Crucible

We are now at **Yonge Sheppard Centre** in the **food court** near **Dazzle Mi**. We start a bit past 1pm, so if you're late, please find a seat and start writing -- we'd love to hear about your story or your day -- afterwards. :) **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near **Dazzel Mi**. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/boots-bruce-trail)** ***Join us for this serene and moderately challenging stretch of the famous Bruce Trail.*** This part of the Bruce Trail will take us through lively forests, along Grindstone Creek, and past the dramatic drop of Smokey Hollow Waterfall. Starting at the concrete tunnel under Highway 6 near Waterdown, the trail drops you immediately into deep forests that will make you forget how close you are to the city. Rolling climbs, creek crossings, and rooted terrain keep you on your toes until you hit Smokey Hollow Waterfall: a wide curtain of water spilling over a limestone shelf into a shaded gorge. Beyond the falls, you'll have the trail largely to yourselves as you explore deeper into nature with your fellow adventurers. From there, the path opens into a long gradual climb before flattening out into honest, easy walking to King Road. **Total distance is 17.4 km out-and-back, with 485 metres of elevation gain. This is a solid step up from a beginner day hike but still doable for people with a good fitness level. You'll leave it feeling that sweet satisfaction of accomplishment.** **Highlights** **Smokey Hollow Waterfall:** Expect a wide curtain of water spilling over a limestone shelf into a shaded gorge. It's the natural midpoint of the hike and worth every climb to get there. **Grindstone Creek:** The trail runs alongside the creek for much of the first half, weaving through shaded forest with the sound of water keeping you company**.** **Secluded Nature Close to the City:** Just outside Burlington and about an hour from Toronto, you’ll step onto the trail and be immediately swallowed by nature with nothing around you but trees and creeks. **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $30 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/boots-bruce-trail)** **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/)***

~Notice to all participants ~全参加者へのお知らせ *****Event seating guidelines / rules for Native Japanese speakers, and non-native Japanese speakers are entirely different ***** イベントの座席に関するガイドライン／ルールは、日本語ネイティブスピーカーと非ネイティブスピーカーで全く異なります **** This is an entirely free event for everyone! **** これは、全員にとって完全に無料のイベントです！ *** Everyone will be in a waitlist and gradually moved into the going list to balance Venue seating availability and ratio of native/non native Japanese speakers *** 全員がウェイトリストに入り、会場の座席の空き状況やネイティブ／非ネイティブの日本語話者の比率を調整するために、徐々に参加リストへ移行されます. **Please carefully read the lengthy event description below and fill out the questionnaire to participate. ** 以下の長いイベントの説明を注意深く読んで、参加するためのアンケートに記入してください ———————————————————————— ~Event guideline for Native Japanese speakers 日本語ネイティブスピーカーの皆さん、こんにちは！ このイベントでは、参加するエリアやテーブルを選ぶことで、使用したい言語を選択できます。合計2回のテーブル移動があります。最初は45分で1回目、2回目は90分で行われます。イベントの合計時間は2時間15分です（45分で移動、90分で再度移動、2時間15分で終了） 座席配置のテンプレートは以下の通りです（3つの座席） A：日本語重視。このテーブルではほぼ完全に日本語でコミュニケーションを取ります。言語比率の目安は日本語80％／英語20％（日本語が非常に堪能な学習者とコミュニケーションします） B：ミックス交流。このテーブルでは英語を練習しつつ、日本語でもコミュニケーションを取ります。言語比率の目安は日本語50％／英語50％（中級／初級の日本語学習者とコミュニケーションします） C：英語重視。英語を練習しましょう！言語比率の目安は英語90％／日本語10％（英語話者との気軽な交流や文化交流） 注意：すべてのエリアに座る義務はありません！どのエリアやテーブルに参加するか、どのように時間を過ごすかは完全にあなたの選択です。ただし、テーブルを変えて新しい友達に出会うことをお勧めします *テーブルのサイズは、その時の状況や会場の収容人数によって変動します. イベントの質を皆さんのために保つため、特別な状況では主催者が別のテーブルへ移動をお願いする場合があります。可能な限り、男性が先にお願いされることになります **暴力、ストーカー行為、ハラスメント、いじめは一切許容されません。違反者には警告が与えられ、重大度によってはグループから即時（永久に）排除される場合があります。極端な状況下では、法執行機関に連絡する義務が発生し、法の最大限の範囲で対処します ~Non native Japanese guideline Hello all non native Japanese speakers. In this event , we ask that you seat yourselves at your Japanese language PROFICIENCY level. There will be NO seating ROTATIONS for non-native Japanese once the event begins. You will remain at the same table for the entirety of the event. Only Japanese native speakers will be OPTED to change area / tables at 45m into the event and also at 90m, in which they can participate at whichever table they desire. Total event duration 2H 15m. ~Seating arrangement template is as follows A: Nihongo focus. Practice your Japanese! Only sit at this table if you have high language competency and able to almost fully communicate in Japanese. (Language Ratio approximation. Japanese %80 / English %20 B. Mixed social. Communicate in both English and Japanese. Language ratio approximation. Japanese %50 / English %50 Only sit at this table if you can somewhat socialize in Japanese (at the very least you must have decent Japanese listening skills and/or understand when spoken to in Japanese) C. English Social. Anyone and everyone is welcome to sit at this table. Just chill, culture exchange and facilitate English learning for our Japanese friends. Language ratio approximation. English %90 / Japanese %10 ATTENTION: This seating arrangement template is formed to show gratitude to our friends from Japan, and respect how they would like to use their time, so they can maximize their energy and efforts in whichever they desire to do. *Table sizes will range and vary on what’s available at the moment and by the venue occupancy. To sustain the quality of the event for everyone, event hosts may switch tables and/or place you at another table under special circumstances to help balance and supplement other tables that need more participants. **** No acts of violence, stalking, harassment and bullying will be tolerated. Violators will be given a warning, and depending on severity may be swiftly removed (permanent) from the group. Under extreme circumstances, there could be obligations to reach out to law enforcement in which we will pursue to the fullest extent of the law.

