Dog Training

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

SPEAK WITH CONFIDENCE! If you’re interested in improving your public speaking and leadership skills at an entertaining, educational and inspirational meeting, please visit us … it’s free! We meet weekly on Wednesday evenings. The location or link will be sent to those who confirm attendance. Brainwave Speakers Toastmasters club is a place where strangers become friends, where new ideas and experiences are shared. With a wide variety of ages, backgrounds and experiences, our members are an interesting and diverse group. Regardless of whether you are a professional, student, stay at home parent, job seeker or a retiree, you will find something of value at Brainwave Speakers Toastmasters club. Please feel welcome to visit us! Contact our Vice President of Membership at karen.goodyear333@gmail.com for details.

**Boxing Fundamentals (16+) at the Miles Nadal JCC** Ready to build strength, sharpen your skills, and break a sweat? This no-contact beginner program introduces essential boxing fundamentals including stance, footwork, punches, bagwork, partner drills, and conditioning — all in a supportive and inclusive environment. No sparring involved. Perfect for new boxers or anyone looking to develop a strong foundation while improving fitness and confidence. **Led by Coach Nick Radionov — former Ukrainian National Olympic Boxing Team member, Level 3 Boxing Ontario–certified coach, and multi-time world kickboxing champion.** **Program Details** **Location:** Miles Nadal JCC — 750 Spadina Ave. (enter via Spadina doors) **Spring 2026 Session** **Registration required in advance** **[Register online](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=yGM1ZqV)** ☎️ Or call **416-924-6211** ️ **Fees** • Full program session registration available • Prorated pricing if joining after the start date • Drop-in options may be available (space permitting) **What You’ll Learn & Benefit From** **Learn the Basics** — Develop proper form, movement, and striking technique **Build Strength & Stamina** — High-energy conditioning in every class **Train with Confidence** — Beginner-friendly instruction in a welcoming environment **Hands-On Skill Development** — Bagwork & partner drills (no-contact/no sparring) **What to Bring:** Handwraps, boxing gloves, indoor athletic shoes, and a water bottle. Join us and build skill, strength, and confidence — one round at a time!

## BOOTCAMP FOR MEN – 4 WEEK MINI SERIES **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Evening **Location:** Mississauga Area - Details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 READ FULL DETAILS Do you ever feel misunderstood, unheard, or frustrated trying to handle difficult conversations? Do you struggle to express yourself clearly in relationships, at work, or during stressful situations? **Build Stronger Communication, Confidence & Real-Life Skills** If so, this practical **4-week in-person Bootcamp for Men** was created for you. This mini-series is designed to help men strengthen communication skills, emotional control, confidence, leadership habits, and problem-solving tools that can improve everyday life. Many men were never taught how to properly communicate, manage conflict, or express emotions in a healthy way. This program offers practical solutions in a respectful, supportive environment. *** ## HOW THE COURSE IS STRUCTURED: ### Weeks 1–3 Each session will begin with a **PowerPoint presentation** covering key life skills, strategies, and tools. This will be followed by a **team-building exercise** where participants can apply what they learned through interactive activities, group discussion, and real-life scenarios. This format helps men learn, practice, connect, and build confidence in a supportive setting. ### Week 4 The final session will be an **Open Forum / Real Talk Session** focused on reflection, discussion, and continued growth. *** ## WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: ### Week 1 – Communication Mastery * How to speak with clarity and confidence * How to say what you mean without being misunderstood * How to express yourself calmly under pressure * How to improve your presence and self-confidence * Team building exercise ### Week 2 – Listening & Understanding * How to become a stronger listener * How to understand what others are really saying * How to reduce arguments caused by assumptions * How to improve communication with family, relationships, co-workers, and friends * Team building exercise ### Week 3 – Conflict Resolution & Emotional Strength * How to stay calm during disagreements * How to handle criticism without anger or shutting down * How to navigate difficult conversations with confidence * How to problem solve instead of emotionally reacting ### Week 4 – Open Forum / Real Talk Session A guided open discussion where men can reflect on the course, ask questions, share personal struggles, challenges, and growth goals in a safe and respectful environment. Topics may include: * Relationships * Stress and pressure * Confidence issues * Communication struggles * Life direction and motivation * Emotional frustration and personal growth This final session is designed to create connection, accountability, and support. *** ## CONTINUED SUPPORT AFTER THE COURSE After completing the Bootcamp, participants will have the opportunity to join an **Online Men’s Support Group Community** where growth continues. This ongoing group can provide: * Monthly support meetings * Encouragement from like-minded men * Guidance through life challenges * A place to talk, grow, and move forward *** ## ✔ BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM: * Increased confidence * Better communication skills * Stronger relationships * Better decision-making * Improved emotional control * Reduced stress during conflict * Brotherhood and support *** ## WHO THIS IS FOR: * Men wanting personal growth * Men tired of being misunderstood * Men dealing with relationship struggles * Men wanting confidence and direction * Men who want stronger leadership skills * Men ready to improve their life *** ## DETAILS: **Facilitator:** Patricia Lavigne, Certified Life & Wellness Coach **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM **Location:** Mississauga Area - Full details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 *** ## LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE Small group setting for real conversations, practical learning, and support. ## TO REGISTER: Message me Bootcamp For Men directly or email: patricialavignecpc@gmail.com ## If you are ready to grow stronger mentally, emotionally, and socially—this is your opportunity. Join today. Patricia Lavigne Life & Emotional Wellness Coach 416-312-6983 patricialavignecpc@gmail.com

