Being blind no obstacle during rafting adventure

July 19, 2010

LEBANON — Joseph Maximetz couldn’t see the Little Miami River, Friday, July 9, as he paddled through it in an oversized inflatable raft, but he braved the current without a second thought.

“I enjoyed it immensely,” Maximetz said back on dry land. “I love going out on boats; there’s a certain freedom to being out on the water.”

Maximetz was on the rafting venture as part of the Cincinnati Blind Association’s annual trip to Morgan’s Canoe Rental. Around 100 people — equal numbers blind and sighted companions — took on the challenge, braving earlier rainstorms for a chance to set sail on the calm river.

Canoe liveries are tribute to Morgans' love of outdoors

July 13, 2010

WARREN COUNTY — Bob and June Morgan and their five sons have always loved the great outdoors.

For years, Bob took groups of young adults on camping adventures he named “Canoe Trails,” from the late 1950s to the early ’70s. Five times a year the groups would spend almost three weeks hiking, canoeing, and sharing stories by the campfire.

On one trip, they would canoe the Buffalo River in the Ozarks, another, West Virginia’s New River, among others. And the annual trips to Canada, which his wife, June, went on as well, were 31 days of pure adventure in the Ontario wilderness.

Bob’s youngest son Randy, now 45, says, “My best memories are every trip with dad.” Another son, Dirk, 51, who went on his first Canadian trip with his parents at age three, says, “To Dad, the great outdoors was a huge classroom.”

Bob, 77, recalls the time when well-known wildlife artist Charley Harper, who became good friends with the Morgans, went on all five of the trips in the early ’60s. The Ford Times, a former monthly magazine, commissioned Harper to write a story about the trips, along with the artwork for the cover. After that article, Bob said, “Every parent wanted their kids to go on the trip.”

Morgan´s Jungle Lodge Closes Down for the Season

April 07, 2010

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Come visit us on the Osa next year! In the meantime, we are gearing up for the season up north!

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Clark Montessori High School Visits Morgan's Jungle Lodge on the Osa Peninsula!

April 06, 2010

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Morgan's hosted 20 students and 2 teachers from Clark Montessori High School in Cincinnati this past week. The students were fantastic and well organized by their teacher. Their intensive rain forest study program was enhanced by living in the rain forest at the lodge and experiencing firsthand the animals, floral and fauna they had been studying. From daily visits by the Scarlet Macaws and Howler Monkeys, to sitings of all types of other creatures (including our resident 3-toed sloth, capuchin monkey's, anteaters, iguana's, dolphins, all variety of frogs and toads, scorpions,etc), theirs was a trip of a lifetime!

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Thanks to Morgan's for hosting the Clark Montessori students. My daughter, Simone, had a wonderful time!! I am truly grateful to the Morgan's who had the vision to expand their outdoor adventures to Costa Rica which allows so many students an experience that they will never forget. Thanks to Steph and Deb whose planning and hardwork was greatly appreciated and assured many parents that our kids were in good hands!! :)

Margaret Ungar 9:57PM 04/08/10

Walnut Hills has Talent!

March 28, 2010

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Our last day on the Osa....it seems like so much has happened in just one week! Today was our "chill" day. We had a group go into town to go shopping, and others that just stayed at the Lodge to enjoy the final day at La Finca Guanabana (Morgan's Jungle Lodge). The talent show was on the agenda for the evening so we all had some practicing to do on our routines throughout the day. After a delicious dinner of fresh Mahi-Mahi that "Uncle Gary" grilled on the beach, and excellent Gallo Pinto made by Jacky, we had the evening entertainment with the talent show! Prior to the show, our driver Marvin had a lottery where he had us all pick numbers out of a hat. The winning number was....Ariel(our little Mermaid!). Marvin had gotten some souvenirs from town as the prize(after pretending like he gave an empty bag of some trash!). Even though he doesn't speak a word of English he manages to make us all smile and laugh!

