Beach Diving

We're cleaning the entire Toronto shoreline, from Mississauga to Pickering. Weather permitting, we'll continue from where we left off the previous week. We'll meet at Etobicoke Lookout Point in Humber Bay Park West (see map pin). If you're running late, start walking along the shore and look for the trash grabbers! I will have three trash grabbers available, along with bags and gloves. Picking up trash is optional. All Toronto parks and nature appreciators are welcome to join us for the walk! [See the “Safety Tips” section of this City of Toronto website.](https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/clean-toronto-together/)

Best way to get a hold of us is on our [WhatsApp chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kj63TzHIqYL5hPrRJolhyD), also great way to join a community of amazing like-minded people :) ***Let's Dance!*** ***¡Vamos a bailar!*** ***DJ Geronimo 🎧 will be playing your favorite Salsa 🎵 Bachata 🎶 Chacha 🎵 Merengue hits 🔊 DJ Sweetlike will be jamming in the Kizomba room*** Cover $10 includes: ***Free Bachata and Kizomba Lesson at 6pm (you choose)*** ***Dancing til 11pm*** ***\*Casual dress code*** ***\*Cash Bar*** ***👠Please wear comfortable & clean shoes👞*** **Location:** Islington & QEW [Map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NiBwLRbovskPkUZp9) 110 Jutland Rd, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 2G6 ***FREE PARKING*** Cover $10 before 7pm - $15 after 7pm

**🏐 Drop-In Volleyball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come bump, set, and spike your way into a great game — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual volleyball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. With two full courts available, this is a great opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy some light competition in a welcoming environment. \*\*\* **🏐 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive \*\*\* **🏐 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=yn6XJ5L)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. \*\*\* **🏐 Other Info:** • Volleyballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • This session is intended for **intermediate players and above** — participants should have a solid understanding of volleyball rules, scoring, and gameplay, and maintain proper court positioning in both serve, receive and transition play • Games are self-organized with regular rotation to ensure everyone gets time on the court • Friendly, inclusive atmosphere \*\*\* Come ready to play, connect, and have fun — we can’t wait to see you on the court!

Tired of meetup events that feel empty? Join **Toronto Girls Giving Back** 💖 for our inaugural meetup. I am hoping to build a supportive community of successful women **from various backgrounds** dedicated to connection, growth, and hands-on service.👯‍♀️ We're partnering with The Shoebox Project to inspect and pack gift-filled shoeboxes for women impacted by homelessness in our city. These boxes are reminders to women that they are worthy, beautiful, seen, and heard. 🎁 Come meet your new support network, share your passion for giving back, and help us ensure every shoebox brings joy and dignity this December! 💃👸 🎯 What to Expect Alana (our contact) from Shoebox has over 200 boxes that need to be inspected, so the team will be helping her with that. Prior to beginning, she will explain what items they typically remove from the boxes and what are safe to stay in them! We will also go for coffee after the shift downstairs at Hale Coffee!

**🏐 Drop-In Volleyball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come bump, set, and spike your way into a great game — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual volleyball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. With two full courts available, this is a great opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy some light competition in a welcoming environment. \*\*\* **🏐 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive \*\*\* **🏐 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=xq5Va95)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. \*\*\* **🏐 Other Info:** • Volleyballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • Designed for **beginner-level players** with some familiarity with the rules and scoring • Games are self-organized with regular rotation to ensure everyone gets time on the court • Friendly, inclusive atmosphere \*\*\* Come ready to play, connect, and have fun — we can’t wait to see you on the court!

**Beginner Drop-In Pickleball at the Miles Nadal JCC** New to pickleball? We’ve got the perfect session for you! Join us for **Beginner Drop-In Pickleball** at the Miles Nadal JCC — a welcoming and supportive environment for those just getting started with the game. Whether you're still learning the rules or building confidence on the court, this is a great opportunity to play, practice, and meet fellow beginners. *** 🏓 **Event Details:** **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) **Check-In:** Please check in with security and stop by the front desk upon arrival. *** 🏓 **Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup does *not* guarantee your spot. To play, you must register and pay in advance through our registration system. 👉 **[Register online](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=x9wV9dB)** 📞 Or call: 416-924-6211 **Limited to 18 players.** Once full, no additional players will be admitted. *** 🏓 **What to Expect:** * Designed for **beginner-level players** with some familiarity with the rules and scoring * Equipment available: borrow paddles and balls with a $20 cash deposit + valid ID * Friendly rotations so everyone gets a chance to play * Supportive and inclusive environment — no pressure, just fun and learning! *** Come ready to move, meet new people, and improve your game one rally at a time. We look forward to seeing you on the court!

