Backcountry

**Hello, my name is Abdulrahman and I’m a passionate desert guide based in Qatar. I have several years of experience driving in the desert and sharing the beauty of Qatar’s landscapes with visitors from around the world.** **I have extensive experience navigating the Qatari desert and guiding guests through safe and thrilling dune bashing routes. I’m knowledgeable about the desert environment, local culture, and the best locations for incredible desert views and sunset photography.** **I specialize in private desert safari experiences using a 4x4 Land Cruiser, ensuring both safety and excitement during dune bashing adventures. My goal is to give guests an authentic and memorable experience while exploring the stunning dunes and desert scenery of Qatar.** **I take pride in providing a personalized experience for every guest, focusing on comfort, safety, and unforgettable moments in the desert.** **My experiences are designed to provide high-quality service and a premium private adventure. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe driving, and the opportunity to explore Qatar’s beautiful desert in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle.** **———————————————————————————** **What to expect:** **-You will be Experiencing thrilling dune bashing in a luxury 4x4, where comfort meets adventure in the stunning desert.** **-Guests will enjoy a scenic desert photo stops at the stunning dunes, perfect for capturing breathtaking views.** **-We’ll visit the ocean at the inland sea (where the Golden Sahara desert meet the crystal-clear ocean, creating a rare and unforgettable natural landscape).** **-You will be experiencing the sunset unfold in the dessert, filling the sky and water with breathtaking colors.** **———————————————————————————** **Additional to the trip:** **-You can choose an optional camel ride to add a rich cultural touch to your desert adventure, connecting with tradition. (additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **-You can also choose an optional quad biking** **(1 seater, 2 seater) or dunes buggy (4 seater) to add to your adventure and add a bit more excitement in the desert.(additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **———————————————————————————** **Where to meet:** **-name of the meeting place on google maps (Mina Hotel and Residences By The Torch)** **Be there by 2:00 (P.M) Sharp.** **Or——————** **-if you are only one private group i will pick you up from the (Hotel / accommodation) and back after the trip is done.** **———————————————————————————** **What to bring:** **-preferable bring hat.** **-with the hot weather better to wear something light.** **———————————————————————————** **What's Included:** **Dune bashing** **Inland Sea visit** **Local Tea** **Professional English-speaking Guide** **Camel ride (can be booked on site)** **Quad bike ride (can be booked on site)** **Sunset** **Transportation in an air-conditioned 4x4** **Luxury Landcruiser** **Unlimited water** **———————————————————————————** **What's NOT Included:** **Any extra services or expenses not mentioned as included.** **——-————————————————————————** **Additional info:** **• Not wheelchair accessible** **• Service animals not allowed** **• Infants must sit on laps** **• Not recommended for travelers with back problems** **• Not recommended for pregnant travelers** **• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions** **• Most travelers can participate**

[Join Event Chat Here!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GDmUzlPO2DS84Q5aDSXMy4) RIXOS BRUNCH & BEACH🌊 Join us for a Brunch Retreat on *Friday, May 22nd, 2026* filled with good time and meet new people, beach, swimming pool, and International Brunch at Rixos Gulf Hotel for 112qar QGrab deal per person. 📆 Friday, May 22nd, 2026 🕐12:30pm (Be on time for Brunch Time) 📍Rixos Gulf Hotel 💰112qar QGrab coupon deal or 225qar full price 🎟 *QGrab Deal Voucher Only* 💬Interested? Join Chat Here for more info: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GDmUzlPO2DS84Q5aDSXMy4 *OBTAIN YOUR QGRAB VOUCHER* https://qgrabs.com/deals/barbecue-night-brunch-pool-beach-rixos-gulf-hotel-doha-22599 1. Select Date: Friday, May 22 2. Select Option 4: Friday Brunch with Pool & Beach Access - Adult 3. Pay QR112 instead of QR225 on the app 4. Valid ONLY on Friday 5. Pool & Beach Access: 12:30pm - 6:00pm 🔗*ATTENDING? FILL THIS LOGISTICS SURVEY:* https://forms.gle/XJN7zvPvPh1dCmrLA

**🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 **📓 HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EJheHcDboEJ2TKV9wa3omB)[,](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EK5pxIwMqfcLaWwSSim8TJ) along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 18:00-18:15 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the official start. * 18:15-18:25 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 18:25-19:45 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 19:45-20:00 - Bring everyone back together to discuss conclusions of the topic - each group gives a short 1-minute summary. Organizer concludes the meeting and everyone takes a group photo. * 20:00 - The official meeting is over but it’s a great opportunity to get to know people in a non-structured environment, so we often stick around, chat, and get to know each other. **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend! We just ask that if we are meeting in a café, buy a beverage! Some chapters rent a space for us to meet, and they may ask for donations to help contribute to the cost of rent. Donations will always be 100% voluntary though! **💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY** **🗣** “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * **​What will we talk about? What's the topic?** ​The topic for the week is shared every Sunday in the Whatsapp group. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EJheHcDboEJ2TKV9wa3omB). * **Do I need to study or read anything to attend?** No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required. * **Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on?** The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * **Is it mostly men that attend?** Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * **Can I come alone?** Of course you can, we encourage it :) * **Can I be late?** Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * **Where do you meet?** The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EJheHcDboEJ2TKV9wa3omB)[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EK5pxIwMqfcLaWwSSim8TJ)group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY CLUB - Philosophy, everywhere. ✨** We started in Practical Philosophy back in 2021 and there are now 20+ chapters in over 15 countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ **\*\*\*** **Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EJheHcDboEJ2TKV9wa3omB) 👈** **Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/) 👈** **Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/) 👈**

Language Exchange over a drink. This is a free event and we welcome local and expats to come for a chat and some good company. **Languages👂🏻💋: English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese (and more depending on the attendees)** **Topics🗣 : Do you have stress? How do you deal with stress?** **Location:** Antoinette's Cafe in Dusit Doha Hotel We have certified Chinese and English teachers here who also speak Spanish and Japanese. We are looking for Arabic-speakers or anyone who wishes to practice these languages or just to connect. We choose a different place every week and this time *a Cafe with good pastry options* in Dusit Doha Hotel in West Bay. Participants will be put in different tables based on number of people and langauge-pairs and swap places from time to time with cat company! RSVP is essential. Participants are responsible for paying for their own drinks and any order. As customary to support local business, one order of drink or food is a good practice. *Look for a blonde Asian girl when you get there!!*

**Hello Ladies,** We believe that meaningful connections happen when people come together naturally. While men and women both play vital roles in shaping our world, women-only gatherings offer a unique and valuable space for sharing, reflection, and support. We love cultures and appreciate differences. Inspired by similar gatherings we’ve hosted in Barcelona, we’re excited to bring something a little different to our community here-relaxed, welcoming, and empowering. **Event Details** **Time:** Friday, 1:00–2:30 PM **Venue:** Malaysain Restaurant, West Bay *(Each time different. Exact location will be shared via private message upon confirmation. Please ignore the map pin as it is not accurate. )* **What to Expect** Every few weeks, a small group of wonderful women, both locals and expats, will gather for a themed lunch experience. **This time, we’ll be exploring Malaysian cuisine.** Together, we will: * Enjoy a relaxed themed lunch * Share supportive and uplifting conversations * Take part in light empowering activities * Create a comfortable space to discuss topics we don’t always get to share elsewhere * Connect, unwind, and enjoy positive vibes * Share, explore and choose good food This is a private event with limited spaces to maintain a meaningful and welcoming atmosphere. **How to Join** Please sign up and reply to our confirmation message to secure your place. The exact venue details will be sent to confirmed ladies via private message. **Dining Details** Vegetarian and pescatarian options are available. Depending on the venue, we may either share dishes or order individually. Price range: 100-150 QAR. *At the end of the gathering, we’ll also choose the theme and venue for our next meetup together.*

