There's plenty to do in the Johnny Appleseed Parks during the winter months.
There are 17 parks in the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District and naturalist Dan Hodges told us that there are plenty of activities taking place in all the parks all year long. Dan says that with 30 miles of trails, hiking opportunities abound; nearly every park has hiking trails with surfaces ranging from grass to wood chips to stone and/or asphalt. He encourages us to bundle up and explore the trails, paying special attention to the plants and animals that thrive even during the winter time. Dan says the skunk cabbage will begin to bloom in a few weeks and will attract insects and pollinators. This is also the favorite time for moss to reproduce. The lichen and fungi are also thriving now, and without leaves on the trees it's easier to see animals like squirrels, birds and deer which abound in the parks. Dan says bald eagles are mating now and building their nests and it's not unusual to see them in the parks. "Life is not dormant in the winter. It's harder to access. But you can still go outside and see it." Dan says you can also enjoy sledding, skating and cross country skiing in the parks during the winter months and it's a great time to get out with your camera and capture some beautiful winter photos. If you'd rather enjoy the parks from the comfort of your home, you can join the park district on social media for virtual walks, video from trail cams and even drone flights through the parks.
Also at Monday's meeting, Mike Swick presented the proceeds from the Fall Blood Clinic to the Lima Rotary Foundation in the amount of $5,836.
Andy Farley reported that the Christmas Auction raised more than $6,000.
Demi Burden told us the Special Needs Christmas Party was a success with 19 children and their families in attendance.
We also inducted Chris Garlock, the new General Manager of Hofeller, Hiatt and Clark, to the Lima Rotary Club. Welcome, Chris!