## BOOTCAMP FOR MEN – 4 WEEK MINI SERIES 🔥 **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Evening **Location:** Mississauga Area - Details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 READ FULL DETAILS Do you ever feel misunderstood, unheard, or frustrated trying to handle difficult conversations? Do you struggle to express yourself clearly in relationships, at work, or during stressful situations? **Build Stronger Communication, Confidence & Real-Life Skills** If so, this practical **4-week in-person Bootcamp for Men** was created for you. This mini-series is designed to help men strengthen communication skills, emotional control, confidence, leadership habits, and problem-solving tools that can improve everyday life. Many men were never taught how to properly communicate, manage conflict, or express emotions in a healthy way. This program offers practical solutions in a respectful, supportive environment. *** ## HOW THE COURSE IS STRUCTURED: ### Weeks 1–3 Each session will begin with a **PowerPoint presentation** covering key life skills, strategies, and tools. This will be followed by a **team-building exercise** where participants can apply what they learned through interactive activities, group discussion, and real-life scenarios. This format helps men learn, practice, connect, and build confidence in a supportive setting. ### Week 4 The final session will be an **Open Forum / Real Talk Session** focused on reflection, discussion, and continued growth. *** ## WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: ### Week 1 – Communication Mastery * How to speak with clarity and confidence * How to say what you mean without being misunderstood * How to express yourself calmly under pressure * How to improve your presence and self-confidence * Team building exercise ### Week 2 – Listening & Understanding * How to become a stronger listener * How to understand what others are really saying * How to reduce arguments caused by assumptions * How to improve communication with family, relationships, co-workers, and friends * Team building exercise ### Week 3 – Conflict Resolution & Emotional Strength * How to stay calm during disagreements * How to handle criticism without anger or shutting down * How to navigate difficult conversations with confidence * How to problem solve instead of emotionally reacting ### Week 4 – Open Forum / Real Talk Session A guided open discussion where men can reflect on the course, ask questions, share personal struggles, challenges, and growth goals in a safe and respectful environment. Topics may include: * Relationships * Stress and pressure * Confidence issues * Communication struggles * Life direction and motivation * Emotional frustration and personal growth This final session is designed to create connection, accountability, and support. *** ## CONTINUED SUPPORT AFTER THE COURSE After completing the Bootcamp, participants will have the opportunity to join an **Online Men’s Support Group Community** where growth continues. This ongoing group can provide: * Monthly support meetings * Encouragement from like-minded men * Guidance through life challenges * A place to talk, grow, and move forward *** ## ✔ BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM: * Increased confidence * Better communication skills * Stronger relationships * Better decision-making * Improved emotional control * Reduced stress during conflict * Brotherhood and support *** ## WHO THIS IS FOR: * Men wanting personal growth * Men tired of being misunderstood * Men dealing with relationship struggles * Men wanting confidence and direction * Men who want stronger leadership skills * Men ready to improve their life *** ## DETAILS: **Facilitator:** Patricia Lavigne, Certified Life & Wellness Coach **Dates:** Wednesday June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM **Location:** Mississauga Area - Full details provided upon registration **Investment:** $197 *** ## LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE Small group setting for real conversations, practical learning, and support. ## TO REGISTER: Message me BOOTCAMP FOR MEN directly or email: patricialavignecpc@gmail.com ## If you are ready to grow stronger mentally, emotionally, and socially—this is your opportunity. Join today. Patricia Lavigne Life & Emotional Wellness Coach 416-312-6983 patricialavignecpc@gmail.com

