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December 2013 - February 2014

FAMILYPROGRAMS6PRESCHOOLPROGRAMS7CHILDREN’SPROGRAMS8

ADULTPROGRAMS10ADULTWELLNESS11PARK DISTRICT

MAP4

PARK DISTRICT NEWS2

REGISTRATION INFORMATION5 Park District Mission

To provide quality parks, outdoor education, and recreation while preserving open space.

White-breasted Nuthatch in Grant Park Photo by Tess Fife

Staffing UpdatesWe welcomed two Park Operations Technicians to the Park District staff in September.

Justin Bates is a recent graduate of The Ohio State University. He received his degree in Natural Resources Management. Justin is originally from Sarahsville, Ohio.

Tyler McGeary anticipates graduating from Wright State University this spring with a degree in Environmental Science. Tyler has worked three summers with the Park District and we were happy to have him join the year-round staff.

In addition, Erin Morley, in her third year with the Park District as a full-time employee, recently received a promotion to Outdoor Education Coordinator. Congratulations, Erin!

Save a TreeTo subscribe to the

enewsletter visit www.cwpd.org/subscribe.html.

Here, you can also stop home delivery of the printed

newsletter.

HeadquartersActivity Center Park 221 North Main Street Centerville, Ohio 45459-4617 (937) 433-5155 Fax: (937) 433-6564mail@cwpd.org www.cwpd.orgSecond Shift/Weekends: (937) 470-9246

Office HoursMonday – Friday8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Office Closed: December 24 & 25, 2013 January 1 & 20, 2014

Park Addresses Addresses for all 49 parks can be found on page 5. For more information on each park, visit www.cwpd.org

Rain Out Line (937) 433-2524Option 1: Field StatusOption 2: Tennis InformationOption 3: Dog Park Closings

Athletic Field Conditionswww.cwpd.org/field_status.shtml

Area Youth Athletic OrganizationsCenterville United Soccer Associationwww.CUSASoccer.com

Centerville Wee Elk Football Association www.weeelks.org

Centerville Baseball Softball League www.cbltoday.org

Centerville Youth Lacrosse www.cvlax.org

Up and Running Juniors www.upandrunningindayton.com/ get-involved/training-groups/

Park District News

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As the “newbie” commissioner, much of my last four months has been spent in learning mode. For example, I now know we have three distinct

types of parks in our community. Our neighborhood parks (totaling over 200 acres), are within walking distance of many of our residents’ homes. They are the areas with playground equipment and plenty of green space for families to enjoy without having to pack up the car to drive anywhere. The more sports-minded community parks (totaling over 315 acres), such as Iron Horse, Oak Grove and Schoolhouse, are dotted with baseball diamonds, soccer and lacrosse fields, tennis courts and even pickleball for children and adults to enjoy. My favorite type of park, however, is our nature parks

(totaling over 470 acres), such as Bill Yeck and Grant. We are blessed with this untouched land complete with streams, hills and a variety of wildlife for us to enjoy during any season. Walking along a snowy trail where the only sounds are those of nature is quite a special experience. Give it a try!

All this doesn’t happen by chance. Take a look at park systems in other communities and it won’t take long for you to agree what we have is truly something special. We have a dedicated staff working tirelessly to create a best-in-class park system for all our residents. Great care is taken to ensure we are spending your tax dollars in the most efficient manner possible in order to maximize the benefit to you. So button up that coat, put on some boots and mittens and get out and enjoy your parks!

Dan Monahan

Commissioners Corner

Grant Park

Congratulations to Marilyn Florkey, the winner of our Summer in the Parks Photo Contest! Receiving an amazing 521 votes,

her winning photo (of granddaughter, Ava) was taken during a Park District program, Passport to Nature: Crazy Creeking, on July

18, 2013. As the winner of our contest, she was able to register early for any of our fall programs!

To view the other entries, visit www.facebook.com/cwpd.org/.

Go visit

them!

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Park District News

Eco-friendly Trends As word spreads that being eco-friendly is not only good for our environment, but also good for our pocket books, new trends are focusing on reducing, reusing and recycling.

More and more stores in the area are selling reusable tote bags in an effort to reduce the amount of plastic bags used by their customers. Stores often put logos on the bags to promote that their company is working toward being environmentally friendly. Instead of buying a reusable tote bag, you can go one step further and make your own –– simply sew the bottom of an old tank top or t-shirt together!

Another emerging eco-friendly trend is reusable water bottles. Reusable water bottles are made from sturdier material than a one-time use plastic bottle you can crush and throw in the recycle bin. So many different brands and styles of reusable bottles are available that everyone can find one that suits their usage need and personal style. Most of the bottles are even dishwasher and microwave safe, making cleaning and reheating hot beverages easy.

