Voices of Nature Fall 2014

A publication of
Geauga Park District
In Nature
Flashy Hooded Mergansers
and other waterfowl are
passing through Geauga
County on their fall
migration routes.
In This Issue
Message from Judge
Tim Grendell - Page 3
Read winning Nature
Writing Contest entries
in the adolescent
category - Page 4
FALL
Introducing new
park commissioner
Brian C. Johnston - Page 5
2014
Where are we going?
Strategic planning
underway - Page 5
A Trail Map
to the Future
Who yields to whom on
multi-use trails? - Page 9
Losing yourself in the parks, in Nature, can be a welcome escape.
But like any good scout, it usually makes sense to have a plan of where to go, to consult a
map of the trails ahead.
Consider Geauga Park District’s 2015-25 Strategic Plan, currently in creation, as a trail map to
the future of your parks.
In The Park
Geauga Park District completed strategic plans in 2006 and 2009, and is now in the midst
of a three-year process that will set the tone for decision-making and staff goals for the next
decade.
Horse-drawn wagon
rides are back! The whole
family will enjoy Fall Fest,
debuting two evenings this
October. Details on page 6.
(continued on page 5)
A couple enjoys the fall foliage while taking a hike at Orchard Hills Park in Chesterland. Photo by Jim Marquardt.
park hours
6 AM - 11 PM daily
JU
TE/
VENILE
CO
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
PROBATE DIVISION
GEAUGA COUNTY
E
A
UG
A C O U N T Y,
TIMOTHY J GRENDELL – JUDGE
HI
G
O
T
PR
BA
UR
O
Big Creek Park’s Donald W. Meyer Center
is open 8 AM - 4:30 PM weekdays
O
August 20, 2014
Courthouse Annex, 2nd Floor
231 Main Street, Suite 200
Chardon, Ohio 44024
Voice: 440-279-1830
Fax Probation: 440-285-5025
Fax Court: 440-285-8751
geaugacourts.org
Dear Fellow Geauga County Residents,
The West Woods Nature Center
is open 10 AM - 5 PM daily
Observatory Park’s Robert McCullough Science
Center and Oberle Observatory are open
2nd & 4th Fridays & Saturdays
of each month 6 - 11 PM
and 2nd and 4th Sundays
of each month 1 - 4 PM
Observatory Park Hotline: 440-279-0820
The Maple Highlands Trail is open dawn till dusk
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
is open 6 AM - 9 PM daily
For more information on your
parks, programs or events
Phone: 440-286-9516
Fax: 440-286-1285
While the weather this summer was unusual (some might say disappointing), our
county parks continued to provide a great place for rest, recreation and respite.
Interim Director John Oros and his staff continue to maintain our wonderful
parks and excellent naturalist programs at the level expected by our county
residents.
Online: www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
[email protected]
A limited number of thoughtfully selected recreational activities have been
added to the parks to increase our county residents’ use and enjoyment. The
vast majority of county park land remains natural. These additional limited
recreational amenities will allow all Geauga County taxpayers more opportunity
to use and enjoy our publicly financed county parks. The Park Board’s effort, to
meet the needs of all county residents while continuing to preserve and conserve
the majority of park areas, is commendable.
park mission
Oil and gas drilling and logging should NOT be permitted in our county parks.
Such uses are industrial in nature and NOT compatible with public parks except
preexisting wells already located on properties when acquired by the Park
District.
As summer winds down and autumn arrives, the autumn leaves will bring
the opportunity to experience Geauga County in its most colorable splendor.
Don’t miss the Fall Fest, coming to Frohring Meadows on October 10 & 11.
Throughout the seasons, our county parks will be there for you and your family.
I hope Geauga County residents will take the time to participate in a park
program, enjoy a late season picnic, or simply take a stroll through one of our
great Geauga County parks.
Sincerely,
Timothy J. Grendell
Judge
The mission of Geauga Park District
is to preserve, conserve and protect
the natural features of
Geauga County and to provide
the opportunity for people to
enjoy and appreciate those resources.
Geauga County
Probate/Juvenile Court Judge
The Honorable Timothy Grendell
Park Commissioners
Mary Ruth Shumway • Louis Mucci
Brian C. Johnston
Interim Director • John Oros
Contributing Writers
Sandy Ward • Paige Hosier Orvis
Graphic Design • Vicky Liptak
park board meetings
Geauga Park District invites and encourages you
to come and let your voice be heard. Please stop
by at any time during one of our upcoming Board
of Park Commissioners meetings.
Photo by Jim Marquardt
2 VOICES OF NATURE • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
Dates and times of the meetings are subject to
change. Find the most up-to-date list at
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
under About Your Parks, then Park Board,
or call 440-286-9516.
Children enjoy the new playground at Orchard Hills Park
in Chesterland during an ice cream social sponsored by
Judge Tim Grendell and the Park Board Commissioners.
Observations from the
Bench of Judge Tim Grendell
THE TRUTH IS...
Our County Parks Are For ALL Geauga County Residents
We are fortunate in Geauga County to have beautiful
county parks for the use and enjoyment of county residents.
