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Home , Blue Heron Park, Fort Totten (Queens), McGolrick Park

Outdoors Outdoors THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE OCTOBER / NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2010 iinn NNewew YYorkork CCityity

Includes CALENDAR OF URBAN PARK RANGER FREE PROGRAMS ©Mural production by Susan Crabtree | Archaic Period Scene | Collection of the Museum 2 CITY OF PARKS & RECREATION nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Message from: John Haworth, director of the National Museum of the American Indian in New York, the George Gustav Heye Center Home to more Native Americans Opening with a stunning display of headdresses from ten diff erent than any other U.S. city, New regions throughout the Americas, “Infi nity of Nations” will also York is strengthened by the include clothing associated with such great Native leaders as Osceola rich cultures of hundreds of (Seminole) and Crazy Horse (Oglala Lakota); 2,000-year-old duck indigenous nations—from the decoys found in a Nevada cave; a detailed Mayan relief depicting a Arctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego. ballplayer; and a rare, complete Anishinaabe man’s outfi t. Native peoples are a vital part of The exhibition also marks a new season of public programming at the city’s vibrancy, expression, the museum under the banner “Celebrating Latin America!” Special, and diversity. I am delighted that free events include our annual Day of the Dead celebration (October the Urban Park 30); the Cultural Survival Bazaar (November 13); and a special Rangers are celebrating Native performance by the Quechua Scissor Dance of Peru (November 20). American cultures this season. And remember, the National Museum of the American Indian As director of the is open every day and it’s free! Located in the beautiful Alexander Smithsonian’s National Museum Hamilton U.S. Custom House, the museum can be found at One of the American Indian in New Bowling Green, near Battery Park, and easily accessible by transit. York, I am also very proud to invite everyone to our new permanent exhibit, “Infi nity of Nations,” opening October 23. With some 700 I look forward to welcoming everyone to this landmark exhibition dazzling objects from prehistory to the present day, this exhibition will and our exciting performances and family events. I also encourage you give all New Yorkers a chance to learn about the rich cultures of Native and your families to participate in some of the free Native American people throughout North, Central, and South America. The exhibition programs off ered this fall by the Urban Park Rangers. Discover our will be a terrifi c educational resource for the city, providing an expansive collective heritage, right here in New York City. overview of Native America for visitors, tourists, and school groups. For more information about the museum, please visit Everyone will be able to experience the diversity of indigenous nations www.AmericanIndian.si.edu. through some of the most historically signifi cant and greatest artistic masterpieces of the collection. Outdoor News NEW YORK CITY YOUTH STRETCH THEIR IMAGINATIONS AT AT BURLING SLIP On July 27, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and architect David Rockwell opened Imagination Playground at Burling Slip, an innovative play space conceived and designed pro-bono by Mr. Rockwell to encourage child-directed, unstructured free play. With a focus on loose parts, Imagination Playground off ers a changing array of elements that allows children to constantly reconfi gure their environment and to design their own course of play. The Mayor and Mr. Rockwell were joined by Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Borough President Scott Stringer, Council Member Margaret Chin, Community Board 1 Chair Julie Menin, and Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe.

Imagination Playground provides a fl exible environment for & Recreation Avila / NYC Parks © Photo: Daniel many types of play, rather than prescribed activities, through three cascading water channel, a climbing rope, masts and pulleys, key components: an open multi-level space with large sand and and a lookout ramp with telescopes. The built landscape also water features; a huge array of loose parts, essentially a variety of incorporates amphitheater seating and a “crow’s nest” that has a toys and tools; and trained staff on-site who maintain and manage double function as a storage unit for the playground’s loose parts. the site. These elements enable children to play in an intuitive way: build something, tear it down, and start all over again. For more information about Imagination Playground, visit In addition to giving the playground design to New York City, www.nyc.gov/parks or call 311. Rockwell Group is raising, in collaboration with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, an endowment fund to eensure © THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE that Imagination Playground is properly maintained for dedecadescades to come. The project was made possible by a $4.5 million grant fromom tthehe Lower Development Corporation (LMDC), which is funded through Community Development Block Grants fromm the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). TThehe OutdoorsOutdoors iininn NewNNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) alsolsolsl provided $3 million for the relocation of two water mains and a Planning Sarah Aucoin, Director sewer line into the adjacent street. The New York City Economicic ProgramsP Bonnie McGuire, Deputy Director Development Corporation (EDC) played an instrumental role inn coordinating this project, including giving up its parking lot ass theth OperationsOperaatio Richard Simon, Deputy Director site for the playground. Programs Marta Arroyo, Program Manager Rockwell Group’s design and eff orts have resulted in a GraphicGraphic DesignDesign Elizabeth Green, Graphic Artist playground that captures Burling Slip and South Street Seaport’s Researchch Shalini Beath, Grants Manager rich maritime and commercial history, with elements such as a Urban Park Rangers • 1234 Fifth Avenue • New York City 10029 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 3 RANGER IN THE SPOTLIGHT