**Drop-In Pickleball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come play one of the fastest-growing sports in North America — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for friendly, active Pickleball at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. It’s a great way to stay active, meet new people, and have some fun! \*\*\* **🏓 Event Details:** **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive. \*\*\* **🏓 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** **RSVP on Meetup does *not* reserve your spot.** To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance via our registration system. 👉 **[Register online](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=xYXzRdJ)** 📞 Or register by phone: 416-924-6211 Space is limited to **18 players** on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. \*\*\* **🏓 Other Info:** * Paddles and balls are available for loan at the front desk with a **$20 cash deposit and valid ID** * This session is intended for **intermediate players and above** — participants should have a solid understanding of Pickleball rules, scoring, and gameplay, and be comfortable with consistent rallies and court positioning * Courts are rotated regularly so everyone gets a chance to play * Welcoming, inclusive environment \*\*\* Come ready to rally, socialize, and have a great time on the court. We can’t wait to see you there!

**Please note we simply list our events on Meetup - the only way to register for an adventures is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/upcoming-adventures-and-events).** Muskoka, Ontario's 'Cottage Country', is one of Canada's best-loved and most beautiful destinations. At this time of year, it's more special than ever. We're visiting during the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year and the turning point for longer days! We’ll start the day exploring *Hardy Lake* on a 8km loop trail. This hike introduces you to Muskoka’s distinct scenery, around gorgeous lakes, the iconic granite outcrops of the Canadian Shield and an environment unmistakably shaped by beaver activity. Along the way, you may just spot some of the beavers, otters and turtles who call Hardy Lake home, offering a true snapshot of Muskoka's wilderness. We’ll finish the day with a *visit to the iconic town of Bracebridge*, giving you the chance to wander, shop, or simply unwind before we head home. It’s built around a dramatic waterfall that cuts right through the downtown, and it's one of the few places in Ontario where you can walk from an independent coffee shop to a riverside lookout in under five minutes. It offers just enough to explore without feeling rushed, making it a perfect final stop to wind down before the drive home. From forests and lakes to great food and panoramic views, this tour showcases the best Muskoka has to offer in just one day. Join us and experience it yourself. **Included in your trip:** \- Return Transport from Toronto \- You'll ride in our comfortable air conditioned coach\, with a TTC accessible pickup location\. \- Expert Guides Our guides are the best in the business. Friendly, encouraging and brimming with qualifications. They'll keep you safe, teach you all about the environment and ensure you have fun as you do it. **Highlights** **Iconic Scenery -** You'll take in some of the region's most beautiful views. Get up close with the Canadian Shield. **Visit Bracebridge -** Stroll the streets of Muskoka's most striking town. **Wildlife Spotting -** If you're lucky, you may spot the beavers and otters that call this region home. **Itinerary** **07:00 - 09:30:** Bus journey to Muskoka **09:30 - 13:30:** Hike the 8km Hardy Lake Trail **14:00 - 15:30:** Visit Bracebridge **15:30 - 18:00:** Return journey to Toronto **Event cost** ***Wilderness Union members:*** $60+HST (optional transport = $60+HST) **Register [here](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/muskoka-winter-solstice).** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community of people like you who will become your new friend group. Members range from 20-40 years old and are a mix of people who've grown up here but their friends are in a different place, newcomers to Canada, and folks from out West who want that lifestyle in Toronto 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/)***

