Bicycle Riding

**Welcome to Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa!** As the winter season wraps our city in its gentle sparkle, our community shines even brighter. This time of year reminds us how meaningful it feels to step into a space filled with warmth, laughter, music, and friendly faces—exactly the kind of energy we create together every Monday. While the world outside cools down, our dance floor becomes a cozy haven of joy, connection, and beautifully shared moments. Every Monday feels like a touch of winter magic… only with a whole lot more rhythm. My objective has always been to create a different kind of social gathering—one that is open, non-judgmental, non-salacious, and safe. A place where you can meet people just like you, where socializing and dancing come together to help build community and tear down the walls that separate us. Here, we make new friends, feel a sense of belonging, and enjoy the calmness that comes from knowing we are in a safe and welcoming space. Many times, I have been asked, “Why host an event on Monday night?” Many people escape on the weekend and dread Mondays when they return to work. I believe that if you dance and socialize on a Monday, you infuse your week with joy and positive energy, giving your life balance and helping you face your challenges with enthusiasm and confidence. We’re also thrilled to announce that our trial of advanced Bachata lessons, which began last September, has been a resounding success! Building on this momentum, we’re excited to offer an enhanced schedule for 2025. Our dance evenings will now feature three hours of classes: one hour of beginner to intermediate Bachata, one hour of advanced Bachata, and one hour of beginner to intermediate Salsa. As always, the entrance fee remains $15 for a night of 2 lessons and social dancing. For those interested in the advanced Bachata lessons, there will be an additional $5 fee. Here’s our updated schedule: **Miss Bachata – Main Ballroom** ❄️ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Bachata Lesson (No partner required) ❄️ 8:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing **Miss Salsa – Round Room** ❄️ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Advanced Bachata Lesson (+$5) NEW ❄️ 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Salsa Lesson ❄️ 9:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing **Additional Details:** ❄️ Free Parking ❄️ Full Bar (Free Water, Beer: $5.75) Over the past decade, organizing Latin dancing events in Mississauga has been a labor of love. Our mission has always been to foster a sense of community, proving that the connections we share are far stronger than the differences that divide us. Loneliness is a growing concern, with over half of U.S. adults and many Canadians experiencing its effects. The COVID-19 pandemic has only heightened this issue. Harvard University's long-term study on happiness, which began in 1938, highlights the detrimental impact of loneliness on health. People with strong social connections experience slower mental and physical decline and greater overall happiness compared to those who are isolated. Here are some key findings from the study: • Close ties help delay mental and physical decline more than money, fame, social class, IQ, or genetics. • Relationship satisfaction is a better predictor of aging well than cholesterol levels in middle age. • A strong sense of community improves memory function. • Loneliness can be as harmful to health as smoking or alcoholism. There’s hope! Strengthening our relationships and supporting community initiatives can build healthier, happier lives. Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa provides a wonderful opportunity to make new friends, expand your social circle, and enjoy a safe, welcoming, authentic environment. Bring your open heart and a smile, and we’ll take care of the rest. **Cheers to building an authentic, joyful, and connected community!** **Anna G.** https://www.facebook.com/groups/1871491806494168/ https://www.facebook.com/EventsByAnnaG

*Games Schedule* Wednesday Event: - 1 / 3 NLH - 3 / 5 NLH - $500 Free Roll Thursday Event: - 1 / 2 NLH - Deep Stack - Min 100 - Max 1000 - $500 Free Roll Friday Event: - 1 / 3 NLH - 1 / 3 PLO - $500 Free Roll Saturday Event: - 1 / 2 NLH - Deep Stack - Min 100 - Max 1000 - $500 Free Roll Sunday Event: - 1 / 3 NLH - 2 / 2 PLO - $500 Free Roll Monday Event: - 1 / 3 NLH - 3 / 5 NLH - $500 Free Roll

**Drop-In Pickleball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come play one of the fastest-growing sports in North America — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for friendly, active Pickleball at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. It’s a great way to stay active, meet new people, and have some fun! *** **🏓 Event Details:** **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive. *** **🏓 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** **RSVP on Meetup does *not* reserve your spot.** To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance via our registration system. 👉 [Register online](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=bN72APE) 📞 Or register by phone: 416-924-6211 Space is limited to **18 players** on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. *** **🏓 Other Info:** * Paddles and balls are available for loan at the front desk with a **$20 cash deposit and valid ID** * This session is intended for **novice players and above** — participants should know basic rules and scoring * Courts are rotated regularly so everyone gets a chance to play * Welcoming, inclusive environment *** Come ready to rally, socialize, and have a great time on the court. We can’t wait to see you there!

