Backcountry

Ready to sweat it out on the hills? Join us for a HIIT-style hill training hike This hike is part of the **HikeFit Series**, a collection of fitness-focused hikes designed to build strength, endurance, and overall hiking fitness. We’ll challenge you with steep climbs, rugged terrain, and a high-intensity workout. This isn’t a fast-paced hike, but it is **intense**. We’ll tackle multiple **very steep hills** in intervals, with plenty of chances to catch your breath, recover, or skip hills if needed. This hike is designed for intermediate hikers, but it’s **beginner-friendly** since you can skip as many hills as you need. It’s perfect for anyone looking to **get stronger, improve endurance, and boost their hiking fitness** at their own pace. **Weather-Dependent Notice:** The hike is a go, **(light)** rain or shine; However, if there's a risk of excessive mud making the hills too slippery, the hike will be canceled with around 24 hours’ notice. **Distance & Duration:** * **Length of hike:** \~4 km * **Event duration:** \~1.5 hours * **Trail maps:** Random hill at Earl Bales park * **Difficulty level:** L3 (Level 3/Moderate) * Terrain: L4 * Pace: L2 * Distance: L1 **What to Bring:** * **Water:** 1\~2 liters * **Extras:** Hiking pole (Highly recommended) * **Required Gear:** Hiking boots or Trail Runners with good grip, Headlamp, and [Microspikes](https://kahtoola.com/traction/microspikes-footwear-traction/?srsltid=AfmBOoqq-URDFRgNAISoLYH1l1cSLKeXOTSuU6EqUC6VupfLNZAGRg8P) **Costs:** * **Member Event fee:** FREE EVENT **Travel Coordination:** * No Travel Coordination for this Event, Meeting at Starting Point **Event Guidelines:** * **Punctuality,** Please arrive on time so we can start promptly. We won't be able to wait for more than 5min past the start time * **Pack out everything you bring** (including nut shells, fruit peels, etc.) to help keep our trails clean. * **RSVP:** Only those marked as “Going” and have confirmed travel details (if requested) are eligible to attend the event. * If your **plans change** and you are no longer able to attend, please update your RSVP as soon as possible. * **No-shows** without prior communication may result in removal from future events. * **Weather Considerations** The hike is a go (light) **rain or shine**, so please be prepared for the conditions. for example, If it’s expected to rain, waterproof gear (like a jacket or shoes) * **Pets:** please check with the organizer for details before bringing your pet. Looking forward to seeing you on the trail

## 🎲 Toronto Backgammon Association **"Roll the dice, Join the fun!"** Looking for the perfect blend of strategy and social vibes? Welcome to the **Toronto Backgammon Association**! Whether you’re a beginner just learning the "doubling cube" or a seasoned shark looking for your next challenge, we have a seat for you at the board. We are a diverse community of all ages and skill levels meeting weekly in Toronto (and sometimes online) to keep the dice tumbling. Come for the strategic deep-dives, stay for the great conversations and friendly competition. *** ### 🏆 Weekly Tournaments & Meetups Ready to test your skills? We host regular tournaments where you can compete for more than just bragging rights. * **Cafe Entry Fee:** **$15** (Provides access to the venue and casual play). * **Tournament Entry:** **$20** (Optional for those seeking a challenge). * **Big Payouts:** We believe in rewarding our players—**90%** of all tournament entry fees are awarded directly as prizes to the winners! *** ### 💡 Why Join Us? * **All Skill Levels Welcome:** Our experienced players are always happy to share tips and tricks to help you advance your gameplay. * **A Welcoming Environment:** We pride ourselves on being a friendly, inclusive space for everyone from 18 to 80. * **Strategy Nights:** Sharpen your tactical thinking and learn the math behind the moves in a fun, low-pressure setting. Don't just play—belong. Grab a drink, find a board, and get ready for a memorable backgammon experience in the heart of Toronto. **Let’s see those doubles!**

