It’s not always easy to get out of the house in the winter, what with all the layers and boots and snow in the driveway – but the popular Armchair Adventures Travelogues series is one great reason to do so.
No need to pack a bag, go through security or worry about itineraries, either. These are easy opportunities to travel the world with adventurers eager to share their photos and tales.
The following travelogues can be enjoyed on the following designated Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road (Route 87), Russell Township.
A Summer in Switzerland at the Girl Scout World Center “Our Chalet” (January 7th)
Adult Girl Scout Rachel Sauder shares her experiences as a summer volunteer at the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Center “Our Chalet” in Switzerland. Hear all about her adventures in the international scouting world and her discoveries in the Swiss Bernese Alps, and make your own plans to visit “Our Chalet” with your troop!
Explore the Azores (January 14th)
Photographer Joanne Orichella travels to Terceira Island, one of the volcanic islands in the Azores located in the North Atlantic off the coast of Portugal. Explore both the picturesque countryside dotted with stone fences and cows and the urban cities with their local traditional festival of “running with the bulls.”
The Four Jewels of California (January 21st)
Bill and Sue Berger revisit their travels to four of California’s gems of Nature: Kings Canyon, Sequoia, Yosemite and Death Valley. We’ll explore these locations’ beauty, geology and significance to our heritage.
Wild Orchids Across North America (February 4th)
Tom Sampliner, photographer and past Native Plant Society president, shares his longtime interest in wild orchids that has taken him to many places throughout North America seeking out native orchids. This show depicts some of his favorites and those with interesting stories to tell. Presented in conjunction with the Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio.
Thoroughbred Racing – In Search of a Triple Crowner (February 11th)
Naturalists Tami Gingrich and Linda Gilbert share photos of their recent trip to the picturesque rolling pastures of the Kentucky Bluegrass. Tour some of the premiere thoroughbred farms in the country, view early morning workouts at two racetracks, visit the grave of beloved Secretariat and get an up-close encounter with the 2015 Triple Crown Winner AMERICAN PHAROAH! Also, get the scoop on this year’s Kentucky Derby hopefuls!
Wandering Ohio – A Buckeye Trail Thru-Hike (February 18th)
In 2016, Chuck and Beth Hewett completed a 1,400-mile, 76-day hike on the Buckeye Trail, the longest loop trail in the nation. This afternoon, they share their journey with pictures and stories about history, Nature and all the wonderful people they met along the way.
Iceland – Land of Ice, Ash & Waterfalls (February 25th)
Shane Wohlken takes you on a journey down Highway 1, winding its way through the breathtaking scenery of Iceland: waterfalls, mountains, crater lakes, glaciers, icebergs and seaside towns.
Since the debut travelogue in 2006, an average crowd is 100 people, sometimes braving blizzard-like conditions to enjoy local photographers’ and travelers’ stories of discovery. Many presenters also bring maps, souvenirs or the backpacks right off their backs so people can see what is involved in taking such a trip – what do you have to take with you? These items are set up in the back of the room for pre-and post-examination and questions.
Registration is not required for any of these free, all-ages programs, which are wheelchair/stroller accessible. Please call 440-286-9516 with questions.
For more on Geauga Park District offerings, please call 440-286-9516 or visit Geauga Park District online at Geauga Park District, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or YouTube.