Move. Sweat. Smile. Repeat. This is a fun, high-energy Zumba class designed for real people — not performers, not fitness models, just humans who want to move, feel good, and leave happier than they arrived. Must-Bring Comfortable workout clothes (Breathable, stretchy — you should be able to move freely) Indoor running shoes or cross-trainers ✔ Supportive ❌ No sandals, boots, or slippery soles Water bottle You will sweat — hydration is non-negotiable 😄 Small towel (optional but smart) Expect: Easy-to-follow Zumba routines Great music (Latin + global vibes) A welcoming, judgment-free space A workout that feels like a party (but still burns calories 😉) No dance experience needed. No pressure to “get it right.” Just show up and move. Sweat first, snacks after. If you’re free, we may head to a nearby spot to eat together. The first few classes are free as I build the community—come move with us and be part of the beginning.

❄️🚶‍♀️ **EXPLORATION WALK: YORKVILLE & U OF T** – **6 KM** 🎓🏙️ **Because winter is temporary… but missing this walk is forever.** “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” So layer up, zip up, and let’s romanticize January like true Torontonians 😌❄️ This walk explores **two parts of the city that started out the same — and then went in completely different directions.** One got glitzier. One stayed timeless. Both are *very* walkable, dramatic, and worth showing up for. \*\*\* \#\#\# THE WALK 🗺️✨ We’ll start and end at **Rosedale Subway Station**, making a glorious winter loop. • **Rosedale Park** 🌳 – quiet, elegant, and shockingly peaceful. • **Yorkville** 💎 – once wealthy, then a hippie coffee-shop haven, and now one of the *richest* neighbourhoods in the city. Full-circle glow-up. • **University of Toronto** 🏛️ – once reserved for Toronto’s elite, now open to everyone. Unlike Yorkville, it’s beautifully **frozen in time**, with historic buildings that haven’t changed much — except for the degrees inside them. • **Bamboo Forest at U of T** 🎋 – we’ll try to sneak a peek if it’s open (because mystery is part of the fun). ☕ **WARM-UP BREAK:** We’ll make a **30-minute stop at Tim Hortons** to thaw our fingers, grab food and drinks, and question why winter feels personal. \*\*\* ⚠️ **IMPORTANT NOTES** • Do **NOT** sign up if you’re not ready to walk in winter ❄️ • This walk happens in **snow, cold, wind, or vibes** • Event will only be cancelled if it hits **-20°C** (because we are sensible, not soft) \*\*\* \#\#\# MEETUP DETAILS 🧤🧣 📍 **Meetup Location:** Outside **Rosedale Subway Station** 👀 **How you’ll spot me:** I’ll be wearing my **MOOSE HAT** (a winter icon) ⏰ **Meetup Time:** 11:00 AM ⏱️ I wait **5 minutes only** — *Early is on time, on time is late* 💰 **Meetup Fee:** $5 (cash 💵 or e-transfer 📲 to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)) You can send it before or on the day of the walk.**m** 🏁 **End Point:** **Rosedale Subway Station** \*\*\* 👀 **NOT SURE YOU CAN MAKE IT?** Just show up. Literally. Winter plans are fluid. \*\*\* \#\#\# WHAT TO BRING 🎒 • Water • **Good boots** (non-negotiable) • Gloves & hat • Something warm to drink ☕ • A snack \*\*\* ⏳ **HOW LONG?** About **3 hours**, including our warm-up break. 🚪 **Can you leave early?** Anytime you like — no judgment, only vibes. 📱 **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! \*\*\* Mathew is the organizer for this meetup. If you need to contact him, post on the wall or email: 📧 \*\*[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**](http://torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) ✨ Cold weather builds character. ✨ Good walks build community. ✨ Missing this? That’s on you. ❄️🔥

Join us for an uplifting evening of group meditation. Immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere of sacred mantras. It’s both simple to practice and sublime. These sessions are perfect for beginners as well as long time practitioners. Using breathing techniques, ancient mantras and group kirtan meditation, one can experience spiritual fulfillment, inner peace and self-realization. Kirtan meditation is perfect for calming the mind, relieving stress and anxiety and enabling one to experience happiness in the heart. Learn also the practice of japa yoga, a meditation technique practiced daily in solitude, and cultivate gradually a deep happiness within. Refreshments will be served after class, all are welcome to stay. In accordance with ancient yoga traditions this meditation class is free of charge.