New York City’s Urban Park Rangers are as unique and diverse as the What are some of the ways you celebrate your Native heritage? city they serve. Such is the case with Ranger Alberto Correa, who I celebrate my native heritage by participating in dancing and singing works in Ft. Totten, . He is a Native American and the Rangers’ at Native American gatherings such as powwows and Arietos in the resident expert on Native American history and customs. We spent a United States and abroad. Some Native American gatherings are few minutes getting to know Ranger Correa, this issue’s Ranger in the organized to celebrate social occasions (e.g., birthdays, marriages), Spotlight: while others may be ceremonial in nature and held in observance of seasonal and celestial events (e.g., equinoxes, plantings, harvestings, How long have you hunting). been an Urban Park Ranger? In what ways have you been able to incorporate Native American I’ve worked with the history/culture into your educational programs? Urban Park Rangers since I’ve incorporated Native American elements into my programs May 23, 2005. I started through storytelling, music, dance, arts, crafts, and the interpretation out as a Fellowship of artifacts and cultural items. One of my favorite stories to tell is Ranger working at the the fl ute story while accompanied by the fl ute music of Ranger Rob Nature Mastrianni. Also, I have worn my grass dance regalia (ceremonial Center in Pelham Bay clothing) and have performed for the public on many occasions. Many Park. After that summer of these activities were used by Native Americans as a way of passing I was hired as a full-time on cultural norms and values while teaching their audience about the Urban Park Ranger and importance of the plants and animals that appear in these stories. I am stationed at Fort Greene fortunate to be able to say that I continue this long-held oral tradition Park. I have since been as an Urban Park Ranger. stationed in four of the fi ve boroughs and continue to learn about New York City’s parks, natural environments, and hidden treasures What do you do in your spare time? What are your hobbies? every day. In my spare time I spend time with my family and travel the powwow trail, visit historic sites, and camp. I also assist the Red Storm Drum and What do you enjoy most Dance Troupe and the New York branch of the Concilio Taino Guatu- about being a Ranger? Ma-Cu A Boriken in the development of cultural events, activities, As an Urban Park Ranger I and workshops. In the past I have served as a cultural director for can come as close to living a the Red Hawk Native American Arts Council and contributed articles traditional Native American to United Confederation of Taino Peoples Publications. Some of my lifestyle as anyone can hope hobbies include outdoor pursuits such as skateboarding and hiking. I to in an urban environment. also spend time working with the Lambda Iota Upsilon Fraternity—a Being a park ranger allows fraternity I helped establish at SUNY Delhi College. me to act as a steward of our environment, interact with What is your favorite New York City park and why? wildlife on a daily basis, and is my favorite park for so many reasons. Not only is explore natural areas within it NYC’s largest park, it is practically my backyard since I was raised our parks. These activities in the Eastchester section of . Its natural beauty retains allow park rangers to gain much of the area’s original character, which dates back to the time intimate knowledge of the the Wiechquesquack, a Lenape subgroup who spoke an eastern fl ora and fauna found within Alqonquin dialect, inhabited the area. Pelham Bay Park is situated NYC, which we then pass on in the Bronx, which is the only one of the fi ve boroughs attached to to the public through our the continental United States, and is home to deer, coyotes, turkeys, educational programs. eastern cottontail rabbits, raccoons, and so much more. History buff s can explore a Revolutionary War site or visit the old Bartow-Pell estate. What is your relationship There is so much to discover in Pelham Bay Park. to the Native American community? I am Taino and descended from the indigenous people of the western hemisphere. The Tainos are the Native American groups who in historic times encountered Christopher Columbus in the Caribbean. I also lived for three years with family and friends on the Oneida Indian Territory, a reservation in Central New York. The Oneida belong to the Iroquois Confederacy, which also includes the Mohawk, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora. ABOVE: National Museum of the American Indian in New York 4 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

City of New York Urban Park Rangers Parks & Recreation Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor EXPLORER PROGRAMS Adrian Benepe, Commissioner

Arts and Culture Fishing Nature Exploration See, hear, and participate in crafts, Catch a fish! Freshwater and Learn about plants, wildlife, or stars poetry, writing, dance, acting, saltwater fishing available. in the sky. Bring binoculars if you readings, photography, and open Equipment provided, catch and have them, and a flashlight for microphone nights in our beautiful release only. The NYSDEC requires a evening programs. parks and nature centers. fishing license for everyone 16 years of age and older. To find out more Special Events Birding information on how to obtain a fishing license visit dec.ny.gov/ Our Special Events celebrate nature Learn everything you need to know permits/6091.html. and are great fun for all ages! about birds. Programs highlight different bird types, special park areas, and seasonal highlights. Hiking & Biking Survival & Orienteering Adventure and leisure hikes and bike Learn to survive in the wild. From Camping rides. Nature walks, historic tours, using a map and compass to knot- and greenbelt rides. Enjoy a night sleeping under the tying and shelter-building, the stars in New York City. Space Rangers have workshops to help is limited! Programs require History you safely enjoy your outdoor RESERVATIONS. Visit nyc.gov/ Learn about the important role experiences. parks/rangers/reservations for more of our parkland in New York City information. history and hear the fantastic stories MillionTreesNYC the Urban Park Rangers have to tell. A citywide initiative to plant and Canoeing care for one million new trees in Learn to canoe and explore New Kids’ Activities New York City by 2017. York City’s waterways. First-come, Join us for a variety of children- first-served, unless otherwise noted. centered activities. Nature crafts, Adventure Course Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and a sing-a-longs, play dates, storytime, snack. Ages 8 and up. Be prepared and more! Check for special out-of- The Adventure to get wet. school and vacation programs. Course features ropes course Visit our PARKIDS NYC website at activities that promote team- www.nyc.gov/parks/kids/ to find building and problem-solving skills. fun online kids’ activities. Free public programs on Sundays through November. Visit nyc. gov/adventurecourse for more information. RANGER STATIONS & NATURE CENTERS BRONX STATEN ISLAND

Crotona Nature Center, seasonal (CNC): Crotona Salt Marsh Nature Center (SMNC): Marine Park. Park. Enter the park at Charlotte St. & Crotona East 33rd St. & Avenue U. 718.421.2021 Park East. 718.378.2061 Fort Greene Visitor Center (FGVC): Fort Greene Orchard Beach Nature Center, seasonal (OBNC): Park. Enter the park at Myrtle Avenue and Pelham Bay Park. Section 2 of Orchard Beach. Washington Park. 718.722.3218 718.885.3466 Pelham Bay Ranger Station (PBRS): Pelham MANHATTAN Bay Park. Bruckner Blvd. & Wilkinson Ave. 718.885.3467 (BC): . 79th St., Van Cortlandt Nature Center (VCNC): Van mid-park. 212.628.2345 Cortlandt Park. Enter the park at W. 246th St. Dana Discovery Center (DDC): Central Park. & Broadway. 718.548.0912 110th St. & Lenox Ave. 212.860.1376 Inwood Hill Nature Center (IHNC): . Enter park at W. 218th St. & Indian Road. 212.304.2365 or 212.304.3401

QUEENS

Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (APPAC): Alley Pond Park. Enter at Winchester Blvd., under Blue Heron Nature Center (BHNC): Blue Heron the Grand Central Parkway. 718.217.6034 or Park. 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road 718.217.4685 & Hylan Boulevard. 718.967.3542 Visitor Center (FPVC): Forest High Rock Ranger Station (HRRS): High Rock Park. Woodhaven Blvd. & Forest Park Drive. Park. Park in the lot at the end of Nevada 718.846.2731 Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and follow signs. 718.667.6042 Visitors Center (FTVC): Fort Totten Park. Enter park at fort entrance, north of intersection of 212th St. & Cross Island Pkwy. and follow signs. 718.352.1769 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers FALL 2010 5