We are a warm, welcoming community of meditators that offer meditation instruction and opportunities to practice meditation twice every week, every Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. No need to register, just show up! FREE MEDITATION INSTRUCTION Perhaps you’ve heard about Mindfulness, or read about current research showing the many benefits that it brings. Maybe you've decided you want to learn to meditate, or you’ve tried it on your own but have difficulties or questions. We offer free meditation instruction in an environment with other new people. Our trained meditation guides will provide you with all the information and structure you need to begin your meditation practice. Wear comfortable clothing. Meditation cushions or chairs are provided. No experience necessary, no need to register ahead of time. GROUP MEDITATION SITTING - open to the public Every Sunday at 10:00am - 11:00am we have silent shamatha/vipassana (mindful/awareness) group meditation + an informal teacher-led discussion about meditation related topics Every Wednesday at 7:00pm - 8:00pm we have silent shamtha/vipassana (mindful/awareness) group meditation. DONATIONS (of any amount) are gratefully accepted. We are a non-profit, all-volunteer organization that relies on your donations to support all that we offer. SUNDAY TALKS - every week after Sunday meditation After meditation we offer tea and a 45 min. informal group discussion lead by an experienced teacher. Topics are wide-ranging, but in each one we have the opportunity to learn how Mindful/Awareness meditation skills can bring more resources, resilience and calm to our everyday experiences. For more information about our meditation community and the Courses and Retreats we offer, please visit https://mississauga.shambhala.org/programs/