Man’s best friend can get in on eco-friendly trends as well (with a little help from their human companions). Old fleece sweats can be made into rope toys for dogs!

Have an old sweater that doesn’t fit? It can be made into a cozy pair of mittens and still keep you warm in the cold weather.

Websites like Pinterest can offer new ideas to reuse old or unwanted items. Next time you have an item that you plan on throwing out, think of our environment and try to reuse the item in a new and creative way!

Article contributed by Kelly Ludwig. Kelly is an English major at Wright State University and has worked for the Park District for the past four summers. She has been a counselor at Hidden Meadows Day Camp and most recently was the Summer Naturalist Intern. Kelly spends her free time hiking trails, reading, writing and spending time with her friends and family.

Our Report CardWe are here for you. And every so often we check in to make sure we are meeting the needs and expectations of our community. Therefore, we recently commissioned Strategic Visioning, Inc. to complete a Community Image Study. The goal? To determine your perception of the role parks play in our area’s quality of life and the value you perceive our parks deliver to the community.

We are happy to report that Centerville and Washington Township residents have a positive connection with the parks of the Centerville-Washington Park District. The great majority (94%) feel very or somewhat familiar with the Park District, and nearly all (93%) think the quality of the parks is excellent or good! Ninety-six percent of the residents polled said the parks are very or somewhat important to the quality of their families’ lives. When children are in the household, the importance of parks is even more pronounced. Nearly all (99%) of the people who live with at least one child said the parks are important to their families.

The value residents placed on the parks is actually higher than their personal use of the facilities. Nearly all (94%) surveyed residents agreed with the statement “I’m glad that Centerville-Washington parks are in the area even if I never visit them.”

Although the value of the parks is higher than personal use, more than half (54%) of the residents interviewed visit one of the parks at least once a month, and one in three are weekly (27%) or daily (5%) visitors. Daily park visitors were asked the reason for their frequent visits –– half are walking or jogging for their own pleasure, 30 percent are exercising pets and the remaining 20 percent visit for a variety of other reasons.

In addition to enjoying the outdoors for themselves, adults may be visiting parks to

Yay!

We think so, too!

0 20 40 60 80 100

Important

Very Important

Natural areas

Hiking/multi-use trails

Recreation facilities

Programs

Athletic facilities

How important is it that the Park District provide each for you and your family?

offer children the opportunity to play in natural surroundings like many of today’s adults did during childhood. When asked about activities like watching wildlife in their natural habitats, exploring creeks, and other outdoor activities, residents all agree it is very (86%) or somewhat (14%) important for today’s young people to enjoy such pursuits.

Three-fourths of the people who live in Centerville or Washington Township believe that natural spaces are so important that they are willing to pay more in taxes to ensure those spaces are protected for future generations. Even with nearly 1,000 acres of parkland, 82 percent of the residents polled agree that the park district should “continue to acquire property for new and expanded recreation areas or to preserve nature.”

Nearly all (97%) of the people polled agree that “local parks are good for home property values in Centerville and Washington Township.

Looking ahead. Where do you want us to focus our attention in the future? We asked you to rate the relative importance of five functions of the park district and this is how you prioritized:

Thank you for your valuable feedback. Please continue to let us know your comments and suggestions for the future of the Centerville-Washington Park District!

Kiwanis Holiday Tree SaleFriday, November 29 – Sunday, December 22Monday – Friday, noon – 9:00 p.m., Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.Oak Creek South Park, 790 W. Miamisburg-Centerville Rd.

The Kettering-Centerville Kiwanis will be holding their annual Holiday Tree Sale! The proceeds from the sale benefit local community and youth projects. Visit the tree lot at Oak Creek South Park to show your support for this local organization.

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Park District Map

The Park District is made up of 49 community, nature and neighborhood parks. Visit www.cwpd.org for detailed information and a map to each park.

