Dayton City Paper » metroparks

Get out and bike!

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 14 May 2013 14:00:53 +0000

Bike to Work Week/Cycling Summit highlights

By Val Beerbower

Photo: Participate in National Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 17, during the annual Bike to Work Pancake Breakfast, 7-9 a.m. at Riverscape MetroPark; photo credit: Elzora.comPhotography

There’s a machine that can improve a person’s health, reduce expenses and is better for the environment than most others. In fact, there are probably many of these contraptions tucked away in garages across the Miami Valley at this very moment. This human-powered machine was invented in the early 19th century, but its design hasn’t evolved much since. It’s a bicycle. Given Dayton’s massive infrastructure of paved bikeways, designated lanes and networks of side streets, it’s easier than ever to make the switch to biking as alternate transportation.

Bicycle commuting has many benefits. Most notably are the direct impacts on the cyclist.

“When you commute via bike, even if you just swap one short trip a week, you will immediately begin to enjoy benefits from improved health and savings on fuel,” said MetroParks Cycling Coordinator Dan Sahli. “If it’s been a while since you’ve ridden your bike, getting a ride in just once a week is a great way to get on track to a healthy lifestyle.”

Bike commuting doesn’t require months of intense training to hit the streets. In fact, health care experts at the Mayo Clinic emphasize the importance of exercise, even for those living with arthritis. According to their research, exercise, such as cycling, helps to strengthen muscles around joints, maintain joint strength, control weight – another factor in joint stress – and increase energy. “The more you ride, the easier it gets and the better you feel,” Sahli said. “Don’t think you have to hop on your bike and immediately take on Tour de France-type endeavors. Take baby steps.”

Even small trips add up at the pump over time. For instance, swap the bike for an errand to the bank two miles away instead of a car. If the car gets 20 miles per gallon, that once-a-week swap will save the cyclist save about $36 in a year (if gas prices were to remain steady at $3.45 per gallon).

The savings add up as fuel costs increase and parking fees and vehicle maintenance are added. Even for the bicycle commuting novice, a weekly four-mile round trip is a very attainable goal. Nearly 70 percent of Americans’ car trips are less than two miles long. A two-mile ride may take 12-15 minutes, so that 30-minute round-trip not only saves money at the pump, it counts toward the recommended thrice weekly half hour of exercise.

Additionally, long-term benefits can help save cities billions of dollars. In 2010, Environmental Health Perspectives published a University of Wisconsin study on the economic and health benefits of switching from a car to a bike for trips shorter than five miles in 11 metropolitan areas around the upper Midwest. Combining data on air pollution, medical costs, mortality rates, car accidents and physical fitness, the researchers found that if inhabitants of the sample region switched to bikes for half of their short trips, they’d create a net societal health benefit of $3.5 billion per year from the increase in air quality and $3.8 billion in savings from smaller health care costs associated with better fitness and fewer mortalities from a decreased rate of car accidents.

GET IN GEAR

Those who are interested in starting bicycle commuting will need some gear to get started. This short guide outlines some tools that will help facilitate commuting. Visit metroparks.org/cycling and click on the tab for “retailers” to find local bike shops and knowledgeable staff.

BIKE

Technically speaking, anything with two wheels and a chain will get riders from point A to point B, but be aware that different styles of bicycles have different benefits. “Talk to your local bike retailer,” Sahli said. “Tell them what kinds of trips you make, the terrain you travel, frequency of your trips and other details about your riding habits. They’ll help you select a bicycle that meets your needs.” The same retailers can help give bikes a tune-up if they’ve been sitting in storage for a while.

HELMET

Wearing a helmet is always a good idea. Some communities require wearing one, and it protects the head in case of an accident. Those who own a helmet but haven’t ridden in a while should give their helmet a visual inspection before heading out. Make sure there are no cracks. Even one crack compromises the protective value of a helmet. Helmets might need to be replaced if it’s been stored unused for a long period of time.

STORAGE/CARGO

Regardless of whether the trip is around the corner or riding to work, cycling commuters will need something to store and carry items. For commuters riding to work or school, a backpack or messenger bag easily fits a laptop, maybe some extra clothes, lunch and other items needed throughout the day. Make certain the backpack or messenger bag can be secured to the rider’s back and doesn’t slide around to your front while riding.

For larger items, like grocery staples that may be heavier, consider getting a rack that fits on the back of the bike. Find panniers, which are placed over the rack, or go “old school” with a milk crate secured by bungee cables. For larger loads, consider purchasing a tow-behind trailer.

CLOTHING

Moisture-wicking fabrics will keep you cool and dry on your trip. Avoid cotton materials as they absorb moisture and can cause unpleasant odor. You can find clothing options at any department or specialty store, or online.

UPCOMING EVENTS

BIKE TO WORK DAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST

7-9 a.m. Friday, May 17, RiverScape MetroPark, 111 E. Monument Ave.

Leave your car in the garage and support National Bike to Work Day. Ride in on your own or with a group to RiverScape MetroPark for a free pancake breakfast then head to work. Live music, cycling related exhibitors and team challenge are also part of the fun. Turn this one day into a lifestyle. No registration required; free. Details online at metroparks.org/biketowork.

FUNDAMENTALS OF COMMUTING

6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St.