From the splendors of fall foliage to the thrills of the outdoors at night, the Bronx Rangers will introduce you to all that the borough has to off er.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Van Cortlandt Birding Club: Air Traffi c / Urban Sustainability Series: Green Roofi ng 8 a.m. / VCNC The / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC It’s avian fl yway spans the Atlantic coast this all about the soil! Green roofs have great time of year. benefi ts in the urban jungle; we’ll discuss what they are, how they work, and how to SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3 decide whether it’s right for your building. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14 The : Past, Present, and Future / Riverdale 11 a.m. / 232nd Street on south-bound service road of Henry Hudson Parkway The Indians called it the “river that fl ows both ways.” European MillionTrees NYC Fall Planting Day / settlers wondered at its beauty, used its 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Locations Citywide abundant resources, and forever altered the Help make NYC greener by volunteering to formerly pristine landscape. Find out what plant trees citywide! Planting projects will makes each of the 315 miles of the Hudson be held in parks in all fi ve boroughs. Visit River so special. milliontreesnyc.org if you are interested in volunteering. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Hawk Migration on the Landfi ll / Pelham Fall Colors / 1 p.m. / Bay Park 11 a.m. / PBRS This special bird 233rd Street and Baychester Avenue In the walk will feature the hawk migration as second of our autumn leaf walks, we’ll hike they stop to “fuel up” in Pelham Bay Park the newly restored Seton Falls Park and see on the way back to their warm winter what colors it has to offer. homes. Bring your own binoculars if you have them. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 Urban Sustainability Series: Adventure Gardening! / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC This kick-off program of our new series focuses on food gardening in tight city spaces and using everyday items to do so. Native American Harvest / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Autumn was a time SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 for the Lenape to harvest and prepare for the cold months. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Fall Bike Tour / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / Walk Like an Animal / 2 p.m. PBRS The Bronx parks system is as diverse / CNC Can you jump as far as a coyote or as the borough itself. Beginning at Pelham run as fast as a mouse? Learn about the Bay Park, we’ll bike the Greenways to Van adaptations of native animals by playing Cortlandt Park on this one-way trip. Pack a fun games. Ages 12 and under. lunch and water. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30 Post-Turkey Day Super Hike / Van Fall Scavenger Hunt / Crotona Park 2 p.m. Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Tortoise & Hare / CNC Search for and identify items found Statue on Broadway Work off those extra in nature. Prizes awarded. Ages 12 and helpings of stuffi ng and potatoes on this Canoe the Lagoon / Pelham Bay 12 p.m. under. long hike. / Canoe and Kayak Launch (northwest corner of Orchard Beach parking lot) Paddle through the sparkling blue waters SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 and green marsh grass of the Pelham Bay Halloween Eco-Crafts / Van Cortlandt Park Winter Waterfowl / Pelham Bay Park Lagoon. Ages 8 and older. First-come, fi rst- 1 p.m. / VCNC There’s spooky stuff out 12 p.m. / OBNC Explore the salt marsh at served. there! Get creepy and creative with natural Orchard Beach as we search for ducks and objects. Bring the kids! other waterfowl of the Bronx. Bring your SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 own binoculars if you have them. Native American Medicine / Van Cortlandt SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Did the Lenape Van Cortlandt Birding Club: The SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 Indians have medicine? What plants Woodpeckers / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. Van Cortlandt Birding Club: Bird Feeders / did they use from the pharmacy Nature / VCNC Try to fi nd all three kinds in Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / VCNC Learn created? the park—downy, hairy, and red-bellied the best ways to help birds out during woodpeckers. harsh winter months! SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 Hike the John Muir Trail / Van Cortlandt Siwanoy Trail Adventure: Anne Hutchinson Native Americans and Settlers of Pelham Park 1 p.m. / Broadway and Mosholu and the Native Americans / Pelham Bay Bay Park / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Avenue Celebrate the Scotsman who is Park 11 a.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion Bartow-Pell Mansion, 895 Shore Road “the father of conservation in America.” As Learn about the fi rst peace treaty between Trace the history of Pelham Bay Park we lead you from the west to the east side the Siwanoy people and the European from the Native Americans to the colonial of the park on the John Muir trail, Scottish colonists on a walk through woodlands and settlers and former landowners. We’ll bagpipes will help us keep a leisurely pace. wetlands of the former Bartow-Pell estate. examine the cultures and lifestyles of these past inhabitants. 6 OOutdoorsutdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 Urban Sustainability Series: Indoor Herbs How Animals Survive the Winter / / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Crotona Park 2 p.m. / CNC Migration and Extend the growing season in your room, hibernation are two methods used by some apartment, or house. animals to survive periods of cold weather. Learn about the physical and behavioral SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 adaptations native wildlife have evolved to Seal Shore Safari / Pelham Bay Park survive the winters. 10 a.m. / OBNC Discover the many Solstice Party with Jody Kruskal’s Band / different creatures that live close to the Van Cortlandt Park 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. / Golf shore—including seals! Dress warmly. House, enter park at Bailey Avenue and Van Cortlandt Park South Dance away the SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 cold while listening to lakeside concertina Native American Pathways / Van Cortlandt music. Then take a night walk on the old Park 1 p.m. / VCNC For thousands of Putnam railroad tracks. Last year’s walk Whoooo Said That? / Pelham Bay Park years before European settlers arrived, the featured a serenade by a fl ock of honking 1 p.m. / OBNC Winter is the best time to New York City region was home to the waterfowl! see wild owls in New York City so don’t indigenous Lenape people. miss this opportunity. Bring your own binoculars if you have them. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers FALL 2010 7 This fall, take a walk back in time to experience the American Revolution, architectural marvels, and more. The Brooklyn Rangers will be your guides as you explore Kings County. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30 cont’d Discover Tour: The Living Log / Prospect Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Halloween Festival / Park 3 p.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. / Dekalb Lawn, Dekalb and Lincoln Road Let the Urban Park Halloween Festival / Marine Park 12 p.m. Avenue and Washington Park Street Rangers show you how much life there is / SMNC Enjoy a day of costumes, games, Explore the world of creepy creatures at the inside that “dead” log. Co-sponsored by and pumpkins. It’s time for the Marine Park Ranger table and partake in the rest of Fort the Audubon Center. Civic Association’s annual Halloween event. Greene’s Halloween Festival. Rain Date: Sunday, October 31. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 Who, Whoo, Whooo…Did I Eat? / Marine Raptor Rap / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Discover what owls / FGVC We’re talking all about hawks, eat as we dissect owl pellets. eagles, owls, and falcons. Dissect owl pellets, make bird crafts, then go for a Scavenger Hunt / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. nature walk and try to spot Olmsted, Fort / FGVC Follow the clues to victory as Greene’s resident red-tailed hawk. you wander all around the park. All ages welcomed. Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage Walk / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House, West SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 Drive and Third Street Explore the colors that autumn brings to this park. Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Open House New York: Prison Ship SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23 Martyrs Monument / Fort Greene Park Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Nature Journaling: Salt Marsh in Autumn 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. / FGVC Get an up- / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Experience close view of the Prison Ship Martyrs MillionTrees NYC Fall Planting Day / the marsh in autumn and document Monument, commemorating the deaths 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Locations Citywide your discoveries in this tour of the newly of over 10,000 patriots of the American Help make NYC greener by volunteering to restored Salt Marsh Nature Trail. Revolutionary War. plant trees citywide! Planting projects will be held in parks in all fi ve boroughs. Visit Animal Tracks / Marine Park 1 p.m. / milliontreesnyc.org if you are interested in SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31 SMNC Come discover how to tell who’s volunteering. Creepy Crawly Creatures / Fort Greene been visiting our park by making your own Park 12 p.m. / Dekalb Lawn, DeKalb animal track fi eld guide. Creatures of the Night Hike / Prospect Avenue and Washington Park Street Learn Park 6:30 p.m. / Picnic House, West Drive the myths and facts about creepy crawly SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 and Third Street Explore Prospect Park creatures. after dark as we go in search of the wildlife that comes out when the sun goes down. Park Ranger Costume Contest and Pumpkin Carving / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Is your costume as cool as our uniform? Wear your best Park Ranger costume and then stay for an afternoon of pumpkin carving. Prizes awarded for best costumes. Ages 12 and under. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Hike the Midwood / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive and Lincoln Road Discover the beauty of the Midwood section of Prospect Park and learn about its wildlife as we stroll along the newly It’s My Park Day / Fort Greene Park constructed nature trails. Wear comfortable 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. / FGVC Get your hands shoes and dress weather appropriately. dirty as you help to keep Fort Greene one of the most beautiful parks in the city. To RSVP and learn more about Fort Greene Park Volunteers call the Visitor Center at 718.722.3218. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24 Open House New York: Prison Ship History Club: Gravesend Cemetery Tour Martyrs Monument / Fort Greene Park / Gravesend Cemetery 11 a.m. / Meet 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. / FGVC See October 9 outside the Cemetery east of McDonald listing. Avenue on Gravesend Neck Road Visit the rarely opened Gravesend Cemetery, one Learn Your Little Brown Birds! / Marine of Brooklyn’s oldest. Search for the familiar Park 12 p.m. / SMNC Explore the names of the families who established differences between song sparrows, swamp Brooklyn. sparrows, and all the other little brown Colonial Games / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. birds. Journey through Time: Fort Greene / – 1 p.m. / FGVC Our founding fathers Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC This were once children, too! Learn the true THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14 edition of our popular walking tour will meaning of playing “old school” games. showcase the park and the surrounding Thursday Night Lecture Series: Symbols neighborhood. We’ll be taking a peek SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 in Stone / Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC inside the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument. Discover the meanings of the symbols and Lenape Lives Along the Creek / Marine iconography refl ected in the thousands of Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Explore the world of grave markers and monuments of historic SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30 the Lenape people who fi rst called the area Greenwood Cemetery. Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC of Marine Park home. Discover how they lived and survived in the pristine ecosystem prior to the arrival of the fi rst Dutch settlers. 8 OOutdoorsutdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 cont’d SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 cont’d Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC History Club: Brooklyn Movie Theaters / Winter Games / Fort Greene Park 1 Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC This month’s p.m. / FGVC Get your body ready for Gobble, Gobble Turkey Talk / Marine Park focus is on Brooklyn’s past and present holiday dinners or work out your shopping 1 p.m. / SMNC Come in for an afternoon movie theaters. Join us for a discussion and frustrations by participating in the Fort discussion about this unique bird and create slide show presentation. Greene Park Winter Games. Events include your own turkey craft. Ages 12 and under. sack and three-legged races, team fl ying- SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 disc golf, an ice cube hunt, and sled racing Star Gazing / Fort Greene Park 5 p.m. / (weather permitting). All ages welcomed. FGVC Observe heavenly bodies with the Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Amateur Astronomy Association of New York. Weather permitting. New York City’s Wildlife / Fort Greene SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 Park 11 a.m. / FGVC New York City might Winter Waterfowl / Marine Park 11 a.m. / SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14 be known for its wild nightlife, but that SMNC Discover which birds make Marine would be news to the wildlife that call Park their home during the winter. This is a our city home. Lecture followed by a walk great chance to see ducks, geese, and other around the park. waterfowl. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Forensic Flora & Fauna / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Bugs, plants, and animals Journey through Time: Fort Greene / Fort have all helped solve crimes. Discover just Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC See October how sharp Mother Nature’s detective skills 24 listing. are. Discover Tour: Winter Survival / Prospect Park 3 p.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 and Lincoln Road Come exploring with Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC us on a nature hike that will focus on the winter adaptations used by resident animals Origami Ornaments / Marine Park 1 p.m. to survive the winter. Co-sponsored by the / SMNC Create holiday decorations using Prospect Park Audubon Center. the ancient art of Japanese paper folding. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 Winter Nature Crafts for Kids / Fort Bridge and Arch Tour / Prospect Park Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Make your 11 a.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive and Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC own holiday gifts for someone special to Lincoln Road Take a stroll and look at the you. Ages 4–12. architecture put in place by park designers Olmstead and Vaux to give the park a more SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 spacious feel. Wear comfortable shoes and dress weather appropriately. Journey through Time: Bay Ridge / John Paul Jones Park 11 a.m. / Meet at the Monument at 101st Street and 4th Avenue Discover a hidden cemetery, a gingerbread house, two girls’ schools with shady pasts, and a few other secrets. SATURDAY NOVEMBER 20 Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Colonial Living / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn about the foods, Christmas Bird Count / Fort Greene Park clothing, games, and weapons of our 8 a.m. / FGVC Calling all bird enthusiasts! Founding Fathers. Whether it’s your fi rst time or you’re an avid birder, come log which birds can be Forever Evergreen / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / seen in the park. Wollman Rink, Parking Lot and East Drive Find out why some trees stay green all year. Winter Raptor Watch / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House West Drive and SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 Third Street Search for Prospect Park’s top predators. This is your chance to see Children’s Hour: Nature Scrapbooking / hawks, eagles, and falcons. Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Bring the kids for an afternoon of creating nature-themed scrapbooks. All materials provided. Ages 12 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 Children’s Hour / Marine Park 1 p.m. / and under. Journey through Time: Fort Greene / Fort SMNC Bring the kids for an afternoon of Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC See October History of Playgrounds / Fort Greene Park nature-inspired arts and crafts. 24 listing. 1 p.m. / FGVC Play equipment has come Journey through Time: McCarren to a long way. From the fi rst ball fi elds to SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 today’s high-tech developments, learn the McGolrick / McCarren Park 1 p.m. / Lenape Legends / Fort Greene Park history and evolution of our playgrounds. Bedford and North 12th Street Traverse 1 p.m. / FGVC Listen to the folktales and through time and space on a walk from traditional stories that the Native Americans McCarren Park to McGolrick Park and SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 in our region passed down from generation discover their past, present, and future. Santa at the Marsh / Marine Park 11 a.m. to generation. Native American storytelling / SMNC Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa is back for followed by crafts for children ages 3–12. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 his annual visit to the Salt Marsh. Join him Giving Thanks / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. for an afternoon of holiday cheer. Children Discover Tour: Winter Tree I.D. / Prospect / FGVC Native Americans have given us can pose for a free photo with Santa and Park 3 p.m. / Audubon Center, East far more than we realize. Explore NYC as it tell him if they’ve been naughty or nice. Drive and Lincoln Road Venture into the was before the arrival of European settlers Co-sponsored by the Marine Park Civic Ravine and learn to identify trees without and learn about the contributions Native Association. the benefi t of using their leaves as fi eld Americans have made. marks. Co-sponsored by the Prospect Park Audubon Center. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers FALL 2010 9 We kick off the fall season with our annual fl ight of fancy, the Raptor Fest in Central Park. There will be fl ight demonstrations, educational activities, and more. Come check it out! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 cont’d SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 Native American Ethnobotany / Central Park 3 p.m. / Hallet Nature Sanctuary, meet at Gapstow Bridge at the 59th Street Pond The forests of Manhattan provided the Lenape people with many natural resources vital to their survival. Learn about the surprising medicinal and cultural uses of common plants by Native American peoples. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23 MillionTrees NYC Fall Planting Day / 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Locations Citywide Help make NYC greener by volunteering to Raptor Fest / Central Park 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. Unlocking the Little Red Lighthouse / Fort plant trees citywide! Planting projects will / Great Hill, enter on W 106th Street and Washington Park 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. / Enter be held in parks in all fi ve boroughs. Visit Central Park West Learn all about birds of at W 181st Street and The milliontreesnyc.org if you are interested in prey at our annual fl ight of fancy. Hawks, story of that brave lighthouse and the great volunteering. falcons, owls, and other birds of prey will gray bridge lives on. Explore this landmark be on hand for fl ight demonstrations and and climb to the top for a scenic view! more! SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3 Open House New York: The Arsenal / Harvest Day / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. Central Park 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Arsenal, / IHNC Corn, beans, and squash…oh inside the park at E 64th Street and Fifth my! Learn about the stories and tastes of Avenue Presently the headquarters for the traditional Native American agriculture. A NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, fl avorful day awaits you! among the Arsenal’s treasures are WPA lobby murals, original drawings of Central Park, and roof gardens with spectacular views. Guided tours will be given throughout the day.