Community Park Nature Park Neighborhood Park City of Centerville Washington Township

PARK HEADQUARTERS

WHIPP RDWHIPP RD

RAHN RD

ALEX-BELL RD

ALEX-BELL RDALEX-BELL RD

MAR

SHAL

L RD

725

FAR

HILL

S AV

E

FAR HILLS AVERAHN RD

MCE

WEN

RD

YANK

EE R

D

MAD RIVER RD

MAD

RIV

ER R

D

PARAGON RD

CONGRESS PARK

PARA

GON

RD

PARA

GON

RD

SHEE

HAN RD

YANK

EE R

DYA

NKEE

RD

AUSTIN PIKE

SOCIAL ROW RD

SPRING VALLEY RD

SOCIAL ROW RD

CLYO RD

CLYO RD

CLYO

RD

CLYO RD

MIAMISBURG-CENTERVILLE RD

LYONS RD

MCE

WEN

RD

MAI

N ST

DAYT

ON-L

EBAN

ON P

K

ATCH

ISON

RD

NUTT RD

SPRING VALLEY RD

48

725

FRANKLIN STCENTERVILLE STATION RD

725

48

48

HOLES CREEK

HOLES CREEK

HOLES CREEK

HOLES CREEK

SUGAR CREEK

SUGAR CREEK

Rahn Park

OldLane Park

Brittany Hills Park

Huffman Park

Woodbourne Green Park

Woodbourne Springs

Park

Donnybrook Park

Green Park

Village South Park

IronHorse Park

Red CoachPark

ManorPark

Grant Park

YankeePark

Grant Park

Activity Center Park

Elizabeth Hoy Park

Pleasant Hill Park

Forest Walk Park

Black Oak Park

Greene Line Park

Pelbrook Park

Black Oak East Park

Bill Yeck Park

Forest Field Park

Concept Park

Beechwood Springs Park

Stringtown Park

Rooks Ravine Park

Little Mound

ParkSchoolhouse Park

Quail Run Park

Watkins Glen Park

Willowbrook Park

Nutt Woods Park

Cherry Hill Park

Oak Grove Park

Big Bend Park

Oak Creek South Park

Wagon Trail Park

Holes Creek Park

Silvercreek Park

Fence Row Park Rosewood

Park

Waterbury Woods Park

Stansel Park

Divided Ridge Park

Weatherstone Park

Bill Yeck Park

SMITHHOUSE

NATURE NOOK

Trailways Park

Robert F. Mays Park

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It’s convenientThe flexibility to register and pay at your convenience, anytime, from anywhere.

It saves timeIn less than five minutes, you can setup your account and enroll for your program.

It’s easyThree simple steps, and you’ll be enrolled in the program of your choice.

It’s environmentally friendlyNo need to burn gas driving over to register in person. And it saves paper.

WHY REGISTER ONLINE?

Registration begins November 11

Registration informationPark District Map

park addresses

How to Register

PARK HEADQUARTERS

WHIPP RDWHIPP RD

RAHN RD

ALEX-BELL RD

ALEX-BELL RDALEX-BELL RD

MAR

SHAL

L RD

725

FAR

HILL

S AV

E

FAR HILLS AVERAHN RD

MCE

WEN

RD

YANK

EE R

D

MAD RIVER RD

MAD

RIV

ER R

D

PARAGON RD

CONGRESS PARK

PARA

GON

RD

PARA

GON

RD

SHEE

HAN RD

YANK

EE R

DYA

NKEE

RD

AUSTIN PIKE

SOCIAL ROW RD

SPRING VALLEY RD

SOCIAL ROW RD

CLYO RD

CLYO RD

CLYO

RD

CLYO RD

MIAMISBURG-CENTERVILLE RD

LYONS RD

MCE

WEN

RD

MAI

N ST

DAYT

ON-L

EBAN

ON P

K

ATCH

ISON

RD

NUTT RD

SPRING VALLEY RD

48

725

FRANKLIN STCENTERVILLE STATION RD

725

48

48

HOLES CREEK

HOLES CREEK

HOLES CREEK

HOLES CREEK

SUGAR CREEK

SUGAR CREEK

Rahn Park

OldLane Park

Brittany Hills Park

Huffman Park

Woodbourne Green Park

Woodbourne Springs

Park

Donnybrook Park

Green Park

Village South Park

IronHorse Park

Red CoachPark

ManorPark

Grant Park

YankeePark

Grant Park

Activity Center Park

Elizabeth Hoy Park

Pleasant Hill Park

Forest Walk Park

Black Oak Park

Greene Line Park

Pelbrook Park

Black Oak East Park

Bill Yeck Park

Forest Field Park

Concept Park

Beechwood Springs Park

Stringtown Park

Rooks Ravine Park

Little Mound

ParkSchoolhouse Park

Quail Run Park

Watkins Glen Park

Willowbrook Park

Nutt Woods Park

Cherry Hill Park

Oak Grove Park

Big Bend Park

Oak Creek South Park

Wagon Trail Park

Holes Creek Park

Silvercreek Park

Fence Row Park Rosewood

Park

Waterbury Woods Park

Stansel Park

Divided Ridge Park

Weatherstone Park

Bill Yeck Park

SMITHHOUSE

NATURE NOOK

Trailways Park

Robert F. Mays Park

Activity Center: 221 N. Main Street

Beechwood Springs: 1141 Quiet Brook Trail

Big Bend: 1328 Spring Ash Drive

Bill Yeck (3 main entrances): 8798 Rooks Mill Lane7893 Wilmington Dayton Road (McGuffey Meadow)2230 E. Centerville Station Road (Smith House)

