August 25, 2025, Press Release from the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District:
Here are some of the programs and events being offered by the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District for the month of September!
NATURE PALS: REMARKABLE RACCOONS
Join THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT as we kick off Fall with our NATURE PALS: REMARKABALE RACCOONS program at the MCELROY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (2355 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
SESSION DATES AND TIMES INCLUDE:
Thurs., Sept. 4 1:00 p.m.
Fri., Sept. 5 1:00 p.m
Children ages 3-5 along with their adult companion are invited to come learn all about the mischievous mammals known as raccoons! Register preschoolers by Sept., 3 online at www.jampd.com or by calling the office at 419-221-1232.
HEALTH THRU NATURE
On Thurs., Sept. 4 at 5:30 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer HEALTH THRU NATURE at MCLEAN TEDDY BEAR PARK – HORNUNG SHELTER (2004 Dixie Hwy., Lima, OH).
Although modern technologies are making our lives easier, more and more people are experiencing a sense of unease and anxiety. New scientific research is concluding our disconnect from nature may be the cause. Join a Certified Natural Mindfulness Guide on Thursday evenings of each month this fall to reap the health benefits of being in nature.
Register by Sept. 3, online at www.jampd.com or by calling the office at 419-221-1232.
WALKING THRU AUTUMN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Please join THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT for our 19th annual WALKING THRU AUTUMN SERIES.
WALKING THRU AUTUMN 2025 SCHEDULE:
Sept. 6 Haver Ridge
Sept. 13 Motter Metro Park
Sept. 20 McLean Teddy Bear Park
Sept. 27 KW – Cottonwood Trail Access
Oct. 4 Heritage Park
Oct. 11 Allen Co. Farm Park
Oct. 18 Kendrick Woods
Oct. 25 Hermon Woodlands
Each week participants will gather for a guided hike, to take in the beauty of fall explore some of the 30+ miles of Park District trails. Upon completing 6 of the 8 hikes, participants will receive a 2025 Metro Parks hiking stick medallion. Hand-made wood hiking sticks are available for $10 and will be able to be purchased at hikes. All hikes start at 9:00 a.m., and last approximately 1.5 hours will be on easy to moderate terrain. Register online at www.jampd.com or call the office at 419-221-1232. Participants may register as late as Sept., 19th for the final 6 hikes. Registrations and walk-ins after that date are encouraged but will not be eligible for the medallion.
WOODCARVING 101
On Mon., Sept. 8 at 7:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer WOODCARVING 101 at the MCELROY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (2355 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
Join us the Lima Area Woodcarvers present a basic overview of carving along with instruction. Experienced woodcarvers will cover topics such as carving styles, projects, tools. Wood, sharpening and more! This program is for any skill level, including beginners!
Registration is limited to ages 13 and up; participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Register by Sept. 7, online at www.jampd.com or by calling the office at 419-221-1232.
