Fundraising Events

**Want to help bring your city’s community together?** We’re looking for local hosts to organize small group lunches, evening drinks, mixers, movie get-togethers and curated experiences. **No experience necessary,** just a friendly attitude, some local knowledge, and a willingness to meet a few new people. After each event, we’ll send a short feedback form so we can improve and support you. The host will also be able to provide feedback so we can learn what worked and what didn't. **[Click here](https://form.questionscout.com/6926c9ab87a828a5c11a79fc)** to apply and get started: if you’re selected, we’ll reach out for a quick screening call.

hi 🌿 If you’ve ever been curious about kundalini yoga, I’m hosting a beginner friendly class for spiritually curious souls who want to move, breathe, and come back into alignment. Its pay what you can (through Luma link below) 📍 Alternity (333 Bloor St W) ✨ no experience needed just bring a yoga mat, water, and an open heart. 🧾 all the details + RSVP: [https://lu.ma/raisingpotters](https://lu.ma/raisingpotters) [https://www.instagram.com/raisingpotters/](https://www.instagram.com/raisingpotters/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExcnkzaUl1VUhCYUFHRHFYTgEeAEstG9jffoRf-WnwWdkEuT9zTc84frh0xMCI9XRAJWdnML-qTCNtMaVFWyQ_aem_ffVNP0rpvXlxPJBjQ-9Nlg) if you'd like a sneak peek at what the practice might look like! if someone comes to mind who could use this space, feel free to forward this along 💛 see you there if it resonates !!

🧩☕ **A Cozy Puzzle Afternoon (1000 Pieces, Zero Stress)** Looking for a **low-pressure, cozy Sunday plan** where you can actually relax, chat, and do something with your hands instead of staring at another screen? This is for members who love **quiet fun, teamwork, and a calm afternoon vibe**. We did this event last year and it was a **huge hit**, so it’s back! We’ll work together as a small group to complete a **1000-piece puzzle** over **4–5 hours**. It’s an *easy* puzzle — the goal isn’t speed, it’s **connection, conversation, and that deeply satisfying moment when pieces finally click into place**. Think: snacks, soft music, good company, and a very chill Sunday at my place. No pressure to stay the whole time — just come, puzzle, relax, and enjoy. ⚠️ **PLEASE READ EVERYTHING BELOW BEFORE SIGNING UP** This is a **small, intentional gathering**, so it’s important that everyone reads and agrees to the details. *** ### 💲 Cost & Commitment • **$10 fee** to help cover the cost of the puzzle and event fee • E-transfer to: **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** • You have **24 hours from signing up** to send payment • If payment isn’t received within 24 hours, you’ll be moved to *“Not Going”* 🚫 **No refunds for any reason** *** ### 🧩 Group Size & Vibe • **Only 5 people total** (very limited space) • This is a **group puzzle** — we’ll all work on the same one • Please **bring snacks to share** • **BYOB** if you’d like — I’ll have non-alcoholic drinks *(Mathew does not drink wine — please don’t bring him a bottle)* 🐱 **Important:** I have a **cat**, so you must be okay with cats. *** ### 🏠 Location • Exact address will be sent **24 hours before the event via text** • I live near **Sherbourne & Wellesley** • Parking is available in the building • TTC accessible — walking distance or short bus ride *** ### ⏰ Timing • **Meetup Time:** 1:00 PM (we start right away) • You’re welcome to arrive from **12:45 PM** • **Leaving time:** Anytime you like — no pressure to stay the full 4–5 hours *** ### ⚠️ RSVP POLICY (PLEASE READ) Members who change their RSVP **within 24 hours of the event start time** will **not be able to attend future puzzle or board game events**. These events only work when people **follow through**, so please **only sign up if you are 100% sure you can attend**. *** ### 📝 Final Notes • Sometimes things happen and I may need to cancel — please keep an eye out for updates 📱 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) Get updates, chat with other walkers, and stay in the loop for future events! *** 🧩 This event is perfect if you’re craving something **calm, social, cozy, and screen-free**. Small group. Good energy. And the quiet joy of fitting pieces together. **Organizer:** Mathew 📧 **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**

