summer 2015 the june · july · august...

S ta r s i n t he Mak ing –Henning von Schmeling

We always enjoy seeing the first butterfly of the season but not many stop and wonder how such a beautiful creature be-came a butterfly. First you have to have the right host plant for the adults to lay their eggs on, in the case of the Question Mark Butterfly that would be Nettles. The eggs are neatly deposited in stacks on the underside of the leaf. As the cat-erpillars hatch the first thing they do is to eat the egg shell, a great source of protein. As the caterpillars grow they must shed their skins five times since their skin does not grow with the increasing body size. When fully grown they will find a suitable shelter and pupate, turning into a chrysalis. After a couple of weeks they will emerge as the adult butterfly and start the whole cycle over again. Not only do we need to appreciate the adult butterfly but we must find the beauty in the entire life cycle and look for the stars in the making.

photos courtesy of Henning von Schmeling

Kingfishera publication of the Chattahoochee Nature Center

THESUMMER 2015

June · July · August

www.chattnaturecenter.org

Bu t t e r f l y En coun te r J u n e 8 - J u l y 3 1Mondays – Saturdays

10 AM - 4:30 PMSundays

Noon - 4:30 PMIncluded with General Admission

and FREE for CNC Members

All ages are sure to be amazed at the hundreds of butterflies that float above your

head and fly below your nose. It’s easy to get up close to the butterflies, and you even have a chance to feed them using a nectar stick. Each of the species in the encounter

is native to Georgia.

Be sure to bring your camera, the Butterfly Encounter is an exhibit

where memories are made.

SPONSORED BY

photo courtesy of John Dekker

Exclusive Members-Only HoursSunday, June 28 and Sunday, July 26

11 AM – Noon

story continued on the next page

Milkweeds and Monarchs (Danaus plexippus) have been talked about now for several years and the connection between the two is a very important one. The Monarch Butterfly will only lay their eggs on the many species of milkweed found in North America. Milkweeds will be found in all kinds of habitats, from the desert landscape in the southwest, to the sub-tropical areas of the south to the boreal forests in the north. There is even a species that is found growing in water. Here in Georgia we have 24 species and 4 sub species of native milkweeds. Several of them are very rare and can only be found in very specific habitats, while others, like the Butterfly Weed, are found throughout the state.

The Monarch is not the only butterfly dependent on milkweeds. Two other species in the milk-weed butterfly family, the Queen Butterfly and the Soldier Butterfly must have milkweeds to survive as well. But only the Monarch migrates from central Mexico to the Northern parts of the US every year. This migration has been enjoyed for many years and has become a topic in the news lately. Scientists use modern technology like satellite imagery to determine the population size of the migratory Monarchs by analyzing land area covered in the overwintering sites in central Mexico. This is measured in hectares (one hectares equals around 2.5 acres). Since the study began in 1994 the all-time high was observed in the winter of 1996/97 with 18.19 hectares covered to an all-time low in the winter of 2013/14 of only 0.67 hectares. The winter of 2014/15 showed a slight increase again to 1.13 hectares.

More information can be found at this link:www. monarchjointventure.org/news-events/news/2015-population-update-and-estimating-the-number-of-overwintering-monarchs .

photos courtesy of Henning von Schmeling

A Message From the Executive Director Connect with Nature

Published by the Chattahoochee Nature Center This community supported non-profit organization was founded in 1976. The Mission of the Chattahoochee Nature Center is to provide unique learning experiences focused on the Chattahoochee River that connect people to the natural world and empower them to positively impact their local environments.

Board of TrusteesMaureen Cowie, PresidentRichard Jacobson, Vice PresidentMid Thorne,TreasurerLillian Furlow, Secretary

Mike Abreau Trey Almond Diane Barton Tanya BlalockSeth Chapman Todd DolsonDutch EarleBob HaganHarriette HoytLisa HydeGary A. Ludi, M.D.Jon McKeeRandy PattersonKathleen PhelpsSally RikerNelson SextonJim StokesJay SuttonLou TabickmanKathi WurzelKeith ZiobronC. Max Zygmont