Black Oak: 1552 Ambridge Road

Black Oak East: 7835 John Elwood Drive

Brittany Hills: 5825 Batsford Drive

Cherry Hill: 10244 Cherry Tree Terrace

Concept: 345 Clareridge Lane

Divided Ridge: 347 Beck Drive

Donnybrook: 6161 Donnybrook Drive

Elizabeth Hoy: 185 Hampton Drive

Fence Row: 1650 Haley Drive

Forest Field: 2100 E. Centerville Station Road

Forest Walk: 7570 Forest Brook Boulevard

Grant (3 main entrances): 501 Normandy Ridge Road6588 McEwen Road (Nature Nook) 616 Grant’s Trail

Green: 6661 Green Park Drive

Greene Line: 6774 Crossbrook Drive

Holes Creek: 8575 Yankee Street

Huffman: 1616 W. Alex-Bell Road

Iron Horse: 6161 Millshire Drive

Little Mound: 9490 Still Meadow Lane

Manor: 989 Thorndale Drive

Nutt Woods: 10188 Ashpark Court

Oak Creek South: 790 W. Miamisburg- Centerville Road

Oak Grove: 1790 E. Social Row Road

Old Lane: 500 Druewood Lane

Pelbrook: 7566 Cloverbrook Park Drive

Pleasant Hill: 358 Zengel Drive

Quail Run: 1180 Timber Hawk Trail

Rahn: 223 W. Rahn Road

Red Coach: 5500 Royalwood Drive

Robert F. Mays: W. Social Row/Paragon Road

Rooks Ravine: 9100 Rooks Road

Rosewood: 475 Roselake Drive

Schoolhouse: 1875 Nutt Road

Silvercreek: 9369 Yankee Street

Stansel: 1304 Sarah Freeman Drive

Stringtown: 9191 Woodstream Lane

Trailways: 1165 W. Spring Valley Pike

Village South: 411 North Village Drive

Wagon Trail: 8450 Washington Village Drive

Waterbury Woods: 1250 W. Social Row Road

Watkins Glen: 825 Watkins Glen Drive

Weatherstone: 10998 Pennfield Road

Willowbrook: 10225 Park Edge Drive

Woodbourne Green: W. Whipp Road at Paddington Road

Woodbourne Springs: 220 W. Whipp Road

Yankee: 7500 Yankee Street

Resident Registration Begins:

Monday, November 11 10:00 a.m.

Nonresident Registration Begins:

Monday, November 18 10:00 a.m.

Online Visit https://apm.activecommunities.com/cwpd to register. To expedite your registration, create an account prior to November 11. A valid email address is required. This site can be used for free programs and for fee-based programs with a debit or credit card. Payee will be shown as Active.com.

By Phone Call us at (937) 433-5155 Monday – Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Please have credit card ready for fee-based programs.

In Person Visit Park District headquarters at 221 N. Main Street in Centerville Monday – Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. You may pay with cash, check or credit card at headquarters. Make checks payable to Centerville-Washington Park District or CWPD.

Registration and Refund Policy:• Residents may register members of their family and one other resident family. • To be eligible for the resident fee, proof of residency must be provided. • Credit toward future fees will be issued in lieu of refunds. Credit will not be issued after the

registration deadline or, if by doing so, it reduces the participation level below the required minimum. A full monetary refund will be issued for programs cancelled by the Park District.

preschool Programs

Passport to Nature All ages

Winter Nature Hike: Saturday, January 251:00 – 2:30 p.m.Grant Park, Normandy Entrance The woods in the wintertime can be a very peaceful place. Join the naturalist for a hike to find winter wildlife. Registration is required.

Listening for Owls: Friday, February 286:00 – 7:30 p.m.Grant Park, Normandy Entrance Join us around the campfire as we learn about Ohio’s three most common owls. We will then hike into the forest and listen for their songs. Please dress warmly for this program. Registration is required.

Sledding with Owlexander! All agesDates and times will be determined by the weatherGrant Park, Normandy Entrance

Slip and slide in the snow with Owlexander, the Park District mascot, at this fun new sledding program. You bring your sleds and snow boots –– we’ll bring the hot chocolate!