This class reviews what is involved to get you biking to work, a quick trip to the store, or a favorite restaurant. This lecture-style class will include bike terminology, commuting equipment, and trip and bike preparation. The class will briefly discuss traffic laws, hazards encountered, safe-riding skills and proper route planning. Registration required; $10. Register online at metroparks.org or by calling 937.277.4374.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com

Five Rivers MetroParks hits a milestone

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:00:01 +0000

Celebrate half a century of protecting nature

By Val Beerbower

Photo: Celebrating 50 years: A fishing derby at Cox Arboretum MetroParks in 1985; photo courtesy Five Rivers MetroParks

Five Rivers MetroParks is turning 50, and everyone is invited to a community celebration! “This park district began as a community initiative and we wanted to remind area residents that we’re still keeping that promise to protect open spaces,” said MetroParks Executive Director Rebecca Benná. “We’re kicking things off with a special event on April 10, and throughout the rest of the year you can find ways to connect with your favorite parks and maybe even learn something you didn’t know about these places.”

The public is invited to a kick-off celebration on Wednesday, April 10, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 W. Second St. “We’re inviting everyone – past and present – who make Five Rivers MetroParks what it is today.”

It may be hard to image that what stands at nearly 16,000 acres with 25 facilities today once was a group of concerned citizens with a vision for the future and a yellow legal pad. In 1959, the Regional Transportation Committee, encompassing Montgomery and Greene counties, discovered that urban sprawl was quickly gobbling up open spaces. The Open Space Study Committee, led by landscape architect and land planner Harold R. Freiheit, published “A Legacy for the Future: A Plan for Open Space in Greene-Montgomery Co.” The study pointed out that, at the current rate of growth, there would be little open space left in the Dayton metropolitan area in a matter of years. Existing parks would not be adequate to meet the needs of the growing community. Dayton Journal-Herald editor Glenn Thompson was concerned with these findings and sought to encourage the local community to take action. He gave a presentation to the Garden Club of Dayton and the group rose to the occasion, forming the Save Open Space Committee.

The Garden Club of Dayton and the Four Seasons Garden Club sponsored a meeting at the Patterson Homestead with Felix Rimberg as guest speaker. Rimberg had been involved in Freiheit’s study and was chairman of a group that later became the Regional Planning Commission. Representatives from the garden clubs, Audubon Society, Isaac Walton League and the business community were present. Everyone who entered the meeting signed a yellow tablet strategically place on a table near the room’s entrance. After Rimberg’s speech, Garden Club of Dayton member (and eventual park commissioner) Jean Woodhull announced that those who had signed the yellow tablet were now members of the Save Open Space Committee and should go forth and assist in saving green space. Thompson was elected president of the committee.

After months of campaigning, local attorney Charles S. Bridge drafted a petition to submit to the county probate court, requesting the creation of a new park district. Bridge was able to secure the required signatures from 17 cities and townships in Montgomery County – representing 83 percent of the county population. The overwhelming support made then-Probate Judge Neal Zimmer’s decision easy to give approval to the park district, and on April 8, 1963, the Dayton-Montgomery County Park District was born.

Drylick Run, now known as Carriage Hill MetroPark, was one of the first parks to be part of the new district, followed by Possum Creek, Sugarcreek and Englewood. An agreement with the Miami Conservancy District in 1967 brought lands adjacent to the earthen dams – the rest of Englewood, along with Germantown, Huffman and Taylorsville – into the park district’s lineup. The name “Five Rivers MetroParks” wasn’t changed until 1995, reflecting the five large bodies of water that comprise the Miami Valley’s watershed: Great Miami, Mad, and Stillwater Rivers and the Wolf and Twin Creeks.

Today there are 18 major MetroParks and several conservation areas dedicated to setting aside space specifically as habitat. In fact, Five Rivers MetroParks enjoys an industry-leading ratio of 90 percent natural spaces to 10 percent developed areas. “We never would have come this far without the efforts of citizens,” Benná said. “How critical were those early days when someone needed to be bold and step up and say, ‘we need to protect these natural spaces’? We’re proud that we can continue that tradition of maintaining these natural areas for the enjoyment of park visitors for generations to come.”

The celebration continues throughout the year. The art exhibit will be on display at the Schuster Center April 10 through May 10, then will travel to Rosewood Arts Centre in Kettering from June 4 through July 31. Additional exhibition dates will be posted online at metroparks.org/history. “This is no ordinary art exhibit,” Benná said. “The artists were generous enough to give us some liberties with their creations and we ‘hid’ quick-response codes and telephone extensions within each piece.” The QR codes, which can be scanned with a smartphone or tablet application, will take the user to a special website that will play a video. “The video will either feature a person of historical significance to Five Rivers MetroParks or a clip that describes a specific asset that MetroParks contributes to the community,” Benná said. Similarly, telephone extensions will direct callers to a secret message about the parks’ history or about a function of the park district.

In addition to the art installation, park patrons should be on the lookout for 50 Things to See and Do, a compilation of “hidden” elements of the parks. This, and links to more historical items, can be found at metroparks.org/history.

Five Rivers MetroParks’ 50th Anniversary Celebration takes place Wednesday, April 10 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Schuster Center Wintergarden, 2 W. Second St. For details on Five Rivers MetroParks’ 50th anniversary, including links to the online archives, details on the travelling art exhibit and the 50 Things to See and Do, visit metroparks.org/history.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com

Connect naturally

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:30:31 +0000

MetroParks volunteer opportunities

By Val Beerbower

Photo: Volunteers are needed to help with conservation efforts, such as prairie seed collection and propagation

For the past 50 years, Five Rivers MetroParks has protected the natural areas in and around Dayton. Today, the park district conserves more than 15,400 acres of land – 90 percent of which is maintained as natural habitat. It’s no small task to keep the land at sustainable levels, which is why MetroParks has relied upon the ongoing support of volunteers. With the recent onslaught of invasive species, volunteer efforts have been more critical than ever to restore forests, wetlands, prairies, river corridors and other natural areas.

Five Rivers MetroParks’ conservation staff is guided by the several principals in their planning:

-Protect significant natural areas, particularly adjacent to existing MetroParks and river corridors in the Miami Valley.