CNC Senior StaffExecutive Director Chris NelsonCommunity Programs Rebecca GilbertCommunity Relations/MarketingLynn McIntyre DevelopmentDeAnn Fordham EducationTom HowickFinanceKaren Ewing Operations & HorticultureHenning von Schmeling Department Phone Listings(770) 992-2055Adult Programs, x237Birthday Parties, x249Camp Kingfisher, x232, x222Canoe Programs, x237 Community Service/Facilities, x247Donations/Fundraising/Grants/Races, x226Education, x235Facility Rentals, x 250Festivals/Happenings/Programs, x 236Group Sales, x254Horticulture/Grounds, x225Marketing/Graphics & Print/Website, x224Membership, x225Nature Exchange, x258Nature Store, x238Offsite Programs, x246Public Relations/Community Affairs, x224Scheduling, x237School Programs, x235Scout Programs, x249Visitor Service Desk, x238Volunteers, x223Wildlife Assistance, x239

The Kingfisher

2 Paula Herr, Editor/Designerfor The Kingfisher

The Metro Atlanta area is very fortunate to have so many nonprofits working towards making the communities we live in and the surrounding natural world a better place for us and our grandchildren. I also believe one of the marks of a great organization is its ability to recognize its own strengths and weaknesses and the willingness to collaborate with other like- minded partners who may have similar missions. This year, the Chattahoochee Nature Center is partnering with the Captain Planet Foundation. We are growing garden vegetable starter plants that will be used in schools throughout the Atlanta region. We are also growing six species of native milkweed for Monarchs Across Georgia in an effort to improve the food source for one of the world’s most amazing butterflies. In August, CNC is partnering with the Elachee Nature Center in Gainesville to host the Association of Nature Center Administrators Conference. This is the first time this event will be held in the Southeast.

I also want to mention that in July, CNC will celebrating our 39th year. We are in the process of planning a great 40th Anniversary program for 2016. We continue to have a great story to tell. I hope all of you who may have played a part in making CNC the wonderful place it is today will reach out to us and tell us your stories and share your pictures.

ChrisNelson

Executive Director

Got M i lkweed?Milkweed’s connec tion to the Monarch Butter fly and other royals –Henning von Schmeling

Monarch numbers have plummeted in recent years and it is hard to point at just one cause. Cold weather in the over wintering grounds has killed many monarchs. Here in the US, large scale agriculture, herbicide and pesticide use have been blamed for the decline in milkweeds and the habitat they need. Increased infec-tions by parasites, like Oe (short for Ophryocystis elektro-scirrha) may have increased mortality in Monarchs and Queen Butterflies worldwide.

The cultivation of the tropical milkweed (Asclepias cu-rassavica) recently has been in the news about possibly disrupting the migration of the butterflies to Mexico and also may be the cause of increased Oe infections. Even scientists are still not sure about this. The best thing to do is to do the research and come up with your own conclu-sion of how you can help Monarchs. Karen Oberhauser, Monarch expert with Journey North, has posted some interesting information on many of these issues at this link: www.learner.org/jnorth/tm/monarch/ExpertAnswer14.html

Here at the Nature Center we are slowly phasing out Tropical Milkweed, an annual that dies back for us every winter, and replacing them with native milkweeds. Currently we are growing 12 of the species found in Georgia and are hoping to add many more over the coming years. Many of these will be available to the public at our Flying Colors Butterfly Festival in June (please see page 4).

We have also partnered with Monarchs Across Georgia (MAG) and are contract growing many milkweeds for them to distribute throughout the state. By partnering with MAG we increase the distribution to the gardeners throughout the state and hope to be able to provide habitat specific species for all of Georgia.

Monarch adult enjoying some nectar in the garden

Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), one of the easiest milkweeds to grow in the garden

Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa), the most wide spread milkweed species in Georgia

Green Milkweed (Asclepias viridiflora) is not just great for the Monarch but also to many other pollinating insects

Sighted

on the

Visit today andsee what you’ll find on CNC’s

127 beautiful acres!

Muskrats along the boardwalk

Passionflower in the Butterfly Garden

Connect with Nature

3

photo courtesy of Lisa Cole

Purple Martins arriving in the wetlands from their South America

wintering grounds

photo courtesy of Allaboutbirds.org

photo courtesy of FactZoo.com

story continued from page two

Summer Outdoor Scavenger HuntThroughout JuneTake a walk through time. Follow the signs on our trail to learn about life on earth starting 4.6 billion years ago. The further you walk, the closer you get back to life as it is today.

Famous Animals Throughout JuneAnimals are famous in many movies and shows. Come learn about these creatures in the spotlight and their wild cousins to see where they got their start. What do you think made them famous?

Creature CreationThroughout JuneGet creative and design an animal with our animal building blocks. Then, think like a director and make your animal a star by writing about your animal in a setting or scene. You can even earn NEX points for a well-written story.

