Backcountry

We will begin our jog/run from Anchorvale CC towards Punggol using Sengkang Riverside Park running route, U-turn back to Anchorvale CC once we hit 2.5KM mark (Total distance 5KM) After that, we will end our run @ Anchorvale Village Hawker Centre to mingle and chit chat (No obligation to join for post run session) Notes: ► As there is no storage space for your belongings, do travel light. ► We will do a warm-up at 7.30PM and the run will start at 7.45PM sharp. ► This is a rain-or-shine event. In case of bad weather, we will do static training nearby.

Ready to learn a fun and exciting sport while getting some exercise? Our pickleball group classes offer a welcoming and supportive environment where you can learn and improve your skills while also making new friends. Our certified coaches will guide you through the basics of the game and help you to develop your technique and strategy. So, whether you are a seasoned athlete or just starting out, come join us for a thrilling and energizing game of pickleball! ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class ### **Cancellation Policy** Credits will be considered used if class is cancelled within 24 hours before the start of the lesson

*Only for Fully Vaccinated* 3 tables booked • $4 payment/pax is required • Preferred payment by PayNow to my mobile 96200515 • Pass it to me during/after the game. Participants: Preferably from lower Intermediate to upper Intermediate level; No age limit. REMARKS: In sport wear and bring your own bat. Balls and net are provided. Please update your RSVP at least one day before so the members who are on the waiting list won't be deprived of the chance to participate. For those who are in the waitlist, please do cancel your waitlist to not joining if you decided not going. Reason for the waitlist may automatically be RSVPed when any RSVPed member cancelled to not joining and you would become depriving those who are in the waitlist too if you did not turn up for the TT meetup. Thanks for your understanding and support!

**Please click [https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G8gW6CHHf/](https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G8gW6CHHf/) .** **For full trip details, please WhatsApp:** Kelvin- [https://wa.me/6593838649](https://wa.me/6593838649) Magdalene - [https://wa.me/6597914105](https://wa.me/6597914105) **For more adventure trips, please click** [https://linktr.ee/thetravellingbackpack](https://linktr.ee/thetravellingbackpack)

**ANNOUNCEMENT – Registration via this [link](https://go.gov.sg/stackmeetup-21may2026-mc) only.** * Seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. * For admission into our event space, please register beforehand via GovEntry only. * Please present the QR code within your registration confirmation email upon check-in at our event space. **About this Meetup** As AI reshapes the future of defence, how do we stay ahead of machine-speed threats? Dive into the high-stakes world, where AI meets modern security, as we explore the critical intersection of AI-driven resilience and the next frontier of digital warfare. This session unpacks what it takes to stay "In Command" in an increasingly complex landscape, covering the evolution of security operations, strategic leadership, and the transition to post-quantum security. By connecting technical innovation with strategic leadership, we provide the insights needed to navigate today’s dynamic threat landscape. [Join us](https://go.gov.sg/stackmeetup-21may2026-mc) to gain the practical tools to fortify your organisation and lead with confidence in this new era! **Programme** 6:30pm: Networking 6:55pm: Opening Announcements 7:00pm: The Threat Landscape Shift with Claude Mythos By Sean Lim, Security Engineer, Vectra AI 7:10pm: Overwhelmed to 'In Command': How AI‑Driven Defence Empowers Modern SecOps By Jason Heng, Regional Director, Rapid7 7:20pm: Power the Agentic Security Operations Center (SOC) By Jeff Yeo, Leader Solution Engineering, Splunk 7:30pm: Can You Trust Your AI Agents? Evaluation-driven AI for Cyber Intelligence Operations By Simeon Tan, Co-Founder and CTO, Protos Labs 7:40pm: Transitioning from Red to Blue in the AI Era: The CISO Navigator By Terence Teo, Chief Information Security Officer, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment 7:50pm: Beyond the Hype: What Post-Quantum Security Actually Looks Like in Practice By Regal Star, CEO, ZENTARA Technologies 8:00pm: Closing 8:30pm: End of STACK Meetup Click **[here](https://go.gov.sg/stackmeetup-21may2026-mc)\*** to sign up! \*Registration will be accepted via GovEntry only.