-Protect and connect significant tracts of forest.

-Link forests and park lands along river corridors.

-Establish buffer areas where needed to maintain open space and protect watersheds.

The benefits of conserving land in its natural state include preserving clean water and air, protecting the diversity of plants and animals and providing beautiful places where people can connect with nature. Carefully designed land stewardship plans are developed for each tract of land. These plans guide the protection, management and restoration of native plant and animal communities and provide park visitors an opportunity to experience and learn about their natural heritage.

Land use in Montgomery County has changed over the last 50 years, creating a need for approaching land conservation in new ways. Growth areas in the coming decades are projected to be in previously rural areas, resulting in the loss of open space and natural habitats. Five Rivers MetroParks is addressing these changes by working to protect land in projected growth areas while it is both available and affordable.

Habitat management in the parks is guided by our understanding of pre-settlement conditions in the Miami Valley. While primarily forested, prairies and wetlands were also an important part of the historical landscape. Today we know that preserving this diversity of habitats is essential to protecting and preserving the diversity of plants and animals. From invasive species management to habitat restoration, park lands are carefully managed to preserve and protect the native plant and animal communities of the Miami Valley. In turn, park visitors are provided with an opportunity to experience and learn about their natural heritage.

Past studies have shown that active habitat management yields the greatest benefit for the least amount of expenditure. This is where MetroParks needs the most volunteer support. Opportunities exist for all types of volunteers, from young children to seniors and anyone in between. Regardless of whether volunteers have just a few hours each month to contribute or are “regulars” who show up to help a few hours every week, help is needed to restore the natural areas in Dayton, which has become home to several recovering wildlife species, including wild turkey, spotted salamanders, black bears, bald eagles and river otters.

These represent a portion of all available conservation volunteer opportunities. Visit metroparks.org/volunteer to learn about all volunteer programs offered in a range of skill levels and time commitments.

Land Stewardship Volunteers: These park helpers engage in a range of activities. Seed collection and propagation helps ensure the growth and development of natural habitat, such as prairies. Today, park visitors can find many acres of prairies – including some rare plants once thought extinct – providing food and shelter for native Ohio wildlife. Another type of steward is the Conservation Caretaker, who regularly visits conservation areas (many of which are not accessible to the public) to monitor and report conditions. Contact Conservation Volunteer Coordinator Yvonne Dunphe at 937.275.PARK or ydunphe@metroparks.org to sign up for land stewardship or Conservation Caretaker programs.

MetroParks Tree Corps: This special volunteer task force was assembled following the distress of the emerald ash borer. Tree Corps volunteers can help with seed propagation in the winter and early spring, seed collection in the fall and participating in the Forest Foster Family program over the summer. Five Rivers MetroParks doesn’t have nearly enough greenhouse space to grow the trees, so volunteers step in, “adopting” a flat of seedlings they raise at home and return on the specified date. To volunteer in the Tree Corps, visit metroparks.org/forests and click on the volunteer tab for the sign-up sheet.

Seedling Saturdays: Seedlings that were returned to the parks from the Forest Foster Family program will find a new home in a MetroPark. Five Rivers MetroParks is in need of hundreds of volunteers to come out and plant a few trees. Seedling Saturdays take place Saturdays on March 16 and 23 and April 20, which is the last date to be part of the annual Adopt-A-Park event. Visit metroaprks.org/forests and click on the programs tab for the upcoming dates, and then fill out the volunteer form on the volunteer tab.

Adopt-A-Park: The annual county-wide clean-up event attracted more than 2,000 volunteer in 2012. Activities include litter removal, gardening and landscaping projects and tree plantings. All ages are welcome. Groups are invited to register, but should do so as soon as possible. Register today at metroparks.org/adopt.

Find more information about Five Rivers MetroParks conservation practices at metroparks.org/conservation. Get details on volunteer programs, including conservation volunteer initiatives, at metroparks.org/volunteer.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com

Get growing!

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:30:43 +0000

The Miami Valley Gardening Conference at Sinclair Community College

By Val Beerbower

Photo: Attendees at the 2012 Miami Valley Gardening Conference explore the expo area; Photo courtesy Five Rivers MetroParks

The temperatures are still low and branches are still bare, but it is the final few weeks of winter that kick off the gardening season. Seed catalogs have been arriving in gardeners’ mailboxes and there are, no doubt, starter trays in windowsills while snow still covers the ground. This year, instead of investing hours of backbreaking labor and hundreds or thousands of dollars on upkeep for a prize-winning garden, why not garden smarter with a day-long gardening boot camp?

Show-stopping gardens that grace the covers of magazines are within the grasp of the average gardener. The secret is not having green thumbs, but practicing smart gardening techniques. Soil composition, climate and altitude are all factors that determine what plants thrive and what plants struggle here in the Dayton area. Stop fighting the elements and discover how even novice gardeners can have cover-worthy landscapes at the Miami Valley Gardening Conference, March 2, at Sinclair Community College. The marathon growing seminar begins at 7:30 a.m. and wraps up around 5 p.m. The conference has a $60 registration fee, but participants can save $10 by registering online at metroparks.org/conference.

Headlining the event this year is Andrew Keys, writer, designer, lifelong gardener, Garden Confidential podcaster and author of the book “Why Grow That When You Can Grow This? 255 Extraordinary Alternatives to Everyday Problem Plants.” Keys’ advice will help gardeners get the look they want by making better plant choices. “Some ‘prima donna’ plants are very fussy and aren’t best suited for our Ohio climate,” said Five Rivers MetroParks Education Supervisor Betty Hoevel, coordinator of the annual MVGC. “But swapping in natives or other more ‘laid back’ plants will get you the look you want without the extra labor and maintenance.”

