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Catch these Venture Parks events this February

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in February.

Don’t forget to purchase a vehicle park entry permit to enter the state parks, except one is not required to park in the Schramm Education Center parking lot. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Enjoy birding activities at Mahoney SP

Bird lovers of all ages are invited to participate in a variety of bird activities at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on Feb. 1.

The “Birds & Binoculars” event will be hosted at the newly renovated James Family Conservatory in preparation for the Audubon Society’s Great Backyard Count.

At 10 a.m., participants can learn beginner birding skills, identify birds at park feeders, make a birding craft and learn about different kinds of homemade bird feeders. All ages are welcome.

This free program will last approximately one hour. Weather permitting, the group will go on a birding hike following the indoor activities.

Mahoney SP will host magic show

Enjoy family-friendly Omaha magician Ryan Chandler as he performs at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on Feb. 1-2.

Chandler, who has appeared on television with magicians Penn and Teller, will perform his “Up Close & Magical” show at the Kountze Memorial Theater at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

His act includes a camera acting as a giant magnifying glass on stage. Be sure not to blink as magic and audience members are projected on a large screen.

Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for ages 12 and under. Reserve tickets by calling 402-944-2957.

Make a Valentine’s craft at Schramm Education Center

Many people enjoy exchanging sweetheart “conversation hearts” on Valentine’s Day, but this event will be about conservation. Bring the family to Schramm Education Center’s classroom anytime from 1-4 p.m. Feb. 14 for a fun craft.

Participants will make “conservation hearts” with recycled materials. They also will learn about fast fashion and over-packaging and discuss ways to cut back on waste this year.

Materials are provided, though participants are welcome to contribute small pieces of scrap fabric from worn-out clothing or leftovers from sewing projects. The craft takes about 30 minutes to make, and all ages are welcome. Smaller children may need help from a grown-up or sibling, as the activity involves cutting and gluing.

This event costs $5 per person and includes admission to Schramm Education Center’s main displays. Family Pass members get in for free.


About Renae Blum

Renae Blum is a writer and copy editor for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and Nebraskaland Magazine.

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