Take some time to check out a local club near you. Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors or digging deeper into history, Ohio’s clubs promise to fill your calendar with good fun and new friends.

 

The Akron Chess Club invites everyone, regardless of age or skill level, to join and play “the royal game.” The club offers both casual games and intense tournaments. Weekly meetings are held at the YMCA-Voris Community Learning Center, but check the club’s calendar for details on upcoming events. By becoming a club member, you’ll be able to participate in activities, take advantage of an extensive library of chess books, instructional videos and periodicals and access the club’s monthly newsletter. Find out more about tournaments and other chess topics at www.akronchessclub.com.

 

The town of Dayton is considered by some to be “the outdoor adventure capital of the Midwest,” and the Miami Valley Outdoor Club (MVOC) can help you discover it all firsthand. The club has something to match most preferences and experience levels from quiet walks through the woods to adrenaline-pumping rock climbing, rappelling, white water rafting and caving excursions. Established in 1978, the club has grown to include more than 100 members, and it embraces all kinds of outdoor activities throughout the year. Some of the more adventurous trips have taken the group to Hawaii, Minnesota, Yellowstone National Park and even Italy. Members receive the club’s monthly newsletter, as well as invitations to trips and outings. Don’t miss the Buckeye TrailFest, April 26 through 29, 2012, celebrating the Buckeye Trail’s 45^th anniversary with plenty of exciting outdoor activities for everyone. Find out what else the MVOC has planned for this season at www.miamivalleyoutdoorclub.org.

 

Uncover more about Ohio’s history by joining the Ohio Historical Society (OHS). Dedicated to interpreting, collecting and preserving the state’s history, the organization has gathered more than 1.5 million items connected to Ohio’s history, natural history and archeology. As a member, you’ll join more than 9,000 others who are passionate about Ohio’s past. All memberships offer benefits like free admission to all Ohio Historical Society sites, a subscription to Echoes (the OHS bi-monthly newsletter), discounts at Ohio History Stores and facility rentals, free or discounted admission to numerous events and more. Don’t miss Spring Awakening, on April 21, where you can explore the Adena Mansion and Gardens while enjoying bird watching, hiking, garden tours and musical performances. See more exciting upcoming events at http://ohsweb.ohiohistory.org.

 

Embrace a new hobby or enjoy sharing an old one with new friends. Ohio’s clubs and societies offer plenty of exciting opportunities.