Cook Forest State Park will be conducting an entry level American Canoe Association (ACA) sanctioned kayaking course for kayak enthusiasts. The following subjects will be covered: paddling environment, equipment, loading & unloading, rescues, maneuvers, and strokes. All participants will be required to complete a wet exit.

First day will consist of instruction within the river near the RT 36 Cooksburg Bridge. On the second day we’ll apply these skills along a stretch of the National Wild & Scenic Clarion River. Remember to bring your ear and nose plugs, swimsuits, sturdy river sneakers (flip-flops are NOT adequate), and change of clothes. Participants should have a drybag that is large enough to house all their necessities while on the river. Refreshments provided both days. Lunch provided the second day. Those with specific dietary requirements will have to provide their own meals. Decked kayaks, PFD’s, paddles, snacks & water provided. Everyone WILL GET COMPLETELY WET, so please dress appropriately.

Participants must pre-register by contacting Dale Luthringer, environmental education specialist, at (814)744-8475 or [email protected] by 6/19/20. Cost is $75/participant payable by check or money order to the ‘Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’. We’re accepting only 12 participants for this course. Children 14 years and up permitted with participating adult. Space is limited, so please reserve early. Those who successfully complete this course will receive an ACA Skills Course Completion Card, and 50% discount on future canoe & kayaking programs sponsored by Cook Forest State Park.

Essential Eligibility Criteria: In order to participate in an ACA Skills Course, each participant must satisfy the following essential eligibility criteria:
* Be able to independently participate in all individual skills and activities listed
in the course outline while also maintaining an appropriate safe body position.
* Be able to hold their breath while under water and, while in the water wearing a
properly fitted lifejacket, be able to independently turn from a face down to a
face up position keeping their head above water.
* Be able to effectively communicate with the instructor and other course
participants.
* Be able to manage all personal care independently, or with the assistance of a
companion.
* Be able to manage all personal mobility independently, or with the assistance of
a companion.

July 2, 3, & 4, 2020 at 8 p.m.
Tickets: $15
Presented by: Punxsutawney Theatre Arts Guild

FISH-FOR-FREE DAYS – 2020
Sunday, May 24, 2020
&
Saturday, July 4, 2020 (Independence Day)
Fish-for-Free Days allow anyone (resident or non-resident) to legally fish on Pennsylvania waterways on the designated days with NO FISHING LICENSE REQUIRED (Trout/Salmon and Lake Erie permits are also NOT required). All other fishing regulations still apply.
Fish-for-Free Days are great ways for families to “catch” the fun of fishing!

Don’t miss the 2020 Woodcarvers Festival which features carefully hand-carved creations. These impressive works of art are displayed throughout the weekend and many are available for purchase. Carving competitions, exhibitions, demonstration, classes, and vendors round out the event.
Admission: $1.00

July 16, 17, & 18, 2020 at 8 p.m.
Tickets: $15
Presented by: Knox Community Theatre

July 23, 24, & 25, 2020 at 8 p.m.
Tickets: $15
Presented by: Barrow-Civic Theatre

July 31 – August 1, 2020 at 8 p.m.
August 2, 2020 matinee at 2 p.m.
August 6, 7, & 8, 2020 at 8 p.m.
Tickets: $15
Presented by: Brookville Community Theatre

July 31 – August 1, 2020 at 8 p.m.
August 2, 2020 matinee at 2 p.m.
August 6, 7, & 8, 2020 at 8 p.m.
Tickets: $15
Presented by: Brookville Community Theatre

Cook Forest State Park will be conducting a three-day Clarion River History Educator Workshop. This course is considered both an Advanced Watershed Education and Pennsylvania Land Choices workshop. Teachers will receive a copy of the PA Land Choices curriculum, as well as copies of True Tales of the Clarion River, Dinkies Dams & Sawdust: The Logging Railroads of West Central Pennsylvania-Book #12, and Expedition of Celoron to the Ohio Country in 1749. Teachers will also have the option to earn 23 ACT 48 hours.

This workshop will emphasize history of the Clarion River through various 1st person living history character portrayals during the mid-1700’s French & Indian War and mid 1800’s lumber boom era. Teachers will also investigate and document various lumber ghost towns and raft fabrication sites along the Clarion River via car & canoe, as well as gain valuable insight into how local history can be incorporated into the classroom. Day 1 will mainly deal with learning history through “living history”. Day 2 will be historic site investigation from land. Day 3 will be historic site investigation via canoe.

Be prepared to be in the river being wet and muddy most days. Sturdy river shoes are a must. Sneakers are good, those with flip-flops will not be allowed to participate. Participants are encouraged to wear modest swimming gear on Day 2 & 3. Participants must be able to traverse slippery footing conditions and steep river banks. All boating gear provided. A sturdy river “walking stick” may prove to be useful.

Workshop information & logistics

Title: Clarion River History Educator Workshop
Dates: August 13-15
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00PM
Location: Cook Forest State Park, new Park Office
Group Size: 20
Lunch: please bring your own bag lunch, refreshments provided
Dress: proper river attire & footwear, sturdy “river-walking stick”, extra of set clothes
Cost: secure registration by 8/7/20 with $125 check or money order made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and send to:
Cook Forest State Park, ATTN: Clarion River History, P.O. Box 120, Cooksburg, PA 16217
If you would like to attend, you must register by contacting Dale Luthringer at Cook Forest State Park at (814)744-8475 or [email protected].