The “Cohasset Express” Trolley Program at Mill Creek MetroParks has been awarded the Thomas Say Naturalist Award of Excellence for Outstanding Event or Program by the National Association for Interpretation (NAI). The Thomas Say Naturalist Award of Excellence is given to recognize an event or program that has achieved special merit in its ability to interpret natural heritage.
 
During the 2014 & 2015 season, 2350 visitors enjoyed guided interpretation on board the open-air “Cohasset Express” trolley. A variety of programs gave riders a chance to explore and appreciate natural elements, historic features, and beautiful views of 125-year-old Mill Creek Park, Ohio’s first park district, all from the comfort of their seats. Both MCMP staff and volunteers have been integral in developing and delivering the trolley programs. “This award represents the wonderful work and dedication the Mill Creek MetroParks staff and volunteers have done on our trolley programs”, says Carol Vigorito, Recreation & Education Director at the park.  A typical year of the trolley program includes 3-4 certified drivers, 5-6 volunteer interpretive guides, and Recreation & Education Department staff members who plan the routes & interpretation, and occasionally do the guiding.
 
Each year, NAI recognizes excellence in interpretation through their professional awards. The trolley tours were judged and awarded as providing excellent natural heritage interpretation. The award was presented at the 2016 annual NAI national workshop in Corpus Christi, Texas, during the meeting of its Interpretive Naturalist Section.

Are you an amateur photographer with a desire to show off your work? Mill Creek MetroParks wants to see your favorite original photos! Entries will be accepted January 24 – February 5 for the annual Nature Photography Exhibit. Categories will include: Wild Animals, Plants – Wild or Not, Wild Scenes, People in Parks, Mill Creek MetroParks Scenes, Wild with a Human Touch, Monochrome, and Young Photographers. For more details and to download the 2017 Nature Photography Exhibit Application visit www.millcreekmetroparks.org. Submit photos and fee per entry at the Ford Nature Center (840 Old Furnace Road, Youngstown) between January 24 – February 5; Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am -5 pm; Sunday, Noon – 5 pm.

The Nature Photography Exhibit will be on display to the public, free of charge February 18 through March 12 at the Ford Nature Center.

The Board of Park Commissioners of Mill Creek MetroParks will hold two Special Meetings as follows:

Thursday, January 19, 2017, 6 p.m., at the MetroParks Farm – the only agenda item is planning for the Board retreat; there will not be a public comment period.
Saturday, January 21, 2017, 10 a.m., at the MetroParks Farm – Advisory Committee Orientation – the agenda will be available online by 2 pm on January 20.