🎭 **Join us at** **Toronto Fringe Festival - Day 6!** Join us for one, two or three shows at today's Fringe. Today's lineup features an award-winning tango and ballet production, one of the festival's most promising new Canadian musicals, and an interactive improvised murder mystery where the audience secretly chooses the killer. We'll begin and end the day at Tarragon Theatre, with a stop at Theatre Passe Muraille in between. Click on "read more" below for full details. 📅 **Today's Schedule** ***2:30 p.m.*** **[Tango After Midnight](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/tango-after-midnight)** *Dance* * Presented by PointeTango, a 15-time Fringe Award-winning company and winner of both the Toronto Fringe Patrons' Pick Award and the B Street Collaborative Dance Award, making it one of the most decorated productions in the festival. * Features 2025 Canadian Tango Champions Erin Scott-Kafadar and Alexander Richardson, who combine Argentine tango and classical ballet in a visually stunning and highly original performance. * Blends world-class dance, cinematic projections filmed in Buenos Aires, and innovative design elements, offering one of the most artistically ambitious and distinctive experiences in this year's Fringe. * **[Video](https://youtu.be/mVFyQ2sgacM)** * Tarragon Theatre – Mainspace – 30 Bridgman Ave (Dupont – Bathurst-Dupont) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6750792,-79.4130606,17.03z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 55 mins * Ends: 3:25 p.m. ***5:15 p.m.*** **[Grey Spaces](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/grey-spaces)** *Musical* * One of the most highly regarded new musicals in the festival, having been selected as the First Runner-Up for the 2026 Adams Prize for Musical Theatre, a juried competition that recognizes promising new Canadian musicals. * Features an original contemporary pop score and an ambitious story that explores perfectionism, mortality and the pressure to succeed, giving it more thematic depth than the average Fringe musical. * New Canadian musicals are one of my favourite Fringe discoveries, and Grey Spaces stands out for its strong creative team, live musicians and emotionally resonant premise. * Theatre Passe Muraille – Mainspace – 16 Ryerson Avenue (Bathurst-Queen) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6750631,-79.4130221,17z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 90 mins * Ends: 6:45 p.m. ***8 p.m.*** **[You Choose: An Improvised Murder Mystery](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/you-choose-improvised-murder-mystery)** *Comedy* * From the creators of the Best of Fringe-winning hit *Entrances and Exits* and the acclaimed *Murder at the Winterhouse*, this new improvised whodunit puts the audience in control. * A talented cast of Toronto improvisers creates a completely new murder mystery at every performance, with the audience secretly choosing the murderer while the performers remain in the dark. * Combining interactive theatre, improv comedy, and classic mystery elements, every show unfolds differently as the cast must build the story and solve the crime in real time. * Tarragon Theatre – Mainspace – 30 Bridgman Ave (Dupont Station – Bathurst-Dupont) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6750631,-79.4130221,17z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 60 mins * Ends: 9 p.m. *** 🎟️ **How to Attend** * **Step 1:** Sign up on this Meetup event page. * **Step 2:** Purchase your own Fringe ticket(s) for the performance(s) you wish to attend by clicking on the show links above and selecting the date/time we are going. If you need help, call the Fringe Box Office at **(416) 966-1062**. * **Step 3:** After buying your ticket(s), post a comment on this event page with the show(s) you'll attend. This helps Belinda know who to look for at the theatre. * ⚠️ **Important:** Signing up on this event page does **not** reserve or purchase a Fringe ticket. Members are responsible for purchasing their own tickets. 💰 **Cost** * Most Fringe tickets are **$19** per show. Multi-show passes and other discount options are also available through Fringe. * There is no meetup fee. 📍 **Meetup Arrangements** * Meet Belinda in the theatre lineup about 30 minutes before showtime. * Belinda is very short and will be wearing a bright pink cap.

{ This performance on Sunday July 5th is **SOLD-OUT** } Can you join us at ***FRINGE***--early July?? We'll attend 'just' three performances. $19 tickets. Details below. ### June 30-July 12, 2026 Welcome to the **38th annual Toronto Fringe Festival**, Toronto's place for indie theatre and performance. With [123 shows](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/shows) at [27 venues](https://fringetoronto.com/accessibility/access-at-venues/venues) across the city! Sunday July 5th (2pm-4pm) ***TANGO After Midnight-- (55 minutes)*** As night falls, a new dance emerges... PointeTango—winner of the Toronto Fringe Patrons’ Pick and the B Street Collaborative Dance Award—ignites the stage with a striking fusion of pointe shoes and stilettos. This electrifying production blends Argentine tango with classical ballet, interwoven with cinematic projections filmed on location in Buenos Aires. Fast-paced and visually arresting, the work features innovative lighting and sound design, alongside world-class performers and 2025 Canadian Tango Champions Erin Scott-Kafadar and Alexander Richardson. **A 15-time Fringe Award–winning company.** ★★★★★ “Breathtaking artistry” –Winnipeg Free Press ★★★★★ “They dance as one body, with grace and precision” –Monday Magazine **Ticket link here**--(our group will attend Sunday July 5th) https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/tango-after-midnight Don't delay--Fringe tickets sell out quickly! $19 per person.