Apartment dwellers and other urban residents will learn ways to maximize small spaces, and those who have expansive lawns will find tricks to cut down on cost and maintenance for maximum curb appeal. The best part – all these techniques are aimed at reducing the environmental impact. “People spend so much time and money on expensive gardening products, and it hurts your wallet and the Earth,” Hoevel said. “Miami Valley Gardening Conference attendees will learn tricks of the trade that will give you great gardens and landscapes in half the time with half the expense and half the effort, all while being kind to nature. It truly is a greener way to garden.”

The event opens with Keys’ keynote address that will showcase smart plant swaps for great gardens. Conference attendees may choose from different break-out sessions throughout the day-long event:

Session One: Gardening Lessons from Nature

Soil and water management by Kristen Lauer, Montgomery Soil and Water Conservation District

Pollinators by Beth Burke, Five Rivers MetroParks

Plant selection by Don Geiger, Marianist Environmental Education Center

Session Two: Recovering from Drought

Trees and shrubs by Rich Pearson, Five Rivers MetroParks

Perennials and roses by John Scott, Knollwood Garden Center

Rejuvenating the soil by Wes Duren, Marvin’s Organic Gardens

Session Three: Power Flower Gardening

Power perennials by Megan Croswell, Five Rivers MetroParks

Power annuals – the best and easiest to grow, by Pam Bennett, Ohio State University

Planning and growing a three-season cutting garden, by Teresa Jones, MeadowView Growers

Dr. Lee Reich returns, thanks to popular demand, to give the afternoon address on “weedless gardening.” “This technique protects the soil, contributes to plant health, reduces water needs, cuts down on a gardener’s labor, encourages earthworms and, of course, mitigates weed problems by keeping the seeds dormant,” Hoevel said.

Skills learned at the Miami Valley Gardening Conference can be applied to vegetable gardening, as well as landscaping. “We have community gardening leaders attend and learn more about green gardening methods,” Hoevel said. “Vegetables and fruits are still plants and there are methods you can apply to ensure you have a fruitful garden all season long. Herbs also make for attractive – and edible – landscaping.”

Environmentally friendly gardening practices aren’t just time and money savers, it’s great for native wildlife. “Plants and animals live in a symbiotic relationship,” Hoevel explained. “Animals get food and shelter from the plants and, in return, plants get pollinated or their seeds are dispersed. Native animals have evolved to rely on native plants, so using natives in your gardens or landscape is beneficial to those creatures.”

The other threat to incorporating exotic plants is that they may be invasive. Invasive plants out-compete native species for resources, which can force out native plants and leave the wildlife that relies on those plants without food or homes. “Five Rivers MetroParks is aggressively removing invasive species from parks and conservation areas,” Hoevel said. “We have lots of volunteer opportunities here and ways to get involved.” For an overview of conservation practices, including invasive species control and upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit the Conservation Expo from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 23, at Cox Arboretum MetroPark.

For more information and to register for the Miami Valley Gardening Conference, visit metroparks.org/conference or call 937.277.6545.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com

Experience the great outdoors … indoors!

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:30:59 +0000

Adventure Speaker Series inspires attendees to “Get Out and Live”

By Val Beerbower

When winter has the Miami Valley in its grip, it gets easier to hunker down on the sofa and channel surf. But if the idea of “adventure” has amounted to no more than Iron Chef marathons, perhaps it’s time to shake things up a bit. Five Rivers MetroParks has teamed up with Wright State University to present the Adventure Speaker Series. The lineup of local and national adventurers should be enough to ply people from their couch cushions and into the auditorium at either Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark or the student union at Wright State University.

The action kicked off Jan. 8 with Dayton-native Eleanor Moseman describing her 15,000-mile bicycling journey across Asia. Up next is a film featuring athletes who overcame physical limitations to take their adventures to the next level. “The Movement: One Man Joins an Uprising” will play from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 17, at Wright State University. “Sometimes in the middle of winter, it can seem like warm weather will never return,” said Outdoor Development and Special Events Coordinator Tom Helbig. “We put on the Adventure Speaker Series and biennial Adventure Summit during winter to get people inspired to ‘Get Out and Live,’ and we chose this lineup of speakers to demonstrate how it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, you can experience a great adventure or at least get a taste of what it’s like through our speakers’ presentations.”

The Adventure Speaker Series is a biennial event, switching off between years with The Adventure Summit. Similar to the speaker series, The Adventure Summit features presentations about outdoor adventure, plus retail exhibitors and activities to try. The 2012 Adventure Summit featured kayaking, wall climbing, yoga and other fitness activities to try, plus competitions and a keynote address by Gary Fisher, the “father” of mountain biking. The next Adventure Summit will take place in February 2014 at Wright State University. The next outdoor adventure event scheduled is the Midwest Outdoor Experience, which takes place Oct. 4-5, 2013, at Eastwood MetroPark.

Outdoor recreation fans can keep up-to-date on the latest activities and events by “liking” the “Get Out & Live” page on Facebook (facebook.com/MetroParksRecreation), or subscribing to the outdoor recreation e-newsletter. Visit metroparks.org/parkways to get to the publication page, and use the form on the right-hand side to subscribe to any Five Rivers MetroPark newsletter.

The Adventure Speaker Series is free to attend. Parking is available at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark and Wright State University. For more information, including maps, directions and links to the speakers, visittheadventuresummit.com or call 937.277.4374.

“THE MOVEMENT: ONE MAN JOINS AN UPRISING”

Jan. 17, 7 p.m. Wright State University, Apollo Room, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.