**Hello, my name is Abdulrahman and I’m a passionate desert guide based in Qatar. I have several years of experience driving in the desert and sharing the beauty of Qatar’s landscapes with visitors from around the world.** **I have extensive experience navigating the Qatari desert and guiding guests through safe and thrilling dune bashing routes. I’m knowledgeable about the desert environment, local culture, and the best locations for incredible desert views and sunset photography.** **I specialize in private desert safari experiences using a 4x4 Land Cruiser, ensuring both safety and excitement during dune bashing adventures. My goal is to give guests an authentic and memorable experience while exploring the stunning dunes and desert scenery of Qatar.** **I take pride in providing a personalized experience for every guest, focusing on comfort, safety, and unforgettable moments in the desert.** **My experiences are designed to provide high-quality service and a premium private adventure. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe driving, and the opportunity to explore Qatar’s beautiful desert in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle.** **———————————————————————————** **What to expect:** **-You will be Experiencing thrilling dune bashing in a luxury 4x4, where comfort meets adventure in the stunning desert.** **-Guests will enjoy a scenic desert photo stops at the stunning dunes, perfect for capturing breathtaking views.** **-We’ll visit the ocean at the inland sea (where the Golden Sahara desert meet the crystal-clear ocean, creating a rare and unforgettable natural landscape).** **-You will be experiencing the sunset unfold in the dessert, filling the sky and water with breathtaking colors.** **———————————————————————————** **Additional to the trip:** **-You can choose an optional camel ride to add a rich cultural touch to your desert adventure, connecting with tradition. (additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **-You can also choose an optional quad biking** **(1 seater, 2 seater) or dunes buggy (4 seater) to add to your adventure and add a bit more excitement in the desert.(additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **———————————————————————————** **Where to meet:** **-name of the meeting place on google maps (Mina Hotel and Residences By The Torch)** **Be there by 8:40 (A.M) Sharp** **Or——————** **-if you are only one private group i will pick you up from the (Hotel / accommodation) and back after the trip is done.** **———————————————————————————** **What to bring:** **-preferable bring hat.** **-with the hot weather better to wear something light.** **———————————————————————————** **What's Included:** **Dune bashing** **Inland Sea visit** **Local Tea** **Professional English-speaking Guide** **Camel ride (can be booked on site)** **Quad bike ride (can be booked on site)** **Sunset** **Transportation in an air-conditioned 4x4** **Luxury Landcruiser** **Unlimited water** **———————————————————————————** **What's NOT Included:** **Any extra services or expenses not mentioned as included.** **——-————————————————————————** **Additional info:** **• Not wheelchair accessible** **• Service animals not allowed** **• Infants must sit on laps** **• Not recommended for travelers with back problems** **• Not recommended for pregnant travelers** **• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions** **• Most travelers can participate**

Language Exchange over a drink. This is a free event and we welcome local and expats to come for a chat and some good company. **Languages👂🏻💋: English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese (and more depending on the attendees)** **Topics🗣 : Do you have stress? How do you deal with stress?** **Location:** Antoinette's Cafe in Dusit Doha Hotel We have certified Chinese and English teachers here who also speak Spanish and Japanese. We are looking for Arabic-speakers or anyone who wishes to practice these languages or just to connect. We choose a different place every week and this time *a Cafe with good pastry options* in Dusit Doha Hotel in West Bay. Participants will be put in different tables based on number of people and langauge-pairs and swap places from time to time with cat company! RSVP is essential. Participants are responsible for paying for their own drinks and any order. As customary to support local business, one order of drink or food is a good practice. *Look for a blonde Asian girl when you get there!!*

**Hello Ladies,** We believe that meaningful connections happen when people come together naturally. While men and women both play vital roles in shaping our world, women-only gatherings offer a unique and valuable space for sharing, reflection, and support. We love cultures and appreciate differences. Inspired by similar gatherings we’ve hosted in Barcelona, we’re excited to bring something a little different to our community here-relaxed, welcoming, and empowering. **Event Details** **Time:** Friday, 1:00–2:30 PM **Venue:** Malaysain Restaurant, West Bay *(Each time different. Exact location will be shared via private message upon confirmation. Please ignore the map pin as it is not accurate. )* **What to Expect** Every few weeks, a small group of wonderful women, both locals and expats, will gather for a themed lunch experience. **This time, we’ll be exploring Malaysian cuisine.** Together, we will: * Enjoy a relaxed themed lunch * Share supportive and uplifting conversations * Take part in light empowering activities * Create a comfortable space to discuss topics we don’t always get to share elsewhere * Connect, unwind, and enjoy positive vibes * Share, explore and choose good food This is a private event with limited spaces to maintain a meaningful and welcoming atmosphere. **How to Join** Please sign up and reply to our confirmation message to secure your place. The exact venue details will be sent to confirmed ladies via private message. **Dining Details** Vegetarian and pescatarian options are available. Depending on the venue, we may either share dishes or order individually. Price range: 100-150 QAR. *At the end of the gathering, we’ll also choose the theme and venue for our next meetup together.*

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.

**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.

The number of ticks and tick diseases in Ohio have quickly multiplied over the last 10 years. Dean Kreager discusses tick species, tick pathogens, tick-borne diseases, tick bite prevention, and proper tick removal. Kreager is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator with OSU Extension in Licking County * Lakewood Public Library (in Hebron)- May 26 at 7pm [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621) * Johnstown public library at 7:00 pm June 8 [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622) Free to attend, no RSVP needed

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.