June - Nature’s Casting Call

Thursdays, June 11 & 256-9 PMAll Ages

Included with General Admissionand FREE for CNC Members

Stroll CNC after-hours! Listen to live acoustic music from local musicians,

grab a beverage (beer and wine available for purchase), and enjoy our 127 acres

under the summer sunset. Our Butterfly Encounter will be open until 8 PM.

Sunse t S ip s - Bu t t e r f l y N igh t s

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Programs in the Nature Exchange (NEX) are Included with general admission and free to CNC members unless otherwise stated.

Paddling Adventures

• Live Butterfly ReleasesSaturday: 11AM and 1:30 PM

Sunday: 1:30 and 3:30 PM

• Butterfly EncounterThis exhibit will be extended

through July 31

• Butterfly Plant Sale

• Live Entertainment

• Crafts & Face Painting

• Food Trucks

• Butterfly Costume Parade

• Pollinator Exhibitors & Vendors

F ly ing Co lors But ter f ly Fes t iva lSaturday, June 6 (10 AM-3 PM)

Sunday, June 7 (Noon-5 PM)

River Canoe Trips (Saturdays & Sundays)

Private Canoe Excursions (2 weeks advance registration)

Beginning Canoeing (June 21 and June 27)

Pre-Father’s Day Paddle (June 14)

Summer Solstice Paddle (June 20)

Date Night on the River (June 26)

AdvanceRegistration

Required

Learn more:www.chattnaturecenter.org

(770) 992-2055 X237

Join us when butterflies take the center stage at this year’s annual festival.ADMISSION: $12 General Public, $8 CNC Members, Ages 2 and under free

Regularly Scheduled EventsThe Chattahoochee:

Re-Imagine Our RiverFilm Showings: Mondays-Fridays, 1 PM

Saturdays, 11:30 AM & 3:30 PMSundays, 12:30 & 3:30 PM

Cool MoviesFilm Showings: Mondays-Fridays, 2 PM

Artists in the WildTuesdays, 10 AM-1 PM

Wildlife Feeding TimeTuesdays & Saturdays, 4 PM

Story Time by the River Wednesdays, 10:30 AM

Creature FeatureThursdays & Fridays, 11 AM & 4 PM

Saturdays & Sundays, 2 PM

River Canoe Trips*Saturdays & Sundays, 6 PM

Trail HikesSaturdays & Sundays, 1 PM

Animal EncounterSundays, 4 PM

June Calendar Events

Programs for All Ages at CNC

*Programs requiring registration: (770) 992-2055, x 237

[email protected]

Woodland Restoration ProjectSunday, June 2810 AM-1 PM, Ages 5-Adult, Register by June 20

Come help us restore the woodlands. We will be working to remove invasive English ivy and privet in and around our woodlands in order to encouragenative plant restoration.

To register, send an email to: [email protected].

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Tuesday, June 2Pee-Wee Naturalist Spring Series*

Saturday, June 6 and 7Flying Colors Butterfly Festival

June 8-July 31Butterfly Encounter

Thursday, June 11Sunset Sips

Sunday, June 14Possum Trot 10K*

Pre-Father’s Day Paddle*

Tuesday, June 16Family Night with Camp Kingfisher*

Saturday, June 20 Summer Solstice Paddle*

Medicinal Plants: Summer Session*

Sunday, June 21Beginning Canoeing*

Breakfast with Butterflies* Rhythms on the River - concert series (see pg 10)

Thursday, June 25Sunset Sips

The Nature Club Dine & Discover*

Friday, June 26Date Night on the River*

Saturday, June 27Beginning Canoeing*

Great American Backyard Campout*

Sunday, June 28Members-Only Hours (Butterfly Encounter)

Woodland Restoration Project*

Medicinal Plants: Summer SessionSaturday, June 20, 1-4 PM, Ages 16+; $30 General Public/$25 CNC Members

Lisa Cole & Carrie Redroot Radcliffe explore the world of medicinal plants on the Summer Solstice. Seasonally relevant herbal allies are highlighted, including Elder, Mints, Plantain, and St. John’s Wort. We will discuss the ethnobotanical uses, herbal actions, identifying characteristics, medicinal preparations, and recipes utilizing these abundant herbs.