### 🌑 Kundalini Activation & Sound Bath — New Moon Ceremony Step into a powerful evening of **reset, remembrance, and realignment**. This New Moon Ceremony weaves together **Kundalini Activation** and **Sound Bath Healing**—two deeply transformative practices that work in harmony to clear stagnant energy, regulate the nervous system, and reconnect you with your true essence. The **New Moon** is a natural portal for slowing down, turning inward, and planting intentional seeds for what you’re ready to call in next. Supported by the grounding energy of **Virgo**, this experience invites clarity, presence, and embodied alignment. #### ✨ What to Expect * **Kundalini Activation** Gently awakens your life force energy, helping release emotional and energetic blockages while opening intuitive awareness. This is not forced movement or breathwork—your body moves only as it needs to. * **Sound Bath Healing** Crystal bowls, gongs, and sacred instruments create vibrational frequencies that calm the mind, soothe the nervous system, and support deep integration of the energetic work. * #### 🌿 Benefits of This Experience * Energetic cleansing and renewal * Emotional release and inner stillness * Heightened awareness and intuitive clarity * Deep nervous system regulation * Realignment with your path and intentions This ceremony is for you if you’re seeking **clarity, healing, grounding, or a deeper connection to yourself**—or if you simply feel called to pause and reset under the New Moon. No prior experience is needed. Just come as you are. ✨ **Leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more connected—ready to step into your next chapter.** Booking Link: [https://www.qalb.ca/current-workshops](https://www.qalb.ca/current-workshops)

🎩🐉 **Road Trip to Niagara Falls: Piff the Magic Dragon Live!** 🐉🎩 **Sunday, January 25** Ready for a magical winter road trip? Join us for a fun and easy getaway to **Niagara Falls** to see **America’s Got Talent winner Piff The Magic Dragon** live on stage at the **Avalon Theatre**! [Read more about the show here](https://fallsviewcasinoresort.com/events-and-promotions/schedule-of-events/piff-the-magic-dragon.html) *** ### ✨ What’s Included * 🎟 **Ticket to Piff The Magic Dragon** (7:00 PM showtime) * 🚗 **Round-trip transportation from Toronto** * 💵 **All for just $50** *** ### 🕒 Schedule * **3:30 PM** – Depart Toronto 📍 *Pickup: outside Christie Station* * **Early Evening** – Possible sightseeing in Niagara Falls *(time permitting, depending on traffic)* * **7:00 PM** – Showtime at the Avalon Theatre * **\~11:00 PM** – Back in Toronto *** ### 🚙 The Ride We’ll be travelling comfortably in a **Kia Soul** equipped with: * ❄️ **Winter tires** * 📻 **SiriusXM satellite radio** for road-trip vibes *** ### 💸 Payment & RSVP * **$50 per person** * **Must eTransfer $50 to nicolasbello@yahoo.com in order to lock in your spot** * Limited seats — RSVP only if you’re **100% sure you can attend** *** ### 🪄 Why You’ll Love This Trip * World-class comedy magic from a fan-favourite AGT winner * A relaxed, small-group road trip * A chance to enjoy Niagara Falls in winter before the show Get ready for laughs, magic, and a great evening out. **This one will sell fast — don’t miss it!** 🎉

