Power Map

Let’s do some coding together at a cafe! No more working alone in the weekend. Here, we write code together. And I mean together together. Not occupying-the-same-space-but-separate together. Here’s how it works: Jennifer brings her mobile app project, tells everyone that it is like Pinterest for recipes and she’d like to work on the nav bar. Paul and Chloe think Jennifer's project is fascinating, and they join the group. They gather around Jennifer’s laptop and work on the nav bar for 2 hours. Jennifer is the one typing out the code while Paul and Chloe research, brainstorm, and offer suggestions. If you’re feeling stuck on your own project or need a motivation boost, bring it to mob programming! Want to learn by watching how others code and solve problems? Join someone else’s project at this event! Oh and we love your half-done projects that you are a bit embarrassed to share. Absolutely bring those to the event! **Discord**: We use Discord to share screen & code snippets during the event. Also feel free to share your projects here before the event! https://discord.gg/xwjDdVSw3E **Event policy**: * We have 0 tolerance for harassment. * We don’t allow the projects that are not meant to be shared in public such as school assignments, interview tasks, or trade secrets. * The goal is to write code. We discourage you from pitching business ideas here, doing code reviews, or spending the whole event on planning what to do. * Please buy a drink, and tip the barista well.

Get ready for an electrifying lineup of live tribute concerts at **Rama Gaming House Scarborough**. The **RGH Powerplay Series** brings legendary rock, pop, and soul to the stage with some of the most authentic tribute artists and bands in Canada. If you love classic hits, high-energy live performances, and unforgettable nights out in Scarborough, this series is for you. 🎶 **April 25 – Philcos** **25 Years of Live Music Excellence** Kick off the series with the seasoned sounds of Philcos. With over two decades of stage mastery, this band delivers a high-caliber performance covering a massive range of hits. Experience the precision, soul, and infectious energy that has made them a staple of the live music scene for 25 years. *Perfect for fans of premium live music and dance hits in Scarborough.* 🎤 **May 16 – The Beatle Band** **Relive The Beatles Live** Step back into the 1960s with the ultimate tribute to the Fab Four. The Beatle Band captures the look, the sound, and the magic of the British Invasion. From "She Loves You" to "Hey Jude," enjoy a nostalgic journey through the greatest discography in rock history. *A must-see Beatles tribute concert in Scarborough.* 👑 **June 06 – Memories of the King** **A World-Class Elvis Tribute Starring Bruno Nesci** Experience the charisma and vocal power of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Starring the internationally acclaimed **Bruno Nesci**, this world-class tribute brings the 70s Vegas era to life with iconic costumes and show-stopping hits like "Suspicious Minds" and "Can't Help Falling in Love." *The premier Elvis Presley tribute experience in Scarborough.* 🎟 **Why Attend the RGH Powerplay Series?** * **Only $20 per ticket** (Limited Early Bird tickets with 25% off) * **Top-tier live concerts** in the heart of Scarborough * **Doors open at 7PM** – arrive early for the best spots * **High-energy performances** from world-class tribute acts * **Perfect night out** for music lovers and friends * Enjoy Pizza, Chicken Wings or Burger for just **$9.99** * **3 RGH Beers for only $10** Whether you are a fan of 60s nostalgia, classic rock, or the golden era of Vegas, the **RGH Powerplay Series** offers something for every music lover. Don't forget to sign up for **House Rewards** on-site to claim your **RGH Passport to Excitement!** 🎫 **Buy your tickets now and secure your spot.** These shows will sell fast. Visit **[ramagaming.com/events](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://ramagaming.com/events&authuser=2 "https://www.google.com/search?q=https://ramagaming.com/events&authuser=2")** or purchase in-house at 991 Kennedy Rd.

Join us for a friendly game of Volleyball in **Antibes Park**. All experience levels are welcome... Weather permitting! :) See you on the net!