**9:00 PM - 10:00 PM Bachata L1-L2** **Instructor:** David **\*MARCH PROMOTION\*** This month ladies can join our class for **FREE** New to Bachata or looking to brush up on your skills? This class is perfect for you! Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, David will guide you through the foundational steps and introduce fun variations of Bachata in a supportive, easy-to-follow way. 🎶💃🕺 In this class, you’ll also get access to **unlimited classes** at any time of the week to learn and practice a variety of dances, including Salsa, Bachata, Waltz, and ChaCha! ✨ **What to Expect:** * Step-by-step Bachata guidance 🕺 * No partner needed – just come and learn! 🤗 * Access to 35+ classes per month to keep you dancing! 🎉 * A welcoming, supportive environment for all levels 💖 **Pricing:** * **1st Month Membership**: $100 * **2nd Month Membership**: $125 * **Regular Membership**: $150 * **10-Class Pass**: $140 (\*$120 for new students) * **Drop-in**: $15 * **Private Class**: $85 / 1 Hour 💫 **Location:** 39 Glen Cameron, Thornhill, Unit 1 📱 Visit: [galaxydanceclub.ca](http://galaxydanceclub.ca) 📞 Call/Text: 647-504-9876 Come join us and dance your way into the world of Bachata and beyond! 🎶💃✨

**[SICILY SLOWCATION!](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/sicily-slowcation/)** **• Dates:** April 22 - May 1, 2026 *(10 days / 9 nights)* **• Cost:** $5400 *(per person, excluding flights)* ***\*NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT!*** **• Trip details:** [https://globe-drifters.com/trip/sicily-slowcation/ ](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/sicily-slowcation/) Email info@globe-drifters.com if you have questions! ***Explore Sicily, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets on our laid-back slowcation…*** Stay in Syracuse and Palermo, two beautiful Sicilian cities where you’ll take in the region’s unparalleled beauty, rich history, and unique traditions. And true to our slowcation style, we’ll take things slow so you can have time to really *experience* the vibrant streets, expansive piazzas, exquisite architecture, and bustling markets — Not just check them off a list. Taste authentic Sicilian flavors, enjoy farm life experiences, and soak up the local culture at a relaxed pace. This is your chance to live the *dolce vita* and savor every moment, one *cannoli* at a time! **In the heart of it all:** Centrally located hotels in Syracuse and Palermo mean easy walks to cafés, markets, must-see landmarks, and Sicily’s hidden gems. No taxis or rental cars needed! **A taste of Sicily:** Street eats, a countryside cooking class, a chocolate workshop, and farm-fresh lunches — Discover the real flavors of Sicily, one bite at a time! **Conversations with a contessa:** Step inside one of Palermo’s oldest private homes and hear first-hand stories from the Contessa who still calls it home.

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Toronto's hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM(feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse for Paypal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

Join us for a two-night camping trip at Algonquin’s Mew Lake. We’ll be tent camping, cooking outdoors, and spending our days immersed in nature. This small-group camping meetup is designed for those looking to slow down, disconnect from screens, and enjoy simple moments around the campfire. Beginner-friendly, supportive, and intentionally low-pressure. Limited spots available. Base Shared Cost: ~$30 per person This covers: 🏕️ Campsite fees at Mew Lake Campground 🔥 Firewood 🧻 Shared campsite supplies Additional Cost: Transportation If carpooling is arranged, gas and parking fees will be split fairly among passengers Muna Salahuddin is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Join Zoom Meeting https://us05web.zoom.us/j/89633704865?pwd=aYThEniopbV2HbVkD15Pbi5wqUYqyT.1 Meeting ID: 896 3370 4865 Passcode: 7kXLX5 April 10 Friday : 8 pm to 8:30 pm

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hockley-valley-and-winery)** ***Just over an hour outside of Toronto, enjoy a leisurely hike along the Niagara Escarpment, ending with great food & drink overlooking a vineyard.*** Hockley Valley offers some of the best hiking in the GTA. It’s especially beautiful in the spring time with the trees budding, the ice thawing and no bugs to be found. This hike covers a gentle 6km and brings you over trickling streams and bridges, winds through diverse, piney forests filled with fungi and brings you out to hilly meadows where you may spot the first few wildflowers of the season pushing through. After the hike, we’ll gather together for some time at the Adamo Estate Winery right beside the park to eat, drink and socialize with good company. **Please note anything purchased at the winery is not included in the cost of your registration.** **Highlights** **Diverse Landscapes-** Embrace the wide array of different landscapes you will encounter throughout this adventure **Winery Experience-** Savour amazing wines from a great Ontario producer **Group Social Moment-** The perfect opportunity to connect and chat with fellow WU members **Event cost: $40+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here. ](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hockley-valley-and-winery)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Ticket Link: [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tatiana-frank-live-backroom-comedy-club-one-night-only-tickets-1982631087955?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tatiana-frank-live-backroom-comedy-club-one-night-only-tickets-1982631087955?aff=oddtdtcreator) Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt with Tatiana Frank's hilarious comedy show at the Backroom Comedy Club - it's going to be a night t Welcome comedy lovers! Don't miss out on a night of laughs with **Tatiana Frank** live at **Backroom Comedy Club**! One night only! Get ready to bust a gut on **Sat, April 25th, 2026 at 8PM & 10PM**. Grab your friends and get ready for an evening filled with hilarious jokes and good vibes. See you there!

