The inaugural post of our new weekly series, 5 Things To Do This Weekend, kicks off with the third annual “Ski for Z Day” on Saturday at Thunder Ridge Ski Area, a benefit to support the PJZ Foundation scholarship program.

The Foundation is inspired by the late Brookfield High School (BHS) science teacher Peter “Mr. Z” Zguzenski, whose sudden passing in August 2008 stunned the community, but whose inspirational outlook on life still resonates with his former students and friends down to today. Those wishing to support the PJZ Foundation and spend some time on the slopes can purchase discounted lift tickets at www.PlanetPJZ.org. The tickets are $35 and good all day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In order to get the ticket discount and ensure proceeds go to the foundation, attendees must log on to www.PlanetPJZ.org, print out the coupon and present it at check in. For more information, please call 914-954-8215 or 914-714-8094.

From 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Yoga Space will be hosting a free Yoga Nidra class, the art of deep relaxation called a “waking sleep.” According to Yoga Space instructors, Yoga Nidra is more restorative and nourishing than actual sleep.

The class is free but donations of any size will be gratefully accepted. 

Also on Saturday, the local YMCA will be hosting the Health and Wellness Fair, sponsored by the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce. The event will be free and open to all members of the public.

Brookfield businesses specializing in health and wellness will have booths set up in the YMCA gymnasium and special presentations will take place in 45-minute “break-out” sessions, as well.

The fair will take place between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Greenknoll Branch at 2 Huckleberry Hill Road. 

On Sunday, make your way back to the YMCA for the lick-off of the Fourth Annual Lose to Win Program, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The 12-week fitness program includes access to personal trainers, a registered dietitian, team challenges and special events. You must be a full registered member of the YMCA to participate. 

And finally, on Sunday Petco will be celebrating National Adoption Weekend with free seminars on pet care and adoptable pets on site. Catch a workshop on training and caring for your pet or meet cats in need of loving homes on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The event culminates with low cost vaccinations from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. No appointment necessary.