The talent show had a surprising amount of inventiveness! We started out with the "Stawberry-Cicle Girls" (because they were all a nice shade of pink and white) singing it's "A Party on the OSA" with lyrics to the tune of Miley Cyrus' "Party in the USA". This was performed by Abby(Mr.Schnure's daughter), Crosley, Maryn and Mary Cate.Then we had Shelby,Ammarin,Melanie and Graham singing "Nature"(an orignal song they wrote). Very clever and funny. Next up was Ariel and Walter singing "Summertime" which was sultry and just right for the weather. Chas and Adam did a dance-who knew these soccer dudes can dance like that? Mr.Schnure,Jane,Walter and Nick entertained us with "Hey Hey We're the Monkey's"...singing into their banana microphones. And last but certainly not least we had India performing a rousing edition of Tina Turner's classic"Rolling on the River" with the Hot Mama's as the back up(Arienne,Briaonna,Moira,Ann and Linda) dancers.

Our CostaRican judges took their jobs very seriously as you can tell from the picture....The winners were:

India and the Hot Mamas-1st Place!
Chas and Adam-2nd Place
Ariel and Walter-3rd Place

A good time had by all.....

Next we had a bonfire on the beach and roasted marshmallows. We said our good-byes to our new CostaRican friends. I think the girls will especially miss Killian who they all think is "muy Guapo"!

See you back in Cincinnati!!!

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India, congratulations on getting first place in the talent show. We miss you. See you soon.

Terri 1:07PM 03/29/10

Bill Schnure and the chocolate factory

March 27, 2010

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Our big adventure today was a visit to the Finca Kobo Organic Chocolate Farm. This was a great adventure and educational experience. Our beautiful guide Flora led us through the farm and explained farming practices in Costa Rica including growing pineapple, bananas and plantains. On to the chocolate partÖ.they explained the different ways of growing cocoa trees. In Costa Rica, the cocoa trees have been attacked by a mold that has limited production of cocoa beans so that Costa Rica imports chocolate rather than exporting it. They showed us how the beans are fermented and then de-shelled and ground. We had a chance to taste the raw cocoa bean. After the tour, we sat at a long table and ate chocolate cake and fresh bananas, pineapples and watermelon that we dipped in pure chocolate sauce.

After the tour, the bus drove to the public beach near the harbor in Puerto Jiminez and lazed around for several hours, playing in the warm water and having a picnic lunch. Adonnis brought us his two foot long pet iguana and he passed him around. Mid afternoon we headed back to the lodge, washed up and rehearsed for Saturdayís talent show. It promises to be quite entertaining and we should be able to get some of it on video. Following a pizza dinner, we are sitting around the lodge and chilling (in a warm sort of way).

-- Walter and Linda Grayman

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Hi guys! Glad to see you all enjoying the local foods . chocolate, but I think it really is a universal feel good food. Adam I would recognize those legs anywhere. It is okay about the camera, you and that camera have been everywhere, so just ask everyone to take pictures of you and email them to us when you get home. I love you and enjoy the trip. Mom.

VALENCIA 9:34AM 03/28/10

All I got to say is, "Bring home some chocolate, girl!!"

Craig 11:34PM 03/27/10

Hello all! It looks like everyone was having a great time in the water. That was some throw in the water. Great job fellas:). I hope everyone is enjoying their final days. Arienne I can't wait to live thru your pictures and stories. We miss you soooo much! I'm also very happy that you got to experience this wonderful experience. Memories do last a lifetime! Well everyone enjoy and we parents look forward to your safe return. Love ya Arienne! Smooches;)

Shalawn 10:22PM 03/27/10

Mmmmm! Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. It seems clear to me that this was the best day of the trip.

Terri 10:07PM 03/27/10

Hey Jane! We miss you down here! Hope you are having a great time

Rachel 7:23PM 03/27/10

It sounds like another wonderful day in paradise. I look forward to a video of the talent show. Graham, I can't wait to see you and to hear about all of your adventures. Love, Mom

Cathy Fowler 2:45PM 03/27/10

Bloggin'in Paradise

March 26, 2010

Moira and Gary at the internet cafe, sharing our adventures with you!

Hi all, what a trip we are having! Gary and I have been having fun administering this blog....as you may tell from the photo, the open air internet cafe is right on the beachfront and the view is just gorgeous! Not a bad place to blog! We have to come into the town of Puerto Jiminez in order to connect to the internet.