Since we cannot predict the weather, this is a “pop-up” program during the months of January and February. When you arrive at Grant Park, follow the signs to Owlexander’s sledding fun! There will even be a bunny hill option so younger children can join in (ages 4 and under).

Register with a valid phone number and you will receive the automated calls notifying you when Owlexander will be sledding. Then, join us if you can!

Resident registration beginsMonday, November 11, 10:00 a.m.

All programs are FREE unless otherwise indicated.

Family Programs

More WINTER FUNYou don’t need to wait for Owlexander to enjoy sledding in the parks. Grab a sled and head to one of these parks for some winter fun:

You can also give cross country skiing a try at Bill Yeck, Grant and Iron Horse Parks.

Black OakCherry Hill

Greene Line

Iron HorseLittle Mound

Quail Run

RosewoodStringtown

Waterbury Woods

Holiday Luminary WalkAll Ages6:30 – 8:30 p.m.Friday, December 13Grant Park, Normandy Entrance

Celebrate the holiday season with a peaceful illuminated stroll across the Hole’s Creek bridge to the chimneys, fire circle, meadow and woods of Grant Park.

Enjoy one mile of candlelit trail and then stop by the campfire near the chimneys to warm up! Join us inside the Grant Nature Center buildings for a cup of hot chocolate and some holiday snacks as you enjoy music provided by the Hithergreen Strummers. We will also have a fun seasonal craft for the children. Registration is requested so we have plenty of goodies for everyone!

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In a recent survey, nearly 60 percent of Centerville/

Washington Township residents said that a member of their household had participated

in a Park District program.

preschool Programs

NATURE DISCOVERY ZONE Attention youth groups! If you are looking for an educational and fun-filled outing this winter, look no further than Nature Discovery Zone.This FREE nature-based program offers a variety of hikes focused on topics such as forestry, geology and wildlife that can be tailored to meet the needs of scout, preschool or homeschool groups. Call us at 937-433-5155 to schedule a session and start discovering.

Playdate Café Ages 18 – 36 months with adult companion10:00 – 11:00 a.m.Grant Park, Nature Nook

Doggie Day: Wednesdays, December 4 OR 11Snowy Season: Wednesdays, January 8 OR 15I T Shapes!: Wednesdays, February 5 OR 12

This program, designed to build sensory awareness, motor skills, and encourage social interaction, offers caregivers the chance to participate with their little one, as well as free time to socialize with the other adults.

Each café begins and ends with a learning station such as puzzles, blocks, art or sensory table. After a little free play, we come together for a short program about our theme, which may include a story, song, activity or craft. Join us for lots of fun and a light snack. Registration is required.

Mini Movers Ages 4 – 59:30 – 10:15 a.m. OR 1:00 – 1:45 p.m.Tuesdays, January 7 – February 18 (no class Feb. 4)Grant Park, Nature Nook

Let’s move! Participants will enjoy engaging activities with an alphabet theme, age-appropriate equipment and fun music.

The “mini movers” will learn movements that assist in motor development and rhythmic skills and will have an opportunity to interact with other children their age. Both group and individual activities will be included for them to expand their social skills and be creative. All children must wear comfortable clothing and gym shoes. Parent participation is not required. All activity will take place indoors. Registration is required.

Preschool Nature SeriesAges 3 – 5 with adult companion9:30 – 10:30 a.m. OR 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.Grant Park, Nature Nook

Busy Beavers: Thursday, December 19Beavers stay busy all year round and so do preschoolers! During this program, we will be like a beaver and build a lodge. Parents, please dress yourself and your child for the weather. Registration is required.

A Prairie in Winter: Thursday, January 16Winter is a great time to explore the prairie. We will learn about this habitat and look for animals that call the prairie home. Registration is required.

Whooo’s There?: Thursday, February 20Many owls call Centerville and Washington Township home. Let’s learn whooo they are together! Registration is required.

Intergenerational SeriesAges 3 – 6 with grandparent(s)9:30 – 10:30 a.m. OR 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.Grant Park, Nature NookThis program is only for grandparents and their grandchildren. Parents and other caregivers may attend any of our other programs.

Grand Gifts: Monday, December 9Grandchildren will enjoy stories and make holiday crafts to take home and give to parents, teachers or friends — all with help from grandma or grandpa! Registration is required.

Very Special Valentine: Thursday, February 13Grandparents will help their grandchildren make valentine cards to take home and give to loved ones. Participants will also play valentine games together and enjoy a Valentine’s Day snack!