**NO MUSICAL EXPERIENCE REQUIRED** **About Drum & Soul** Drum & Soul is a participatory community space that combines drumming, singing, reflection and conversation in one shared experience. Through rhythms from different cultures, collective music making and meaningful discussion around a focused theme, we practise qualities that strengthen both the individual and the community. This is more than a drumming circle. It is a space where people can grow in expression, presence, listening, and contribution, while learning how these same qualities can be carried into everyday life and relationships. --- ... **Why come** Come if you want to grow your expressive capacity, feel more at ease participating with others, and be part of a growing space that celebrates the human in us. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age, background or musical experience. If you feel shy in groups, that is completely natural. Many people arrive unsure and leave feeling surprisingly at home. --- ... **How it works** --- We begin with a short breathing and centring exercise, followed by simple rhythm demonstration and call and response drumming. We then move into smaller group discussion around a shared theme. From there we shift into collective jamming and improvisation, and end with a potluck meal and informal connection. --- ... **Typical meeting flow** 1. 🫱🏽‍🫲🏻 Arrival & social time – 15 min 2. 🙋🏻‍♀️ Welcome, check in and centring – 15 min 3. 🪘 Call & Respond **Drumming & demo** – 20 min 4. 💬 Facilitated **Discussion** on the Theme (groups of five-or so) – 20 min 5. 🕺🏽 Open **Jamming** with multiple instruments – 30 min 6. 🦋 Potluck **dinner** & social time afterwards – 60 min *This outline is flexible and may shift to suit the group and the space.* --- ... **Logistics & what to bring** Our next Drum & Soul gathering will be held outdoors in the park. If the weather turns rainy, we will move the gathering to our usual indoor location (you'll be notified in the comment section of any changes). Since outdoor seating is limited, please bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket if you can. Drums are available on a first come, first served basis, and we will also provide plenty of small percussion instruments so every hand can play. You are welcome to bring your own drum or instrument. We end the evening with a shared **potluck meal**, an extension of the circle where conversation and connection continue. Since the event is free, we warmly ask everyone to bring a small item to share if they are able. Simple finger foods and easy to serve savoury items are especially helpful, such as fruit, veggies and dip, wraps, sandwiches, hummus and pita, samosas, spring rolls, crackers and cheese, or other meal friendly bites. Sweet items are welcome too, but meal friendly contributions are especially appreciated. --- ... **Cost & contributions** --- This is a free event. If you are unable to bring food, you are welcome to make an optional contribution toward refreshments and materials by e-transfer to **hooshmandnyc@gmail.com** --- ... **Helpful notes** --- No prep needed. Doors open at 3:45 p.m. Please arrive by then so we can start at 4:00 p.m. sharp and keep the flow. Location and any last minute updates are posted on Meetup and in our WhatsApp group. We recommend joining the WhatsApp group (ask us for the link at the venue) for quick notices. --- ... **Life Between Gatherings** Drum & Soul does not begin and end with the monthly session. For those who want to continue beyond the gatherings and go deeper, we also have: • **Advanced sessions** for those who want to go further in drumming technique and explore the discussion themes more deeply in a smaller group • **Home or café meetups** for simple in-person connection, where a few participants can continue the conversation more personally and naturally • **Ongoing contact** so the spirit of the gathering can carry into everyday life through our own reflection, friendship and mutual encouragement Over time, these smaller spaces help strengthen connection, shared learning, and community life between sessions. Ask us about these features for more detail. --- ... **Why this matters** Our world is like a sick body, and is aching for a lasting remedy. We believe our special mission here is to nurture one another, define our roles in service to our fellow humans, and become living temples of unity. A meaningful growth unfolds through both self‑discovery and collective effort, and one cannot truly flourish without the other. Come open and prepared to learn, to offer your gifts, and to be strengthened by the power of community. *This ad is also posted in other groups* 📷 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/artsoultoronto/) 🎥 [A glimpse from one of our sessions](https://youtu.be/ejfeV1PF-0k)