Sunday Morning Pick-Up Soccer - 7:30am to 9:00am Markham Soccer Dome 5300 14th Ave, Markham (McCowan and 14th) Indoor Turf Field. Game Play: 7 v 7 Fee: $15 Please EMT to miguel.jamal@gmail.com ALL AGES AND SKILL LEVELS WELCOME!!! Download the APP - Canadian Soccer Club OR Please go to www.canadiansoccerclub.com The App can be downloaded via Google Play or Apple Store. Click Register and create a profile. Log in using your credentials and select day you would like to play Please RSVP on Field 1. \*\*\*\*ALL PLAYERS MUST RSVP ON Canadian Soccer Club APP TO PLAY\*\*\*\* Games will begin at 10:00pm sharp. Players are requested to arrive by 9:50pm to pick teams and kick-off at 10:00pm sharp Players are responsible to bring the following: * Cleats or Turf Shoes * A white jersey and a black/dark jersey * Shin Guards (Strongly Recommended) If you have any questions, please contact the organizers at admin@canadiansoccerclub.com Thank you and look forward to seeing you guys out there.

“**MAKING TORONTO A MORE MUSICALLY INTERESTING CITY.**” - *TORONTO STAR* “**INNOVATIVE COMPOSERS MAKING NEW WORKS ARE THE STARS**.” - *NOW* This is the 13th year for the **21C Festival**. What better time to devour *new and innovative music* than in the depths of a Toronto winter! **All tickets are $21**--at the link below. Choose your own seat. Associate dean of The Glenn Gould School and Director of The Taylor Academy, **Barry Shiffman leads a concert of works by celebrated Argentine-American composer Osvaldo Golijov**, “a musical alchemist (who) conjures up new worlds” (*The New York Times*). Among other works, the program includes *Tintype*, a new work co-commissioned by the RCM for viola and string quintet. Lovely sample of what you will hear/experience-- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXljNtg_V9o&t=214s **Ticket link:** https://www.rcmusic.com/events-and-performances/new-worlds-colon-music-of-golijov We could aim to meet 1pm in the venue CAFE and/or in the lobby area of Mazzoleni Hall (1: 30pm onwards)

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/shuttle-jan-25b)** Whether skiing, boarding, shopping, eating or relaxing, Blue Mountain is calling this January. This is your opportunity to visit Ontario's most popular ski resort - Blue Mountain. We're running a shuttle to the resort & Scandinave Spa for the day. How you spend it is up to you, just be back in time for the return trip home! All reservations (mountain passes, restaurant and spa reservations etc) are booked by you independently of the shuttle. **Event cost: *$60+HST. *[Register here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/shuttle-jan-25b)** **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/)***

Smaller group on a small field, recreational, low level, only very small group. It's a smaller field, usually, we play 4 on 4 or max 5 on 5. No subs. Outdoor turf and free soccer event, . The event is none competitive soccer for low levels only, the game should be easy and fun, so we can get little bit sweat while enjoy the weather. This is no contact soccer, We should have have another what's app group of friends joining us on the soccer field, all you need to bring is good spirit and your own water. should be lots parking around the school and it's few mins walk from the subway station, once you get there, we will be gathered on the field. If we cancel the event, I will post on the event board here. If the game is cancelled, I will post on the comment board. This event is sponsored by Harbord Bakery (http://www.harbordbakery.ca/), Bakery on Mavis(http://www.bakeryonmavis.ca/) Brazil Bakery (http://brazilbakerypastry.ca/) Kensington Natural Bakery (http://kensingtonnaturalbakery.ca/) and EJoyCity.ca (https://www.ejoycity.ca/), iBake (http://i-bake.ca/), La Novita Bakery(http://lanovitabakery.ca) Absolute Bakery(http://absolutecafe.ca) they will give 10% off on everything. Simply, just tell them you are here for the meetup event.