Join us for a winter walk through some great book stores in Toronto. We will meet in near the [Dufferin Subway Station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/8qfK6SXowHoRRfRc6) (north east end of the Bloor St. W and Dufferin St intersection). Then we will visit the following book stores by walking to them through the (thawing) winter streets 1. [The Monkey's Paw](https://maps.app.goo.gl/xuPmjbCQrsQi4wS28) 2. [Doug Miller Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gcwYFUixHrEceehS7) 3. [BMV Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ETHNifRbmGcgRyrZ7) 4. [Balfour Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/etWMdx8LwEGtv8Lr8) 5. [Re: Reading Used Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qCaXFuFU7L4NHWcJ7) The entire route can be found [here](https://maps.app.goo.gl/vjVUAfjCJjhep2ad7) You can get coffee in one of these shops or somewhere along the route (Click the links above for google maps location) Approx distance is 10 km **Assumption of Preparedness:** You agree to come prepared for the event with clothing, gloves, cap, and shoes as appropriate for the weather and conditions as prevalent on the day of the event. It is also assumed that if you need to leave the event midway through the event, then you will inform the organizer before doing so.

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***FREE TOUR TICKET FOR ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL MEETUP MEMBERS*** Use Promo Code **MEETUP2025** to get your free ticket and route smart guide at [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197) You can do the tour solo/with your favorite peeps, or try to generate a group ride of Meetup CycleNuts by RSVPing here and posting the day and time you are interested in others joining you. Either way, have fun on your memory-making adventure, and thank you for being a CycleNut! ### SOL in Columbus, OH \- A Smart\-guided Short One\-way Loop Bikeway Tour Short One-way Loop (SOL) in Columbus on bikeways. The smart-guided tour is mostly through scenic riverside parks with a quick downtown peek. All of that in 10 miles! 83% of the route is bikeway, and the rest is Google Maps designated "bicycle-friendly roads". This short ride passes through several beautiful riverside parks. Passing through downtown the route runs alongside Huntington Park baseball stadium, Nationwide Arena hockey stadium, near North Market (worth a stop if you enjoy markets with lots of tasty treats), within a few blocks of the state capitol, convention center, art museum, center of science and industry, several first-class hotels, and much more (see Points of Interest list below). Easily, anywhere along the way, the tour can be detoured to nearby points of interest. This smart-guided route comes with CycleNuts' 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. If your bike has gears, you might use them to climb in a few spots. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour (even a single-speed if you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned). The route is shaded about 50% of the way. Sweating is optional - you set your pace, starting time, and touring agenda. Points of interest: COSI Scioto River North Market German Village The Scioto Mile Brewery District Huntington Park Nationwide Arena Columbus Union Station Arch Greater Columbus Convention Center **The Meetup plan = Show up, Rally with whoever else shows up, and Roll following the smart-guided instructions.** This is a smart guided tour route that can be ridden any day or time, solo or with others. It is only posted with a repeating set time and date with a tour leader to fit the Meetup format, and, more importantly, to encourage you to get out and ride when it is convenient for you. **If you are going to ride it and would like the company of others, then simply RSVP and post in the comments when it is that you are going to ride - date and time.** Take pictures/videos and share. Have fun! ***This is a repeating event on the calendar***\*, but the date and time do not necessarily need to be what is posted. **If you are interested in riding with a group, then simply RSVP and leave a message in the comment section** giving the date and time you would like others to join you. If you are interested in riding by yourself or with your private group of friends, then simply do it.\* ***The mission of this format is to create a catalog*** *of free group tour routes available for CycleNuts to ride as a group, or solo, in an area spanning several states. **The goal is to get people out cycling** either in groups or solo. **The vision is a cycling community with resources** available for bike tours, bike talk, and a format for lives experienced at the speed of bike.*

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

**Come anytime during 4-8. Stay as long as you want. No set time*** It’s a chance to meet people in our age group regardless if you’re in your fifties, sixties or seventies! Retired or still working.

Ready for a night of music, laughter, and fun? Join us at Thunderwing Brewery for Music Bingo — a lively twist on classic bingo where songs replace numbers and good vibes are guaranteed! RSVP to secure your spot. Text Renee (614-257-9389). (Headcount needed to make sure staffing can accommodate the group) Arrive early to get a seat - **bring a camping chair for extra seating.** Often the brewery has food trucks or you can bring in your own food. Bonus - You can bring your dog!

CHANGED to WEDNESDAYS COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.