Sometimes, however, affection for our parks can generate an
emotional response, especially by those who have difficulty
adjusting to change. While such reaction is explainable, the
truth should NOT be allowed to fall prey to emotionally driven
misrepresentation or misstatements of the facts.
Thanks to our taxpayers’ generous tax dollars, our county
parks are currently well funded with money for additional
programs and land purchases.
1. The Park District is expected to have an excess cash balance of
approximately $9,000,000 in 2015.
1. Our great county parks provide families and individuals with
a place to picnic and enjoy nature.
2. No previously board-approved programs or land acquisitions have been
eliminated or unfunded by the current board.
2. Geauga County has spent over $100,000,000 for the
acquisition, maintenance and operation of our wonderful
county parks.
3. More naturalist programs have been added and can be expected.
3. Geauga County has over 9,500 acres of park land. (Lake
County, which has 2 ½ times more people, has less acres of
county parks.)
4. Geauga County has enough county park lands to
accommodate the recreational and preservation wishes of
ALL Geauga County residents.
5. A few individuals believe that use of our county parks
should be greatly restricted. However, there is no reason why
thoughtfully selected portions of our county parks cannot be
used for playgrounds by picnic areas, cross-country skiing,
controlled hunting (for game management), bocce ball,
volleyball, soccer, horseshoes and snowmobiling (1 or 2
specified locations, during limited daytime hours, with a park
permit).
6. The vast majority of the Geauga County Parks will remain
as natural as ever. In fact, substantial acres of county parkowned land are not even open or accessible to Geauga
County residents for preservation/conservation reasons.
7. OIL AND GAS DRILLING, LOGGING AND
NON-RESCUE ATV USE SHOULD BE PROHIBITED
IN OUR COUNTY PARKS.
8. Amending the Park District’s Bylaws to allow limited and
regulated recreational uses in our county parks recognizes
that our parks are for ALL Geauga County residents, not just
a select few.
OTHER = 22%
(AGRICULTURE, MEADOW
& OPEN WATER)
4. In 2013, the former director was warned by the County Budget
Commission about the Park District’s excess revenue situation.
5. Suspending the 0.70 mill 1986 tax levy will save Geauga County
homeowners money in 2015 and will have NO adverse impact on the
great parks or park programs. The Park Board CAN seek reinstatement
of collection of the tax if funds are needed.
6. County Budget Commission tax collection suspension assures that tax
revenues are collected under a levy when needed for current or expected
operational purposes. Such adjustment by the Budget Commission, even
with a voter-approved levy, is specifically permitted under Ohio law, and
as such, does not disenfranchise the vote of the people.
7. Suspending the 1986 tax levy will keep the faith with Geauga County
taxpayers and comply with Ohio law.
8. If individuals want to donate to the Park District, you can do so
by making a donation to the Park District or Geauga Park District
Foundation.
When all is said and done, Geauga Park District will continue to operate
in a manner that preserves and conserves these valuable natural resources
while providing appropriate recreational opportunities, with sufficient
funds to accomplish all of these purposes.
Excerpt from 2015 Budget Hearings Worksheet
Presented August 11, 2014, 11:30 AM
Attended by Michele Pennell representing Geauga Park District
RECREATION = 3%
(TRAILS, MOWED
AREAS & OTHER
AMENITIES)
PRESERVATION = 75%
(WETLAND & FOREST)
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE
3
Nature Writing
contest winners
Adolescent Poetry — 1st Place Winner
Nicole M. Fiorelli
Adolescent Prose — 1st Place Winner
Olivia Petryszyn
Spring Colors
Alive
When the winter season decides to persist,
There are certain colors I tend to miss.
Everything continues to look the same,
For the color white is all that remains.
Some look for warmth as a sign of spring.
Others wait for the robins to sing.
I know that spring is finally near,
When a rainbow of colors appears.
The grass changes to a gorgeous green.
The like colored trees complete the scene.
The sky transforms to a beautiful blue.
The flowers bloom in brilliant hues.
The rich dark soil is a hazelnut brown,
The glistening lake of blue swirls around.
The sun shines a golden glow.
The shimmering rain replaces snow.
Winter to spring is a work of art,
Each aspect of nature playing a part.
Winter is a canvas, white and bare.
Spring, a painting with plenty of flair.
Geocaching continues
in 2014 with a regular
three-part multicache
at Big Creek Park in
Chardon Township
along a section of the
Buckeye Trail.
Advance Registration Required
(call 440-286-9516 or register online)
Volunteers Needed
Fully Accessible
*
Watch this spot next season for the final installment of
first-place winners of the 19th annual Nature Writing
Contest. Below are those ages 12 to 17. Winners in every
category are published at http://bit.ly/gpdartsinnature.
Partially Accessible
Nature Scopes
This forest, it is art and I can see every
line flicked with a wrist and every
stone carved with a rock. Yet, there is
more.
There is a reason that there are so
many atavistic emotions it invokes
in all of us in the quiet moments of
day and night.
It is numbers.
And yet, if you are hearing with
your eyes closed and seeing with
your ears awake, you will see how
we are all a part of the countless
patterns and art and beauty that
is so striking here. We go through
the same circles of loss and grief, of
the giving and taking that nature
abides by, of birth and death,
of prey and predators in every
metaphorical meaning of the sense.
