Fantasy Writing

Join us for the **launch party** for ***Emptiness*, our latest one-shot anthology**! We will have: \- Copies of the gorgeous trade paperback for sale \- Signings \- Speeches \- Readings \- Annnnnd\.\.\. prizes\! *Emptiness: A One-Shot Anthology of Speculative Fiction* features 48 stories from your fellow Toronto SFF Writers, all written in a single day. It is our longest one-shot anthology to date, clocking in at nearly 120,000 words. It is also a **#1 Amazon Bestseller** in: Canadian Short Stories, Science Fiction Short Stories, Fantasy Anthologies, and Genre Fiction Anthologies. **Vote for your favourite stories:** [Go here for the voting link.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf1vRL2WAx-RRwg-umEEAzyEQDtMMYY2aomEayi2wUV6p65dA/viewform) Voting closes Sat. May 23, 2026 at 11am EST. **Book sales:** [Get your paperback](https://www.amazon.ca/Emptiness-One-Shot-Anthology-Speculative-Fiction/dp/1069418846) [Get your ebook](https://www.amazon.ca/Emptiness-One-Shot-Anthology-Speculative-Fiction-ebook/dp/B0GL42LJJZ/) You will be also be able to purchase the paperback during the launch party. Cash, card, and e-transfer accepted.

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please 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. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 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 reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other's work. Other Important Details: WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

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/).

**Note:** Online attendance for this event is expected from around the world, so register early to reserve your spot before the Zoom attendance capacity is reached. New to Eckankar? Register for a **Complimentary Pass** to the May 23-24 seminar! **WHAT IS AN ECKANKAR SOUL ADVENTURE SEMINAR?** An ECK Soul Adventure Seminar is always a spiritual occasion. A celebration of like-hearted people, each inspiring talk, workshop, and presentation offers secrets to spiritual living that can help you take another step on your individual journey home to God. Above all, the heart of the seminar experience is about discovering more about the divine love that already lies within you. **This is a hybrid (online AND in-person) 2-day seminar:** * Saturday, May 23rd from 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm ET * Sunday, May 24th from 9:30 am -11:00 am ET * FREE for guests who are not formal students of Eckankar **Link to view the program and to register online or in person:** [https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario-soul-adventure-seminar.html](https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario-soul-adventure-seminar.html) **THEME:** ***HOW TO SURVIVE SPIRITUALLY IN OUR TIMES*** “Yet life is a mystery until we begin to understand that we can be the creators of our own world. In truth, what we are today is a creation of that which we have made from the past. There is a way to change the future. “ *\~ ECK Master Harold Klemp, Sound of Soul pg 37* **FEATURES** * **Interactive Spiritual Discussion, Talks, Panels, Youth and Young Adult Program,** * **​Music, Art, Fellowship!** * **Address: North York Central Library and Concourse Event Space, 5120 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2N 5N9** * **Link to view the program and to register online or in person:** [https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario-soul-adventure-seminar.html](https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario-soul-adventure-seminar.html) **FEATURED SPEAKER - DEBBIE BRYK-SERVA** Debbie Bryk-Serva has been a student of Eckankar for over 45 years and is a retired pediatric cardiologist, wife, mother, and grandmother. She has one adorable fur baby, a golden doodle named Georgia. She is grateful for the spiritual insights and inner guidance that have developed through her active practice of the spiritual exercises of Eckankar. She loves the ECK teachings and spiritual exercises because they work! Life has its challenges, but she looks for the silver lining and blessing that is waiting to be realized in each experience. Soul equals Soul, and you, too, can open your heart to the blessings of love all around. Join us at the Ontario ECK Regional Seminar to discover how to survive and thrive spiritually in our times! **To view the program and to register online or in person, [click here](https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario-spiritual-events.html)** **\*INTERNATIONAL GUESTS:** This event is not intended for anyone who is barred by the laws of their country from attending. Please follow the laws of your home country. Sponsored by Eckankar Canada in Ontario. Illustration Courtesy of [Eckankar, The Path of Spiritual Freedom](http://www.eckankar.org/)

Join our weekly figure drawing sessions where you will become familiar with human body anatomy, learn how to draw figures, and improve your sketching skills. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, we gather to practice figure drawing, develop artistic techniques, and connect with new friends who share a passion for art. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike.

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.

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.

Join us for an engaging history discussion as we explore the rise and fall of the Tang Dynasty after the reign of Li Shimin/Emperor Taizong. From the consolidation of imperial power under Emperor Gaozong and Wu Zetian to the dazzling prosperity of the High Tang, this period saw China become one of the most cosmopolitan and powerful civilizations in the world. Yet beneath its poetry, trade, military expansion, and cultural brilliance, the Tang also faced court rivalries, frontier pressures, regional warlords, devastating rebellions, and the gradual collapse of central authority. **Topics for Discussion** * The Reign of Emperor Gaozong * Wu Zetian and the Zhou Dynasty * The Restoration of the Tang * Emperor Xuanzong and the High Tang Era * Chang’an as a Cosmopolitan Capital * Tang Poetry and Cultural Flourishing * The Equal-field System and Tax Reforms * The Silk Road and Tang Foreign Relations * The Expansion into Central Asia * The Battle of Talas * Yang Guifei and Court Politics * The An Lushan Rebellion * The Rise of Military Governors * The Decline of Imperial Authority * The Huang Chao Rebellion * Zhu Wen and the Fall of Tang