**FULLY BOOKED!** **" AWESOME. PICTURESQUE. INSPIRING. OVER-WHELMING!"** *"Trekking beside the riverbanks in Japan Alpine region, I was overwhelmed by the sheer beauty and awe-inspiring scene that stood before me. The grandeur and splendour of these majestic mountains reflected on crystal-clear lakes and rivers is truly awe-inspiring! To me, no words will ever be able to truly describe the serenity and natural beauty of this place. Having experienced the peace and tranquility of paradise, I just had to share this place with you .. my very own TLC members."* David Lim - TLC Founder / Organizer \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:** **KAMIKOCHI** Known to the locals as Japan's most spectacular Alpine mountain sceneries, this region is only open from late April until early Oct and shuts down during winter. The scenic trekking trails on the lower region is roughly 15 km along a plateau beside crystal-clear waters on the Azusa River Valley, about 1500 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by breath-taking snow-capped mountains, including the *Nishihotakadake (2909 m), Okuhotakadake (3190 m), Maehotakadake (3090 m)* peaks and the active volcano *Yakedake (2455 m)* all offering spectacular views and challenges to mountain hikers. As part of the **Chubu Sangaku National Park**, this region has only been moderately developed with a few lodges and bridges preserving it's natural beauty. All private transport are banned here, and access to this alpine trail is quite a daunting challenge as it only possible by local public bus (http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2015.html) (need to change 3 different buses) or by approved taxi (very costly). The serenity and beauty that awaits you however far outweighs the effort taken to get there. **TAKAYAMA** \- Ancient Old World Charm Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, **TAKAYAMA** is best known for its inhabitants' expertise in carpentry. It is believed carpenters from Takayama worked on the Imperial Palace in Kyoto and on many of the temples in Kyoto and Nara. The town and its culture, as they exist today, took shape at the end of the 16th century, when the Kanamori clan built Takayama Castle. About a hundred years later the city came under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokugawa_shogunate). However, the high altitude and separation from other areas of Japan kept the area fairly isolated, allowing Takayama to develop and preserve its own charm and culture over a 300-year period. A hike or cycling around the village exploring its charms will bring you back to the Samurai era. **SHIRAKAWA-GO** This is a mountain village located at the highest peak on **Mount Haku** in the Ryōhaku Mountains, where it borders Ishikawa prefecture. Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995, they are famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. **Gassho-zukuri** means "constructed like hands in prayer", as the farmhouses' steep thatched roofs resemble the hands of Buddhist monks pressed together in prayer. The architectural style developed over many generations and is designed to withstand the large amounts of heavy snow that falls in the region during winter. The roofs, made without nails, provided a large attic space used for cultivating silkworms. **KUROBE-ALPINE SCENIC ROUTE** with its amazing **20m Snow-Wall.** Experience hiking along 20 Metre high snow-wall and stunning vistas and unique landscapes as you travel over, above, and even under the majestic Mt. Tateyama. Stop off to enjoy a stroll through flower filled meadows or steaming volcanic valleys. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine (pronounced “Alpen”) Route is known as the **“Roof of Japan”**. The route passes through the dynamic scenery of **Mt. Tateyama** in the Japan Alps. **KUROBE DAM** It is traversed using a variety of vehicles eg. Ropeway, Cable-car, Trolley Bus etc. with an elevation change of 2400 meters from Toyama Prefecture to Nagano Prefecture. Tateyama is home to many rare species of plant. It takes many years for these plants to grow and bloom. **TOYAMA** Nestled between the dramatic peaks of the Japanese Alps and the shimmering waters of Toyama Bay, Toyama is a breathtaking blend of nature, culture and culinary delight. Famous for it's picturesque castle, the spectacular Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and its snow walls, this coastal gem also tempts with some of Japan’s freshest seafood. Stroll along the tranquil Kansui Park at sunset and feel the calm. Toyama is serene, authentic and beautifully untouched—an unforgettable escape from Japan’s usual tourist trail. **"ON-SEN"** \- Soak in Japanese Hot Springs Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 “onsen” – or hot springs – in Japan, many which can be found at the ryokans listed at Japanese Guest Houses. At many ryokans, there will be large indoor onsen for both men and women. Or they may often have several pools with wall-length windows where you can look out over a garden, river, or another natural setting. The interior may be lined with natural rocks and decorated with various kinds of tropical plants. **TOKYO/ NAGANO/ TOYAMA/ TAKAYAMA STREET-FOOD ADVENTURES!** Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, mixes the ultra modern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops to cherry trees and temples. The city is famed for its nightlife in **Shinjuku**, vibrant food scene, and its **Shibuya** and **Harajuku** districts are the heart of its trendy teen fashion scene. Here ... anything goes and as adventurers, we're ready to check it out! :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Yes, the **Japan Northern Alps** is a region of awesome beauty, charm, history and great food! With award-winning UNESCO World Heritage sites, this vast area is still largely unexplored by tourists, especially it's spectacular alpine scenery. Having led several groups there to this breathtaking region, I invite you to join me in this awesome experience - trekking through snow-capped mountains, hiking along beautiful streams and rivers, staying in a capsule hotel, soaking in a mineral rich onsen, walking through 20 metre snow-walls, trying out Japanese delicacies etc and more. This special self-designed adventure that brings you to explore the Northern Alp's history and beauty spiced with different experiences is not your usual tour package offered by normal tour agencies. We will be on an adventure taking various modes of transport eg. the bullet train, cable car, trolley bus, ropeway, tram etc to access some of the remote parts of the Northern Alps inaccessible to private vehicles. You will have a chance to stay in different types of accommodation eg. at a capsule hotel, ryokan, spa hotels, samurai villages etc. subject to availability. A certain level of basic fitness eg. ability to hike at least 15 km; having a spirit of adventure to explore new places and willingness to look after and care for each other as a Team is a must. If you think you fit the above description, please register your interest by RSVPing and making the deposit transfer asap. A pre-trip briefing on how and what you need to prepare for this once in a lifetime adventure will be conducted once the group is formed. *** **Event Details:** **9 Days Japan Northern Alps Adventure** Cost : **$1995 Only!** (\*For First 12 pax to do the Deposit Transfer). *\*For Deposit received after 31 Mar, pls add $200 as Hotel New Price kicks in. Exclude International Flight @ $495 (w/meals & check-in luggage)* Initial Deposit: Only **$495** to reserve your slot. **Date: 22/05 (Fri. Night) - 30/05 (Sat).** \**Only 5 Days Leave needed.* **Group Size :** **12 Fun-loving Adventurers**. *** **REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT:** 1. RSVP NOW 2. Transfer **$495** via ATM/Online to: TLC ADVENTURE TOURS PTE LTD - DBS Current Acct: 070-90238-1-9 3. Once you've transferred, **WhatsApp David (Hp. 9745 1777)** your proof of payment. (IMPT: INDICATE YOUR MEETUP AND EVENT NAME) Flight tickets with Meals/Check-in Luggage are now going at a Promotion Price of just **$495 ONLY!** (as @ 15 Feb) on the above dates. So the earlier the Group decides on the flight, the more everyone saves! To reserve the **Limited Slots,** please RSVP now, provide us your Mobile Number and quickly WhatsApp me once you've done the transfer. PS: This Trip may be combined with our **TOHOKU SPRING FLOWERS ADVENTURE.** Click here - https://www.meetup.com/travel-leisure-care/events/312417749 *** **Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** PLEASE READ THIS LINK FOR T&Cs BEFORE YOU RSVP: [https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/terms-and-conditions](https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/terms-and-conditions) By my participation on this trip, I agree to & accept TLC’s terms and conditions. *We reserve the right without prejudice to return payment and not permit participation - without the obligation to explain or give any reason.* This Trip is organized by TLC Adventure Tours Pte Ltd (TA License: 02896)

Welcome to my sailboat. **Please read this notice**. These are crew opportunities, not for passengers, non-swimmers, people afraid of the water or get seasick. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, a hat, non-marking footwear with heelstrap and sunblock. There is a toilet and drinking water on board. Participants like to contribute to expenses in appreciation of this opportunity. **Also**, please confirm your attendance by SMS or Whatsapp on Saturday for sailing on Sunday, to avoid no-shows and missed sailings. No-shows deprive others of a place, so be responsible and remove your reservation if you are not attending, and please do it in good time. Places unconfirmed by Saturday will not be reserved, and I can't wait for you if I'm not sure you're coming. Keep me informed and reply to my messages. Don't be late. Thank you. Derek 9807-5827.

Welcome to the enchanting world of **CAUCASUS** \- a region of spectacular alpine sceneries\, rich historical wonders\, culinary delights embraced by the genuine hospitality of its people\. Spanning **Eastern Europe** and **Western Asia,** it is situated between the **Black Sea** and the **Caspian Sea,** blessed with natural beauty and timeless heritage. So come, step on board and join us on this **13D Adventure** as we take you on this amazing journey to explore the **GREAT CAUCASUS** - **GEORGIA, ARMENIA and AZERBAIJAN**. From ancient monasteries and snow-capped peaks to vibrant cities and local traditions, get ready to experience a seamless, deeply moving adventure curated for those who seek authenticity and depth. Yes ... it’s a rare & unique opportunity for you to enjoy our specially curated itinerary with your fun-loving friends (suitable for solo-travellers & seniors as well) as we take you back in time to enjoy one of the world’s most captivating regions. From the ancient rock carvings of **Gobustan** to the stunning **Lake Sevan** and the solemn monasteries of Armenia, each destination promises an immersive experience like no other. With us, you will get to stroll around cosmopolitan **Baku**, lively **Tbilisi** with its cobbled streets and cozy **Yerevan** with its pink architecture and amazing views of **Mount Ararat** (the landing site of Noah’s Ark). This adventure will be accompanied by stunning views of the **Caucasus Mountains** in Spring with temperatures ranging from 12C - 21C. Here are just some of this Amazing Adventure **HIGHLIGHTS** – * *Iconic Gergeti Trinity Chutch* * *Views of Mount Arafat (Noah’s Ark resting place)* * *Etchmiadzin – World’s First Cathedral* * *Armenian Genocide Memorial* * *Sevanavank Monastery* * *Garni Temple* * *Lake Sevan* * *Geghard Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage site* * *Gyumri* * *The sacred Khor Virap site* * *The impressive UNESCO Vardzia Cave Complex* * *Stalin’s Historic Town & birthplace with deep Soviet-era roots* * *Aragvi River* * *Kazbegi – alpine beauty & stunning landscapes* * *Ananuri Fortress* * *Mount Kazbek* * *Stalin Museum* * *Mtskheta* * *Ancient Jvari Monastery* * *Old World Charm of Tbilisi* * *Bridge of Peace* * *Sulfur Bath District* * *Narikala Fortress* * *Highland Park* * *Martyrs’Alley* * *Baku’s historic Old City* * *Maiden Tower* * *Shirvanshahs’ Palace* * *Magnificent Carpet Museum* * *Impressive Flame Towers* * *Gobustan National Park* * *Ateshgah Fire Temple* * *Bubbling Mud Volcanoes* * *Ancient Petroglyphs* * *Heydar Aliyev Center* * *Yanardag* * *Yashil Bazaar* * *Symphony of Stones* * *Baku Bay* * *Miniature Book Museum* * *Didi Baba Mausoleum* * *Shanakhi* * *Silk Road Village of Lahij* * *Sheki's UNESCO Old City* * *Palace of the Sheki Khans & Round Temple* * *Schuchmann Wine Chateau* * *Rezo Gabriadze Theatre's Clock Tower* * *Chronicles of Georgia* * *And more!