We'll be walking on the paved path of the Birkdale trail, passing through Thompson park and into the West Highland Creek. We'll walk a distance of ~7.7 km which we will be able to cover in about 1.75 hours, speed will be dependent on weather condition. Crampons might be necessary, so please have them on hand. Our group will leave at the posted time, so please arrive early. Please cancel your RSVP if you can't make it. Bring water and wear footwear comfortable for walking. Required reading for you and your guests before RSVP'ing to all events: 1. [Liability Waiver and Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vR0LFNJVYn5j1AYl8eR63HjAxKMkRwg5ifKXqL3rP6Xl7v_Wcsx4xR_kNFluE3eILpSmP-EJ0OouQvT/pub) (updated 05/30/22) 2. When asked at RSVP time, indicate **\*Yes\*** if you agree to the question provided. 3. See general information about [Tick Safety](https://www.ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease)

Flourish is the ultimate one-day retreat to spark transformation and manifest your most successful life and business in 2026 **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\> Get 50% off tickets for this event as a member or by signing up for a FREE 30 Day Trial of the Wellpreneur Club\!** https://hhwglobal.com/products/wellpreneur-club **OR Purchase a ticket on this page without a membership.** Join us at the HHW Headquarters for an empowering day of growth, connection, and inspiration with the Happy Healthy Women community. Designed to guide you on a step-by-step journey toward your most aligned and thriving self, *Flourish* is the ultimate one-day retreat to spark transformation and manifest your most successful life and business in 2026. Through a curated lineup of talks/workshops led by inspiring speakers, you’ll explore new ways to elevate your mindset, align your vision, and create a roadmap to achieve your goals. You'll leave the day equipped with clarity, confidence, and a ***[2026 Beautiful Business Planner](https://hhwglobal.com/collections/all-collections/products/beautifulbusinessplanner-2026)*** and HHW Tote bag **(included in your ticket)** to keep your momentum going. ✨ **What to Expect**: * **Interactive Sessions**: Dive deep into topics like mindfulness, goal setting, business strategy, and self-care. * **Your Beautiful Business in 2026 Mapped Out:** Use your new [2026 Beautiful Business Planner](https://hhwglobal.com/collections/all-collections/products/beautifulbusinessplanner-2026) (Included with our signature HHW Tote bag in your ticket!) to clarify your goals and strategize your success * **Inspiring Speakers**: Learn from women who’ve mastered the art of aligning, thriving, and manifesting success. * **Community Connection**: Network with like-minded women on the same journey of growth and empowerment. * **Lunch, Snacks, and Beverages:** Nourishing, Plant-based food to keep you feeling grounded and well all day. * **Yoga Class:** Take care of your mind, body, and business * **Aligned Marketplace:** Vendors sharing items designed to help you feel good and flourish. * **Gifts & Surprises**: Upon arrival, every attendee will receive a *2026 Beautiful Business Planner -* your essential tool for designing your most successful year, along with prizes throughout the day and swag. Let’s create a life and business you love. Together, we’ll align, thrive, and manifest your vision into reality. **TICKET INCLUDES:** * Snacks, Beverages, and a Nourishing Plant-based Lunch catered by the amazing [NourishMoi](https://nourishmoi.com/) * [The Beautiful Business 2026 Planner](https://hhwglobal.com/collections/all-collections/products/beautifulbusinessplanner-2026) & Tote bag - **[Click here to view!](https://hhwglobal.com/collections/all-collections/products/beautifulbusinessplanner-2026)** * All Speaker Sessions and Yoga (optional) * Networking, Connection and HIGH VIBES All day! **SPEAKERS:** [Kelly Hetherington - The Art of Identity Embodiment](https://hhwglobal.com/products/kelly-hetherington) [Josephine Carmela - Your Sacred Yes](https://josephinecarmela.com/) [Natalie Colalillo - Upgrading Your Life & Business](https://hhwglobal.com/collections/branch-directors-1/products/natalie-colalillo-global) [Tracy Lee - Clarity: From Noise to Knowing](https://www.traceyleeliving.com/) **MOVEMENT AND MEDITATION:** [Elizabeth Flemming - Morning Yoga: Gentle Movement & Visualization](https://www.instagram.com/journeytotheinsideout?igsh=MXVqczZwOXQ2cWgyZw%3D%3D) [Michelle Hillier - Breath & Fire Movement](https://www.breathandfire.com/) [April Miranda - Reiki Infused Meditation](https://www.holisticconnection.ca/april-miranda-delos-reyes) **VENDORS:** [Something Sweet by Sarah](https://www.somethingsweetbysarah.com/) [Serif+Soul Jewelry](https://www.serifandsoul.ca/) [Francesca Rea - Divine Wealth](https://francescarea.com/) [Ann Sirenko - Metabolic Balance](https://www.metabolic-balance.ca/team/ann-sirenko) [Diana Alvarado - Menopause Coach](https://dianaempowered.ca/) **LOCATION:** Happy Healthy Women Head Office 146 Thirtieth St Suite 100, Etobicoke, ON M8W 3C4 **Doors open at 9 am** This event is in support of the Shoebox Project, supporting women impacted by homelessness. Proceeds from our raffle will go towards our shoebox drive in 2025. [https://www.shoeboxproject.com/](https://www.shoeboxproject.com/) **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\> Get 50% off tickets for this event as a member or by signing up for a FREE 30 Day Trial of the Wellpreneur Club\!** https://hhwglobal.com/products/wellpreneur-club **OR Purchase a ticket on this page without a membership.**