Have you ever heard of the Fibonacci
sequence? Does it not want to make
you throw back your head, spread
your arms, and surrender to the
wonder of this world? That the same
way a sunflower blooms is the pattern
of ocean shells? A mathematician
could have only created the flowers;
how geometrical the petals are! You
can count the years of the tree in the
lines in its being and yet there are
more stars in the sky than grains on
sand on this planet.
Third, this myriad of wonders, this
forest, it is myself, and it is all of us.
It is strange to think how we compare
the forest to ourselves, personifying
the seasons and the sky and the way
the lush, simple moss feels like our
mother’s gaze.
PART A
N 41° 37.365
W 081° 12.295
We are nature expressing itself
in a mass of individual worlds,
capable of great creation and great
destruction.
Do you see how the branches of
the trees reach like the alveoli of
our lungs? Do you see how the
human body is a landscape and our
existence is a song?
It is still. Everything is still.
With Maple Grove parking as your starting location,
Train your eye on the outhouse as your next destination.
If you pass the latrines and go left on the trail,
Walk by a log pile and you’re sure not to fail.
A short distance on the left, spot a cherry in decay.
Now grab the cache quick, lest ants take it away.
This cache expires March 1, 2015. For more information: http://bit.ly/gpdgeocache
Leave No Child Inside Program
provides nature-centric experiences that instill wonder,
engender curiosity and benefit emotional and social health
Heart Healthy Program
program involving physical activity promoting a healthy
heart and an experience to de-stress with Nature
Nature’s Not To Be Missed
program focused on unique encounters with Nature
4 VOICES OF NATURE • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
• If you or a member of your family
has special needs, please call the
Park District regarding available
accessibility accommodations.
• Advance registration is required for
limited enrollment programs.
• Registration is on a first-come, firstserved basis.
• Programs may be cancelled in the
event of severe weather or a “storm
warning.”
• Programs are generally free of charge;
those with fees are noted.
• Payment of fees must be made at the
time of registration with a credit/debit
card.
• Registration fees can be refunded up
to five days prior to the event, or if
the Park District cancels the program.
“ I have watched the Park
District grow and prosper.”
New Park Board Commissioner
Introducing... Brian C. Johnston
Brian C. Johnston was appointed as the third member of
the Board of Park Commissioners on Tuesday, June 24,
filling the board slate and joining Mary Ruth Shumway
and Louis Mucci at the helm of Geauga Park District.
“I am looking forward to working with Mr. Johnston,”
says Interim Director John Oros. “He brings a lot of
experience in law enforcement and will
prove valuable in assisting our Ranger
Department, charged with ensuring safety
in the parks. Rangers are often the first line
of communication with park visitors, and
their positive interactions are important to
educating park users about the value of our
parks and natural resources. Mr. Johnston will
be a great asset to our Ranger Department and
the entire organization.”
an asset in dealing specifically with the Ranger Department
and all employees of the Park District.”
Of his 34 years in law enforcement, Mr. Johnston served
with the Geauga County Sheriff’s office from 1988 through
2012. He is active on the executive board of the Ohio
Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association, a hearing officer for
a Geauga agency, and serves
Geauga County Advocates for
Recovery. He also served for more
than 12 years on the Board for
Public Affairs and Council for the
Village of Burton.
In addition to public service, he
is a licensed funeral director and
has been associated with the
Burr Funeral Home in Chardon
for more than 24 years. Mr.
As an avid outdoorsman, Mr. Johnston also has
Johnston is a graduate of Lake
great appreciation for Geauga Park District.
Erie College and is a member of
“I am pleased and honored to have been
Mr. Johnston volunteered in the Natural Resources
St. Helen’s Catholic Church, Free
area of the Geauga County Fairgrounds in
selected to be a Geauga Park District
and Accepted Masons, Al Koran
preparation for the fair.
Commissioner,” he said. “I have been a resident
Shriners of Cleveland, Fraternal
of Geauga County for more than 20 years, and have
Order
of
Eagles
#2661,
Chardon,
Ducks Unlimited, National
watched the Park District grow and prosper. I believe my
Rifle
Association
and
Holden
Arboretum.
law enforcement and labor relations experience will be
Geauga Park District’s
Strategic Plan
by Sandy Ward
(continued from front cover)
2015 - 2025
Led by Matt McCue, director of strategic planning, the
completed plan will serve as a guide for how Park District policy,
operations, programming and capital improvements can meet
the changing needs of Geauga County and its residents.
It will also assess and prioritize the
county’s natural resources, including
preservation and protection of its
three major watersheds: those of the
Chagrin, Grand and Cuyahoga rivers.
Previous plans inspired the creation of
five new parks, including Sunnybrook
Preserve, Orchard Hills Park and
Observatory Park, and the construction
of Bass Lake Lodge and camping
amenities at Chickagami Park.
Photo: Joanne Orichella
Find strategic planning updates on the
What’s New page of www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
“A strategic plan is a working
document,” McCue said. “It is
not an end in itself, but a way to
organize priorities and objectives
for the future and to help identify
strategies to achieve them.”