Kiddie KraftsAges 3 – 5 with adult companionGrant Park, Nature Nook

Session A: Wednesdays, December 4 – January 15, 1:00 – 1:45 p.m. (No Krafts Dec. 25 and Jan. 1)Session B: Wednesdays, January 22 – February 19, 1:00 – 1:45 p.m.Session C: Fridays, December 6 – January 17, 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. (No Krafts Dec. 27 and Jan. 3)Session D: Fridays, January 24 – February 21 , 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.Sessions A-D create the same craft, therefore each child is allowed to register for only one session.

Join us as we make crafts and listen to stories in this long-time favorite program. This is a great opportunity to let the creativity flow by

making crafts with markers, glue, paint and tissue paper, as well as other fun surprises. We will also color pictures of

snowmen, trucks, fairies and more. Best of all, we do the clean up! Children are encouraged to wear old clothes. Registration is required.

Resident registration beginsMonday, November 11, 10:00 a.m.

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Resident registration beginsMonday, November 11, 10:00 a.m.

All programs are FREE unless otherwise indicated.

Winter Woods Day Campchildren's Programs

Homeschool Nature AcademyAges 5 – 141:00 – 2:30 p.m.

Botany Basics: Thursday, December 5Grant Park, Nature Nook

Students will learn plant classification, identification and terminology during this tree-mendously fun session! Registration is required.

Herpetology: Thursday, January 9Grant Park, Normandy Entrance

Let’s hear it for Herps! Students will learn the main characteristics and behaviors of Ohio reptiles and amphibians. Registration is required.

Star Stories: Thursday, February 6Grant Park, Nature Nook

People have been telling stories about the stars for centuries! We will learn some basic constellations and the exciting stories surrounding them. Registration is required.

Junior Nature ClubAges 6 – 83:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Camouflage!: December 10 OR 11Grant Park, Nature Nook

Can you blend in just as well as our local wildlife? Let’s find out through a series of games and activities that focus on hiding in nature! Registration is required.

Nature Explorers!: January 7 OR 8Grant Park, Nature Nook

Winter hiking, here we come! Bundle up, put on your hiking shoes and find some adventure. Registration is required.

Awesome Opossums: February 11 OR 12Grant Park, Normandy Entrance

Learn the ins and outs of being the only marsupial in town. Opossums have some very interesting (and sometimes silly) characteristics. Registration is required.

Noon Year’s EveAges 5 – 7 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Monday, December 30Grant Park, Nature Nook

Ring in the new year with our daytime New Year’s Eve party just for kids! Noon Year’s Eve will include kid-friendly games and crafts, party hats, streamers, fun snacks and props all to celebrate the ball drop –– just a bit early! Registration is required.

Crafting ClubAges 9 – 134:00 – 5:00 p.m.Grant Park, Nature Nook

Holiday Decorations: Thursday, December 5Winter Scrapbooking: Thursday, January 9Valentine Cards: Thursday, February 6

This fun after-school program covers basic crafting skills and techniques used to make handmade decorations and keepsakes –– all while making friends! We provide everything needed with no mess, prep or fuss at home! Crafters are encouraged to wear old clothes or bring an apron or smock. Registration is required.

Eco-Explorers Ages 9 – 113:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Bird Quest: Wed., December 18Grant Park, Normandy Entrance

Set out in search of winter birds. Find out which ones stay in Ohio during the winter and which ones fly south for access to their favorite food sources. Registration is required.

Bare Tree ID: Wed., January 15Grant Park, Nature Nook

Can you identify a tree without its leaves? The trees that you are familiar with usually look quite different during the winter months. Learn how to identify each tree by distinguishing characteristics like bark, shape and limbs. Registration is required.

Snowy Scavenger Hunt: Wed., February 19Grant Park, Normandy Entrance

The winter months allow us to see many things you wouldn’t see during the rest of the year. Have fun searching the park for these elusive treasures during this exciting hunt. Registration is required.

A Day at the BeachAges 7 – 9 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.Monday, February 17Grant Park, Nature Nook

School’s out and brrr… it’s cold outside. Come inside for a beach party! Participants will make beach-themed crafts and enjoy summertime games and snacks. Put on your sunscreen, bring your beach towel and flip flops, and dream of warmer days! Registration is required.

Winter Recreation ProgramAges 6 – 103:30 – 4:30 p.m.Tuesdays, December 17, January 21 & February 18Grant Park, Nature Nook

This is our winter version of Summer Recreation Program! Come dressed for the cold weather so we can make snow angels and build igloos after we make a craft and play games inside. Registration is required.