### **What to Expect** This is a welcoming senior boxing and fitness meetup group designed to support strength, balance, coordination, and overall well-being. Sessions include gentle boxing movements, light cardio, and functional exercises, all adapted to individual comfort levels. No boxing or fitness experience is required, and participants are encouraged to move at their own pace in a supportive environment. ### **Our Group** This meetup group is friendly, inclusive, and focused on connection as much as movement. Many members are new to boxing, and everyone is welcome. Sessions are led by a qualified coach who is also a fellow senior, creating a relatable, understanding, and encouraging atmosphere. ### **What to Bring** * Indoor shoes * Water bottle * Boxing gloves (if you have them — gloves are available to borrow if needed) ### **Arrival & Payment** Please sign in and pay at the front desk upon arrival.

**Meet up Point:** Algonquin Park - Maggie Lake Entrance **Two Days...sat and sun** **Fee for Trekking Training: $99.** Because it was so much fun, we are offering Trekker Training again in June! We want you (and all our members) out Trekking. Don't give up your Sunday hikes, but hey it's time to up your hiking game! Which is why we are offering skills training for future trekkers so they can join in on trekking adventures outside of Ontario. There is a lot to learn to prepare for a multi day trekk, and we want you to be prepared. It is not just knowing what equipment to buy, how much to carry, tent set up, it's also food prep, attitude, and emergency skills and so much more! So, in order for you to ensure you have a safe and the very BEST trekking experience we are offering an overnight training experience. **Experienced Boots Trekkers feel free to hop in and show them how it's done!** We will cover in one weekend - * your weighted pack * pack pacing * water filtering * trail etiquette * safety * equipment must haves * first aid * atittude adjustment * fire starting * navigation * ...and more

[https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/big-on-beagles-rescue/p2p/our-10th-anniversary-beagle-wiggle-walkathon/](https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/big-on-beagles-rescue/p2p/our-10th-anniversary-beagle-wiggle-walkathon/) Are you Ready to Wiggle for Beagles in Need?!!! Then join us on the Beach on Saturday, June 6th at SLOBBERFEST - the cutest doggy festival in the Beaches, Toronto! You can spend the day enjoying the festivities! Our SLOBBERFEST hosts will be entertaining you and your dog from 9am-2pm! And of course we'll be kicking off our **11th Annual BEAGLE WIGGLE WALK** from our big red tent on the Boardwalk at 10am! It's not too late to sign up as a Fellow Wiggler OR to pledge one of our Wigglers! Your support means the world to our little beagle repair shop! See you on the Beach! And pray for SUNSHINE!!! \*Special Thanks to the good folks at Centre 55 for putting on this great event every summer and for Global Pet Foods in the Beach for sponsoring the event AND for sponsoring our WIGGLE WALK!

**Join us at Thrive Longevity Training for an open house and community social.** This is a chance to meet our members, connect with the Thrive team, see the studio, and learn how our longevity based programming works. At Thrive, we are not just running random workouts. We use structured training blocks so members can build strength, improve conditioning, recover better, and actually see progress over time. Right now, our members are training in 6 week strength tracking blocks where we are measuring key lifts and movement patterns so we can see what is improving, where people need support, and how each person is progressing. You’ll get to learn more about: • Our longevity focused small group training • How we combine strength, cardio, recovery, and mindset • Why we track main lifts over 6 weeks • How our programming helps members build long term strength, fitness, and confidence • What makes the Thrive community different & Witness Award Ceremony For our Most Engaged Members There will be light snacks and refreshments, and you’ll have a chance to connect casually with members and coaches. This is a relaxed open house, not a workout. Come by, meet the community, ask questions, and see what Thrive is about. ### Event Details Award Ceremony & Social June 6th at 1:30 PM Thrive Longevity Training Snacks and refreshments provided