The Nature Club Dine and Discover: Plants of the Muck & MireThursday, June 25; 7-9 PM, Ages 16+; $10 General Public/$5 CNC Members

Join us for our monthly potluck at 7pm and then our speaker, NPS Park Ranger and Naturalist, Jerry Hightower. Come and look at common wetland plants found in the wetlands along the Chattahoochee River. Discussion will include historic uses as medicine, dye, food, and fiber. Actual plant specimens will be used for our investigations.

Pee-Wee Naturalist Summer Series Tuesdays: June 2, July 7 and August 49:45-11 AM, Ages 3 & 4$50 General Public/$40 CNC Members Registration Required by May 28

Hands-on activities, a hike, and an animal encounter with one of our non-releasable animals, will give your child firsthand experience withNATURE’S CASTING CALL, NATURE’S SUPERHEROES, and NATURE SETTING THE SCENE.

Great American Backyard CampoutSaturday, June 27-Sunday, June 28, 5 PM-10 AM $50 General Public Families/$40 CNC Member Families (price per tent)

Registration Required by June 24 due to limited spaces

Enjoy a great outdoor experience while staying close to home. Bring a picnic with all the fixings, take photos that will last a lifetime, enjoy a campfire with marshmallows, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

Tuesdays in June - Artists in the WildRoswell Fine Arts Alliance is partnering with CNC to present Artists in the Wild, painters, sketchers, and pastelists spread out over CNC’s most picturesque locations, happening weekly. Mingle amongst the artists while they create scenesen plein air (in the fresh air.) Visitors are welcomed to observe their work, ask questions, and enjoy the final product.

Family Evenings with Camp KingfisherTuesdays on June 16, July 7, and July 215:30-7:30 PM $50 for General Public (price per family)/ $40 for CNC Members Please contact the camp office at (770) 992-2055 x222 Enjoy a peaceful evening with your family in nature with Camp Kingfisher. Cool off in the pool, go canoeing on Beaver Pond, bring a picnic dinner, and see a non-releasable hawk or owl.

F ly ing Co lors But ter f ly Fes t iva l

Breakfast with ButterfliesSunday, June 21; 9 -11 AMAges 16+ $20 General Public/$15 CNC Members; Register by June 18 (limited spaces)

Join us to enjoy a light breakfast, explore the grounds, and experience the Butterfly Encounter with a limited number of participants. The perfect opportunity for photographers!

Keystone Superheroes Throughout JulyKeystone species are animals that set the scene for many other plants and animals. You could even think of them as the lead actors in nature, or even the directors of ecology. Learn about these nature superheroes and how influential they are in their habitats.

Summer Indoor Scavenger Hunts June through AugustBeat the heat and come test your skills with our themed scavenger hunts. We’ll explore new themes each month this summer. Complete the scavenger hunt and earn NEX points.

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July - Summer Superheroes Programs for All Ages at CNC

• photo opportunities

• hundreds of butterflies

• native species

• feed butterflies

• nectar & host plants for sale


Superhero YOU Throughout July Dig into your dress-up collection and come dressed as your favorite superhero. Superheroes can earn bonus NEX points.

B u t t e r f l y E n c o u n t e r

SPONSORED BY

June 8 - July 31Mondays – Saturdays

10 AM - 4:30 PMSundays

Noon - 4:30 PM

Included with General Admission and FREE for CNC Members

Exclusive Members-Only HoursSunday, July 26, 11 AM-Noon

Breakfast with ButterfliesSunday, July 12, 10 AM-NoonAges 4 – Adult, $20 General Public/$15 CNC Members Register by July 7 (limited spaces)

Join us for a family friendly morning with exclusive access to the butterfly encounter. Enjoy breakfast treats and one-on-one time with butterflies.







Story Time by the River Wednesdays, 10:30 AM






July Calendar Events


[email protected]

7


Family Evenings with Camp Kingfisher, Tuesday, July 7, 5:30 - 7:30 PM, Register by July 5and Tuesday, July 21, 5:30 - 7:30 PM, Register by July 19$50 for General Public (price per family)/ $40 for CNC Members; contact the camp office at (770) 992-2055 x222 Enjoy a peaceful evening with you family in nature with Camp Kingfisher! Cool off in the pool, go canoeing on Beaver Pond, bring a picnic dinner, and see a non-releasable hawk or owl.

Test Your Senses Family Night Hike, Saturday, July 18; 8-10 PM$10 General Public/$7 CNC Members (advance); Day of $15 General Public/$10 CNC MembersSome moths have superhero-like skills and can predict an attack by a bat – one of its largest predators. How are your senses? Want to test them out at one of our CNC’s family night hikes? Come explore the sights and sounds.