Get ready for an electrifying lineup of live tribute concerts at **Rama Gaming House Mississauga**. The RGH Powerplay Series brings legendary rock, soul, funk, and metal to the stage with some of the most authentic tribute bands in Canada. If you love classic rock concerts, high-energy live performances, and unforgettable nights out in Mississauga, this series is for you. ## 🎤 April 11 – Only Journey **The Ultimate Journey Tribute Experience** Relive the arena rock glory of Journey with soaring vocals and powerful renditions of classics like *Don’t Stop Believin’* and *Separate Ways*. Only Journey delivers an immersive, high-energy performance that transports fans back to the golden era of rock. Perfect for fans of classic rock concerts in Mississauga. ## 👑 April 18 – Queen’s Court **A Royal Tribute to Queen** Experience the theatrical brilliance and musical mastery of Queen. Queen’s Court recreates the iconic sound, harmonies, and stage presence that made Queen one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Expect powerful vocals, epic anthems, and a crowd-engaging live show. A must-see Queen tribute concert in Mississauga. ## 💜 May 2 – Soul Beautiful **A Celebration of Soul, Funk & R&B Classics** An electrifying tribute to Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Prince, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Deep grooves, smooth vocals, and vibrant live energy make this the ultimate soul and funk party night. If you love R&B live music in Mississauga, this is your night. ## 🦅 May 9 – Motel California **The Eagles Tribute Experience** From *Hotel California* to *Life in the Fast Lane*, Motel California recreates the rich harmonies and signature dual-guitar sound of The Eagles. A polished and authentic concert experience celebrating one of the most influential bands in rock history. A classic rock tribute you do not want to miss. ## ⚡ May 23 – Hell’s Highway **The Ultimate AC/DC Tribute Experience** High voltage energy. Thunderous riffs. Nonstop rock and roll. Hell’s Highway delivers the raw power and explosive stage presence of AC/DC with crowd-shaking performances of *Highway to Hell* and *Back in Black*. For fans of hard rock concerts in Mississauga. ## 🎵 May 30 – Solitary Man **A Tribute to Neil Diamond** Experience the timeless hits of Neil Diamond performed with precision, charisma, and audience interaction. From *Sweet Caroline* to *Forever in Blue Jeans*, this show captures the magic of Diamond’s legendary 70s concert era. Sing along and relive the classics. ## 🔥 June 13 – Sandman **The Officially Licensed Metallica Tribute** Since 1994, Sandman has delivered crushing, note-for-note Metallica performances. Officially recognized and endorsed, this is the closest you will get to the real thing. Expect thunderous sound, explosive energy, and a true heavy metal experience. For fans searching for a Metallica tribute in Mississauga. 🎟 Why Attend the RGH Powerplay Series? * **Only $20 per ticket** (Limited Early Bird tickets with 25% off) * **Top-tier live concerts** in the heart of Mississauga * **Enjoy Pizza, Chicken Wings or Burger for just $9.99** * **3 RGH Beers for just $10** * **Doors open at 7PM** – arrive early for the best spots * **High-energy performances** from world-class tribute acts * **Perfect night out** for music lovers and friends Whether you are a fan of classic rock, soul, funk, or metal, the RGH Powerplay Series offers something for every music lover. 🎫 **Early Bird Tickets available for limited time. Buy your tickets now and secure your spot. These shows will sell fast.** Purchase tickets in-house or visit ramagaming.com/events

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.

