Cumming Nature Center re-opens for season

The Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Road, Naples, will re-open January 4, 2003 for family winter activities. The center's new hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends only. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing will be available January 4 to March 23, weather permitting. Equipment rentals with skis, poles and shoes are $12/day and snowshoes are $5/day. Vending machines provide snacks and drinks at the Visitor Center. Picnic lunches are also allowed.

Volunteers from the Genesee Valley Nordic Ski Patrol will monitor the ski trails throughout the season. The weekend of February 8 and 9 will be the annual fundraiser, "Nordic Hot Dog Days," selling hot dogs, chili, cider and cookies to benefit their organization.

Also on Saturday, February 8, sled dog expert Jim Phillips presents his Sled Dog Program at the Chumming Nature Center with a narrated slide show and dogsled rides if conditions permit. The slide show takes place at 11 a.m., with dogsled rides for $3 per person following at 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

The Nature Center admission is free for Rochester Museum and Science Center members and a donation of $3 is appreciated for any non-member. Call 585-374-6160 on Saturdays and Sundays for weekend trail conditions.