“The Movement” is the story of one man returning to the mountain where his life was changed forever. He receives inspiration in his quest from four people who overcame physical disabilities to discover the freedom of movement. Peppered with humor and drama, this is a story of people who face adversity with an intense inner fire. Following the movie, a panel of local adaptive skiing experts will discuss how their lives have been impacted by sport.

HENRY DORFMAN: ALASKA, A KAYAK EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME

Jan. 24, 7 p.m. Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave.

Henry Dorfman is a co-founder of Paddlefest Cincinnati and founder of Cincypaddlers.org, the largest local paddling club in the country with over 2,200 members. In that capacity, he has led hundreds of sea kayak and whitewater paddling trips from Canada to Central America and from the Atlantic to the Pacific. In 2011, he set a record by kayaking on all five Great Lakes within a span of five consecutive days.

CHRISTINE PLEPYS: UP AND AROUND MOUNT RAINIER

Jan. 30, 7 p.m. Wright State University, Apollo Room

In 2004, Christine successfully and miserably climbed Mt. Rainier during a six-day climbing seminar with RMI Guides. The question of how well she does at high altitudes was answered: “Bad!” In 2008, she went back to happily backpack around the mountain on the lower elevation Wonderland Trail, which became one of her favorite trails. Come take the journey “Up and Around Mt. Rainier!”

MAJKA BURHARDT: ADDITIVE ADVENTURE

Feb. 7, 7 p.m. Wright State University, Apollo Room

What’s “Additive Adventure”? It’s the term the Adventure Speaker Series’ featured speaker uses when adventure extends beyond exploration to create cultural and environmental connection. From climbing impeccable first ascents in Namibia, to climbing vertical grass for science in Mozambique to treading the fine line of vertical legality in Ethiopia and Cuba, Additive Adventure takes a global look at the individual’s role in larger issues and communities. Can the grandest adventure create the smallest conversation with the largest impact? Can being a global citizen begin with a climb? Can your passion lead you to your greatest impact? If you said yes, then we’re all bound for a more globally integrated tomorrow.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com

At last! The perfect gift!

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 14:30:41 +0000

PNC 2nd Street Market offers unique holiday shopping options

By Val Beerbower

Gift giving is a staple component of the holiday season, and nothing sends one into a state of panic faster than trying to come up with a thoughtful gift for the “list stumpers.” List stumpers are those friends, family members or co-workers for whom you care, but might not know very well. For example, your daughter simply adores her third grade teacher, but she’s not exactly on your speed dial. You could opt for the popcorn tin standby, except the tin is often the most edible part of that gift. Another instance might be a workplace gift exchange. You drew Ed’s name, but you hardly exchange words except for awkward chit-chat while waiting to use the microwave in the lunch room. Do you go for the gift card to the chain restaurant across the street from your office park and make it obvious you both have nothing in common?

This year, go for something fun, unique and local! Shop the 40-plus vendors at the PNC 2nd Street Market and find a handmade, thoughtful gift that will brighten the holidays for your list stumper and for the family of the local merchant or farmer. Here are a few suggestions for themed gifts that are sure to rock the stockings off any mantle:

-Gifts for Her: Earring set from Missing Peace Art Space, all-natural whipped bath butter from Living Simply Soap, hand-knitted shawl from Brenner Creations, imported handbag from The Asian Collection or a handcrafted necklace from Decoy Art Boutique.

-Gifts for Him: Stainless steel Tiffin lunch kit from A Greener You, handmade wallet from Fabric Art Creations, durable wool socks from New World Alpaca Textiles, or “just for him” all-natural bar soap from Living Simply Soap.

-For the Foodie: gourmet olive oil and vinegar from The Olive Tree, mild, medium or hot salsa from Walt’s Homemade Salsa, Amish favorites from Maria’s Unique Food, dark, high-grade maple syrup from Dohner’s Maple Camp, dried fruit and nut snacks from Spice Rack and Bulk Foods or pot holders or trivets from MONCO Enterprises.

-For the Nature Lover: Pruning shears from Wegerzyn Gift and Garden Shop, decorative bird feeder from A Bird’s Paradise or Peruvian gourd artwork from La Alpaca Place.

The Market is a great place to stop for last-minute party items. Got a party after work and you didn’t have time to whip up a side dish? Grab an artisanal salad from The Chef Case or grab-and-go sides from Azra’s Mediterranean Cuisine. Bring dessert from Thistle Confection, Sweet Nothings, Desserts by Anne K., Aunt Saundra’s Fudge or Kolb’s Bakery. (You can even get gluten-free options!) Grab a loaf of crusty bread from Big Sky Bread Co. or Rahn’s Artisan Breads and serve it with a flavor-packed olive oil from The Olive Tree. Surprise your host or hostess with a bouquet from The Flowerman, perhaps with a decorative vase from Jon Graham Pottery. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of vino from The Wine Gallery!

If you’re hosting your own holiday get-together, why not depart from the expected and create a memorable menu? The Olive Tree’s sweet-flavored balsamic vinegars make a surprisingly tasty accompaniment with fruit. Preorder scrumptious spring rolls from Baan Thai Noi. Have an ethnic-inspired feast with lamb from KJB Farms rubbed with a Moroccan spice blend from Spice Rack and Bulk Foods. Take home a tray of Arepas & Co. meat or cheese-filled corn cakes.

Need a few stocking stuffers to round out your perfectly planned present? Pet parents will love treats for their furry friends from Animal Snackers Bakery. (Bonus: profits from this booth support the Humane Society of Greater Dayton!) Coffee enthusiasts will get a “kick” out of free-trade, flavored coffee from Caffeine. Shop Pure Beginning for organic and all-natural baby items that are sure to be a hit with new moms and parents-to-be. Another great gift is just a few blocks from the Market – passes and gift certificates to MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape MetroPark will keep your list stumpers active and having fun all throughout winter. Family passes (covering admission and rentals for up to five people) are available for $75 and individual passes are on sale for $40. Visit metroparks.org/icerink for the full schedule, upcoming programs and more information. Purchase passes and gift certificates when the rink is open.