Haunted House on the Hill / Inwood Hill Park 6 – 10 p.m. / IHNC Come celebrate Halloween Ranger-style…if you dare! The Nature Center gets overtaken by haunted creatures and surprises around each corner. Feel free to wear your costume to celebrate this magical night. Budding Writers: Nature-Inspired Part I / Central Park 1 p.m. / Hallet Nature SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Sanctuary, meet at Gapstow Bridge at Kids’ Movie Matinee / Inwood Hill Park 59th Street Pond In the fi rst of this 2-part 12 p.m. / IHNC Bring the family and enjoy series, we will lead you through writing a movie matinee. To register, visit nyc.gov/ exercises inspired by nature in multiple parks/rangers/register on October 27. park locations. Experiment with stream of consciousness writing, creative writing, and more.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 Natural History Walk / 1 p.m. / W 174th Street and Amsterdam Avenue Journey through this remarkable park and learn all about its natural history. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 Astronomy Lecture Series I / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC Come join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Jason Kendall on a monthly exploration of the cosmos. Each presentation will discuss current topics in Fairy House Walk / Central Park 1 p.m. astronomy, featuring news from the latest / BC Take a magical walk through the NASA missions. Suitable for adults and kids Ramble woods and explore some of the 12 and up, the lecture-presentations will be smaller forms of life in the park, from kicked off with a song from Donna Stearns lichens and mushrooms to snails. At the Open House New York: Soldiers’ and and the Big Bangers. end of the journey participants can create Sailors’ Monument / Riverside Park their own nature-inspired fairy dwellings. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. / W 89th Street and Starfest 2010 / Central Park 7 p.m. – 9:30 Riverside Drive Visit this temple-like p.m. / Sheep Meadow, enter at W 67th monument that commemorates Union Street and Central Park West Join the THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Army soldiers and sailors who served in Amateur Astronomers Association for an Veterans’ Day at Soldiers’ and Sailors’ the Civil War. The monument will be open evening of stargazing in Central Park’s Monument / Riverside Park 10 a.m. – all afternoon but please join us for guided Sheep Meadow, free from the glare of 2 p.m. / W 89th Street and Riverside tours of the plaza at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., local city lighting. Telescopes and viewing Drive Visit this temple-like monument and 3 p.m. equipment will be provided. Cloud Date: commemorating Union Army soldiers and Sunday, October 17. sailors who served in the Civil War. The monument will be open all afternoon for visitors to enjoy. 10 OOutdoors utdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 Kids’ Movie Matinee / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC See November 6 listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ register on December 1.