Greetings Bird Lovers, Why do we keep going to Long Point, well the main reason is the sheer number of birds we can see, there is no place in Southern Ontario that offers the number of birds you can see at this time of year. Our trips to Long Point have always been exceptional. On our trips we’re treated to an incredible mix of wildlife, Bald Eagles, possibly Snowy Owls, Tufted Titmice, thousands of Sandhill Cranes, and literally thousands of ducks. Every visit feels like stepping into a National Geographic special. Even in the heart of winter, the slowly lengthening days and brighter light remind us that the outdoors is still full of magic, and moments like these are exactly why we keep heading back out into the field. Long Point's significance as part of the Canadian Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, as well as its role as the home to Bird Studies Canada, is underscored by the continuous presence of birds throughout the year. This renowned Ontario wintering ground hosts a myriad of species, including waterfowl, Sandhill Cranes, Tundra Swans, and the occasional surprise guest. From the commonplace Bald Eagles to the captivating Birds of Prey such as Red-tailed Hawks, Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Harriers, and American Kestrels, each visit unfolds a tapestry of avian wonders. Long Point, a globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), beckons ornithologists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts worldwide. We're eagerly looking forward to our upcoming birding adventure at this extraordinary location. A stop at Ruthven Park promises encounters with the charming Tufted Titmouse and possibly wintering Eastern Bluebirds. Additionally, our itinerary remains flexible, allowing us to stay attuned to local birding news for the possibility of rare bird sightings. Nature's surprises often unfold during this season, prompting us to adapt our plans for the chance to witness something truly extraordinary. Prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of birding at Long Point, a journey of exploration, discovery, and sheer magic. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply revel in nature's wonders, all are welcome to join. Binoculars are recommended for an enhanced experience. Our shared love for nature fosters a lively and enjoyable camaraderie within the group. I assure you of smiles, laughter, and a thoroughly delightful day out. Our rendezvous point is the Finch Station Passenger pick-up and Drop-off. Parking Lot at 7:45 am, with departure promptly at 8:00 am. We anticipate returning around 5:00 pm, having explored various areas southwest of Toronto to maximize our chances of encountering special bird species. For those interested, I can accommodate up to 3 Nature Lovers in my vehicle. The cost for my guidance, unveiling the super-hotspots, is $99.00 plus tax, totaling $113. To secure your spot, payment can be made through PayPal or via direct e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. If you opt for the latter, kindly inform me, and I will manually add you to the trip. Let's embark on a day filled with nature's wonders, capturing moments that will linger in our memories. We look forward to sharing this adventure with you!

Cost: $16 per person (includes feather birdies). Plastic birdies are available upon request. Payment: Cash is preferred and should be made before playing. E-Transfer (EMT) or debit card payments are accepted (plus applicable taxes). Time: Sundays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: 1370 Birchmount Rd, Unit #6 (Closest intersection: Birchmount Rd & Lawrence Ave) Requirements: Racquets: Bring your own racquet. Rentals are available at the club if needed. Shoes: Please bring indoor gym shoes and change into them at the club before entering the courts. Winter Reminder: Ensure you change into court shoes before stepping onto the courts during the winter months. Rules and Guidelines: No outside food is allowed. This meetup is open to players of all skill levels (beginner to advanced). The primary purpose is to play friendly doubles games. This event is not intended for singles matches or formal training sessions. Attendance is capped based on court availability. Waitlisted participants may be moved to the confirmed list as space allows, with priority given to regular attendees and those with reliable RSVP history. No Drop-ins: Only individuals on the confirmed “Going” list are allowed to attend. Unregistered participants will be asked to leave. Cancellation Policy: Please cancel at least 48 hours in advance if you cannot attend. Failure to do so will result in being marked as a no-show. Repeated no-shows may lead to removal from future “Going” lists.

Join us for our second *Snap & Stroll* — a laid-back photo walk starting at Spadina station and heading south on **Spadina Ave**, open to anyone who loves capturing life on the move. Bring any camera (yes, even your phone), comfy shoes, and good energy. No pressure, no pro skills needed — just walk, shoot, and vibe with fellow creatives. We’ll wrap with optional drinks nearby. **Note:** **Event will be cancelled if there is heavy rain expected that day.**

❄️ **Spare Yourself a Boring Winter - Bowl With Us!** Avoid social hibernation this winter, join our **6-week social bowling league** starting in January! Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet new people, or just have a fun night out with pals, this league is perfect for everyone! Chill times, cold drinks, and plenty of chances to connect with others. No matter your skill level, this league is all about having fun and meeting new friends. **;)** **🗓 Thursday evenings \|📍 AMF Sawmill Lanes \| 💵 $74 w/ code MUCOW26** **💻 League Info & Registration**: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling **Why Join?** 🎉 It’s only 6 weeks - perfect for a low-commitment social plan 🍻 Great mix of people in their 20s-40s, plus post-game hangs at the bar 🎳 Zero pressure - gutter balls totally welcome! 👕 Free league shirt if you sign up early 🧠 Weekly trivia w/ prizes 💬 Super social - join solo or w/ friends! **Want in?** Join our Meetup team Pinbusters 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/26w6mo8l Or start a team of your own with a few friends - we’ll all be hanging out either way! 📅 League Dates (Thursday evenings): Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26 ***(The MeetUp event date is deadline to register for the league.)*** **Cost & What’s Included:** ✔ $74 with discount code MUCOW26 ✔ 6 weeks of bowling (1–3 games/week) ✔ Shoe rentals & full league setup ✔ Trivia, prizes, and great people 👉 **SIGN UP NOW** 💻League Info & Registration: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling 🤑Use promo code MUCOW26 to save $20 📸 Follow the fun on Instagram: https://bit.ly/BowlingLeague-IG 📩 Questions? Contact the league: http://bit.ly/2nKHno7 Spots are filling fast – don’t miss out on the fun times!