The kids have been great and it has been fun to watch how they have all bonded and become friends over this past week! It is hard to believe that just a week ago, most of them barely knew one another. They have been so much fun.You would be proud of them...they often come to ask if they can help and we often take them up on it! They all have been eager to try all the new experiences and have learned why this is such a special place on earth! They also have learned that the people here are happy even though they don't have all the "toys"like Wii's,cars, iPhones and in some cases, not even any electricity!!

Today we have had a tour of an organic chocolate and coffee farm called Finca Kobo. The tour explains how they farm using organic techniques. You'll hear more about that later, but I have posted some photos in my previous post as a preview!

The trip is winding down, but the memories will last a lifetime! Thanks for sharing your children with us.

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hi crosley

sawyer 11:07PM 03/26/10

You're gettin a little sun there Croz. Head start on the summer tan, eh? Ha. Sorry to hear about the ping pong loss. That's tough but 2nd place ain't bad. Anxious to hear about the organic coffee farm. Sure you impressed 'em with your coffee expertise. All is well here. Your little bro has a housefull of friends over this evening (I'm hiding in my room). Glad you guys are making the most of this trip. Many thanks to all you teachers, parents and Captins for looking out for this crew.

Craig Brammer 10:04PM 03/26/10

Hello team I'm so happy you all are having a joyus time and getting not only to learn about the way of life in Cosat Rica but each other as well. Im sure when leaving some of you have probably never spoken to each other so you all have really gotten a 2 for 1 on this trip.. EXPERIENCE AND GAINED A FRIEND...Now everytime you walk down the hall and see that newly gained friend, your gonna smile/giggle due the memories you all created together...Enjoy one another....I miss you Briaona...Love mommy

Alicia Griffin 7:43PM 03/26/10

So glad you are all having a wonderful time. The pictures and blogs are awesome. I really like the story about the gang of monkeys. Feels like we are traveling with all of you. Speaking of blogs, Adam, when are you going to do one. Love Dad

vincent adams dad 6:10PM 03/26/10

Hey Adam, way to go Ping Pong Champ. We woke up to snow this morning, yuck. I am sure you enjoyed the dulce. You are number 2 in the bracket. I love it when you smile. Mom.

VALENCIA 4:06PM 03/26/10

Moira and Gary, I am so happy that Graham was able to participate in this great adventure. It is truly a trip of a lifetime. It seems like they have been gone a long time even though it has only been a week. I love to see their smiling faces.

Cathy Fowler 2:51PM 03/26/10

Nature Hike and Big Waves!

March 26, 2010

Graham and Chas writing the blog while Crosley helps edit!

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Graham and Chas were our student bloggers today....with a little help from Crosley!

This morning was filled with the harmonious sounds of howler monkeys, crashing waves, and the dinging of the breakfast bell. We had been expecting the obnoxious howling of the monkeys. (The loudest land mammal and sleeping teenagers are not a good mix, LOL!!). After a delightful breakfast of eggs and fruit we headed down to the hammocks for a lesson in rainforest culture. Adonnis, the guide, taught us about chart crabs, sea turtles, jaguars, and much, much more! Once the insightful nature hike was finito (finished LOL!!), we boarded the bus and headed for the beach front of Iguana Lodge. At the beach of Iguana Lodge the waves were HUGE, but thanks to the life jackets provided by Captain Morgan we were prepared for anything! Just in time, a beautiful buffet of local Costa Rican cuisine was there to pleasure our stomachs. After dining on a nice lunch we headed back to crash through some hard core waves. Once our time at the lodge was complete we headed to the local supermarket and were granted 10 minutes of shopping time. CANDY, CANDY, CANDY!! (DULCES, DULCES, DULCES!!), thatís candy in Spanish. LOL!! Once we returned to Morganís Lodge, it was a mad dash for the hammocks to have an afternoon siesta. After a long day we just chilled out and ate our market purchases. Mr. Schnure eventually gathered us up and organized a ping-pong tournament. The final game was between Adam and Crosley. After a grueling match Adam rose victorious. Miss Linda wanted everyone to know she came in 5th....not bad!!!! Pura Vida (Pure life) is the perfect explanation of this excellent day. TOODDLES!!!!!!!!!!!!

-Graham and Chas

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Hi Graham: Love reading all the blogs. Just read the one you did with Chas. What a wonderful experience. Great food, beautiful scenery, wonderful group of people. The zip lines sound like fun. I'll have to wait until you come home to find out what you thought. Take care. Love Grandma.