Migration Bingo / Central Park 10 a.m. Compost Workshop / Inwood Hill Park / BC Add species to your “year and life” 10 a.m. / IHNC Meet at the Community lists while also working to mark off a row Compost Center to learn how you can be of migrants on your bingo card. All ages “green” and compost your kitchen scraps! welcome and prizes awarded for the fi rst Bring your food waste to add to our bins Castle by Candlelight / Central Park 6 p.m. Bingo!! and learn about the wonderful process of – 8 p.m. / BC Enjoy a magical evening of decomposition. exploring Belvedere Castle by candlelight. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Beginner Nature Drawing / Riverside Park SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 Fall Foliage Hike / 11 a.m. 1 p.m. / W 116th Street and Riverside / Margaret Corbin Circle, northernmost Drive Disconnect from the noise and end of Fort Washington Avenue Why distractions of busy city life, pick up a travel upstate when you have colorful pencil and paper, and discover the park views of fall foliage right in your own through drawing. Previous experience not backyard? Put on your hiking boots for necessary; materials provided. a fast-paced trek through this scenic and historic park. Bring a camera to take in the SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 views at our pit-stops around the park. Tracking Wildlife / Highbridge Park 12 p.m. / W 158th Street and Edgecombe Avenue Animals leave distinctive tracks and other traces as they travel through our parks. Learn the Native American tracking Hiking / Central Park 11 a.m. / Doris skills and then use them to discover what Freedman Plaza, E 60th Street and Fifth critters are around us. Avenue Come out and enjoy a long, beautiful hike through the park with SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 like-minded outdoorsy and nature-loving people. Budding Writers: Nature-Inspired Part II / 1 p.m. / Fifth Festive Fall Crafts / Inwood Hill Park Avenue and Washington Square North 12 p.m. / IHNC Find out what you can See October 3 listing. create with nature’s bounty for a holiday centerpiece to take home. Blind Nature Walk / Central Park 1 p.m. / SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 DDC Sense the natural world as you never Native American Ethnobotany / Inwood SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 have before. Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC The forest of Astronomy Lecture Series III / Inwood Inwood Hill Park provided the Lenape tribe Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC See October 16 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 with many natural resources vital to their listing. survival. Learn about the vibrant Native Astronomy Lecture Series II / Inwood American history and the ethnobotany of Winter Nature Art / Central Park 3 p.m. Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC See October 16 this unique park. / BC It’s fun for all ages when we listing. recycle and reuse natural pieces to create wonderful and temporary winter art. Program will be outside; dress for the elements. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19