Where to begin
Planning kicked off in late 2013
with the Inventory
and Analysis Phase,
to gather information
about regional trends
effecting parks, open
spaces and outdoor
experiences, and to
ensure that the planning
process aligns with
Photo: Ray Richter
both the Park District’s
(continued on page 9)
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE
5
s with Nature
on
ti
ec
n
on
C
r
e
b
o
t
c
O
Arts in Nature
Explore the Outdoors
Astronomy
Seasonal Specials
Nature Indoors
19
Timbertots: Tree Treasures! (Ages 3-5 w/
adult) Sunday, October 19, 1-2 PM, Orchard
Hills Park, Lodge - Explore forest and orchard to
discover the hidden treasures of trees! Indoors and
out.
2
Shutterbugs Camera Club Thursday,
October 2, 7-9 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Learn tips and tricks for better
pictures. See “Things to Do” on the website for
details.
19
Fall Color Exploration Sunday, October
19, 3-4 PM, Orchard Hills Park, Lodge Explore the orchards, forests and meadows of
Orchard Hills in all of its autumn splendor!
5
Fall Hike Around The Reservoir
Sunday, October 5, 1-5 PM, Headwaters
Park, Route 608 Parking - A 7-mile hike around
the lake including the preserve side not open to
the public.
21
Geauga Walkers Tuesday, October 21,
1-2:30 PM, Big Creek Park, Campground
parking area
21
Hogs Gone Wild & Other Problem
Wildlife Tuesday, October 21, 7-8:30 PM,
Big Creek Park, Meyer Center - USDA biologists
inform of troublesome non-native animals that
cause damage and other negative impacts. Joint
program with Blackbrook Audubon Society.
5
Horseback Moonlight Ride Sunday,
October 5, 6:30-8:30 PM, Headwaters
Park, Route 608 Parking - Bring your horse for
a 4-mile naturalist-led ride to experience an
autumn evening by the lake.
7
Geauga Walkers Tuesday, October
7, 1-2:30 PM, Burton Wetlands Nature
Preserve - Weekly hikes for seniors, 1-1½ miles
long. Call Geauga Senior Center for schedule,
440-279-2137.
8
Full Moon: The Hunter’s Moon
Wednesday, October 8, 7-8:30 PM,
Observatory Park - Learn legends of the Hunter
Moon and see it through telescopes. Program
inside under planetarium if cloudy.
10&11
Fall Fest Friday & Saturday,
October 10 & 11, 5-9 PM,
Frohring Meadows - Celebrate autumn with
horse-drawn wagon rides, hands-on activities
for all ages, face painting, costumed characters
and a walk after dark!
10
Monsters In The Sky Friday, October
10, 7-8 PM, Observatory Park - The
night sky is crawling with spooky sky stories!
Planetarium show with night sky viewing.
Nature Explorers: Spying on
Spiders (Ages 6-8 & 9-11) Friday,
October 17, 10 AM-Noon, Beartown Lakes
Reservation, North Point - Learn cool facts
about these amazing critters through fun
activities, and go on a spider search.
17
18
Fall Color Canoe Float Saturday,
October 18, 1-3 PM, Bass Lake Preserve
Enjoy the autumn color as well as migratory
waterfowl while exploring the lake. Phone
registration October 11-17.
18
Halloween Blacklight Hike &
Campfire Saturday, October 18,
7:30-9:30 PM, Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge
- Use a blacklight on this spooky but nottoo-scary hike with fire afterwards. Costumes
welcome!
6 VOICES OF NATURE
Kids
Chip Henry Institute for
22
Timbertots: Tree Treasures! (Ages 3-5 w/
adult) Wednesday, October 22, 10-11 AM &
1-2 PM, Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
23
Photo: St
acey Rauc
h
IMAGINE: Art from Ravenwood Mental
Health 16th Annual Show Thursday,
October 23, 4-6 PM, Big Creek Park, Meyer Center
- See artwork created during therapy groups at
Ravenwood Mental Health Center for Art Therapy.
Maple Town Tune Traders Thursday,
October 23, 7-10 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Informal performance spots with
acoustic or gently amplified instruments, ending
with open jam session. Snacks to share welcome.
23
Homeschool Days: Awesome
Astronomy (Ages 5-8 & 9-12) Friday,
October 24, 10-11:30 AM, Observatory Park Discover constellations, planets and more with a fun
planetarium show and trail hike.
24
24
Monsters In The Sky Friday, October 24,
7-8 PM, Observatory Park
Twilight Trolley: Ghosts of the C&E
Interurban Friday, October 24,
7:30-9:30 PM, The Rookery - Ghostly characters
entertain walkers on the Cleveland & Eastern rail
bed with trolley tales from the interurban era.
24
26
Howl’oween Hound Hike Sunday,
October 26, 2-3:30 PM, Beartown Lakes
Reservation, Minnow Pond - Parade through the
park with your favorite pooch. Costumes (dog or
human) are welcome.
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, October 26, 2-3 PM, Observatory
Park
k - Planetarium shows every 2nd and 4th Sunday.