***\*\*\*This class is open to all levels, weather permitting; in an event of poor weather conditions class will be changed to a regular class\*\*\**** **Come workout, have fun, relieve your stress, and meet your fellow neighbours!** Welcoming interested people to join our FREE classes every Tuesday evening from 7:00pm to 9:00pm and every Sunday afternoon from 2:30PM-4:30PM near Bathurst/Lake Shore area. Classes are led by our event organizer, Master **Dave Crook**, a seasoned 4th degree black belt Hapkido practitioner from a respected academy with many years of experience in this art and various others. **About this form of martial arts:** Hapkido is a hybrid Korean martial art. It is a form of self-defense that employs joint locks, grappling, throwing techniques, kicks, punches, and other striking attacks. **How to join:** Join this group/event and directly message me with your interest. **Q: Is this completely FREE?** A: Yes, classes/lessons are completely FREE **Q: Do I require a gi/uniform to participate?** A: Gi is completely optional, only required when doing groundwork grappling/throw techniques **Q: Are there grading and belt progression?** A: Yes, there are grading and belts, which will cost $30 just to cover the cost, testing will done when YOU are comfortable and ready! **Current Martial Artists Belt Status:** 1x Masters - 4th Degree Black Belt 1x Yellow Belt (former red belt) 1x Yellow Stripe Belt 134x White Belts **Belt Colours - Progression in Descending Order:** * White Belt * Yellow Stripe Belt * Yellow Belt * Orange Stripe Belt * Orange Belt * Green Stripe Belt * Green Belt * Blue Stripe Belt * Blue Belt * Red Stripe Belt * Red Belt * Black Stripe Belt * Black Belt **Curriculum of Techniques** **White Belt to Yellow Stripe:** **Strikes (all strikes from left wrist grab, striking with right)** 1\. Sword Strike to Clavicle 2\. Nunchuk Strike to Temple 3\. Companion Sword Strike with Elbow Strike to Solar Plexus 4\. Spear Hand to Femoral Artery 5\. Palm Strike to Floating Rib 6\. Spear Hand to Trachea **Breakaways (all breakaways from right wrist grab)** 1\. Latissimus Dorsi push with bucking back fist 2\. When pulled with bucking back fist 3\. When pushed with bucking back fist 4\. Downward break away with elbow strike 5\. Live\-hand tricept push up with elbow strike 6\. Assisted tricept push\-up with elbow strike **Take Downs (performed both sides)** 1\. Pivot throw Joint Locks (all joint locks from right wrist grab) 1\. 'Kul Nut Key' to elbow 2\. 'Kul Nut Key' to elbow 45 degrees 3\. One inch bow 4\. Side wrist lock \- bend elbow 5\. Side elbow lock 6\. Elbow lock controlled **Escapes From Mounted Position (all from opponent on mount position - performed both sides)** 1\. Escape to Mount 2\. Escape to Guard 3\. As punches are received \- buck \- single arm hook \- roll 4\. As punches are received \- buck \- shoulder walk \- two arm hook \- guard 5\. Escape when head is locked 6\. Escape when head is locked with high mount **Kicks (both sides)** 1\. Side kick **To learn more about Hwa Won Yue Hapkido visit our website here:** http://www.hapkidohwawonyue.ca/toronto.html#

**Krav Maga (15+) at the Miles Nadal JCC** Build confidence, improve fitness, and learn practical self-defence skills in a safe and supportive environment. This dynamic program introduces the core principles of Krav Maga with a focus on real-world scenarios, situational awareness, and mental resilience. Through guided instruction and hands-on training, you’ll develop effective techniques for striking, defending, and reacting under pressure — all while enhancing strength, coordination, and conditioning. No prior experience necessary — just bring a willingness to challenge yourself and grow. Join our welcoming community and start your Krav Maga journey today! *** **Event Details** **Location:** Miles Nadal JCC — 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through Spadina doors) **Dates & Times:** Spots are open in upcoming sessions — join anytime! Late registration is welcome, and your fee will be automatically prorated. Drop-in options available. **Registration is required in advance** > Please note: RSVP’ing on Meetup does not reserve your spot. > [Register online](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=yn6KVVL) > ☎️ Or call 416-924-6211 *** ️ **Fees** • Full-session registration available (prorated if joining late) • Drop-in spots available *** **What to Expect** ✔️ Practical, real-world self-defence skills ✔️ Striking, defending, and reacting under pressure ✔️ Improved strength, coordination, and conditioning ✔️ Supportive, beginner-friendly instruction ✔️ A focus on confidence, awareness, and resilience *** Come ready to move, learn, and empower yourself. We can’t wait to see you in class!