Woodland Restoration Project, Sunday, July 26, 9 AM-Noon, Ages 5-Adult, Register by July 20 Come help us restore the woodlands to encourage native plant growth. Contact [email protected]

Artists in the Wild, Tuesdays in July, 10 AM-1 PMIncluded with General Admission and FREE to CNC MembersRoswell Fine Arts Alliance is partnering with CNC to present painters, sketchers, and pastelists as they spread out over CNC’s most picturesque locations. They will join us weekly. Mingle amongst the artists while they create scenes en plein air (in the open air). Visitors are welcomed to observe their work, ask questions, and enjoy the final artwork.

Sunset Sips - Butterfly Nights, Thursday, July 9, 6-9 PMIncluded with General Admission and FREE to CNC Members, please note there is no Sunset Sips on the 4th Thurday July 23All ages can stroll CNC after-hours. Grab a beverage (beer and wine available for purchase), hear live acoustic music from local musicians, and enjoy our 127 acres under the summer sunset. Our Butterfly Encounter will be open until 8 PM.

The Nature Club Dine and Discover, Thursday July 24, 7-9 PMFrogs and Toads Workshop with Michael Kahle $10 General Public/$5 CNC MembersJoin us for our potluck starting at 7PM and then our speaker – Michael Kahle. Mike is the Environmental Program Specialist with the Cobb County Watershed Stewardship Program and will lead the workshop. This workshop is intended to raise awareness of the rich biodiversity found where we live by highlighting our local frog species, and how to identify them by their calls.

Enjoy Canoe SeasonRiver Canoe Trips, Saturdays and SundaysJune, July and August, 6 PM - Dusk$30 General Public/$25 Members, Advance Registration Required by the Thursday Prior

Private Canoe ExcursionsTwo Weeks Advance Registration Required

Beginning CanoeingSaturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 19, 10 - 11:30 AM$15 General Public/$10 Members, Advance Registration Required by the Thursday Prior

Paddle and Hike at Gold Branch Park Sunday, July 12, 9 AM-1PMAges 18+, $40 General Public/$30 CNC Members, Register by July 10The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is made up of over a dozen parks along the river from Buford Dam to I-75. On this adults-only trip, we’ll explore the wetland marsh around the Gold Branch Unit by boat and by foot.

Date Night on the RiverFriday, July 31, 5-9 PMAges 18+, $40 General Public/$30 CNC Members, Register by July 29Get a babysitter and come relax with us on this adult-only evening paddle. We’ll open up the grounds early so you can bring a picnic dinner, and then our canoe guides will lead you on a 2 ½ hour sunset trip.

June 8 - July 31Butterfly Encounter

Tuesday, July 7Pee-Wee Naturalist Spring Series*

Family Evening with Camp Kingfisher*

Thursday, July 9Sunset Sips - Butterfly Nights

Saturday, July 11 Beginning Canoeing*

Sunday, July 12Breakfast with Butterflies*

Paddle and Hike at Gold Branch Park*

Saturday, July 18Test Your Senses Family Night Hike*

Sunday, July 19Beginning Canoeing*

Rhythms on the River - concert series (see pg 10)

Tuesday, July 21Family Evening with Camp Kingfisher*

July 23, 24, 29, 30, 31 Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s:

Almost Heaven concert at CNC (see pg 10)

Thursday, July 24The Nature Club Dine and Discover *

Sunday, July 26Woodland Restoration Project*

Friday, July 31Date Night on the River*

photo courtesy of Sam Chontos

AdvanceRegistration

Required

[email protected](770) 992-2055 X237

Setting the Scene Throughout August

“Quiet on the set!” That’s something you may hear on a movie set, but never in the scene of nature. Nature’s setting is full of sounds, sights, smells. Water, air, shelter, and sunlight – come learn about these abiotic elements of nature and how they help nature shine! We’ll high-light famous nature scenes from the movies – can you identify them?

Starring YOUThroughout August

The stage is set and you are the star! Act out a scene on our stage with you and your friends or family. You can even make your own stick puppet to be a character in your play.

Homeschool MondayOpen House

Monday, August 10, 2-3 PM, Ages 5 and upMeet some of the faces who will help lead our activities, ask questions, and get ready to learn with us. Homeschool Monday occurs regularly 2nd Monday of each month through May.