Building open hours 1-4 PM.
26
Find program details at www.geaugaparkdsitrict.org
Arts in Nature
Exp
ploring y
yoou
urr Paarrk
ks iin
n
Explore the Outdoors
Astronomy
Nature Indoors
November
Seasonal Specials
1
Chip Henry Institute for
Kids
Junior Girl Scout Geocacher Badge
Saturday, November 1, 9:30-11 AM, The West
Woods, Nature Center - Covers requirements for
earning a badge by using a GPS unit and going on
a geocache adventure.
1
Nature Trek Fitness Hike Saturday,
November 1, 1-2:30 PM, Big Creek Park, Meyer
Center - A 2-mile fitness hike along the hilly trails of
Big Creek Park.
1
Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society
Monthly Meeting Saturday, November
1, 7:30-10 PM, Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge Interested in astronomy? Learn more at
www.chagrinvalleyastronomy.org.
2
Meet the Artists: Hillcrest Art Guild
Sunday, November 2, 2-4 PM, The West
Woods, Nature Center - Nature-themed work of
Cleveland artists. Through January 11.
Suzanne Britton Nature Photography
15
1
Timbertots: Wonderful Weather (Ages
3-5 w/adult) Saturday, November 15,
10-11 AM, The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
1
- Uncover wonders of weather with Nora the
explorer!
Partially outdoors.
ex
x
Photo: Jim Marqua
rdt
16
2
Backcountry Heron Hike Sunday,
November 2, 3:30-5:30 PM, The Rookery,
Great Blue Heron Lodge - Head off trail to a
heron nesting colony while the herons winter
down south.
17
Timbertots: Wonderful Weather
(Ages 3-5 w/adult) Monday, November 17,
10-11 AM & 1-2 PM, Observatory Park
4
Geauga Walkers Tuesday, November 4,
1-2:30 PM, W. C. Best Wildlife Preserve,
Sunset Shelter - Weekly hikes for seniors, 1-1½
miles long. Cancelled if 20º or below.
Call Geauga Senior Center for schedule,
440-279-2137.
18
Photo: Fran Cverna
Geauga Walkers Tuesday, November 18,
1-2:30 PM Orchard Hills Park
Maple Town Tune Traders Thursday,
November 20, 7-10 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Informal performance spots with
acoustic or gently amplified instruments, ending
with open jam session. Snacks to share welcome.
20
6
Full Moon: The Beaver Moon
Thursday, November 6, 5:30-7:30
PM, Observatory Park - Learn all about the
industrious beavers. See the moon through
telescopes. Program inside under planetarium if
cloudy.
21
6
Shutterbugs Camera Club Thursday,
November 6, 7-9 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Competition Night is exciting for
members and observers. See “Things to Do” on
the website for details, rules and entry forms.
Cosmic- Ray Cloud Chambers Friday,
November 21, 7-8 PM, Observatory Park
Family Campfire and Night Hike
Saturday, November 22, 6-7:30 PM,
Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge - Campfire and a
story then journey into the darkness to experience
nature at night!
22
y Rauch
Cosmic-Ray Cloud Chambers Friday,
November 7, 7-8 PM, Observatory Park - With
th
just a few household items learn to build your own
wn
cosmic-ray detector.
Photo: Stace
7
23
The Sky Tonight Planetarium
Show Sunday, November 23, 2-3 PM,
Observatory Park
29
Turkey Trottin’ Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, November 29, 1-4:30 PM, The
West Woods, Nature Center - Go on a fun, rhyming
scavenger hunt to uncover turkey facts! Join in
anytime.
Cub Scouts Wildlife Conservation Belt
Loop & Pin Saturday, November 8, 9:3011:30 AM, The West Woods, Nature Center - Covers
requirements for a belt loop or pin. Mostly indoors.
Outdoors if weather permits.
8
30
9
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, November 9, 2-3 PM, Observatory
Park - Planetarium shows every 2nd and 4th
Sunday. Building open hours 1-4 PM.
Waterfowl on the Move Sunday,
November 16, 9-11 AM, LaDue Reservoir
- View loons and migratory waterfowl,
eagles too! Meet in boathouse parking
lot for carpooling.
Photo: MirAnia Photogra
phy
Land of Lakes and Ledges: 1900s
Tourism in Geauga Sunday, November
30, 2-3 PM, The West Woods, Nature Center Share the adventures of a Cleveland family on their
vacation to Geauga County in the early 1900s.
Find program details at www.geaugaparkdsitrict.org
VOICES OF NATURE 7
ings to Do
h
T
r
e
b
m
e
c
e
D
Arts in Nature
Explore the Outdoors
Astronomy
Nature Indoors
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, December 14, 2-3 PM, Observatory
Park - Planetarium shows every 2nd and 4th Sunday.
Building open hours 1-4 PM.
2
16
Geauga Walkers: Holiday Hike & Pot
Luck Tuesday, December 16, 12-3 PM, The
Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge - Hike at noon for
seniors, 1-1½ miles long. Potluck lunch at 1 PM.
Indoor presentation at 2 PM. Call Geauga Senior
Center for full schedule, 440-279-2137.