Outdoor Adventure CrewAges 8 – 124:00 – 5:30 p.m.Mondays, December 2, 9, 16, January 6 & 13Grant Park, Normandy Entrance

Unstructured outdoor play is vital to child development and well-being. This program is designed to allow participants the chance to explore what they like about nature and being outdoors. Activities will include games, challenges, discovery, and hopefully, snow! This five-week program will be held rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather and ready to have fun! Registration is required.

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Release AgreementIn consideration of your accepting my entry or my child’s entry, I hereby, for myself or my child, release, indemnify, and hold harmless the Centerville-Washington Park District, its Commissioners, Agents, Employees, and Assignees from any and all liability claims, actions, demands, and judgments arising out of injury or loss sustained by me or my child while participating in activities or using facilities of the Centerville-Washington Park District.

Signature____________________________________________________________________ Date________________________________

2014 Camper Information FormComplete and return a copy for each camper to the Park District no later than January 27, 2014 (form also available at www.cwpd.org/forms.html). This form must be signed and mailed, faxed, emailed or dropped off in person at Park District Headquarters (see page 2 for address).

Camper’s Name: __________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________ Zip: ____________

Home Phone: _____________________ Birthdate: ________________ Age: ________ q M q F

Parent/Guardian: _____________________________ Cell Phone: ___________________ E-mail: ______________________________________

2nd Emergency Contact: ________________________ Cell Phone: ___________________

Health History RecordIs your child on any type of medication? q Yes q No If yes, what?______________________________________________________________

Park District staff is not authorized to dispense any medication. If an epi-pen is required, contact the Park District for additional required forms.

Health Conditions Check all that apply and give appropriate dates

q Fainting ___________________ q Hearing Impairment ___________________ q Diabetes ___________________________

q Asthma ___________________ q Seizures ___________________ q Other ___________________________

Allergies Check all that apply and specify nature of reaction

q Animals/Insects ___________________ q Food ___________________ q Other _____________________________

q Medicine/Drugs ___________________ q Plants ___________________

Other Conditions Check all that apply

q Speech Impairment q Emotional Disturbances q Developmentally Delayed q Other ____________________________

q Attention Deficit Disorder q Communication Impairment q Special Diet

To provide the best possible camp experience, please provide all information in relation to any health conditions, behavioral concerns, dietary needs, medication or special needs. Explain any items checked above. This information will remain confidential. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Family Doctor/Phone:____________________________________________ Family Dentist/Phone:___________________________________

Resident registration beginsMonday, November 11, 10:00 a.m.

Winter Woods Day Campchildren's Programs

Winter Woods Day Camp includes unique fun only this season can provide! Campers will hike, participate in games and activities, make crafts, and of course, go sledding. No snow? No problem! There are many other adventures in Grant Park. Children will be grouped according to age. Activities will be conducted indoors and outdoors.

Camp will be held unless the weather causes roadways to become treacherous. Parents will be alerted by a phone call and on Facebook no later than one hour before the start of camp. Children are required to wear boots, hats and gloves each day.

Camp Registration: Registration details can be found on page 5. After registration, the Camper Information Form below must be submitted no later than the registration deadline of January 27, 2014. If you need to cancel your registration, a refund credit will not be issued after the registration deadline.

Winter Woods Day Camp Ages 3 – 1212:30 – 3:00 p.m., Saturdays, February 1, 8, 15, & 22Grant Park, Normandy EntranceFees: $55 per resident / $85 per non-resident

Resident registration beginsMonday, November 11, 10:00 a.m.

All programs are FREE unless otherwise indicated.

Pioneer Woman: Cross StitchingAges 14 and upSaturday, January 11 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.Grant Park, Nature NookInterested in learning the art of cross stitching? This quarter, we welcome back exceptionally talented crafter Barb Schimming as she instructs participants on the ins and outs of beginning cross stitch. No materials are required to participate in this program. Registration is required.

Adult Nature Discovery WalksAges 16 and up9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday, December 10 Grant Park, 501 Normandy Ridge RoadTuesday, January 14 Forest Field Park, 2100 E. Centerville Station RoadTuesday, February 11 Black Oak Park, 1552 Ambridge RoadTake an hour to enjoy what nature has to offer. This leisurely-paced walk provides an opportunity to observe the seasonal changes of winter with the Park District Naturalist. Registration is required.

Fireside Eco-ChatsAdults7:00 – 8:00 p.m.Grant Park, Nature Nook Fireside Eco-Chats is an informative series of talks focused on environmental issues and trends. This season’s talks will be hosted by the Park District Volunteer Naturalist and butterfly expert Elisabeth Rothschild. Spend a cozy evening by the fire learning more about the following topics:

Pesticides & Pollinators: Wednesday, January 15Approximately 90 percent of flowering plants depend upon pollinating

insects to reproduce, but in our attempt to deter insects that harm those plants, we are negatively impacting the insects we should be

protecting. Join us for a discussion of how pesticides are impacting our future and what we can do to turn things around. Registration is required.