Native American Games / Central Park Fun with Fungus / Central Park 11 a.m. 2 p.m. / BC Venture into Central Park’s / Wild West Playground, W 96th Street Ramble to learn and play some traditional and Central Park West Learn the basics Native American games. All ages welcome of mycology as we search for mushrooms to join the fun! around the park and have some fun with fungus. Compost Workshop / Inwood Hill Park SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 10 a.m. / IHNC See November 21 listing. Native American History / Inwood Hill Meet the Critters / Inwood Hill Park Park 1 p.m. / IHNC Long before the 11 a.m. / IHNC Are you brave enough to SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 Europeans arrived, Manhattan was home hold a snake? How about an insect? Meet to the Lenape people. Inwood Hill Park the animals that live at the Nature Center Holiday Nature Crafts / Inwood Hill Park is one of NYC’s best sites for interpreting and learn about life in and around the park! 12 p.m. / IHNC Warm up on this festive their history. day by getting your creative juices fl owing! URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers FALL 2010 11

Queens is full of history. Enjoy tours of Flushing Meadow, Fort Totten Park, and more.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 SATURDAY OCTOBER 30 cont’d Nature’s Paintbrush / Fort Totten Park Astronomy Day / Fort Totten 7 p.m. / 11 a.m. / FTVC Get creative with all that FTVC Stargazers of all ages and experience nature has left behind during this autumn are invited to celebrate this worldwide season. Children become artists while occasion. Equipment provided. You are learning all about this colorful season. welcome to bring your own telescope. Weather permitting. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3 Warbler Watch / Forest Park 9 a.m. / SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 FPVC They may be small, but warblers Native American Tribes / Fort Totten leave a big impression when you see their 1 p.m. / FTVC By the year 1643, there brilliant colors. You’ll have a front row seat were 13 different Native American tribes watching warblers head south on their living in the area now known as Queens annual migration. and . Learn all about the customs and culture of our area’s earliest inhabitants. Thriller at / Fort Totten Park 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. / FTVC SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23 See October 29 listing. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31 Haunted Hike / Forest Park 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. / FPVC We dare you to join us on this surprise-fi lled walk in the woods. It’ll make you scared of things that go bump in the night. Fright Flight / Alley Pond Park 4 p.m. / APPAC Ever wonder what it feels like to soar like a ghost? Enjoy an evening with Fall Migration / Oakland Lake Park adventure and fright at Alley Pond Park 10 a.m. / Entrance of the park at 46th Adventure Course. Open to ages 8 and Avenue and Cloverdale Boulevard It’s up. Space is limited. Registration required. that time of year again—many birds are To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ heading south in preparation for the MillionTrees NYC Fall Planting Day / register on October 20. upcoming winter. See if you can spot them 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Locations Citywide in the sky. Help make NYC greener by volunteering to SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 plant trees citywide! Planting projects will Fall Migration / Idlewild Park 11 a.m. / SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 be held in parks in all fi ve boroughs. Visit milliontreesnyc.org if you are interested in 223rd Street and 148th Avenue Open House New York: Trolley Tour / volunteering. See October 3 listing. Flushing Meadows Corona Park 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. / Calvert Circle, just east of the Fall Foliage / 11 a.m. / Grand Central Parkway, just south of SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24 Parking lot, intersection of 33rd Avenue Roosevelt Avenue Hop aboard a trolley Fall Migration / Flushing Meadows and 214 Place Visit this little-known park and take a tour of the park that Robert Corona Park 10 a.m. / Mauro Playground, in search of colorful remainders from fall Moses made famous. One-hour tours start Park Drive East and 73 Terrace See foliage season. A mix of light and dark at 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Space is October 3 listing. shades will paint a lasting picture in your limited. Pre-registration required. head you won’t soon forget. To register, visit www.nyc.gov/parks/ Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort Totten rangers/register on September 29. Park 1 p.m. / FTVC See October 10 listing. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Nature Know-It-All / Fort Totten Park FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29 11 a.m. / FTVC Are you a nature know- it-all? Come enjoy game show-style trivia. Children will be put to the test in nature and other areas of expertise to see how they size up against their friendly local Park Ranger. Ages 5 and older. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC See October 10 listing. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Open House New York: Fort Totten / Fall Foliage / 12 p.m. / Rose Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / Front Gate, and Oak Avenues entrance The color intersection of 212th Street and Cross Thriller at the Battery / Fort Totten Park change in leaves has come to symbolize Island Parkway Tour the historic water 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. / FTVC Every the season of autumn. Experience the color battery and grounds of this military Halloween, a haunted shipwreck brings palette in this favorite park. base built in 1862 to defend the eastern ghosts and ghouls to the historic Battery. approach of from attack. Bring your fl ashlight, but leave your fear at Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort Totten Learn about the varied military roles home. Park 1 p.m. / FTVC See October 10 listing. assigned to the fort over the years as well as its uses today. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Scavenger Hunt / Forest Park 12 p.m. / SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 Denizens of the Dark / 6 p.m. / Parking lot on Union Turnpike and FPVC Kids of all ages welcome. Prizes Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort 197th Street Search for owls, raccoons, awarded! Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC Explore the and other denizens of the dark on this nineteenth-century fortress that helped after-hours visit. Bring your fl ashlight. protect New York Harbor from possible naval attack and learn about the history of Willet’s Point. 12 OOutdoors utdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 cont’d SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 Healthy Hike / Cunningham Park 10 a.m. Wilderness Survival / Forest Park 11 a.m. / / Parking lot on Union Turnpike and 197th FPVC With winter right around the corner, Street Let your feet do the walking while what better time is there to learn how to the Rangers do the talking on this fast- survive in the woods? paced outing. If you come on this healthy hike, you’ll be “exercising” good judgment. Native American Eco-Crafts / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC Children will use items found in their everyday environment to make fun Native American crafts. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19