4
Shutterbugs Camera Club Thursday,
December 4, 7-9 PM, The West Woods, Nature
Center - Annual potluck gathering. Bring two
favorite photos to share. See “Things to Do” on the
website for details.
Holiday Greens Workshop Saturday,
December 6, 9 AM-Noon & 1-4 PM, Swine
Creek Reservation, Lodge - Make a holiday
arrangement from fresh evergreens. See the
Bulletin Board on website for project illustrations
and details.
The Mistletoe Market (Ages 3-8) Saturday,
December 6, Noon-4 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Little shoppers can find gifts at
affordable prices for everyone on their lists.
6
6
Full Moon: The Cold Moon Saturday,
December 6, 5:30-7 PM, Observatory Park,
Robert McCullough Science Center - View planets
and the rising moon through telescopes. Program
inside under planetarium, if cloudy.
7
The Mistletoe Market Sunday, December 7,
Noon-4 PM, The West Woods, Nature Center
Timbertots: Evergreen Artists! (Ages 3-5
w/adult) Sunday, December 7, 2-3 PM, Swine
Creek Reservation, Lodge - Discover what’s cool
about evergreens and make a fun centerpiece to
take home.
7
Timbertots: Evergreen Artists! (Ages 3-5
w/adult) Monday, December 8, 10-11 AM &
1-2 PM, Swine Creek Reservation, Swine Creek
Lodge
8
Citizen Science in Astronomy Friday,
December 12, 7-8 PM, Observatory Park Learn to map asteroids and classify galaxies, and
how to participate in “citizen science” projects
online. Night sky viewing through the telescopes;
inside under planetarium, if cloudy.
12
13
The Mistletoe Market Saturday,
December 13, Noon-4 PM, The West
Woods, Nature Center
13
Affelder Adventure Saturday, December
13, 1-3 PM, The West Woods, Affelder
House - Hike to Affelder stream and waterfall, then
share discoveries indoors by a cozy fire.
14
The Mistletoe Market Sunday,
December 14, Noon-4 PM, The West
Woods, Nature Center
8 VOICES OF NATURE
Kids
Chip Henry Institute for
14
Geauga Walkers Tuesday, December 2,
1-2:30 PM, Chickagami Park - Weekly hikes for
seniors, 1-1½ miles long. Cancelled if 20º or below.
Call Geauga Senior Center for schedule,
440-279-2137.
6
Seasonal Specials
Photo: Jeff Hickox
18
Maple Town Tune Traders Thursday,
December 18, 7-10 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Informal performance spots with
acoustic or gently amplified instruments, ending
with open jam session. Snacks to share welcome.
20
Winter Bird Banding Station Saturday,
December 20, 9-11 AM, Swine Creek
Reservation, Lodge - A close-up look at some
common winter species. Birds will be gently netted,
banded and released.
21
Winter Solstice Candlelight Walk
Sunday, December 21, 7:30-9:30 PM, The
West Woods, Nature Center - Celebrate the longest
night of the year. Walk a candlelit trail to learn about
the ancient roots of modern holiday celebrations.
26
Citizen Science in Astronomy Friday,
December 26, 7-8 PM, Observatory Park
Wildlife Detectives! Saturday, December
27, 1-3 PM, The West Woods, Nature Center
- Learn signs of animals present in your backyard,
then join a discovery hike. Hands-on tracking
activities include a scat quiz!
27
28
Wildlife in Winter Sunday, December 28,
1:30-3 PM, The West Woods, Nature Center
- Discover animal adaptations and strategies then
hike outdoors to look for signs of wildlife.
28
The Sky Tonight Planetarium
Show Sunday, December 28, 2-3 PM
Observatory Park
30
Nature Explorers: Bird in the Hand
(Ages 6-8 & 9-11) Tuesday, December 30,
10 AM-12 PM, The West Woods, Nature Center
- Learn about amazing winter birds and make a
peanut butter and seed feeder! We’ll count birds
and go outside to try the bird-in-the-hand feeding
station.
31
Grandparents in the Park: New Years
Eve Nature Celebration! Wednesday,
December 31, 11 AM-12:30 PM, The West Woods,
Nature Center - Grandparents and grandchildren
celebrate New Year’s Eve with a “toast” at Noon,
fun activities and indoor Ice Age themed exhibit and
snacks.
Find program details at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
Photo: Jim Marquardt
Strategic Plan 2015 - 2025
(continued from page 5)
mission and the needs of county residents.
“We must strike a balance in the natural
resources we manage, our current
commitments as an organization, and our
mission without sacrificing the future,” he
said. “That’s sustainability.”
Internally, McCue assessed the Park
District’s departments, current plans,
commitments and fiscal stewardship.
Externally, he surveyed more than 100
community leaders, such as township
trustees, city council members — yielding a
40 percent response rate — and more than
70 leaders in the education field regarding
Park District programming and natural
science education.
McCue continues to assess park facilities
and properties within the park system
(such as the land cover types charted
at http://bit.ly/1pN9LPF) and study the
2010 census for county and regional
demographics.