August - Setting the Scene Programs for All Ages at CNC

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Paddle with Chattahoochee RiverkeeperSaturday, August 15, 6-9:30 PM, Ages 18+$30 General Public/$25 MembersRegister by August 13

The Chattahoochee Riverkeeper advocates the protection and stewardship of the river, its tributaries and watershed. They’ll join us on this adults only evening trip, and share with us the political history of the Chattahoochee. We’ll end the night with conversation around the campfire.

Beginning CanoeingSaturday, August 22, 10-11:30 AM, Ages 5 – Adult$15 General Public/$10 MembersRegister by the Thursday preceeding (limited spaces)

Get your feet wet with our canoe guides on Beaver Pond! This 1 ½ hour introduction to canoeing is great for first time paddlers, families with young kids, or adults coming back to the sport. We’ll spend extra time going over paddling techniques and equipment, but will also provide races, games, and water squirters for those hot summer mornings. CNC provides all equipment for participants.

Paddling AdventuresSaturdays & Sundays in June, July & August, 6 pm - Dusk; Ages 6 to Adult

$30 General Public,$20 CNC Members, Register by the Thursday PriorThe Chattahoochee River is calling! Take an urban adventure and experience wildlife through a 2 ½ hour paddle down the ‘Hooch. Our experienced and knowledgeable river guides take you down river to see the sights and sounds of this river in the summer.


Water Day Sunday August 2, Noon - 4 PM

Water Day is a family-fun event that is included with general admission and FREE for CNC members.

• Bo the Bubbleologist • Water Crafts • Outdoor Games • Sidewalk Chalk • Showing of Award-Winning Documentary: Who Owns Water • WIN: Enter a drawing for a Canoe trip for 2

SPONSORED BY












August Calendar Events



[email protected]

9

August 1Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s:


Sunday, August 2Water Day

Tuesday, August 4Pee-Wee Naturalist Spring Series*

Wednesday, August 5Storytime by the River

August 6, 7, and 8Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s:


Monday, August 10Homeschool Monday Open House

Thursday, August 13Sunset Sips – River Reflections

Saturday, August 15Canoeing Merit Badge*

Paddle with Riverkeeper*

Sunday, August 16Docent Orientation

Rhythms on the River - concert series (see pg 10)

Saturday, August 22Beginning Canoe*

Sunday, August 23Environmental Science Merit Badge *

Saturday, August 29Woodland Restoration Project*

Thursday, August 27The Nature Club Dine and Discover*

Sunset Sips – River Reflections

Sunday, August 30STARLAB

Woodland Restoration ProjectSaturday, August 299 AM-Noon, Ages 5-Adult, Register by August 20

Come help us restore the woodlands. We will be working to remove invasive English ivy and privet in and around our woodlands in order to encourage native plant restoration. Please contact us to reserve a spot for your familyor group. To register, send an email to: [email protected].

Sunset Sips–River ReflectionsThursdays, August 13 and 27, 6-9 PMIncluded with General Admission and FREE to CNC Members

All ages can stroll CNC after-hours. Stroll CNC after-hours! Stop by the green roof to grab a beverage (beer and wine available for purchase), hear live acoustic music from local musicians, enjoy our 127 acres, plus view the new documentary “Who Owns Water.”

Artists in the WildTuesdays in August, 10 AM-1 PMIncluded with General Admission and FREE to CNC Members

Roswell Fine Arts Alliance is partnering with CNC to present painters, sketchers, and pastelists as they spread out over CNC’s most picturesque locations. They will join us weekly. Mingle amongst the artists while they create scenes en plein air (in the open air). Visitors are welcomed to observe their work, ask questions, and enjoy the final artwork.

Docent OrientationSunday, August 16, 12:30 - 5 PMAges 10 - adult (children 16 and under must have an adult)FREE, Register by August 7

In this introduction class, we will explore the various areas of education volunteering, including leading guided hikes,interpreting exhibits, and doing animal presentations.

The Nature Club Dine and DiscoverThursday August 27, 7-9 PMThe Georgia Conservancy with Bryan Schroeder $10 General Public/$5 CNC Members

Founded in 1967, the Georgia Conservancy has a rich history of working with private citizens, business, government and academia to preserve and protect the state’s natural resources. Bryan Schroeder, the Senior Director of Stewardship and Outreach, is a dynamic speaker who will discuss the history of the Georgia Conservancy and the many and varied outreach trips open to the public throughout each year

Environmental Science Merit Badge Sunday, August 23, Noon-5 PM, Ages 14 and up$30 per scout, Register by August 17 (limited spaces)

While earning the Environmental Science Merit Badge, our Certified Merit Badge Counselors will give the scouts a taste of what it is like to be an environmental scientist, making observations and carrying out experiments to investigate the natural world.

