe the moths at the mothing station and listen for nocturnal sounds from insects and amphibians. Come explore Nature at Night!

More Stargazing Opportunities Public Night Observing Dates with the Black River Astronomical Society, weather-dependent. All night observation dates are held at the Nielsen Observatory at Carlisle Equestrian Center. Fri., Aug. 27 | 10 pm-12 am Fri., Sept. 24 | 9-11 pm Fri., Oct. 1 | 8-10 pm

Fri., Oct. 15 | 8-10 pm Fri., Nov. 5 | 8-10 pm Fri., Dec. 10 | 8-10 pm

Solar Observing Dates Sun., Sept. 12 | 12-2 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville Sun., Oct. 10 | 12-2 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville

Cascade Park Tram Rides

Fall Hay Wagon Rides

Are you interested in a tram tour of Cascade Park and the West Falls? This tram ride does not require preregistration; it is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. There will be a clipboard for riders to sign up. The tram can accommodate 6-7 adults and will run every 30 minutes. Our last departure will leave from Shelter #1 at 11:30 am. Questions? Please call Kiara Williams at 440-219-7873. To view tram rides offered throughout our park system, visit www.loraincountymetroparks.com/programs.

Bring the family out for fall fun at the Wellington Reservation. This year we will have fall wagon rides and fun games that the kids are sure to enjoy. Each wagon ride will last about 30 minutes and allow visitors to experience the beauty that Wellington Reservation offers in autumn. Preregistration is required as space is limited and is $1 per person. Registration will open on August 20. Walk-ups will not be permitted. See you there!

Every Tuesday through Sept. 28 | 10 am - 12 pm Cascade Park, Elyria (Meet at Shelter #1)

Oct. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, & 10 | 12 - 3 pm Wellington Reservation $1/person; pre-registration required

LorainCountyMetroParks.com | (440) 458-5121

Autumn Harvest

s n i k p Pum

Information on Apple and Pumpkin harvesting and general garden care

Pumpkins are a member of the squash family. Squash can be divided into two groups: summer squash with thinner skins and softer flesh (zucchini, crookneck, and pattypan, for instance) and winter squash with thicker skins and firm flesh that can be stored into the winter months (pumpkins, butternut, and acorn). Orange squash (like pumpkins and butternut) are high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, and a host of other nutrients. Winter squash seeds can be toasted and eaten as a high-fiber snack that contains lots of Vitamin E. Winter squash has long been a part of our fall décor with gourds and jacko’-lanterns, but we are becoming more familiar with a broader range of pumpkin colors from white to blue to striped and skins that are bumpy or deeply grooved or have unique shapes. All are edible and bring something different to the table.

Apples

Does an apple a day really keep the doctor away? Quercetin is a plant pigment (flavonoid) found in many fruits and vegetables, including apples. Quercetin is used to treat heart and blood vessel conditions, arthritis, bladder infections, diabetes, and other ailments. Ask your doctor before taking any medicine or supplements.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe • 1½ cup cleaned pumpkin seeds • 2 tsp. melted butter or oil • Pinch of salt

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees 2. Toss seeds in a bowl with butter/oil and salt. 3. Spread on a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, occasionally stirring seeds.

Butternut Squash Soup Recipe • 6 cups (about 2 large squash) seeded 2-inch wide chunks butternut squash • Melted butter for brushing • kosher salt

• freshly ground white pepper • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock • 4 Tbsp. honey • 1 tsp. minced ginger • 4 oz. heavy cream • ¼ tsp nutmeg

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. 2. Brush the flesh of the squash with a bit of butter and season with salt and freshly ground white pepper. On a sheet pan lay the squash flesh side up. Roast for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the flesh is nice and soft. 3. Scoop the flesh from the skin into a pot and add the stock, honey, and ginger. 4. Bring to a simmer. Take off heat and puree using a stick blender. 5. Stir in the heavy cream and return to a low simmer— season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Apples have many health benefits, including:

• Being an excellent source of dietary fiber to keep your heart healthy • Eating apples regularly may help reduce risks of some types of lung, colon, and prostate cancers. • Help increase brain activity to improve memory & learning • May help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s • Contains no fat, sodium, or cholesterol • Does have lots of potassium and other phytonutrients • If part of your daily may assist in losing weight • Easy to serve in oatmeal, slices with cheese, mixed with walnuts and yogurt, on French toast, and more!

Putting your

Garden to bed for winter

All spring and summer, people have spent time in the garden watching plants grow and enjoying the veggies and flowers that result. Now that fall and colder weather are within sight, what is to be done? Now is not the time to ignore the garden. Things that are done in the garden now will make things easier in the spring. After the growing season is the time to lift plants like dahlias or cannas, take off the extra dirt, but do not wash them with water, leading to rot. Store in a paper bag in a basement or garage. Fall is the time to plant spring bulbs like crocus, tulip, daffodil, and hyacinth. Fall is also an excellent time to plant shrubs. Be sure to clean up any debris in the garden, including annual plants, trimming back perennials, and raking leaves and veggies that have dropped off vines. When pruning (especially hydrangeas and roses), verify the plant the species as some should be pruned in the fall and some in the spring. Fall is also a good time to turn over the soil and add compost. This step will loosen the soil and expose any insects that have burrowed underground. Lastly, protect fragile plants with a layer of mulch or leaves to help insulate against the cold.

Decorate your own H a l low e e n

Mask! Have fun decorating these masks! Use colored pencils, markers, crayons, glitter, beads, or anything you can find! Cut them out, cut holes for eyes and use as a fun Halloween mask! You can attach a string to the mask or attach a small plastic or wooden rod!