This data will help forecast how
development and demographics may
impact the focus of the Park District over
time - for instance, meeting accessibility
needs for an aging population.
“Another part of this phase will be
conducting community-wide surveys (of
users and non-users), focus groups and
public input meetings,” McCue said.
County residents should keep an eye out
for invitations to complete one of these
helpful surveys.
“Surveys will not only tell us about public
needs, interests, concerns, values and
perceptions, but also identify potential
information gaps, underserved users and
non-users,” McCue said. “We want to
know what people may be looking for in
their parks.”
The next phase
Once the above objectives are met, the
Assessment and Evaluation phase will
define priorities and goals, gleaned from
research and public input, that may fulfill
identified needs going forward.
Then a final phase will include review,
document development and additional
public input. The beauty of obtaining
public input throughout the process is that
Photo: Jeffery Fannin
Photo: Bruce Bennett
it ensures the final plan mirrors the desires
of the people being served. It is a proven
process that takes time.
“Developing a strategic plan for the
next 10 years is no small undertaking,
particularly when your goal is excellence,”
McCue said. “We welcome input as one
part of the process to formulate a plan
that will meet the needs of the county for
a long time.”
Flitter, float, fly and flee...
Happy
Trails!
To expand services, a number of
trails deemed suitable within Geauga
Park District have been opened for
multiple uses. View the complete
list of trails and approved usages at
http://bit.ly/1uW1cFF.
With so many trails and so many
to appreciate them, it is especially
important for users to respect each
other and follow courtesy protocols
recognized worldwide.
Something’s Afoot keeps goin’ in ‘ 15 !
Hop down to The West Woods Nature Center if you’ve yet to experience this
exciting exhibit that focuses on the modes of movement among wild animals via
water, land and air. It’s full of hands-on exhibits that explore the hows and whys
of animal flight, swimming and overland travel.
2015 will also see the RETURN TO ICE AGE OHIO! Something’s Afoot is about
to “move it on over” to make room for a corner devoted to Ice Age animals that
briefly found a home in Northeast Ohio after the last glacier retreated.
The highlights of this exhibit, opening after Christmas at The West Woods
Nature Center, will be a selection of bones from actual Geauga County mastadon
and mammoth finds discovered in Montville, Chester, Russell and Middlefield
townships throughout the last century and a half, as well as video features,
replicas, animal figures and more hands-on activities.
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • VOICES OF NATURE
9
Partnerships in Action Fundraising for the Future
Need a Clever Gift for Someone? Nature Scopes
Send a Nature Scopes Greeting Card!
Make a tax-deductible gift to Geauga Park District’s Nature Scopes
program in honor of your favorite Nature-lover and we’ll send them a
ard,
“Geauga Species” greeting card,
plus notification of your
contribution to Nature
Scopes, which connects
1,000 Geauga kids to Naturee
each year! Enjoy a video
from the Nature Scopes
ly/
Binocular Blitz at http://bit.ly/
ft,
natscopes2013. To make a gift,
ment
please contact the Development
Office at 440-279-0882.
2013-14 Report Card
In its 11th year,
Nature Scopes
served 815 students
from 11 Geauga
County schools,
making it our best
year yet! Students in
their post-program
surveys indicated:
88% of them
are more
likely to
continue to
explore the
outdoors
89% of them feel more
connected to Nature as a
result of Nature Scopes
In addition, students increased their
knowledge in the following areas:
* Birds — 51%
* Insects — 44%
* Constellations — 22%
Did you know...? Nature Scopes is aligned
with Ohio Science Standards for fifth grade.
Geauga Park District volunteer Bill Nemeth was
recently honored by the Park District’s Naturalist
Department with a gift to Nature Scopes. Bill,
along with his wife, Jane, volunteered for the
Park District for nine years, involved with Nature
Scopes the past four years. Sadly, Bill passed
away July 3, 2014, but his legacy lives on in the
knowledge he shared with thousands of
Nature Scopes students over the years.
Schools reached by Nature Scopes:
Agape Christian Academy
Burton Elementary School
Kenston Intermediate School
Ledgemont Elementary School
Lindsey Elementary School
Munson Elementary School
Newbury Elementary School
Notre Dame Elementary School
St. Helen School
St. Mary School
Westwood Elementary School
Last year’s Nature Scopes program was
funded by 37 families/individuals, five civic
groups and three foundations. A total
$27,792 was raised to cover the cost of
binoculars and field guides. No tax funds
were utilized for the equipment.
This school year, all Chardon Schools will be
added, as well, bringing the total number
of kids served to 1,000 — 90% of Geauga
County fifth-graders!
Why I Give...
A Donor Testimonial
A donor since 2003, Else Schmelzer is a big fan of
preserving Nature and learning as much as possible
about our environment. She was born and raised
in Germany, where she and her parents took walks
through the valleys and meadows each Sunday.
Else’s father taught her about the flowers, birds
and other wild things. ”It was so fascinating!” she
said. “This sticks with me still today.” Else then
instilled the love of Nature in her son, Gunter,
today a well-recognized Cleveland artist.