No matter who your list stumper is, you can find a thoughtful gift to fit any budget – and invest in the local economy – when you shop the PNC 2nd Street Market. Visit the Market from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Visit metroparks.org/holidays for a list of seasonal specials.

Reach DCP freelance writer Val Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com

Get out and skate!

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 14:00:43 +0000

MetroParks Ice Rink Opens at Riverscape

By Valerie Beerbower

The holidays are a special time when family and friends gather to celebrate and create memories together. Often, that includes food and beverage indulgences that can really pack on the pounds. But Five Rivers MetroParks offers a solution that will still give families the quality time they desire, combined with a recreational experience in a fun atmosphere. MetroParks Ice Rink, located under the pavilion at RiverScape MetroPark in downtown Dayton, offers skate rentals, ice sports programs, lessons, special events and even private rentals.

Its location combines a scenic view of the Great Miami River and a vibrant urban atmosphere with downtown Dayton shopping, dining and entertainment options just steps away. “We unveiled the new skating rink in 2010 and it has been growing in popularity ever since,” said Urban Program Coordinator Kendra Foote. Find the daily operational schedule online at metroparks.org/icerink.

The rink will open the day after Thanksgiving – Nov. 23 – and stay open through the end of February. MetroParks Ice Rink is open daily with special hours during holidays. “This year, we’re also adding a few more options for families looking for a fun activity in a cool, downtown setting,” Foote said.

Monday through Thursday, there is no admission fee – those who bring their own skates during weekday hours can skate for free! Rentals are available for $5 during these weekday hours. Rentals run from preschool size eight to women’s size 11 and men’s size 15 in whole sizes. Admission on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays is $7 and includes the cost of skate rentals, if needed. Children ages three and under are free with a paying adult.

Dayton-area residents who miss the fun and camaraderie of summer softball leagues have a unique opportunity to get their friends and co-workers together for a winter league sport. Broomball is an on-ice sport that does not require skating. Similar to hockey, teams must score goals by moving from one end of the ice to the other with a goalie defending their net. Instead of a puck, broomball is played with plastic balls and sticks with plastic, webbed “brooms” are used in place of traditional hockey sticks. Teams are forming now for competitive and recreational leagues that play in the evening. Visit www.daytonbroomball.org/riverscape to sign up. Not ready to join the team? Check out a Try Broomball program, hosted by the Dayton Broomball Association. Another winter sport bringing brooms and ice together is curling. Learn how to play this Olympic sport Jan. 22, 29, and Feb. 5. Visit metroparks.org/skating for details on these programs and links to register for Try Broomball and Try Curling programs.

New programs just for families also were added to the lineup. Beginning Skate lessons take place every other Sunday and will be separated by age groups. On Jan. 15 and Feb. 19, parents will have a special opportunity to skate with their children, get their picture taken with ice rink mascot Parker the Penguin and enjoy a complimentary cup of hot chocolate during Mommy and Me (and Daddy, too!) programs. Check the current issue of ParkWays – delivered to Montgomery County homes and available at Five Rivers MetroPark facilities – for details on programs and how to register. Online registration for these and other programs is available at metroparks.org/skating.

Kick off the weekends on Friday nights at the rink for on-ice dance parties. DJs spin tracks for everything from pop to country to hits from the television show “Glee.” Visit metroparks.org/skating for information about upcoming theme nights.

Café Vélo will re-open for the skating season, featuring comfort foods, snacks and healthy fare, such as salads, wraps and soups. No trip to MetroParks Ice Rink is complete without a cup of hot chocolate to drink while sitting beside a glowing fire pit. Visit metroparks.org/riverscape and click on the “amenities” tab for the link to Café Vélo to find concession hours and the current menu.

Looking for a “cool” holiday party for your extended family or an unforgettable office get-together? Rent the rink from 6-8 p.m. on Sundays and Thursdays. The $300 fee includes 50 pairs of skates and 50 cups of hot chocolate. For an extra $75, you can have a special guest – Parker the Penguin! Dates fill quickly for these private rink rental functions, so be sure to book soon. Call (937) 275-PARK (7275) for more information or to make a reservation.

Another option for smaller get-togethers is a Parker Party. For $150, Parker Parties include 10 rink admissions and rentals, plus two 6-foot tables and chairs, invitations and envelopes, and a meal (hot chocolate, chips and a hot dog) from Café Vélo. Parker Parties make an ideal function for children’s birthdays and are available any day of the week, including weekends (except holidays). Book a Parker Party today by calling (937) 275-PARK (7275).

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com.

Fresh beyond the season

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 14:00:01 +0000

Food preservation techniques stretch out flavors of summer

By Val Beerbower

Crisp breezes, dazzling treetop displays, migrating birds and the re-emergence of sweaters and hoodies from the closets all indicate autumn has arrived. For our local farmers, that means the fall harvest is upon us, and if you love local farm markets like the PNC 2nd Street Market, you’ve already got your reusable shopping bags prepped and ready for Saturday morning.

This time of year, you’ll find the last of summer’s veggies, such as cucumbers, peppers, lettuce, kale, collards, turnips, garlic, onions and radishes. Seasonal favorites like squash varieties (butternut, acorn, spaghetti, pattypan and the ever-popular star of October, pumpkin), sweet potatoes and apples also are making their vibrant debut.

Get the most out of your fall harvest by canning and freezing your take from the Market. Here are a few tips and techniques that will stretch the fresh fall flavors you love into the winter months.