⚽ WATCH PARTY – BRAZIL vs NORWAY ⚽ Soccer fans, it's your turn! Bring your friends and come watch this exciting matchup with us on Sunday afternoon. 🇧🇷 Brazil vs Norway – Kickoff at 4:00 PM 📅 Sunday, July 5th, 2026 (Please note: corrected date—event is on Sunday!) 📍 879 St Clair Ave W, Toronto (Shalom Evangelization Centre) 🙌 Come for the goals, stay for the good vibes! Let's pack the place and support our favourite teams together in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. alcohol not allowed.

This will be a 4 v 4 format. You will play 4s with beach rules but you’ll be playing against Low Int 5s or Mid 4s This event is for those currently playing Low Int 5s and want to transition to Mid Int 4s level and transitioning to playing with beach rules. You should be amongst the strongest players at the Low Int 5s level to play this level. Please note that you must know FULL beach rules. You MUST answer the RSVP question to play this event. If your answer is wrong or you do not answer then you will be removed from the event. The question or your response may not show up when using some apps so please RSVP from a computer. Beach Rules - [#1 Beach Volleyball and Social Group Discussions](https://www.meetup.com/beach-vball/discussions/) Please note that you MUST answer the RSVP question and provide your email address and correctly answer the beach rules question to confirm your rsvp. If you do not answer the question and provide this your RSVP will be removed Beach Rules - http://www.meetup.com/beach-vball/messages/boards/thread/6679875 Requests to play together must be submitted in your RSVP answers when you sign up and must be requested by each player. You can request to play with 1 other player. Beyond one player is not guaranteed Since this is a team sport event, the proper number of players is very important. RSVP changes less than 72 hrs before any event that is full/has waitlist or 48 hrs before any events not full will to be considered a late bail-out. Late bail outs or no shows will be assessed a "strike" 2 strikes and you will be suspended from participating in group events. PLEASE DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THIS LEVEL IF YOU ARE A RECREATIONAL PLAYER AND ARE NOT CAPABLE OF CONTROLLING THE BALL TO PASS, SET AND SPIKE. PLEASE DO NOT SIGN UP FOR A HIGHER LEVEL IF LOWER LEVEL EVENTS ARE FULL. If the event is full, put yourself on the waiting list. Spots always free up the week of the event as people change their minds.

Need at least 12 players signed up for this event to be played. This will be a 5 vs 5 format. The event has no set end time and will usually go beyond the posted times. You are expected to stay for at least the posted event time. $6 Payment by cash only Low Intermediate level is for players looking to continue to improve their game and play a more structured game. You have experience playing volleyball recently and have some ball control and want to and can play 3 hit volleyball. Intermediate does NOT play beach rules volleyball. Please answer all RSVP questions to attend this event. 3 hit volleyball [https://betteratvolleyball.com/the-3-types-of-hits-in-volleyball/](https://betteratvolleyball.com/the-3-types-of-hits-in-volleyball/) Please note that you MUST answer the RSVP question and provide your first name and email address to confirm your rsvp. If you do not answer the question and provide this your RSVP will be removed Since this is a team sport event, the proper number of players is very important. RSVP changes less than 72 hrs before any event that is full/has waitlist or 48 hrs before any events not full will to be considered a late bail-out. Late bail outs or no shows will be assessed a "strike" 2 strikes and you will be suspended from participating in group events. If the event is full, put yourself on the waiting list. Spots can free up the week of the event as people change their minds.