Creating Butterfly Friendly Gardens: Wednesday, February 19Attracting butterflies is not as easy as planting a few flowering

plants. Learn which types of butterflies are attracted to which plants and how you can design a garden that will attract and sustain them

from egg to adult. Registration is required.

Adult programs

2014 SHELTER RESERVATIONSReservations for 2014 can be made beginning January 2, 2014 by phone at (937) 433-5155 or in person at Park Headquarters. Rental fee is due at time of booking. The Park District reserves the right to refuse permit requests and limit the number of participants.

PARK SHELTERS: Activity Center (1/2 shelter only), Forest Field, Oak Creek South, Oak Grove (5 shelters), Schoolhouse and Yankee Parks.

GRANT PARK FIRE CIRCLE: We will provide the firewood.

GRANT PARK NATURE NOOK: Available for small non-profit service groups based in Centerville or Washington Township that benefit the community at large.

For details and photos of each location visit www.cwpd.org/shelters.html. Please note that alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the Park District.

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Each moment of the year has its own beauty, a picture which was never before and shall never be seen again.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Resident registration beginsMonday, November 11, 10:00 a.m.

Hike for Your Health SeriesThis popular Park District program is designed to get your heart rate up and get you moving during the winter months. Our staff will lead you on these guided, self-paced hikes. Hike for Your Health is also a wonderful opportunity to get to know some of your parks better. Path descriptions are provided to help you choose the most comfortable shoe attire. Registration is required.

MondaysAdults9:30 – 10:30 a.m. No hike December 23, 30, January 20 or February 17

Date Park Meeting Point PathDecember 2 Oak Grove 1790 E. Social Row Road pavedDecember 9 Yankee 7500 Yankee Street pavedDecember 16 Bill Yeck 7893 Wilmington Dayton Road, McGuffey Meadow naturalJanuary 6 Forest Field 2100 E. Centerville Station Road naturalJanuary 13 Iron Horse 6161 Millshire Drive pavedJanuary 27 Bill Yeck 8798 Rooks Mill Lane naturalFebruary 3 Schoolhouse 1875 Nutt Road pavedFebruary 10 Oak Creek South 790 W. Miamisburg-Centerville Road pavedFebruary 24 Bill Yeck 7893 Wilmington Dayton Road, McGuffey Meadow natural

WednesdaysAdults9:30 – 10:30 a.m. No hike December 25 or January 1

Date Park Meeting Point PathDecember 4 Iron Horse 6161 Millshire Drive paved December 11 Grant 501 Normandy Ridge Road naturalDecember 18 Oak Grove 1790 E. Social Row Road pavedJanuary 8 Yankee 7500 Yankee Street pavedJanuary 15 Bill Yeck 7893 Wilmington Dayton Road, McGuffey Meadow naturalJanuary 22 Schoolhouse 1875 Nutt Road pavedJanuary 29 Forest Field 2100 E. Centerville Station Road naturalFebruary 5 Oak Creek South 790 W. Miamisburg-Centerville Road pavedFebruary 12 Iron Horse 6161 Millshire Drive pavedFebruary 19 Bill Yeck 8798 Rooks Mill Lane naturalFebruary 26 Oak Grove 1790 E. Social Row Road paved

Adult wellness

Hound HikeAdults8:30 – 9:00 a.m. Fridays, December – FebruaryIron Horse Park, 6161 Millshire DriveOur canine companions still need their exercise during the winter months. Join the weekly Hound Hike to meet up with other dog walkers! Participants can meet at Iron Horse Park near the trailhead and hike the paved Iron Horse Trail. Registration is not required.

Spring SoftballThe Park District offers men’s softball leagues every spring at Yankee Park. Start talking to your friends now about forming a team! Registration begins in February. Watch for more information in our spring newsletter.

For more information or to be placed on our softball mailing list, please call Jen Brandt, Fitness Coordinator, at (937) 433-5155.

DID YOU KNOW...

Studies show that exercising in an outdoor natural environment may provide some of the best all around health benefits! Outdoor exercisers perceive lower levels of exertion –– so they are actually working harder than they realize!

They also experience stress reduction, restored mental fatigue and improved mood and self-esteem!

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID DAYTON, OH PERMIT #638

Printed on recycled paper with soy inks

Resident Registration begins at 10:00 a.m.

Monday, November 11

McEwen Barn at Grant Park