Water Bath Canning

For the casual home chef, this canning method is the easiest technique to learn. All you need are jars and tight-sealing lids (found in most major supermarkets) and a large stockpot.

Wash your jars and lids and keep them warm until you’re ready to use them. Quickly changing a glass container from cold to hot temperatures could result in the glass breaking.
Fill the containers with the item of your choice. Preserving salsa is a great way to enjoy seasonal vegetables all year long.
Use a spatula to move the food around (particularly if there is a lot of liquid) to remove air bubbles.
Place the lid on top and screw the neck ring down over the lid and edge of jar to form a tight seal.
Fill your stockpot with water so that the jars will be under an inch of water when submerged.
Using tongs, lower the jars into your stockpot filled with simmering water. Make sure all the jars have about an inch of water above them. Cover with a lid and heat to a boil.
Boil the jars between 30-40 minutes, depending on the type of food you’re preserving and the amount of liquid in the jar. (There are lots of great resources online that will help you find the perfect recipe for your preserving methods.)
Remove from heat and let the jars stand about 5 minutes in the water before removing them (use your tongs) to a cooling rack for another 12 hours.
Press the center of the lid; if it doesn’t give, you have canned your item properly. If not, no worries; just try again. Your preserved food should keep up to a year.

Pickling

You don’t need to use a water bath or a pressure cooker to preserve vegetables when you pickle them. Some popular pickling choices include cauliflower, carrots, cabbage and – as the nursery rhyme goes – peppers. Create brine with vinegar, water and herbs, adding sugar or other ingredients as prescribed by your recipe. Pack your vegetables and other ingredients tightly into the container and pour the brine into the jar, then seal tightly. Once you get the knack, you can make relishes, slaws and other tart sides that you can bring out in the colder months to give you a taste of summer.

Freezing

Frozen vegetables are easy to prepare at home. Take your favorite Market veggie and blanch it: Boil the vegetable for a few minutes then immediately halt the cooking process by immersing it in ice water. Dry the vegetable thoroughly and place it in a plastic bag. Be sure to remove all the air bubbles from the bag and seal the plastic bag.

You can try your hand at freezing other items, such as roasted squash. One fun tip is to chop your favorite combination of fresh herbs, then fill slots of an ice cube tray about half and half with water and herbs. Then freeze your “herb-cubes” and pop out as many cubes as you need to add a fresh burst of flavor to the final stages of your recipes.

Drying

Dehydrating your fruits and vegetables is another easy way to preserve the fall harvest. Remove any inedible parts of the vegetable or fruit, such as the pit, skin or core. Take your Market produce and blanch it as in the instructions for freezing. This quick cooking step will stop enzymes and other organisms from spoiling your food. Slice the blanched products thinly (about a quarter or an inch). If you’re drying a product that may discolor, like apples, consider spritzing them with a solution of ascorbic acid and water. Lemon juice diluted with water is a great option. If you don’t have a food dehydrator, you can use your oven. Place the produce slices on a rack or directly on a cookie sheet. Set your oven to its lowest temperature (140-170 degrees) and prop the door open slightly to allow the moisture to escape. You’ll need to leave the oven on at this low setting for up to several days, so save this technique for a weekend when you don’t need to leave the house.

With all these recipes, you’ll want to find a recipe that works best with your favorite produce and your family’s favorite meals. Preserving fresh fruits and vegetables shouldn’t be intimidating; there are plenty of helpful resources and how-to videos available online or at your local library. Ask the Market vendors for tips, too! Just be sure to follow the food preparation guidelines and be certain you’re preparing food for storing in a clean environment.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com.

Get out and live!

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 14:05:33 +0000

The Midwest Outdoor Experience at Eastwood MetroPark

By Valerie Beerbower

Six years ago, outdoor recreation enthusiasts gathered in the parking lot at what is now the PNC 2nd Street Market and hosted a gear swap. Equipment was sold, new friends were made and good times were had by all. Then the event gained traction and added exhibitors, activities and quickly outgrew the Market. After GearFest moved to Eastwood MetroPark, it exploded into a weekend-long festival celebrating all things outdoors. In addition to claiming 12,000 attendees at the 2011 event, GearFest attracted national attention, nabbing big-time sponsors like Subaru, Yakima, Eddie Bauer and Subway. It became clear the event was so much more than gear.

For the 2012 iteration, the name was changed from GearFest to the Midwest Outdoor Experience to better reflect the nature of the event. This year’s recreation celebration is taking place Friday, Oct. 5, through Saturday, Oct. 6, at Eastwood MetroPark, 1385 Harshman Road, in Dayton.

Festival-goers will discover a world of outdoor adventure waiting for them in Dayton, the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest.” Check out high-flying demos, thrilling competitions and hands-on activities that allow participants to try new recreational pursuits. There’s something for everyone at this free, family-friendly festival – even pets! Dogs can romp freely off-leash on Subaru Pooch Island, and Rover can compete head-to-tail against other dogs in the Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs competition.

From camping to biking to kayaking, the whole family can get engaged. On-site exhibitors will hook patrons up with gear they need to “Get Out & Live,” and local clubs and other outdoor adventure resources onsite will help patrons connect to local events and activities year-round. Try a new outdoor activity or watch the experts perform during demos and competitions. Visit outdoorx.org and click on the “Things to Experience” link under the “Get Active” menu to see the full lineup of outdoor activities.

The Midwest Outdoor Experience, presented by Subaru, includes activities for all ages, but kids will find a special place to hang out at the Subway Fresh Fit Youth Adventure Zone. Older attendees can relax with a craft brew from the beer garden. The Midwest Outdoor Experience also partnered with the Dayton Music Fest to bring local performers to the stage. Check out food trucks and other meal vendors to refuel in between trying new adventure pursuits. Find the entertainment lineup, food vendors (including vegetarian options), exhibitor information and more by visiting outdoorx.org and making a selection from the “Get Culture” menu.