STARLABSunday, August 30,1-2 PMTwo, 25-minute presentations; Ages 6 – AdultIncluded with General Admission and FREE to CNC MembersBring in the full moon’s energy by visiting CNC’s own portable planetarium! Inside our portable round celestial theater, we’ll customize the night sky so that it projects the stars location for that very day. (Please note for small children the planetarium is completely dark.)

Thanks to Our 2011 Donors and SponsorsAfter-Hours Events at CNC

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Sunset Sips Sip. Socialize. Chill Outdoors.2nd and 4th Thursdays through September at CNC (excludes July 23)

June, July and August I 6-9 PM I September I 5:30-8:30 PM Experience CNC in a new and exciting way in this after-hours event. Stroll the CNC grounds and enjoy the beautiful evening sunset. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.Sunset Sips is included with General Admission and FREE to CNC Members.

Almost Heaven Georgia Ensemble Theatre at CNCJuly 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and August 1, 6, 7, 8 I 8 PMtGeorgia Ensemble Theatre invites you to relive the memories John Denver’s songs evoke in the beautiful outdoor surroundings of the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s Ben Brady Lakeside Pavillion.

Revel in Rocky Mountain High, Sunshine on My Shoulders, Annie’s Song, Leaving On A Jet Plane, and more under the stars and surrounded by nature!

Reserve seats, a table, or grab some lawn seats and bring your blankets - You don’t want to miss this encore production of one of our most successful and well-loved shows of all time.

Plus - all original cast members are returning to bring back the magicof this wonderful sell-out hit.Purchase ticket event pre-orders at: www.get.org.

Picnics catered by Talk of the Town.

Rhythms on the River 2015 Concert Series at CNCMonthly Concerts on Select Sundays I 6 PM

Concerts for Great Causes I Under the Stars at the Ben Brady Lakeside Pavilion Bring a picnic basket and dine during the show. Adult beverages available for purchase.

June 21 I The Reflections I A traditional 16 piece Big Band with vocalist

July 19 I Capital City XPress I Music of the Swing and Big Band era

August 18 I Pieces of Eight I A Shag Dance Party

Sept. 20 I Divas of Swing with the Jazz Jones Legacy I Jazz vocalists sing the music of legendary divas

Purchase tickets at: www.eventbrite.com/o/atlanta-plays-it-forward-7103493805

The Jazz Jones Legacy

Thanks to Our 2011 Donors and Sponsors

Welcome Bill Beers, CNC’s new Information Technology (IT) Manager. Bill brings 23 years of IT systems and web site development experience to the Nature Center team. He enjoys motorcycle riding in his spare time.and is a graduate of Troy State University of Montgomery. Bill lives in Cumming with his wife, Suzanne, and their daughters, Piper and Emma.

What’s Happening at CNC

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Meet CNC Staff: Bill Beers

Thursday, September 171-4 PM

The Corporate Eco Challenge is a team building opportunity that not only

creates a fun atmosphere for strengthening teams, but also provides an environmen-

tal learning opportunity about one of Atlanta’s most precious resources, the

Chattahoochee River and its watershed.

Only 6 Team Slots Available!

Awards Dinner, and Drinks immediatelyfollowing at CNC’s Lakeside Pavilion

Presented by

contact DeAnn Fordham (770) 992-2055 x226

[email protected].

Sunday, June 14Fun, flat and fast course along the banks

of the Chattahoochee River

Register online at Active.comIn-person at any Big Peach Running Co.

location or at CNCMail to CNC at P.O. Box 769769,

Roswell, GA 30076

Cost: $30 | Race Day Registration $40

All funds support CNC

Welcome Melody Calvo, CNC’s new bookkeeper & office administrator. Melody comes to the Nature Center from the Weber School, where she was their bookkeeper for the past 12 years. Melody enjoys photography, reading and crafts. She is a graduate of the University of Florida and lives in Marietta with her husband and 6-year-old son.

Meet CNC Staff: Melody Calvo

As part of the grand opening of their Alpharetta store off North Point Parkway, REI donated $10,000 to CNC to support our educational river canoe experiences that promote environmental awareness of the Chattahoochee River and its watershed.

Learn how your organization can contribute to CNC by contacting our Development Director, DeAnn Fordham at (770) 992-2055 x226 [email protected].