* Yes! We’ll be covering most of the Top Attractions of these 3 countries plus some “off-the-beaten’ track and adding in some scenic leisure hikes (1 to 3 hrs) for you to fully enjoy the history & timeless beauty of these places. It will be a remarkable adventure with like-minded friends that we believe you’ll cherish and remember for a long time! \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **WHY SO CHEAP? - \*EUR 1895** **ONLY!** (\**This **Special Price** is only* *applicable* *for the **First 12 Slots.** Thereafter price will be EUR 2095. Remember there is **No Risk** to do the transfer early to be the **First 12 pax** as we'll **REFUND** you the Deposit if you're not impressed with our Specially curated Itinerary (with No Shopping) which we'll share with all who've transferred the Sincerity Deposit during the Trip Briefing.)* **PRICE INCLUDES:** * Luxurious 3+\* & 4\* Hotels (with good breakfast) * Other meals as per Itinerary * Main Group Transfers from/ to Airport * Guided walks/ hikes to secret unknown places * Accompanied by our TLC Tour Leader * English Speaking Local Tour Guides * A chance to visit & explore several **UNESCO World Heritage Sites** * **More than 30+ Amazing attractions/ historical sites** * Happy Hour Session (on Last Night) * Fun & laughter with new TLC friends! **EXCLUDES:** * International Flight (5\* QATAR OR ETIHAD AIRLINES) on PROMO NOW @ **$1115 Only.** So the earlier we have the **Min. Group of 12 pax** formed, we can all proceed to Grab the Promo) * Personal Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended) * Personal Early Arrival/ Extended Stays * Visa Fees if applicable * All other arrangements not mentioned in the above Inclusions \*\*\*\*\*\* **Ideal Group Size : 16 - 20 pax** **REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT** - **JUST \*S$495 ONLY!** to secure your slot. All who've transferred the small sincerity deposit will be invited for our **Trip Briefing/ Q & A Discussion** where I'll be sharing the Trip Itinerary/ Promo Flight/ Inclusions etc. with this Confirmed Group. **\*NO RISK.** *(Deposit will be refunded if you informed us within 3 days after our Trip Briefing/ Q & A session or the Event is cancelled by the Organizer. Thereafter, there shall be no refund once the Trip is confirmed.)* Remember, this is a **"First to Transfer, First to Confirm"** basis based on your transfer date/time & not on your RSVP. So be the First 12 & grab your slot now! Please RSVP with your Mobile No. (visible only to us) so that we can forward you the Event Details & Trip Briefing Date. \*\*\*\*\*\* **REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT:** 1. RSVP NOW and transfer SIN **$495** to - TLC ADVENTURE TOURS PTE LTD via - A) PAYNOW to **UEN: 201615037Z** B) Or ATM/Online to: TLC **DBS Current Acct: 070-90238-1-9** 2. Once you've transferred, **WhatsApp David (Hp. 9745 1777)** your proof of payment and Meetup name so that we can confirm your slot. 3. We'll add you to a WhatsApp Group once the Event is FULL to discuss & decide on the 5\* Int. Airline (Qatar or Emirates) Promo Flight (**$1095 Only!)** as at 15 Apr that we intend to take. So the earlier everyone transfer the Deposit and we can get the Group formed so that we can proceed to book the flight, the more everyone saves! \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** PLEASE READ THIS LINK FOR OUR T&Cs BEFORE YOU RSVP: [https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/tlcadventuretours-disclaimer](https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/tlcadventuretours-disclaimer) *By joining this trip, I agree to & accept TLC’s terms and conditions.* *We reserve the right without prejudice to return payment and not permit participation - without the obligation to explain or give any reason.* This Specially curated Itinerary is organized by TLC Adventure Tours Pte Ltd \(TA License: 02896\) \|

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

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.

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.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days