Returning this year is the Gibbon USA National Slackline Championships. Festival fans will remember this favorite event from last year, and those new to the sport may recall seeing U.S. pro Andy Lewis performing at the 2012 Super Bowl Halftime Show. Slacklining is one part tightrope walking, one part freestyle skateboarding and one part gymnastics. Anyone still scratching their head at this concept should watch the video on outdoorx.org. Festival-goers can try it for themselves or watch the pros in the competition.

Admission and parking are free, but the success of this annual event depends on sponsorships and contributions from patrons. The suggested donation for this action-packed weekend is $5. Stay the weekend and “rough it” in the Eddie Bauer campground (sites are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis) or take weekend residence at the Crowne Plaza, located near the Oregon District, just minutes from Eastwood MetroPark. Campers can wake to a continental breakfast and a Go w/The Flow yoga session.

In homage to the event’s inception, exhibitors round out the fun at the Midwest Outdoor Experience, presented by Subaru. Find great deals on gear plus connect with local clubs. Now anyone can “Get Out & Live” all year long.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com.

Taking root

Valerie Beerbower — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:30:09 +0000

Reforestation Efforts Help Create Healthy Habitats

By Val Beerbower

Within the past 100 years, Ohio’s vast forests have been reduced to small woodlots and narrow woodlands along streams. These fragmented forests are especially vulnerable to invasive bugs like emerald ash borer and invasive shrubs like Amur honeysuckle. The good news is that Five Rivers MetroParks has protected many of the best remaining mature forests in Montgomery County, and most are in pretty good condition despite the challenges facing them.

On the not-so-good side, new forests are not being generated that have the diversity and complexity of older ones. For a variety of reasons – including too many deer, invasive species and poor seed distribution – many important trees such as oaks, hickories and dogwoods are not reproducing well in our area. Forests are kind of like kids; the best time to influence them is when they are young. If a diverse stand of trees can be established in old fields, they have a chance of someday maturing into forests that can host a diversity of plant and animal life.

“We actually have the opportunity to start the forests of the future,” explained Conservation Director Dave Nolin. “Since we are choosing which trees to plant, we can enhance our forests’ biodiversity.”

Biodiversity is a qualitative measure of any habitat, including forests. The greater a forest’s diversity of native trees, the more varieties of wildlife it can support. So far this year, more than 67,000 trees were planted in Five Rivers MetroParks. About 35,000 of these were planted at the new Great Miami River Wetland Mitigation Bank near Trotwood. As you may recall, this site was a former 550-acre farm that was scheduled to be a landfill.

“Instead, Five Rivers MetroParks stepped in and now that area is being restored to wetland, forest and prairie,” said Conservation Biologist Mike Enright. “The mitigation bank is now a sustainable project that offers developers a site to get wetland credits, which are a requirement if anyone wants to build on a site where a wetland will be displaced. The developer pays a one-time fee, and Five Rivers MetroParks will maintain this viable habitat, making it a win-win-win for conservation, local development and the community, who will benefit from this being transformed into a future MetroPark.”

The trees planted at the Great Miami River Wetland Mitigation Bank can easily be seen from Little Richmond Road looking north between Snyder and Lutheran Church roads. Another 20,000 trees were planted at the Medlar Conservation Area by the contractor JF New. The former farm is in the process of being transformed into a forested area with the end goal of making a new MetroPark.

“This project, called the Shepard’s Run Reforestation Project, was paid for with the help of the Clean Ohio Fund,” Nolin said. “To see this planting area, park at the small parking lot for the Medlar Conservation Area, located at 5040 Medlar Road, near Austin Landing. Park on the west side of the road and walk down the gravel lane on the east side of Medlar Road to see this new forest under construction.”

Volunteers provided an invaluable resource for Five Rivers MetroParks. Without support from volunteers, large-scale projects like the reforestation initiative would prove far more challenging. To date, about 12,000 trees have been planted by MetroParks volunteers.

“These trees were germinated at Cox Arboretum MetroPark by park technician Meredith Cobb with the help of selected MetroParks Tree Corps volunteers,” said Conservation Volunteer Coordinator Yvonne Dunphe.

The trees were then “adopted” by volunteers who took care of trays of the young seedlings at their homes for the summer as part of the Forest Foster Family Program. In 2011 and again this spring and summer, volunteers poured into Cox Arboretum MetroPark and took home a flat of about 20 seedlings they nurtured until the posted return date.

“We would need more greenhouse space to care for all these little trees, so we’re really appreciative of volunteers helping to maintain the seedlings until we’re ready to stick them in the ground and begin their new life as part of a MetroParks forest,” she said.

Seedlings grown during the 2011 Forest Foster Family program got their start in several MetroParks, when Seedling Saturdays swept across the Miami Valley. Volunteers planted trees at Carriage Hill, Germantown and Sugarcreek MetroParks, as well as the Medlar and Shoup Mill conservation areas.

“Where there was a field of honeysuckle, now you see an infusion of blue and white tubes,” Dunphe said. The tubes, also called tree shelters, protect the seedlings, whose tender leaves are a favorite snack for deer and other herbivores. Their shape and light penetration also encourages more rapid growth.

Take part in this innovative and massive reforestation effort! Visit metroparks.org/forests to learn more about reforestation efforts and sign up for volunteer activities online. The next big volunteer phase includes seed and nut collection this fall to germinate the next wave of seedlings. More details are available online.

Reach DCP freelance writer Valerie Beerbower at ValerieBeerbower@DaytonCityPaper.com.