July

July 1: Spring/Summer Botany Class
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Lot, 6–7:30 p.m.
Badges—Juniors: Earth Connections 3, 8; Wildlife 5; Cadettes & Seniors: Plant Life S1
Join biologist Tim Falkenstein for a three-part series throughout the summer. Class will meet in different locations in the park each time. Learn how to identify a variety of plants ranging from forest trees to wetland plants to exotic species. Informational handouts will be available. Participants should be prepared to walk short distances on the trails. NF, NPR.

July 1: Moonlight Boat Ride
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 8:30 p.m.
Take a quiet ride on Lake Redman after dark to explore the world of nocturnal life. Explore the many inlets of the lake, but keep your eyes open for the bats!! A 30-minute astronomical tour around the sky is included. After boating, participants will be treated to ice cream sundaes and other refreshments. You may use a County-owned rowboat, pedal boat, canoe or kayak or your private boat. Participants need to bring their own flashlight for each boat. Floatation devices and rowing implements are furnished. $20/couple if using a County-owned boat or $15/couple for a private boat. Add $2 for each individual. Please pre-register by calling 840-7440.

July 3: Stream Study
Nixon Park, 6–7:30 p.m.
Badges—Junior: Science Discovery 8; Cadettes & Seniors: Eco-Action S5
Join a park naturalist for an in-depth look at the life in a stream habitat. Participants will search for aquatic macroinvertebrates such as mayfly, stonefly, dragonfly, and damselfly nymphs, as well as caddisfly larva, cranefly larva, water pennies and more. Using the biotic index, we will assess the health of the stream and discuss influences affecting the water quality. NF, pre-register at 428-1961.

July 3: Moonlight Boat Ride
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 8:30 p.m.
See July 1 for details.

July 4: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Nixon Park
Nixon Park, 9–11 a.m.
Go ridgetop to ridgetop as you explore the varied habitats and their inhabitants during this hike. NF, pre-register at 428-1961.

July 4–12: Reptile Week
Nixon Park, regular hours
This annual week of herpetology returns with live specimens, special programs and information. Staff will be available to answer questions, explain the unique nature of reptiles and give you a hands-on introduction. Reptile Week is designed to give a gentle and informative introduction to lizards, snakes, turtles and crocodilians. VISITORS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO BRING PETS TO NIXON PARK. NF, NPR.

July 4: Forgotten Friend Reptile Show
Nixon Park, 11 a.m.–12 noon & 1–2 p.m.
Come laugh and learn with Jesse Rothacker, Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary Founder and herpetologist. Jesse will bring learning to life with 15 live reptiles from around the world. Learn about snakes, turtles, lizards, and crocodilians during this hands-on show. NF, NPR.

July 4: Independence Day
Parks office closed. Nature Center, parks grounds, boat concession and Hanover Junction and New Freedom Stations open.

July 4: Multi-Borough Fireworks
Highpoint Scenic Vista, dusk
On a clear night, you can see fireworks from maybe a dozen different shows from atop York County’s newest park.

July 5: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

July 5: Turtle Tails
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
Learn about the natural history, fables, identification, and care of turtles during this interactive program featuring live native turtles with Andrea Musser, a turtle enthusiast and educator. NF, NPR.

July 5: Moonlight Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Hanover Junction Parking Area, 8:30 p.m.
Theme: Civil War
Take a 9-mile ride under a bright moon detecting nocturnal life and astronomy, and hearing folklore and railroad stories. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the ride. $5, children under the age of 12 are free, NPR.

July 6-10: Archaeology Week I
Nixon Park, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
For ages 9–12. Co-sponsored with the York County Heritage Trust, this working week will be rewarding as students do “real archaeology” in Raab Park, site of the 19th century York Iron Company Mine. Each day, students will also be treated to special themes or tours provided by the Heritage Trust. Tours include the Colonial Courthouse, Gates House, Plough Tavern and the Agricultural and Industrial Museum (AIM). Students will also construct displays of artifacts found in Raab Park for exhibits at both Nixon Park and AIM. Transportation provided by Red Lion Bus Company. Students must supply their own lunch and beverage. $125, pre-registration required by calling 840-7440.

July 7: Fox Story Time: “Scales and Tails”
Nixon Park, 9–11 a.m.
Enjoy exciting stories, crafts and activities about our reptilian friends—snakes, turtles, lizards, and crocs with park volunteer Linette Mansberger. Participants will also take a short stroll to the pond to look for some basking reptiles. This program is for a parent to spend with a child ages 4–7. $5, please call 428-1961 to pre-register.

July 7: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Railroad Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

July 8: Kayak Lessons
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 5:45 p.m.–dusk
Join Uller’s Kayak and Canoe Shop on the water to learn the basics of kayaking. You may bring your own kayak or rent one from the boat rental. Call Uller’s at 747-0095 to pre-register.

July 8: Family Rambles
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Led by Parks Board member Anne Walko and her 7-year-old daughter, families are invited for five weeks of fun filled wanders every second and fourth Wednesday. This program’s aim is to leave no child inside as recent research finds that children who get outdoors are happier, healthier and smarter. For children who can walk one hour; adults must be accompanied by a child. NF, NPR.