**\~Please [SIGN UP here](https://calendly.com/breathinginnature/yoga-in-nature) for free before the class\~** [Click here for a map of the exact location](https://goo.gl/maps/x1YMV41Bmhcf7chb6). My community classes in High Park are by donation, for all bodies, and no experience is required. What is yoga? We combine breath, movement and awareness, all in the healing nature of High Park. **What to bring?** * Yoga mat (optional - the grass is nice to yoga on) * Water * Weather-appropriate clothing/ blanket for relaxation We yoga rain or shine. There is shelter if we need it. [Exact location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/9424Zn5G1Xf4kTEj7), close the the High Park Forest School by the North Gate (short walk from High Park Subway station, Bloor and High Park intersection). My classes are by donation, or pay what you can. It's also drop-in, so feel free to just show up. Donations can be made at the class in person, via our [Breathing in Nature Gift Economy](https://www.breathinginnature.com/gift-economy/) or e-transfer to nici@breathinginnature.com. On average folks donate between $5-$30 per class. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. 416.885.0583 If you are wondering who I am and what I do, feel free to check out my my [website](https://www.breathinginnature.com/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/breathinginnature/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/nicole.bohr) page, [my bio](https://www.breathinginnature.com/about/), or [my LinkedIn](www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleczerwinski/).

It's better when we're together. Come and experience the power of the WHM with a wonderful group of people. We breathe, we go into the cold and we teach our bodies to heat up properly. We develop resilience and the mindset to use these powerful healing tools over and over again, all year round. This gathering is fully guided by Wim Hof instructor Steve Beattie. If you are new to this, come on down, enjoy the support and practice in a safe way with us. If you already have a WHM practice this meetup is a great way to take it to the next level, and make lots of new friends. There will be a fire, snacks and drinks shared by other attendees. We have been doing this 6 for years! **What to bring?** * Yoga mat * Weather-appropriate clothing (better to dress too warm!) * Bathing suite, towel * Water shoes (optional) In extreme weather being prepared is very important. Especially if it's your first time, please read up on how to come prepared [here.](https://www.breathinginnature.com/wim-hof-method-meetup/) Learn more about our Wim Hof meetups, workshops, breath classes, wilderness trips, medicine work and special events at **[Breathing in Nature](https://breathinginnature.com/)**. Join the "**[Wim Hof Toronto](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1714218015474146/)**" group on Facebook to see all of our local events. This is a free event made possible by our Gift Economy. You can learn more about the Gift Economy [here](https://breathinginnature.com/gift-economy/).

We are a real world Martial arts group. \ Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \ Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \ We have been around a while. \ Every week we get together and work technical skills and full contact spar. \ Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from street fights to the ring and some still compete in cage fighting. \ If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \ We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 Outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295 Saturday 1:30pm Wednesday 5:45pm From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \ Wear workout clothes. \ Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \ WE HAVE GLOVES. \ $10 per class $5 per class if you are wearing a club shirt Club shirts are $25 Hope to see you soon. \ let me know if you have any questions :)

## 🤝 Host Information A co-hosted event by ProductTank Columbus & Women in Product Columbus 💡 About the Workshop AI adoption is stalling across organizations — not because of a lack of motivation or tools, but because it's fundamentally a behavior design challenge. This hands-on workshop applies proven Behavior Design models and methods to help you move from a vague organizational wish to boost AI adoption to 3-5 concrete, testable interventions you can act on starting tomorrow. Whether you're a product manager, on a product team, or just someone trying to get AI to actually stick at work, you'll leave with a clear picture of what's worth focusing on, what to ignore, and how to drive real, sustained adoption — no guesswork required. 🛠️ What to Bring Laptop: Fully charged and ready to go. AI Assistant: Have your favorite AI assistant pulled up. (Dom will be using Claude, but feel free to use whichever assistant you prefer!) 🍕 Logistics & Perks Food & Drink: Pizza and drinks provided! Parking: Plenty of free spaces available on-site. ###

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Hi Ladies , Let's Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park . We will meet at the nature center parking lot. Hiking about 4 miles completing the blendon woods loop and the sugarbush trail . Wear appropriate footwear and bring water for hydration .