Is Yellowstone National Park really on the verge of a massive eruption? It’s one of the most common questions volcanologists get—and in this session, you’ll learn how to answer it yourself. In this talk, we’ll break down how volcanoes work, why eruptions happen, and how scientists know when one might be coming. Along the way, we’ll tackle common misconceptions and show how monitoring keeps us informed and safe. By the end, you’ll leave with the tools to answer this question like a volcanologist—and maybe correct a few myths along the way. For this meetup Silvia Castilla is returning to the Knowledge Sharing Club to share her expertise. Silvia Castilla is a PhD student in the Earth Sciences department at the University of Toronto. Her research focuses on volcanology and isotope geochemistry to understand the processes that occur before volcanic eruptions. Her PhD project involves studying rocks from around the world, conducting stable isotope analyses, and applying these techniques to determine how long it takes for a volcano to erupt. \-\-\-\-\- I will post the location as we get closer to the date.

*Physically Accessible Venue* This is an opportunity to meet up for some LGBTQ2IA-flavoured gaming and socializing—allies also welcome. Come for the gaming, socializing, not to mention the draft! :) Be sure to invite friends and such, too. Although Fred, your amiable host, starts the event at 3pm, feel free to drop in when you are able, Steadfast opens at Noon! You'll have access to a robust library of board games, and attendees are welcome to bring their own games. There is no event fee. Instead we ask attendees to purchase beverages or food from the venue, Steadfast Brewery, conveniently located at Lansdowne and Dundas, 301 Lansdowne Ave. Of course, since they are offering us their space for free, please consider buying a drink if you can. Note - Sunday's is usually Miguel's day off, he may or may not pop in to cook up his amazing tacos, if the kitchen is closed, Steadfast welcomes outside food should you be hungry. We provide nametag stickers with a pronoun field; we want this to be a comfortable environment for everyone, kindly respect people's listed or stated pronouns. * If you are unsure of someone's pronouns, don't assume: Ask, Respect and Practice * Definitely ask before taking pictures/videos Steadfast Brewery is an accessible space with a smooth entrance and large single stall washrooms available on the main floor. For those with sensory concerns, there may be possible loud noises. Steadfast offers an annual Brew Membership called **The Mug Club** that offers the following: Your own mug! It has your name on it and is reserved for you. A larger pour-19.5 oz vs 16 oz 1$ off pours in that mug (if you do the math, this sums to about a 40% discount on beer to stay, I think) 1 free growler fill a month (15$ value each, so $180 value for the year) 30% off merch. It costs $150 year one, $100 every year after that.

Hello everyone, Please join us for a fabulous and unique evening as we get to experience all the great, powerful and inspiring songs I have written over the years; now live in person! These are songs that I have written for well over 30 years. (I'll be playing many of my more recent songs and personal favorites) I trust you will truly love what you hear! \*Joined by my other groups too; so we can anticipate a wonderful evening! **Location:** Smoke Show - 747 Mt. Pleasant Rd. https://www.smokeshowbbqandbrew.com/ **Date:** Sunday May 24th, 2026 **Time:** Arrive between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm (if you can) \*Arrive a bit early if you like to get settled in :) **Event Fee:** 10 dollar at the door or e transfer in advance to steveflemming11@gmail.com Event Details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Songwriter, Lyricist and Host) Event Details: **Steve Flemming's Stories and Songs for Humanity (Dinner and Listening Party)** \*Original Lyrics and Songs by Songwriter and Producer Steve Flemming \*Story songs about love, nature, spirituality, life, loss and everything in between! I'll be playing a mix of songs using a fusion of mixed genres like, Folk, Traditional Folk, Country, Bluegrass, Soft Rock, Rock, Love Ballads, Easy Listening, Soul, R & B, Gospel, Pop, Adult Contemporary, Indie Rock; and many others genres too. **About Steve Flemming (Lyricist and Songwriter)** Highly influenced by the great singer songwriters of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Steve has been writing his own songs since 1990. Songs about life, love, loss, hope, faith, joy, romance, memories, spirituality and redemption. Songs that are universal, heartfelt and often relevant to the lives we lead. **-Arrive any time between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm inside the Restaurant (reserved seating is provided for the group :)** \*Arrive a bit early if you like to get settled in :) **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to [Steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://Steveflemming11@gmail.com/) (One Beverage or Appetizer minimum please to support the venue and staff) (Plan to come for dinner if you can) \*If attending the 3:00 pm Nature Walk that day there will be no additional entrance fee for this Listening Party event :) (1 minute walk from the new Mt. Pleasant & Eglinton station)

Join your community of fellow Intuitives and MBTI nerds for a casual evening of engaging conversation. We get together every second Sunday – with a mix of regulars and new friends. There is no fee to attend, though we ask that you support the venue by ordering something to eat or drink. **Feel free to contact event host B. via Facebook/Meetup messenger, or text/call 416-712-8635 for directions**. About the venue: The Pint Public House Nearest Subway: Union Station Map / Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G5GfXDSQXeifJ5ot5 We make an effort to find pubs that are quiet and introvert friendly, with a section to ourselves. We make no effort to muffle our extroverts, but should they get out of hand, our resident INTJ will use their death stare, to pull them back in line.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia