Treasure Hunts

Welcome to TENNIS AND TUNES 2026 edition! Join us for some **fun** and **friendly** **CASUAL HITTING TENNIS** at Fountainhead Tennis Club - University Heights (Two blocks from FINCH WEST subway station/ across from SENTINEL STATION TTC LINE 6). This is a TENNIS AND TUNES event 🔊🎵🎶📻 which means **loud** **music will be played during the meet up**. Hope to see you there! :) **FRIENDLY REMINDER : BEFORE** confirming your RSVP, please review the following meet-up guidelines and group rules. General Rules and Guidelines: 1. This is a **CASUAL HITTING** meet-up. It is **NOT** a competitive tennis gathering. Due to limited court availability we will only engage in **casual rallies**. 2. Upon arrival, please **check in with the event organiser (J.W.)**. This is important for attendance purposes and assigning hitting partners for the session. 3. Should you decide to bring your own tennis balls, please make sure they are distinctively initialled. If not, a meet-up Sharpie will be available (at the event) for you to do so. 4. **GTA Racquet Player members are expected, at all times during the meet-up, to observe a courteous demeanour and a positive sporting spirit towards fellow players.**

**Meeting Spot - Near Toronto Sign. We will wait for 10 mins and start walking at 9:55am.** Doors Open Toronto is a chance to explore Toronto behind the scenes. Due to long lineups and crowds we will try to get there early to minimize wait-times. If you arrive late, you can call/msg me and will share our location. Enjoy a combination of walking tours, open studio programs, and conversations with prominent architects exploring the unique Canadian relationship to space, place and urbanity. Doors Open Toronto is a can’t-miss event for anyone interested in learning about Toronto’s public and private spaces. **Locations we hope to visit** City Hall TD Centre Billy Bishop Airport Old City Hall Optional- Only if there is time after Spin Master HQ 401 Richmond Terroni St Lawrence Market Red Path Sugar (optional) See website for more details https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/doors-open-toronto/ **Free / Event Fee** Free if you RSVP before May18 $2 if you RSVP on/after May19

I haven't been to this body of water yet. just checking it out as a possible camp site. From the hwy 400 turn off on Gibson lake road drive most of the way to the end. free parking at the boat launch. Plan to set off 10 AM. Any one that would like to go for a walk in the woods Bring a lunch and bug spray

**Explore the scenic Humber River in Toronto with our Kayak, Canoe, and stand-up paddle board 2-hour rentals during the week!** Use the following link to book your spot:[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) The calm meandering Humber River is one of Toronto’s hidden gems! Home to a huge variety of wildlife, including Beaver, Blue Heron, Deer and much more, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind! *Events are subject to weather and other factors out of our control. If we must cancel or delay an event we will those booked on the [torontoadventures.ca](http://torontoadventures.ca/) website know as soon as possible.* **Weekend Pricing (per 2-hour rental), Payable online through:** [https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) Single Kayak (seats 1 person) : $49.95+taxes Tandem Kayak (seats 2 people) : $89.95+taxes Regular Canoe (seats 2 people) : $79.95+taxes Large Canoe (seats 3 people) : $89.95+taxes Stand-up Paddle Board ( 1 person): $49.95+taxes **Included:** * Boat(s), Paddle(s), PFD(s)/ “Life Jacket(s)”, & Coast Guard Safety Kit. * Brief orientation covering paddling safety, Toronto Adventures’ rules, and the Humber River paddling route * Our friendly staff to help you launch your boat(s) and/or boards. * SUP Leash (For Paddle Board Rentals Only) **What to bring?** * Dress for the weather! * Wear closed-toe athletic footwear you don’t mind getting wet & muddy (shoes not required on SUPs). * Sunscreen, sunglasses & hats, are all recommended for sunny days. * A water bottle. * Government Issued Photo ID. **Important Information** Anyone under the age of 18 must have a Parent/Guardian/Adult accompany them all the times on the water. Online Adult Waivers are available through confirmation emails. For minors, waivers will need to be signed in person on location. There must be an Adult to Child ratio of 1:4 in the children are under 12 years of age. From ages 12-18 we require a 1:5 adult to youth ratio. We have lifejackets starting at 30 pounds and are fully adjustable. * Paddlers must be comfortable treading water while wearing a PFD and reaching a shoreline (minimum 20 metres to shore). * Late Fees Returning Boat(s)/Equipment – $20/15 minutes per boat. **[Google Link Directions](https://torontoadventures.ca/directions/#humberriverlocation)** **[Cancellation Policy](https://torontoadventures.ca/faq/#cancellation)** We hope to see you out on the water!

Looking to play at Eglinton Flats on Sunday afternoon.

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

**MeetUp Point: Entrance is off Leslie Street. Turn left on Leslie to the parking lot 2 in Wilkett Creek Park.** (Don't follow the pin) Join us for a 12 km urban hike that is challenging. Starting past Wilcot Parking lot 2, we will be passing through sunnybrook Park and Edwards Gardens. For lunch we can atop at the TBG Bloom Cafe or bring a lunch, lots of water. Please ensure arms and legs are covered as there are plenty of ticks out there.

Solo parents unite! Time for a coffee break for the solo/divorced/other parents. Come swap stories, chit chat, make friends, meet new people. Free event.

**Explore the scenic Humber River in Toronto with our Kayak, Canoe, and stand-up paddle board 2-hour rentals during the week!** Use the following link to book your spot:[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) The calm meandering Humber River is one of Toronto’s hidden gems! Home to a huge variety of wildlife, including Beaver, Blue Heron, Deer and much more, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind! *Events are subject to weather and other factors out of our control. If we must cancel or delay an event we will those booked on the [torontoadventures.ca](http://torontoadventures.ca/) website know as soon as possible.* **Weekend Pricing (per 2-hour rental), Payable online through:** [https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) Single Kayak (seats 1 person) : $49.95+taxes Tandem Kayak (seats 2 people) : $89.95+taxes Regular Canoe (seats 2 people) : $79.95+taxes Large Canoe (seats 3 people) : $89.95+taxes Stand-up Paddle Board ( 1 person): $49.95+taxes **Included:** * Boat(s), Paddle(s), PFD(s)/ “Life Jacket(s)”, & Coast Guard Safety Kit. * Brief orientation covering paddling safety, Toronto Adventures’ rules, and the Humber River paddling route * Our friendly staff to help you launch your boat(s) and/or boards. * SUP Leash (For Paddle Board Rentals Only) **What to bring?** * Dress for the weather! * Wear closed-toe athletic footwear you don’t mind getting wet & muddy (shoes not required on SUPs). * Sunscreen, sunglasses & hats, are all recommended for sunny days. * A water bottle. * Government Issued Photo ID. **Important Information** Anyone under the age of 18 must have a Parent/Guardian/Adult accompany them all the times on the water. Online Adult Waivers are available through confirmation emails. For minors, waivers will need to be signed in person on location. There must be an Adult to Child ratio of 1:4 in the children are under 12 years of age. From ages 12-18 we require a 1:5 adult to youth ratio. We have lifejackets starting at 30 pounds and are fully adjustable. * Paddlers must be comfortable treading water while wearing a PFD and reaching a shoreline (minimum 20 metres to shore). * Late Fees Returning Boat(s)/Equipment – $20/15 minutes per boat. **[Google Link Directions](https://torontoadventures.ca/directions/#humberriverlocation)** **[Cancellation Policy](https://torontoadventures.ca/faq/#cancellation)** We hope to see you out on the water!

Do you like s’mores? Maybe you’ve never had a s’mores. Either way this is the place to be for dollar s’mores. But you’ve got to roast the marshmallows over an open fire yourself which is the best part. Not mention you’ll be meeting other people in a social environment. $1 (cash only please) gets you two crackers, a piece of milk chocolate and a marshmallow on a skewer. For those of you who have never made your own or aren’t that skilled I will teach you how. And yes you can have more than one!

The number of ticks and tick diseases in Ohio have quickly multiplied over the last 10 years. Dean Kreager discusses tick species, tick pathogens, tick-borne diseases, tick bite prevention, and proper tick removal. Kreager is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator with OSU Extension in Licking County * Lakewood Public Library (in Hebron)- May 26 at 7pm [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621) * Johnstown public library at 7:00 pm June 8 [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622) Free to attend, no RSVP needed

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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.

The number of ticks and tick diseases in Ohio have quickly multiplied over the last 10 years. Dean Kreager discusses tick species, tick pathogens, tick-borne diseases, tick bite prevention, and proper tick removal. Kreager is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator with OSU Extension in Licking County * Lakewood Public Library (in Hebron)- May 26 at 7pm [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621) * Johnstown public library at 7:00 pm June 8 [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622) Free to attend, no RSVP needed

**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.