Toronto's Third Annual Sony Alpha Community Event! IMPORTANT: YOU MUST ALSO REGISTER AT THIS LINK: [Capture, Create, Collaborate with Sony! An Alpha Community Event Toronto Tickets, Saturday, May 23 • 12 PM - 6 PM | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/capture-create-collaborate-with-sony-an-alpha-community-event-toronto-tickets-1987308814160?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) **Calling all photography and filmmaking enthusiasts!** Join us on **May 23, 2026 at 12:00 PM (Eastern Time)** for an awesome day at the **Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Rogers Communications Centre**! Whether you're into photography, videography, or just love Sony gear, this event is your chance to engage with industry professionals and learn how to **capture** stunning moments, **create** cool content, and **collaborate** with fellow Alpha enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on the fun and inspiration! **Expert Panels:** Gain insights and wisdom from industry leaders in photography and filmmaking. **Engaging Seminars:** Learn new techniques and tricks to enhance your craft. **Interactive Workshops:** Dive deep into the world of Sony imaging technology through immersive workshops. **Industry Professionals**: Interact and Network with a diverse community of creators and collaborators. **Experience New Technology:** Experience the latest advancements in Sony imaging technology. There will be a limited number of Sony cameras and lenses to try but we suggest bringing your gear. Don't miss out on this one of a kind experience to learn from the industry professionals

🏙️🔭 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: SKYLINE VIEWS & HIDDEN SPACES WALK 🔭🏙️ Observation Decks, City Icons & A Once-a-Year Experience Some places in Toronto you walk past every day… but rarely get to go inside. This is your chance. Join us for a special Doors Open Toronto outing, where we’ll explore two of the city’s most iconic buildings — including access to spaces that aren’t usually open to the public. This event only happens once a year, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the city from a completely different perspective. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social outing — with incredible views, a bit of history, and shared discovery. 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🏙️ What We’ll Do We’ll start at TD Bank Tower (66 Wellington St W), part of the Toronto-Dominion Centre — one of the finest examples of modernist architecture in the city, designed by legendary architect Mies van der Rohe. We’ll head up to the observation area (approximately 223 metres high), where you’ll get a stunning view of Toronto’s skyline from a space that isn’t typically open to the public. From there, we’ll walk over to Toronto City Hall and visit its observation deck. Opened in 1965 and designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, City Hall’s curved twin towers and central council chamber make it one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks. From above, you’ll get a completely different view of Nathan Phillips Square and the downtown core. ⚠️ Please note: both locations are very popular during Doors Open, so there will likely be wait times. Part of the experience is the buzz and energy of the day. Afterward, we’ll head over to CF Toronto Eaton Centre for a casual lunch in the food court. 🍔🥗 You’re welcome to join or head out whenever you like. \*\*\* **🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto?** Doors Open Toronto is a free annual city-wide event that opens the doors to architecturally, historically, and culturally significant buildings across Toronto. For one weekend, you can explore spaces that are usually closed to the public — from office towers and historic sites to creative and civic spaces. It’s one of the best ways to connect with the city and see what’s normally hidden in plain sight. \*\*\* 🌦️ **Weather & Expectations** This event will run rain or shine. Be prepared for: ✔️ Walking between locations ✔️ Standing in lines ✔️ A busy, energetic atmosphere Wear comfortable shoes and bring patience — it’s part of the experience. Also — this is NOT a guided historical tour. I’ll share context casually, but the focus is on exploring together. \*\*\* 🧢 **Meetup Details** 📍 Meetup Location: OutsideI will be on the West/South corner right by the lights and I will be wearing my Moose Hat. 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 9:00 AM I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us at the first location. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us. Early is on time. On time is late. We’ll head in together. End Point: Eaton Centre \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) Doors Open is free to attend. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Patience for lines ⏳ Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: cash/card for lunch \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the views. Stay for the experience. Leave having seen parts of the city most people never get to access. 🏙️✨

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.

This group is for badminton enthusiasts who are passionate about exploring the connections between metabolism, energy, and exercise. We are welcome beginner plus, intermediate and advance level players looking to improve your skill or a seasoned player seeking to optimize your performance on the court, this group is for you! Join us for friendly games. This badminton session is a weekly event and it is followed with dinner together but it is optional. Birdies: Please bring one birdie with you. However, if you are intermediate plus or advanced level, bring two birdies with you. Court fee: It will be informed at the comment section by 4pm. Cost per person is either $216 (for 4 courts), $162 (for 3 courts) or $108 (for 2 courts) divided by the number of players attended. My email address for etransfer is: lingseilau@yahoo.com

*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.