In a recent afternoon at The West Woods, she described:
“I am totally for Nature because it teaches you patience, it teaches you to appreciate
beauty, and it teaches you to be quiet and listen. Don’t hasten through your life because
when you just run, run, run, you miss the most beautiful things in life. I feel that the
children today are missing everything, and Nature is what makes you strong and
content. We need so little to sustain ourselves and need so little to really be happy.”
“I give each year because I feel what Geauga Park District does is so important.”
For a video of Else’s story, visit http://youtube.com/GeaugaParkDistrict1.
10 VOICES OF NATURE • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
kid’s corner
written by Dan Best
Get to The West Woods to learn more about Nature’s mobility
and migration at Something’s Afoot: Nature Just Can’t Stay Put.
(Exhibit closed December 1-25 for a facelift. See page 9 for details.)
Aw gee, since
summer ended, seems
like wildlife has left
town. Songbirds have
gone back to the tropics,
more insects disappear
with each chilly night,
Yeah, and other songbirds
the Monarch butterflies are heading south. Soon the
have gone to Mexico ... I herons, cranes and vultures
miss them all!
will be out of here, too.
Birds aren’t
the only ones
on the move
in autumn ...
On warm, sunny
autumn days, wooly bear
caterpillars march across
roads to find a sheltered
spot to hibernate.
Watch out for them
when you’re enjoying a
bike ride on The Maple
Highlands Trail.
But! Migration brings
us ducks, loons, grebes
and other birds we PIED-BILLED GREBE
don’t see in summer!
Aaaand ...
Speaking of
bears, Black Bears
seek out cave-like
openings in rock
ledges for
hibernation. And
bats beat a retreat
deep into rocky
crevices for a cool,
moist place to
hibernate.
Let’s hope they
don’t contract
White-nose
Syndrome, which is
killing millions of
hibernating bats
including some
locally.
COMMON LOON
WOOD DUCK
LADY BUG CLUSTER
And some insects
move into houses
for the winter!
Mom’s cool. She
says they’re
harmless; don’t eat
or damage anything.
And don’t squash‘em
or they’ll stain the
curtains!
Dozens of garter
snakes will gather
together to
hibernate deep
within rock piles
on sunny slopes.
Guess Jordon is
cozied up for
winter
hibernation.
Well, if he stays inside
all winter, he’ll miss
all the sights and
signs of animals on
the move in winter!
LEAF FOOTED BUG
s
r
o
o
d
t
u
O
Kifidshsing or hunting ytotuhrestehicnogo?l
Is
ails aboeus next summer.
t
e
d
r
o
f
k
o
o
L
ortuniti
p
p
o
r
o
Family Fishing Expos
o
d
t
u
o
and Youth Hunting,
sponsored by Judge
Tim Grendell, have
been a hit since they
debuted last year!
Both are great ways
for kids interested in
these sports to have
safe, fun learning
opportunities
with experienced
anglers and
outdoorsmen.
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
distri ct org • VOICES
distric
VO
OIC
ICE
ES OF NATURE
11
Geauga Park District
9160 Robinson Road
Chardon, OH 44024-9148
Which Park Haven’t
You Visited Yet?
Bass Lake Preserve · 11445 Lakeview Drive, Munson Twp.
Beartown Lakes Reservation · 18870 Quinn Road, Auburn/Bainbridge Twps.
Bessie Benner Metzenbaum Park · 7940 Cedar Road, Chester Twp.
Big Creek Park · 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon Twp.
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve · 15681 Old Rider Road, Burton/Newbury Twps.
Chickagami Park · 17957 Tavern Road, Parkman Twp.
Eldon Russell Park · 16315 Rapids Road, Troy Twp.
Frohring Meadows · 16780 Savage Road, Bainbridge Twp.
Headwaters Park · 13365 Old State Road, Huntsburg/Claridon Twps.
The Maple Highlands Trail
Big Creek Spur · 9280 Ravenna Road, Chardon Twp.
The Maple Highlands Trail
Mountain Run Station · 12601 Chardon Windsor Road, Hambden Twp.
Observatory Park · 10610 Clay Street, Montville Twp.
Orchard Hills Park · 11340 Caves Road, Chester Twp.
Sunnybrook Preserve · 12474 Heath Road, Chester Twp.
Swine Creek Reservation · 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield/Parkman Twps.
The Rookery · 10110 Cedar Road, Munson Twp.
The West Woods · 9465 Kinsman Road (Rt. 87), Russell Twp.
The West Woods - Affelder House · 15139 Chillicothe Road, Russell Twp.
Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve · 11620 Ravenna Road, Munson Twp.
Whitlam Woods · 12500 Pearl Road, Hambden Twp.
For more information on parks, programs
or events, call 440-286-9516 or visit
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Printed on recycled paper using 25% post-consumer waste. FSC Certified
This publication was printed exclusively with Biolocity™ - environmentally responsible inks
Friday & Saturday,
October 10 & 11
5-9 PM
at Frohring Meadows
in Bainbridge Township
Free interpretive horse-drawn
wagon rides (first come, first
served) 5-8 PM
Night hike 8-9 PM
Campfire stories
and s’mores
Costumes welcome
Bring a soccer ball
Seasonal activities
for the whole
family!