The “Hidden” World of Fort Totten / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC Explore the Endicott Batteries, a forgotten and mysterious part of Fort Totten where disappearing guns once defended the area. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 A Century of Building / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212th Street and Travel back a century or more and explore examples of Colonial Revival architecture Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows found on this former military base. We Corona Park 10 a.m. / Mauro Playground, might even go snowshoeing, weather Park Drive East and 73 Terrace As the permitting. weather gets cold, the birding gets hot. Search for the ducks and geese that think SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 NYC is warm in the winter! Ho, Ho, Ho, Green Giant! / Alley Pond Park 12 p.m. / APPAC Tulip trees are the Winter Waterfowl / Fort Totten Park tallest trees in NYC. Learn about the “Alley 11 a.m. / Front Gate, intersection of Giant”—the largest tulip tree on Long 212th Street and Cross Island Parkway Island. Winter birds are fl ying in to take temporary Orienteering / Cunningham Park 11 a.m. residence in . Take a walk / Parking lot on Union Turnpike and through Little Bay Park, Fort Totten, and 197th Street Learn navigation with a map along Joe Michaels Mile in search of these and compass. You’ll never get lost in the birds on vacation from their much colder woods! Equipment provided. territories. The “Hidden” World of Fort Totten / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC See November SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 20 listing. Winter Wonderland / Alley Pond Park 10 a.m. / APPAC Take a leisurely stroll SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 on a festive afternoon in search of winter wildlife. You won’t see any reindeer but are guaranteed a memorable experience. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 Nocturnal Hike / Fort Totten Park 6 p.m. / Duck, Duck, Goose / FTVC Join us as we explore the wonderful 11 a.m. / Parking lot on Baisley Boulevard world of wildlife after-hours. Bats, and 155th Street See December 19 listing. raccoons, and other nocturnal wildlife are sure to make an appearance. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 Scavenger Hunt / Juniper Park 11 a.m. / 80th Street and Juniper Boulevard North See November 20 listing. Sleeping Giants / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. Post-Thanksgiving Hike / Alley Pond / FTVC, Building 502 Learn the tricks of Park 11 a.m. / APPAC Take an extended winter tree identifi cation. hike on some of the park’s longest trails to “burn off” Thanksgiving dinner. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 Native American History / Forest Park Native American Pathways / Cunningham 1 p.m. / FPVC Celebrate Thanksgiving by Park 12 p.m. / Parking lot on Union A Century of Building / Fort Totten Park learning about Queens’ earliest residents— Turnpike and 197th Street Learn about the 1 p.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212th the Matinecock tribe. various techniques used by the Matinecock Street and Cross Island Parkway See people to live off the land. December 4 listing. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Making Tracks / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. Scavenger Hunt / Kissena Park 11 a.m. / / FTVC, Building 502 Learn how to Rose and Oak Avenues See November 20 identify animal tracks found in and around listing. woodland areas. Make tracks of your own Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort Totten with snowshoes if the weather is right. Park 1 p.m. / FTVC See October 10 listing. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers FALL 2010 13

Fall means a new schedule of Landfi ll tours in Richmond County, so sign up for one today.

Lenape: The First Staten Islanders SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 cont’d SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24 Mysterious Mushrooms and Treacherous Visit the Staten Island Museum to Toadstools / Wolfe’s Pond Park 11 a.m. / learn about the Lenape Indians—Staten Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue Island’s original settlers. The museum’s Trek in search of Witches’ Butter, Scaly renowned Lenape Collection includes Tooth, Jack O’Lanterns, Turkey Tails, and art, tools, documents, and natural history the Old Man of the Woods. You’re sure to specimens—some dating back 10,000 have fun(gi) learning all about mushrooms. years! Also, explore the arts, natural science, local history, and more in the New SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 York City’s only general interest museum. For more information call 718.727.1135 or Creature Clues / 1 p.m. / visit www.statenislandmuseum.org. BHNC Learn how to identify and locate creature clues such as animal tracks and scat found in and around woodland areas, then make your own creature creation. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 Creepy Crawly Critters / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC They creep and crawl, have six legs, three body parts, and eat each other. Learn about the insects of our park and their valuable role in the ecosystem. Fall Foliage Scrapbook / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Bring any old empty photo album, some paper, and a sketch pen to make a beautiful scrapbook using leaves from the forest. We’ll help you identify the kinds of leaves you’ll fi nd and lead you to some unusual specimens. Gone Batty / 6 p.m. Skulls and Bones / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Comfort Station, Lenvar Avenue and SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30 / BHNC Can you identify our park’s night Ramona Avenue Identify bats, learn Native American Story Time / Blue creatures by their skeletons alone? how they search for food in the twilight Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Come listen hours, and observe their other nocturnal to different Native American creation SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3 behaviors. tales. Afterward, create your own Native American story to share with others. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 The Legend of Heyerdahl Hill / High Rock Mysterious Mushrooms and Treacherous Park 1 p.m. / HRRS What creatures lurk Toadstools / Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. on the Greenbelt’s Red Trail? Come explore / Playground at Ramona Avenue and the haunted hill of Heyerdahl and the ruins Lenevar Avenue See October 10 listing. that were left behind in the early 1800s. Spooky Spiders / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. Moderate-to-diffi cult terrain. / BHNC With eight eyes staring back at you and menacing fangs, spiders can be SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31 intimidating, but they are actually very A History of Halloween / Blue Heron Park benefi cial to the ecosystem. Search for 11 a.m. / BHNC From early Celtic religious common spiders, including the wolf spider, practices and beliefs to the modern-day jumping spider, and crab spider. rituals of “trick or treat,” Halloween has meant different things to different people. Fresh Kills Park Sneak Peak / Fresh Kills SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23 Park 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Enter the site at Fall Foliage Photography 101 / High Rock the corner of Wild Avenue and West Shore Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Park 10 a.m. Park 1 p.m. / HRRS Bring your digital Expressway East Service Road Find out & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See October 9 camera and learn how to record the rich fall about all of the exciting things to come listing. Visit www.nyc.gov/parks to register. colors. at Fresh Kills Park! Enjoy tours of the site, music, activities for the kids, canoeing with SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 the Urban Park Rangers, and much more! Canoeing is fi rst-come, fi rst-served and you must be at least 8 to participate. This event is sponsored by Fresh Kills Park. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 Open House New York: Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Park 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA Witness the transformation from landfi ll to park. You won’t believe your eyes! Visit www.nyc.gov/parks to register. Owl Prowl / High Rock Park 6 p.m. / HRRS Whooo’s that calling in the woods? Look, listen, and learn how to identify MillionTrees NYC Fall Planting Day / Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Park 10 a.m. these nocturnal creatures. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Locations Citywide & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See October 9 Help make NYC greener by volunteering to listing. You won’t believe your eyes! Visit plant trees citywide! Planting projects will www.nyc.gov/parks to register. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 be held in parks in all fi ve boroughs. Visit Open House New York: Fresh Kills Tour milliontreesnyc.org if you are interested in Funky Fashionable Native Americans / / Fresh Kills Park 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / volunteering. Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Learn Meeting TBA See October 9 listing. Visit about the meaning and uses of ceremonial www.nyc.gov/parks to register. Native American clothing and accessories. After, make your own jewelry or headpiece. Supplies provided. 14 OOutdoors utdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 cont’d Fall Foliage Scrapbook / Blue Heron Park History Club: The History of Thanksgiving Native American Contributions / Blue 11 a.m. / BHNC See October 24 listing. / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Who Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC From foods were the Pilgrims, and why do we celebrate like corn, potatoes, and chocolate to Composting 101 / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. Thanksgiving? Learn all about this holiday representational democracy, learn about / BHNC Learn composting techniques and then you’ll really have some food for the lasting contributions Native Americans from a master composter. Learn how to thought this year. have made in America and the world. make your own rich soil while helping to reduce your personal carbon footprint. Turkey Trot / Midland Beach 1 p.m. / SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 Ocean Breeze Pier, Seaview Avenue and SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Father Capodanno Boulevard Ben Franklin suggested that the turkey ought to be our national bird. Find out why turkeys are more than just a Thanksgiving meal. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Life in the Leaf Litter / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See November 14 listing. Native American Games / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Learn some of the games that Native Americans used to teach their children skills and lessons and then play them. Winter Birding / Bloomingdale Park SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 11 a.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Park 10 a.m. Energy Save / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / and Lenevar Avenue Get outside and & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See October 9 BHNC Winter is right around the corner. search for the bird species that call New listing. Visit www.nyc.gov/parks to register. Learn about how you can save energy York home for winter. Bring your own during the winter season, decrease your binoculars if you have them. Nature Bingo / High Rock Park 1 p.m. / bills, and help conserve energy for our HRRS Try your hand at one of America’s planet. South Pole Expedition / Conference House favorite games and see what you can Park 1 p.m. / Conference House Visitor fi nd along the trail as we hike up Moses Center You won’t fi nd any penguins here, Mountain. but it can get chilly at the southern-most tip of New York City this time of year! SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14 History Club: The Lenape Over the SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 Centuries / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / History Club: History of Holidays / Blue BHNC Find out how the Lenape lived Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Celebrate before, during, and after contact with the the winter holidays by learning about fi rst European settlers. their origins. Find out what a little-known Life in the Leaf Litter / Blue Heron Park Persian religion has in common with 1 p.m. / BHNC Rotting leaves and logs Christmas and the Winter Solstice. are more than they appear to be—they Making Tracks / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / are microhabitats supporting an incredible BHNC See November 28 listing. array of life! Learn all about them and the Making Tracks / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. process of decomposition. / BHNC Learn how to locate and identify SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 animal tracks found in and around SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 woodland areas, then make your own Slippery Seals and Wintry Waterfowl / 11 a.m. / Meet by Thanksgiving Holiday Crafts / Blue Heron animal track decorations out of paper or clay. the beach near Joline Avenue and Hylan Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Use your wild turkey Boulevard See December 5 listing. imagination! Give it four heads, six legs, and a trunk during this create-your-own- SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 Holiday Nature Crafts / Blue Heron Park turkey craft. Supplies provided. Winter Tree ID / 11 a.m. 1 p.m. / BHNC See December 4 listing. / Martling Pond, Martling Avenue entrance, just west of Clove Road How SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 do you identify a tree when there are no South Pole Expedition / Conference House leaves, fl owers, or fruit? Let us teach you Park 11 a.m. / Conference House Visitor how to solve this riddle. Center See December 11 listing. Holiday Nature Crafts / Blue Heron Composting 101 / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Learn how to use / BHNC See November 7 listing. pinecones, evergreens, and other natural materials to make your own holiday crafts and decorations. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 Holiday Nature Crafts / Blue Heron Park SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 11 a.m. / BHNC See December 4 listing. Slippery Seals and Wintry Waterfowl / Conference House Park 11 a.m. / Meet by SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 Thanksgiving and the Lenape / Blue Heron the beach near Joline Avenue and Hylan Holiday Health Hike/ Blue Heron Park Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Discover how the Boulevard These marine mammals have 1 p.m. / BHNC Need to de-stress after all Lenape celebrated their end-of-season been known to show up in the area during that holiday shopping? Take a brisk stroll harvest. Learn their songs and dances as their migratory journey. Come see if they with us through the woods. well as what foods made up their diet. have returned and what other creatures are passing through. Bring your own binoculars if you have them. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 15

Beautify our parks! Meet new friends! Build healthy new forests! Make a difference!

Plant trees with MillionTreesNYC!

Join us on October 23 to plant trees in parks citywide.

For more information or to register, please visit www.milliontreesnyc.org

TEACHERS!Take your students to “The Natural Classroom” Let your students experience the nature and history of New York City by being in it! Our city’s parks make excellent outdoor classrooms! What better way to get your students excited about the natural world than with a fi eld trip guided by the Urban Park Rangers? Ecology, entomology, botany, Native American history, and more are taught through hands-on “ed-ventures” that supplement classroom studies. Grades K-8. Programs meet NYC Science, Math, and English performance standards. Department of Education sole source vendor number: CIT 045. For more information about student programs or professional development, call 311 and ask for the Urban Park Rangers or visit us at www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

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n in New York City York in New in New York City York iin New o The Urban Park Rangers will be participating in a group show highlighting the multitude of programming within the Parks Department. The exhibition, on view during January 2011, will d include photography from the Urban Park Rangers’ high school mentoring program, Operations and Management Planning t inspectors, the Daff odil Project, and the Parks Afterschool Program. For more information visit our website at nyc.gov/parks/art. New York City Department of Parks & Recreation New York u

OUTDOORS in New York City City of New York Parks & Recreation Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor Adrian Benepe, Commissioner is a publication of the Urban Park Rangers,

a division of the City of New York Parks & Recreation Visit our website at nyc.gov/parks/rangers Outdoors THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE OF OUTDOOR THE FREE NEWSPAPER OOutdoors