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/spring-birdwatching-26)** ***Join us at Tommy Thompson park in Toronto to experience spring migration in all its glory.*** Back by popular demand, our expert birdwatching guide Pedro Hernandez from [Outdoor Commute](https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.commute/) will be leading his Introduction to Birdwatching Workshop. This experience is designed for beginners and regular birders alike who are curious about the birds that share our city. Together, we’ll learn how to identify both local and migratory species, practice using binoculars, and explore field guides and apps, all while deepening our appreciation for the natural world around us. **What we might see:** The end of April and into May is peak spring migration season in Ontario. Tommy Thompson Park is one of the best birding spots in the province and is located right in the city. Depending on conditions, we might encounter warblers, sparrows, thrushes, and waterfowl such as northern shovelers and gadwalls, along with year-round residents like red-tailed hawks, black-capped chickadees, and northern cardinals. **Please note that binoculars are included in the cost of the adventure and that, due to the Toronto location, transportation is not offered.** **Highlights** **Spring Migration -** Experience birding at one of the best times of year, connecting with both local and travelling species before many move south for the winter. **Binoculars Included -** Every participant will get to use a pair of high quality NOCS binoculars. **Professional Birder -** Learn from Pedro Hernandez, founder of the popular Instragram account Outdoor Commute **Event cost: $50+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/spring-birdwatching-26)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

An exclusive evening for couples who value meaningful connections, refined ambiance, and elevated social experiences. This is a **private, curated gathering** — designed to bring together a select group of like-minded couples in an intimate setting. **$25 per couple (mandatory)** E-transfer to: **circlexclub@gmail.com** Add your name + “Couples Dinner” **Entry confirmed upon payment** Food & drinks are ordered and paid separately at the venue

Experience the wonders of Algonquin Park in the beautiful early days of spring, when the park begins to wake up and wildlife activity really starts to pick up. Please join us for a fantastic day trip into one of Ontario’s most famous and beloved wilderness areas. This is a wonderful time of year to visit Algonquin. If you have ever dreamed of seeing a moose in the wild, this is one of your best chances. The ice is disappearing, the forests and wetlands are coming back to life, and there is always that sense of excitement that comes with a new season. Along the scenic roads and waterways of the park, we will be watching for moose, which are often seen feeding along roadsides and in marshy areas at this time of year. We will also keep an eye out for River Otters, Beavers busy repairing their dams, and other wildlife that make Algonquin such a special place. With some luck, we may also encounter specialty birds such as Spruce Grouse and Ruffed Grouse, especially during the breeding season when they can be very active. This is also an excellent time to look for birds like Black-backed Woodpecker and newly arriving spring songbirds. While moose are one of our main targets, this can also be a very rewarding time for other wildlife. Over the years, we have seen everything from Eastern Wolves and Red Foxes to Pine Martens and Barred Owls. Our adventure begins with departure from Toronto at 7:30 a.m. sharp from Finch Station Passenger Pickup and Dropoff. We expect to arrive in Algonquin Park at approximately 10:30 a.m., where we will begin exploring some of the park’s best wildlife and birding areas. We will do some short walks during the day, and we will also visit the iconic Visitor Centre with its panoramic views over the forest. With expert guidance, we will explore some of the park’s prime birding and wildlife locations, always hoping for memorable sightings and good photographic opportunities. While specific sightings can never be guaranteed, I will take you to the areas that offer us the best chances based on current conditions and recent activity. This outing is considered moderate, with short hikes and walks, as much of the birding and wildlife viewing is done from concentrated areas and roadside stops. Please wear appropriate footwear, as trails may be muddy or wet at this time of year. Cost is $129 per person, including tax. Payment can be made through PayPal or by bank e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. Whether it is your first visit to Algonquin or one of many, spring is a magical time to be there. Please join us for a memorable day of wildlife viewing, birding, photography, and fresh air in one of Ontario’s true natural treasures. Limited spots, so do not miss out! Of course, wildlife can never be guaranteed, as these are wild animals, but with my years of guiding experience and by visiting at the best time of year, we give ourselves an excellent chance to see moose and other wildlife in the park.