🏛️🚶 **DOORS OPEN TORONTO: HIDDEN BUILDINGS & CITY STORIES WALK** 🚶🏛️ Historic Spaces, Community Landmarks & A City Revealed Some buildings you walk past every day without thinking twice… until the doors open. Join us for a second day of Doors Open Toronto, where we’ll explore a mix of historic, cultural, and community spaces across the city — each with its own story, purpose, and evolution. This walk is about contrast. Old and new. Exclusive and inclusive. Grand and everyday. And how all of it shapes the city we live in. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social, story-driven walk — with moments to pause, look, and see familiar places differently. 👉 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll move through a curated route of Doors Open, stopping at a variety of buildings and institutions that reflect Toronto’s layered history and community life. Some of the locations we may visit include: * **Fire Station 315** – Opened in 1889, this historic fire hall is built of brick with stone detailing, reflecting early 20th-century civic architecture. * **The El Mocambo** – Opened in 1948, this iconic music venue is housed in a brick building with a classic mid-century commercial façade. * **Daniels Building (University of Toronto)** – Opened in 1875 (as Knox College), this Gothic Revival building is constructed of sandstone with intricate masonry detailing. * **U of T Bookstore (Koffler Student Centre)** – Opened in 1958, this modernist structure is built primarily of concrete and glass. * **Polish Combatants' Association Branch 20** – Opened in 1950, this community hall is a modest brick structure reflecting post-war institutional design. * **St. George’s Hall (Arts & Letters Club)** – Opened in 1891, this heritage building is constructed of brick and stone in a Victorian style. * **St. George Greek Orthodox Church** – Opened in 1897, this church is built of brick with classical detailing and later Byzantine-inspired elements. * **Street Health** – Established in 1986, the facility operates out of a practical brick building adapted for community healthcare use. * **Street Haven** – Founded in 1965, this women’s shelter is housed in a converted brick residential building typical of the area. * **Jarvis Street Baptist Church** – Opened in 1875, this Gothic Revival church is built of brick with stone accents. * **The 519** –This building actually dates back to 1858 — long before it became The 519 we know today — and started as a Georgian-style home before evolving into a community space. * **Foy-Smith House** – Built in 1891, this historic home is constructed of brick in the Queen Anne Revival style. * **St. Paul’s Bloor Street** – Opened in 1889, this Romanesque Revival church is built of stone with a commanding tower and detailed masonry. Some locations we’ll enter, others we’ll experience from the outside depending on timing and lineups. ⚠️ Please note: wait times are part of Doors Open. We’ll move as a group and make decisions along the way. \*\*\* 🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto? Doors Open Toronto is a free annual event where the city opens up buildings that are normally closed to the public — from historic homes and cultural institutions to places you’d never usually think to step inside. It’s one of the best ways to explore Toronto beyond the surface. \*\*\* 🌆 Vibe & Expectations This is a longer, more exploratory walk with: ✔️ Multiple stops ✔️ Some waiting in lines ✔️ A mix of indoor and outdoor spaces ✔️ Members can leave any time the like It’s not about rushing — it’s about discovering. Also — this is NOT a formal historical tour. I’ll share context and stories as we go, but the focus is on the experience and being social. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: **Fire Station 315** 🫎 I’ll be outside and I will be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: (Insert time) I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us along the route. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us. \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **[[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com)]([mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](http://mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com/))** Doors Open is free to attend. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Patience for lines ⏳ Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: snacks or money for food along the way \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com)]([mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](http://mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com/)) Come for the buildings. Stay for the stories. Leave seeing the city not just as it looks — but as it’s evolved. 🏛️✨

**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!

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

We meet at lunch each week and each meeting follows a fairly organized agenda. First all participants pass their business cards around. Then each member and guest is invited to give a one-minute overview of their company and what is a perfect referral for the week. We always have a 10 minute presentation from one of the members about their business in more detail. And finally we pass referrals. You're welcome to visit. Nobody is ever put on the spot. Bring plenty of cards!

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.