Grandma (Shirley Burke) 10:19AM 03/27/10

Hello everyone, Again your blogs tell me that you are having a great time. I hope that you are creating lasting memories and learning to appreciate all of the "things" that you have here. I am also grateful that you have had the chance to learn how much fun you you can have without your phones, ipods and video games. Enjoy the last days of your trip and be safe.

Terri 9:32AM 03/27/10

Whats up eagles? Its nearing the end of this unforgetable adventure that you all have had the opportunity to enjoy.... Reading the daily blogs it seems that everyone has been having a wonderful time.. I am happy to hear that all of you are getting along great and have formed new lasting friendships... Arienne can't wait till your return miss you and love ya lots.:-)

Rob O 7:50PM 03/26/10

Hi Jane, I read your horoscope today: "You get in touch with your humanitarian side as you see examples of the brotherhood of man all around you. Sounds like this could be said of your whole group. Miss you, love mom and dad. "EAT YOUR VEGGIES!!!!!!!!- Connor

Deb Corwin 6:49PM 03/26/10

Hello pretty crosley, it's mom. So cool all that you are seeing and doing.just left Canada and writing you from a ferry crossing the p sound. Can't wait to give you huge hug! Be adventureous, take pictures in your mind and daydream :)

Carol brammer 4:08PM 03/26/10

Graham, it is great to hear from you. I like the blog for today. Did you buy some candy? You look a little red; I hope you are using sunscreen. I love the pictures. And can't wait to see you on Monday night. Love you, Mom.

Cathy Fowler 2:31PM 03/26/10

Zippin' on the Zip Line!

March 25, 2010

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Maryn and Abby are our student guest bloggers today!

Waking up to a refreshing sunrise walk on the beach stimulated our senses for our rigorous day of adventure. Our breakfast consisted of homemade pancakes (thanks to Gary, Moira and Jackie) and fresh fruit. We piled onto the bus, and the drive into town was fairly short. From there we split up to go into different cabs. The road to the zipline lodge was very steep and bumpy. As we disembarked our rides, very friendly natives, who were workers on the zipline, greeted us with enthusiasm. Our gear was laid out on the picnic tables for us to choose and the workers helped us into our harnesses and we were then ready to go. Walter, leading the first pack, was a little tentative about the heights, but eagerly stepped up to the platform and took off. The rest of us followed but had an extensive wait at platform 2 because we were the first group. The next few platforms followed at a quicker pace. Taking a rest at platform 6 everyone was getting anxious for the next zip. Abby, Maryn, Crosley, Melanie, and Ariel hung back in the waiting line in order to get a picture with the guapo (Spanish word for cute) worker. He gladly agreed and the rest of us completed platform 6. The last two ziplines were the fastest and longest ones of all 8. Once our journey through the rainforest canopy was completed, we soon began yet another. Meeting and attempting to converse with the workers, who spoke very little English, made the hike entertaining. As the lodge came into view, we quickly sprinted to the water cooler. Who wouldíve thought that zip lining could make you so thirsty. After cooling off and removing our gear, the steep and bumpy ride back down the mountain was made. Marvin (the bus driver) was waiting for us to board his bus and take the group to our next destination: lunch! Eating at the cafÈ in town was very authentic. After our Costa Rican lunch, the group was able to do some shopping. Abby, Crosley, and, Maryn had an incident over inflatable floaty beach animals. The owner of the store spoke NO English, not even hello. We were trying to negotiate the price for 3 of them but he was stubborn in lowering his price. The language barrier did little to help. Finally we said ìno graciasî and quickly walked to our bus, which led us to our crocodile encounter. Adonnis, a Baruca Indian guide and friend of the Morgan's, fed his pet crocodiles with fresh meat. Due to the hot weather the crocodiles were hiding under the leaves in the lagoon, so we only saw 3. From there we made our trek back to the lodge in our bus. We are currently relaxing and playing movie charades. Looking forward to a good day at the sandy beach tomorrow!