Experience the wonders of Algonquin Park in the beautiful early days of spring, when the park begins to wake up and wildlife activity really starts to pick up. Please join us for a fantastic day trip into one of Ontario’s most famous and beloved wilderness areas. This is a wonderful time of year to visit Algonquin. If you have ever dreamed of seeing a moose in the wild, this is one of your best chances. The ice is disappearing, the forests and wetlands are coming back to life, and there is always that sense of excitement that comes with a new season. Along the scenic roads and waterways of the park, we will be watching for moose, which are often seen feeding along roadsides and in marshy areas at this time of year. We will also keep an eye out for River Otters, Beavers busy repairing their dams, and other wildlife that make Algonquin such a special place. With some luck, we may also encounter specialty birds such as Spruce Grouse and Ruffed Grouse, especially during the breeding season when they can be very active. This is also an excellent time to look for birds like Black-backed Woodpecker and newly arriving spring songbirds. While moose are one of our main targets, this can also be a very rewarding time for other wildlife. Over the years, we have seen everything from Eastern Wolves and Red Foxes to Pine Martens and Barred Owls. Our adventure begins with departure from Toronto at 7:30 a.m. sharp from Finch Station Passenger Pickup and Dropoff. We expect to arrive in Algonquin Park at approximately 10:30 a.m., where we will begin exploring some of the park’s best wildlife and birding areas. We will do some short walks during the day, and we will also visit the iconic Visitor Centre with its panoramic views over the forest. With expert guidance, we will explore some of the park’s prime birding and wildlife locations, always hoping for memorable sightings and good photographic opportunities. While specific sightings can never be guaranteed, I will take you to the areas that offer us the best chances based on current conditions and recent activity. This outing is considered moderate, with short hikes and walks, as much of the birding and wildlife viewing is done from concentrated areas and roadside stops. Please wear appropriate footwear, as trails may be muddy or wet at this time of year. Cost is $129 per person, including tax. Payment can be made through PayPal or by bank e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. Whether it is your first visit to Algonquin or one of many, spring is a magical time to be there. Please join us for a memorable day of wildlife viewing, birding, photography, and fresh air in one of Ontario’s true natural treasures. Limited spots, so do not miss out! Of course, wildlife can never be guaranteed, as these are wild animals, but with my years of guiding experience and by visiting at the best time of year, we give ourselves an excellent chance to see moose and other wildlife in the park.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

**Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in!** **We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind.** **If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward at Prost Beer and Wine Cafe. Www.prostcafe.com**

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Watch movie trailer here: https://www.seedsthefilm.com/ SEEDS Documentary and Community Conversation Friday, April 24 | 5-9pm Locatjon: Ohio Dominican University | Matesich Theater in Erskine Hall 1216 Sunbury Rd Room 108, Columbus, OH 43219 Through dialogue and film, spend an evening explore the lives of Black generational farmers, the unjust history of land ownership, and local Black farmers creating new legacies today. Seeds Documentary and Community Conversation is the second event in Shepherd’s Corner Land Justice Series, where we welcome BIPOC artists, filmmakers, writers, and growers to teach us, through intentional programming, what it means to be on and part of the land. This event is sponsored with Ohio Dominican University and Ohio Dominican University’s Black Student Union. Click here to access a flyer to help spread the word about SEEDS Documentary and Community Conversation **ABOUT Seeds** Seeds is Director Brittany Shyne’s Sundance-winning lyrical documentary of Black farmers, legacy, and land. “Interweaving the stories of three Black generational farmers to create a collective and intimate portrait of farming today, Seeds is a moving and powerful exploration of their lives, joys and struggles as well as the fragility of legacy and owning land.” Seedsthefilm.com **PANEL DISCUSSION: LOCAL BLACK FARMERS CREATING NEW LEGACIES** * Moderator Holly Moten Fidler, M.A. in Social Justice & Public Theology (MASJ/MAPT) student at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO) and Seminary Hill Farm worker * Julialynne Walker, Food Sovereignty Advocate and Market Manager Bronzeville Growers Market * Minister Aaron Hopkins, Visionary Farmer Planner of South Side Family Farms and Executive Director of ICANDO Community Development * Jada Terry, Founder of Mizizi Farm and Fresh Roots 614 SCHEDULE * 5 pm: Doors Open + Refreshments served. Informal Meet and Greet with Panelists and Guests * 6 pm: Opening + Panel Discussion * 7 pm: SEEDS Screening Free Admission. Registration Required. Register for free here: https://shepherdscorner.org/seeds/