You can sign if you are at any level intermediate + and above. You must be able to play strong 3 hit volleyball and have good ball control. The event is $6 cash payment only. You will be partnered with others of the same skill level. Please note that you must know FULL beach rules. You MUST answer the RSVP question to play this event. If your answer is wrong or you do not answer then you will be removed from the event. The question or your response may not show up when using some apps so please RSVP from a computer. Beach Rules - https://www.meetup.com/beach-vball/discussions/?eventOrigin=notifications Requests to play together must be submitted in your RSVP answers when you sign up and must be requested by each player. You can request to play with 1 other player. Beyond one player is not guaranteed Since sign ups will be limited it is very important that you show up if you sign up. You MUST provide an email address to sign up for the event in the rsvp question every time you sign up to confirm your sign up. RSVPs will be removed for if email is not included in RSVP King of the court Ladder format will be used Please only join the waiting list if you intend to play if added from the wait list. If your plans change please remove yourself from the wait list. You MUST answer the RSVP question and provide your first name and email address. If you do not answer the question and provide this your RSVP will be removed Since this is a team sport event, the proper number of players is very important. RSVP changes less than 72 hrs before any event that is full/has waitlist or 48 hrs before any events not full will to be considered a late bail-out. Late bail outs or no shows will be assessed a "strike" 2 strikes and you will be suspended from participating in group events. PLEASE DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THIS LEVEL IF YOU ARE A RECREATIONAL PLAYER AND ARE NOT CAPABLE OF CONTROLLING THE BALL TO PASS, SET AND SPIKE. If the event is full, put yourself on the waiting list. Spots can free up the week of the event as people change their minds. Instructions will be sent out 1 or 2 days before the event. In case of rain check the "Bad weather guidelines" in Discussions/messageboard/volleyball discussions

Struggling with motivation and focus as you hammer away on your manuscript at home? Want to join a community of writers as we embrace the joys and pains (mostly pains) of writing together? Bring your laptop, pen & paper, old-school typewriter, or futuristic writing gadget, and join an enthusiastic community of science fiction and fantasy writers as we work on our current projects in the same space. The format will be similar to our online writing sprints: 30-minute blocks of focused, quiet writing time (the sprints), interspersed with breaks where we can chat, ask questions, and share our writing experiences.

Welcome to the Sunday meetup for Toronto Heavy Boardgamers @ Face-to-Face Games! The purpose of this event is to meet up to play heavier / longer board games, and have fun while doing it! We will start off small and if there is sufficient interest we will add capacity for future events. **Scheduling details:** \- If you have a specific game that you would like to post for\, feel free to do so in comments\. In your post\, include the name of the game\, number of players needed for the game\, whether you are offering a teach or not\, and the start time \(please try to start before noon if possible\)\. \- If you would like to join a specific game that has already been posted\, feel free to comment on it confirming your participation\. Make sure you have noted the details posted by the host\. \- You are of course also welcome to organize / join games onsite on the day itself\, assuming sufficient players / tables are available **Rules around COVID:** \- Given this is a public event\, we respectfully ask that only i\) fully vaccinated individuals\, and ii\) those not exhibiting any COVID symptoms\, participate\. This requirement may change in the future based on provincial guidelines and group requirements **Admission Fee:** \- There are no table fees for this event

\*\*\*7/1 UPDATE\*\*\* THANK YOU for the GREAT response and extra thanks to everyone who RSVP’d + Prepaid (or made arrangements)! You are all set! Finalizing details now for what should be another FUN event and a GREAT time together! *For those RSVP’d but not yet pre-paid and those on the waiting list, here are the key dates:* * **Thurs, 7/9: If you are RSVP’d but not yet pre-paid, this will be the last day to make pre-payment to guarantee your spot!** Please pre-pay or make arrangements with me by Thurs, 7/9! * Fri, 7/10: All un-paid RSVP’s will move to the Waiting List. * Fri, 7/10: In fairness to those on the waiting list and to help us provide an accurate count to the theater and restaurant, all remaining spots filled first-come, first-served and will go to those making (or arranging) pre-payment. * Fri, 7/17: RSVP’s close. Last day to RSVP and pre-pay! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-ORIGINAL ANNOUNCEMENT\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for a CMG Special Event you won’t want to miss: The Columbus Movie Group’s 17th Anniversary Party with THE ODYSSEY + BRAVO! Always a fun and memorable event, this year we’re combining a DELICIOUS meal in Bravo’s Banquet Room and a CMG Exclusive Private Screening of what’s certain to be one of the BEST films of the year: THE ODYSSEY! Plus, a great group of Movie Group friends to enjoy it with, and more! Here are complete details for this event: THE ODYSSEY: The film is an adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic that follows Odysseus, the Greek king of Ithaca, and chronicles his long and perilous journey home after the Trojan War as he attempts to reunite with his wife, Penelope. The film is written/directed by Chrostopher Nolan and the ensemble cast includes Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya, Jon Bernthal, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie and Charlize Theron. Early buzz is strong for what should be an excellent epic film! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_bKjZeJBBI MEAL PLAN: Meet at the Lennox Bravo between 1:45 and 2:00pm and we’ll be dining their upstairs Private Banquet Room! Just let ‘em know you’re with the Movie Group! Our meal includes \ \*bread \* unlimited soft drinks / tea \ \*choice of soup or salad \* choice of selected entree (including vegetarian/vegan options) \* dessert! Added perks: Door prizes and a little something for everyone as we celebrate 17 years of good movies, good friends and good times together! See meal details and options below. BRAVO MEAL DETAILS. All meals include: \* Freshly-baked focaccia bread \* Unlimited Soft Drinks, Coffee and Tea. (Pay-as-you-go Bar Drinks Also Available) \* Soup or Salad. Choices include: • Wedding Soup: Classic Italian Wedding soup with orzo, meatballs, spinach & Parmesan • Chopped Salad: Chopped greens, cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes, olives, feta, red wine vinaigrette (Vegetarian or Vegan w/out Feta) \* Choice of Entrée. Options include: • Chicken Marsala: Grilled chicken, marsala sauce, mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables • Pasta Bravo: Grilled chicken, rigatoni, mushrooms, roasted red pepper cream sauce • Pasta Bravo w/out Chicken: Rigatoni, mushrooms, roasted red pepper cream sauce (Vegetarian) • Eggplant Parmesan: Crispy breaded eggplant, marinara, mozzarella, herb linguine (Vegetarian) • Mediterranean Vegetable Salad: Entrée Salad with grilled seasonal vegetables, orzo, farro, sweet garlic vinaigrette, balsamic reduction (Vegetarian or Vegan w/out Feta) • Spaghetti Pomodoro: House-made tomato compote and basil (Vegetarian or Vegan w/out Parmesan) \* Plus, Dessert, Door Prizes and a little something for everyone to celebrate our CMG 17th Anniversary! MOVIE PLAN: We’ll be seeing a CMG-Exclusive Private Screening of THE ODYSSEY immediately following the meal at 4:00pm. We’ll head to the theater together immediately after the BRAVO portion of the event. We'll be in Theater #6! HOW TO GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT: Seating is limited and prepayment required to RSVP. Don't miss out -- please RSVP and pre-pay as soon as possible to guarantee your spot! All-inclusive pricing of $55 per person includes: salad, bread, entrée, beverages, dessert, tax, tip + private screening and a little something-something to take home with you! Prepayment via VENMO (@Daniel-Bezon), ZELLE (Daniel Bezon), or cash/check at any event between now and the Anniversary Party. If either payment option requests a phone number or if you’d like to mail payment, just send me a private message offline and I’ll send you the phone number and/or address. Look forward to seeing you there for what should be another fun and memorable event, Dan

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

The Forge does have a full bar and kitchen. There is no cover charge but they do request all attendees to purchase a minimum of ~20 per person. Soft drink refills are 1 each. Please support our hosts so we can continue to provide great events for the group! The Forge has a large library of games available for us to enjoy. Hosts and regulars will also provide numerous popular games but please bring any games you would like to teach and/or play. Doors open at 6, and we expect gaming to be rolling by around 630. Please promptly end your games and clear out the space at 10pm when the bar closes. We encourage socializing but do not permit disruptive behavior of any kind. Thank you for your continued commitment to providing a fun and welcoming space to veteran, newbie, and rookie gamers in the Columbus area. Parking can sometimes fill esrly. There is additional parking lot behind the neighboring Mexican restaurant that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.

Be prepared for an entirely different type of sci-fi movie! Unofficially, the second movie in director Lars von Trier's "Depression Trilogy," 2011 Melancholia depicts the events that occur before a rogue planet is about to collide with the earth. Considered by many to be a masterpiece, the film was included in BFI's 2022 Sight and Sound Poll of the greatest movies of all time. It is available at the library as well as on Kanopy.