-Maryn Lowry and Abby Schnure (baby schnure)-

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India, I miss you. I am glad to hear that everything is going so well each day. I am happy to hear that the zip lining is over. It sounds really exciting and I am happy that everyone enjoyed it, but the thought of it made me nervous. We are very busy here. We have had a lot of rehearsal this week. The choir sounds good and Sunday's performance should be great. Anaya's teeth are pushing through and her scoot is almost up to a crawl. She misses you. I can tell that she is looking for you in the house. Continue to enjoy the break and all of you be safe in all that you do

Terri 11:17PM 03/25/10

Hi Maryn! Great job blogging with Abby! Sounds like you are having the adventure of a lifetime! The pictures are amazing, and the activities sound incredible. We can't wait to hear about your trip in person. Enjoy every minute! We love you! Aunt Joyce

Joyce Igel, Maryn's aunt 9:33PM 03/25/10

Hey Arienne I hope your having a great time ! So did you go down the zip line? Make sure you put your scarf on before bed!......LOL. Luv Ya Step-Mommy!

Reese 8:51PM 03/25/10

Your blog has brightened up the dreariness of our soggy Cincinnati day (don't despair, it is getting greener), In your spare time, try to come up with a place for zip lines at Walnut, perhaps from Sulsar down to Victory Parkway? - Jim. Okay, can we get some of that coffee in Cincinnati? From your descriptions I can almost smell the aroma here and I'm finding my morning cup doesn't satisfy any more. The zip line sounds amazing (seems everything is in Costa Rica)! Enjoy the beach! - Deb. Love to you Jane from Mom, Dad, Con and the livestock!

jcorwin 7:28PM 03/25/10

Hi Bear ! What a big day. Any video of the zip line ride ? That sounds like a huge zipline ? Anyone bang into any monkeys heading through the trees ? Hey 'Mar, need to use any sunblock ? Keep having fun. We all miss you a ton. Raining here and @ 50 degrees, 29 tonight. p.s. Was that you on the white horse in that picture from yesterday ? Much love. your Dad.

John (Dad) Lowry 6:54PM 03/25/10

I'm glad to hear that everyone enjoyed the zipline. The sunset pic was priceless! I'm still extremely jealous. You guys are there in paradise while we are here in the cold wet dreary Cincinnati. Enjoy and get some sun for me. Arienne we love and miss you! Oh we had your favorite for dinner tonight yum;). Smooches

Shalawn 6:47PM 03/25/10

Sorry if this is a repeat comment. I received a message that my first comment was not accepted. As not to repeat myself...keep the entries (and pictures) coming. Graham, I like your picture. Are you having your hair done? Love, Mom

Cathy Fowler 5:52PM 03/25/10

Caroline's turn to Blog....

March 25, 2010

Our adult blogger today is Caroline Driscoll

The adult chaperones are having no trouble with these smart, well behaved, adventurous young adults. They are so eager to try new experiences and new foods. It was quite easy to get them up and ready for the zip line this morning. Gary set us up with Costa Rican coffee made the authentic way (a sock full of grounds ñ water percolated through). Iím told itís amazing. Iím a tea drinker. When we got into our taxi, our driver, Marcos started chatting with us. We told him that Costa Rica was Muy Bonita. He corrected us by saying chicas (pointing at the 5 females in the car) are bonita, the country is BONITO. Zip line - amazing! At the first and second platforms we were in the tree canopy. By the 5th platform we could see the ground about 30 feet below. A couple of the students and a couple of the adults were then able to relax and enjoy the trip a little more. At the 8th stop we were sad that it was the last. The town of Puerto Jimenez is very small. We shopped for 45min and I believe that most folks picked up souvenirs. Adonnis gave us a tour of his eco friendly campground and coaxed 3 alligators out for us to see. Returning to Guanabanna (Morganís lodge), everyone scattered, we needed water to cool down and clean up. The cool pool, the ocean or the showers claimed all of us. This helps us to deal with the humidity and heat. The students read from their journals before dinner. Each person shared what they remembered from day 1 to 4. Bill Schnure and the Morgan family have set up a Spring Break adventure that has been a great way to experience the Costa Rican way of life.

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heyy croz, its Madeline. I miss you girl! i bet yall are havin soo much fun there. pictures look so cool. btw our show starts tonight, i'll tell you everything that happens! aightt love youu see you soon - madelbug

Madeline Brammer 7:40PM 03/25/10

Love the rivers