Come enjoy a relaxing Sunday with Goodvibes - Curl up in our theatre room to watch Parasite with a great group of friends who enjoy watching new movies every Sunday. Ticket to event includes ticket to movie: \- $5 per ticket\. \- Free for subscribers \($4 per month\) Link to purchase ticket: https://goodvibes.to/event/QNpLvmckNHH446XeJ \- Feel free to bring your own snacks/drinks to enjoy during the movie \- Hosted in personal theatre room\. Location revealed only to ticket holders on this page and sent to your e\-mail the day before\. \- Refunds are allowed up to 24hrs before event start date\. Event host: Kynan B. For any other questions feel to reach out below! Thanks, hope to see you there Kynan Goodvibes

Volunteer with Mid-OH Food Collective Mid-OH Market 4041 Gantz Rd Grove City, OH 43123 -fill carts with boxes -help support the various stations inside the Market -help scan groceries at the check-out stand -help repackage groceries into shopping after being scanned -help deliver groceries to customer vehicles Some volunteers will help load groceries into vehicles so dress in layers as needed. RSVP by contacting Renee with name, email, phone # 614-257-9389 or reneelquillet@gmail.com

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! For this event, we’ll help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents, wash dishes and clean surfaces at Fath Mission – Grant Kitchen. 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. 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. 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 BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:15am 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, indicated in the attached map. On-site and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: \* LSS Volunteer Guidelines: Uploaded to photos. \* Parking Map Info: Uploaded to photos. \* LSS Faith Mission Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp46_6ay6iA \* Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/faith-mission-grant-kitchen-2025 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 update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With very 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. THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others! Benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering provides a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

Join us as we get together for something dark, humorous, twisted, violent and thrilling: SEND HELP! Rachael McAdams and Dylan O’Brien star in this film that follows a worker and her boss stranded on an island following a plane crash and their attempts to survive. Here are details, trailer and a plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Two office colleagues find themselves stranded on a deserted island after they are the only survivors of a plane crash. They must overcome past grievances and work together to survive, but ultimately, it is an unsettling and darkly humorous battle of wills and wits to make it out alive. The film is directed by Sam Raimi (the Evil Dead franchise, the Toby Maguire Spider-Man trilogy) and stars Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4wiXj9NmEE PLAN: Details for this event have already been confirmed! Please purchase your ticket for the 7:15pm showing and meet in the lobby area between 6:45 and 7:00pm! Possible pre-show bite – we’ll confirm that part as the date gets closer! Tickets just $5.50 and advance purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments below! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Coffee and conversation at [Fox in the Snow Cafe](https://www.foxinthesnow.com/) in Dublin.