July 8: Porch Talks at the Stations
Hanover Junction Train Station, 7 p.m.
John Ream will re-enact a Civil War hospital steward in a living history program, “Civil War Medication.” NF, NPR.

July 8: Porch Talks at the Stations
New Freedom Train Station, 7 p.m.
Ivan Frantz, member of the Pennsylvania Railroad Historical Society, will present a program on “Pennsy’s Shortcut.” NF, NPR.

July 9: Raab Park Archaeology Walk
Raab Park, 6–8 p.m.
Badges—Cadettes & Seniors: Digging Through the Past S1, 4, 5
Take a 1.5-mile stroll through history to visit the remains of the York Iron Company Mine. York County Parks Archaeology Week students will be in the middle of a hard-working schedule to uncover more of the mine’s history. Learn how archaeologists carefully work to record the information found. The existence of the narrow-gauge railroad and several mining structures are planned to be unearthed. NF, please call 428-1961 to pre-register.

July 11: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Apollo Park
Apollo Park, Shenk’s Ferry Rd. Parking Lot, 9–11 a.m.
Explore and learn about the park’s recent expansion while hiking up and down the trails along pristine Wilson Run. NF, pre-register by calling 428-1961.

July 11: Public Star Watch
Rudy Park, 8–10 p.m.
Badges—Brownies: Space Explorer (Partial) Juniors: Sky Search (Partial), “Doing” Hobbies (Partial); Cadettes & Seniors: Space Exploration (Partial)
View the heavens through telescopes and binoculars. Come to the observatory and see planets, the moon, galaxies and nebulae and learn about each object. Also learn how to use your new telescope or get hints on what to purchase. Please bring a blanket or chair to sit upon if you desire. Event held if skies are partly cloudy to clear. Call YCAS at 578-9109 after 5 p.m. for the status of the Star Watch. More information can be found at www.ycas.org. Groups with ten or more people should place a courtesy call to 578-9109. NF, NPR.

July 11: Forgotten Friend Reptile Show
Nixon Park, 11 a.m.–12 noon & 1–2 p.m.
Come laugh and learn with Jesse Rothacker, Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary Founder and herpetologist. Jesse will bring learning to life with 15 live reptiles from around the world. Learn about snakes, turtles, lizards, and crocodilians during this hands-on show. NF, NPR.

July 11–26: Photography Contest on Display
Nixon Park Nature Center, during normal hours
All photos entered in the photography contest will be on display for the public to view.

July 12: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

July 12: The Not So Common Garter Snake
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
Participate in an exploration of garter snakes from around the United States with park volunteer and Lancaster Herp Society member Roy Mellott Jr. Learn the natural history of garter snakes and possibly see live specimens. NF, NPR.

July 14: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, New Freedom Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

July 14: Highpoint History: Industry on the Susquehanna
Highpoint Scenic Vista, 7 p.m.
Learn about the industrial heart that dominated the view for atop this hill during the early and mid 1800s. Discuss the effects of industry on local towns. NF, NPR.

July 15: Senior Excursion
Rail Trail, Brillhart Station Parking Area, 10 a.m., 12 noon, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Take a ride on an open-air “People Mover” to view the scenery of this secured portion of the Rail Trail. Trip will also pass through Howard Tunnel. Trip will be narrated by Parks Program Coordinator Jeri Jones. $5, pre-register at 840-7440.

July 18: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Kain Park
Kain Park, George St., Parking Area, 9–11 a.m.
Experience the majesty of towering pines along the restful shores of Lake Williams. NF, pre-register at 428-1961.

July 18: Butterfly Count
Nixon Park, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Badges—Cadettes & Seniors: Math, Maps, & More SP 3
All eyes, amateurs and experts, are needed as we conduct our annual Butterfly Count as part of the NABA Fourth of July Butterfly Count. Participants work with team leaders. Long pants recommended. Bring a bagged lunch, a field guide and binoculars. Ages 10 to adult. $3 NABA fee, please call 428-1961 to pre-register.

July 19: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House & Corn Roast
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

July 19: Backyard Chickens
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
Interested in raising chickens for fun and food? Local homegrown chicken owner Beth Lucabaugh will share her 7 years of experience going from chick to egg layer. NF, NPR.

July 21–24: Nature Discovery Program I
Nixon Park, 9–11:30 a.m. OR 1–3:30 p.m.
For ages 5 and 6. An interactive week combining both recreation and education. The children will investigate various natural history topics using hikes, projects, games and special presentations. $55, please call 840-7440 to pre-register.

July 21: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Indian Rock Elementary School, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

July 21: Fox Story Time: “Nest Builders”
Nixon Park, 9–11 a.m.
Join park volunteer Nancy Shuman for a closer look into how birds build a nest. Participants will enjoy a story, snack, and a hike using a spotting scope to get a close-up view of bird nests. This program is for a parent to spend with a child ages 4–7. $5, please call 428-1961 to pre-register.

July 22: Family Rambles
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Led by Parks Board member Anne Walko and her 7-year-old daughter, families are invited for five weeks of fun filled wanders every second and fourth Wednesday. This program’s aim is to leave no child inside as recent research finds that children who get outdoors are happier, healthier and smarter. For children who can walk one hour; adults must be accompanied by a child. NF, NPR.

July 22: Porch Talks at the Stations
New Freedom Train Station, 7 p.m.
Station greeters and retired railroad employees Chuck Neal and David Smith will present “Working on the Railroad.” NF, NPR.

July 23: Grandparents–Grandchild Camp
Nixon Park, 2–3:30 p.m.
A four-week series of nature-based classes to be shared. Outdoor classes will focus on animals and explore a variety of habitats, with a different theme each week. For grandchildren ages 5 and up with a grandparent. $40 for series, pre-register at 428-1961.

July 23: Evening Nature Camp
Nixon Park, 6–7:30 p.m.
Children ages 7–10 can spend Thursday night for four successive weeks experiencing, exploring and learning about nature. This outdoor, hands on class will emphasize a fun educational approach, with a different theme each week. $40 for series, pre-register at 428-1961.

July 24: Family Fishing Program
Kain Park, Spartan Road Parking Lot, 5–8 p.m.
Learn to fish with the PA Fish and Boat Commission. No license required. All equipment will be provided. NF, NPR.

July 25: Gold Panning Seminar
Spring Valley Park, Line Road Parking Area, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Experience the excitement of finding gold in an area stream. Park staff and members of the South Central Chapter of the Eastern Gold Panning Association will be on hand to show you how to pan for the precious mineral. Bring a pie pan and a small container for your gold and sand. Old shoes or boots required; absolutely no bare feet. Presentations on the history of gold in the area will be held at 9 a.m. and 12 noon. Follow “Park Event” signs from either Rt. 24 or I-83. NF, NPR.

July 25: Nine in ‘09 Hike: Spring Valley Park
Spring Valley Park, Line Rd., 9–11 a.m.
Hike along the East Branch of the Codorus Creek and see the old walls and rock piles of farms of yesterday. NF, pre-register by calling 428-1961.

July 25: DreamWrights Presents “Taming of the Shrew”
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 6:30 p.m.
Badges—Junior: Theater 10; Webelos: Showman Drama 2
The adults and youth of this performing company return to our stage for another year. Please bring a chair or blanket to sit on. NF, NPR.

July 25: A Bug’s Night Life
Nixon Park, 8:30–11 p.m.
Badges—Webelos: Naturalist 1, 3
Start indoors with insect authority Ryan Bridge to learn what insects are out at night and become familiar with their adaptations. Program will move outside to light stations to see many of our local nocturnal insects. Dress for cool evening weather and bring a flashlight. For ages 10 and up. Rain date August 1. NF, please call 428-1961 to pre-register.

July 26: Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Local artists will be creating sketches and paintings of the mill. Explore the past. Tour guides will lead you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities. All three floors contain displays about milling. Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. NF, NPR (donations appreciated).

July 26: Ridge Top Walk
Nixon Park, 2:30–4 p.m.
Naturalist Amber Carothers will lead an exploration of the ridge top between Nixon and Kain Parks. Use historic photos, maps and your imagination to see how this habitat has changed, and meet a few of the species that call no other place home in the park. NF, NPR.

July 28: Highpoint History: A Remarkable Woman of the Susquehanna Highpoint Scenic Vista
Susquehanna Highpoint Scenic Vista, 7 p.m.
Badges—Brownies: Listening to the Past 1; Juniors: Local Lore 7; Cadettes & Seniors: Women Through Time S 6
Part of a four-session series emphasizing local history. Enjoy a presentation about Suzanna Wright who with her family settled the frontier in what is now Columbia. NF, NPR.

July 28: DreamWrights Presents “Taming of the Shrew”
Rudy Park, 6:30 p.m.
Badges—Junior: Theater 10; Webelos: Showman Drama 2
The adults and youth of this performing company return to our stage for another year. Please bring a chair or blanket to sit on. NF, NPR.

July 28: York County Parks Advisory Board Meeting
Pleasant Acres Annex, 7 p.m

July 28: Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Brillhart Station Parking Area, 6:30–9 p.m.
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NPR.

July 29: Kayak Lessons
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 5:45 p.m.–dusk
See June 3 for details. Call Uller’s at 747-0095 to pre-register.

July 30: Grandparents–Grandchild Camp
Nixon Park, 2–3:30 p.m.
A four-week series of nature-based classes to be shared. Outdoor classes will focus on animals and explore a variety of habitats, with a different theme each week. For grandchildren ages 5 and up with a grandparent. $40 for series, pre-register at 428-1961.

July 30: Evening Nature Camp
Nixon Park, 6–7:30 p.m.
Children ages 7–10 can spend Thursday night for four successive weeks experiencing, exploring and learning about nature. This outdoor, hands on class will emphasize a fun educational approach, with a different theme each week. $40 for series, pre-register at 428-1961.