Campfire Tales
There’s nothing scary about this blast from America’s past. Bring your marshmallows for a story by the fire with July 28’s Campfire Tale: Theodore Roosevelt and the National Parks. The story features an original piece by the Largely Literary Theater Co., highlighting conservation efforts of the U.S. president, who established five national parks. “[Roosevelt] really does set the stage for the National Park Service — he was a great conservationist,” says park ranger Pam Machuga.
American Solar Challenge
Get your efficient engines running with the kick off of this 1,800-mile solar car race. Starting at the Station Road Bridge Trailhead July 30, the race pits 22 college-based teams for a race to South Dakota. A July 29 festival at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center lets people meet the designers and drivers. “If people want to come and get a close-up look at the cars, that’s their chance,” says community engagement supervisor Pamela Barnes.
Explore Hikes
If you’re looking for a shot of irony or a snippet of humor as you tour the terrain, head out on daily hikes exploring Beaver Marsh or Brandywine Falls. A different ranger, each of whom adds his or her own personality and quirks to the excursion, guides each tour. “Sometimes people use [historical] quotes, sometimes they’ll engage the audience with thought-provoking questions,” says Machuga. “We used to have a ranger who loved to work with puppets.”