Thank You to REI for Your Generous Contribution

Cheryle and Bill are both CNC Life Members and Horticulture volunteers at CNC. They work with Henning von Schmeling, Lisa Cole, and Katie Gibson. Let’s learn a little about them and what they do at the Nature Center.

Where they live: Cheryle has lived in the East Cobb area since 1978. Bill has lived in Cobb county for the past 33 years.

Their favorite outdoor activities: Cheryle rates gardening as the top choice and has been a Master Gardener (MG) since1993.Bill enjoys hiking in the North Georgia mountains and taking photos while hiking.

When they got involved at CNC: Cheryle has been volunteering with the Horticulture group since 2002.Bill came in contact with CNC in the 80s when his son participated in summer activities in grade school. During this period, Bill served on the CNC Board of Trustees and for the past 10 years, he has volunteered with Horticulture.

CNC Volunteer Spotlight: Cheryle Kerr & Bill Goldstrohm

What they do at CNC: Cheryle co-leads a MG group that gathers at CNC on Monday mornings. In winter months they grow plants from seeds in the Greenhouse. The group helped recently at the spring native plant sale. They help maintain the various gardens around the property during the rest of the year, help at the Flying Colors Butterfly Festival, and the Native Plant Sales. Cheryle is also part of the Wednesday team at the Unity Garden. The harvested produce is donated to the North Fulton Community Charities food pantry for underserved families to enjoy.Bill works with the dedicated team of Master Gardeners at CNC who work in cold, drizzly weather in spring and fall, and hot, muggy days in the gardens fighting off the occasional fire ant to make sure that the grounds are looking their best.

How CNC helps them connect with nature: Cheryle has opportunities to connect with many things in the natural world while gardening. Cheryle said, “For me the Nature Center is a very special place. It’s just absolutely fabulous that children can come here to be outdoors, see nature and learn about their environment.”Bill feels CNC provides a variety of natural environments to explore, and access to educators who are passionate about passing along their knowledge and enthusiasm for the outdoors.

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Chattahoochee Nature CenterP.O. Box 769769Roswell, GA 30076

Physical address: 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, GA 30075(770) 992-2055 www.chattnaturecenter.org

Hours

Monday through Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm Sunday: Noon to 5 pm

General admission FREE - CNC Members & Children 2 & under (excluding Fundraisers and Festivals)$10 - Adults$7 - Seniors (Ages 65+) & Students (Ages 13 -18)$6 - Children (Ages 3 -12)

Camp Kingfisher - Summer Camp 2015

—Eric House, Camp Parent of a 2nd and a 5th Grader

GROW Camp Entering 4th - 7th GradesWhere does your food grow? Grow, harvest, and taste test

garden fresh veggies and also care for the chickens.

NEW Owlet CampAge 4

Are your little ones anxious about camp? Try a shorter 4-hour day full of swimming, shorter nature hikes,

outdoor play, and liveanimal encounters.

Explore. Learn. Play!Discover your connection to nature through canoeing,

swimming, nature hikes, science exploration activities and live animal encounters.

Register Early Secure the Best Dates and Session Themes

Returning Family Discounts before March 19

(770) 992-2055, ext. [email protected]

www.chattnaturecenter.org/camp-kingfisherTravel Program

Entering 8th and 9th GradesWhich trek is for you? Hike and

ride in Made for the Mountain trek or paddle and swim in Riverbank

Adventures trek.

May 26-August 7Ages 4-15

1 and 2 week sessions

The counselors at Camp Kingfisher are better prepared, and have a better counselor to camper ratio than many other day camps in the area. There is a great diversity of activities during the week, from canoeing, to interacting with wildlife, to swimming and playing games.The kids have fun and are learning about nature at the same time. We see many of the same families week after week and summer after summer, which is evidence of the quality of Camp Kingfisher.

Family Evenings with Camp KingfisherTuesdays on June 16, July 7, and July 21 I 5:30-7:30 PM

Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy quality family time in nature.

5:30 - 7 PM COOL Pool Time, Arts and Crafts, Canoeing (for ages 5 & up), and the Butterfly Encounter

6:30 PM Guided Hike at dusk

7 - 7:30 PM Large Raptor Presentation and Camp K Song Session in the gym

Join us for CNC’s next family fun eventWater Day I Sunday, August 2 I Noon-4 PM

Free to CNC Members and Included with General Admission

summer 2015 the june · july · august...

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