Magento

**Here's what nobody tells you about the AI age in product work: it didn't solve our hardest problem. It actually made it worse.** When execution was expensive, bad ideas died naturally through friction. We couldn't explore every direction, so we got really good at being ruthless about what actually deserved to get built. But now? AI has made execution ridiculously cheap. You can write specs in minutes, spin up prototypes in hours, and often code practically writes itself. No question that you can produce 10x more output than you could before. But here's the thing: in our craft, **producing 10x more doesn't mean you're creating 10x more value.** Most conversations about AI and product management obsess over tactics - how can you prompt better? What AI features could you ship? How can you ship faster? But the truth is that speed isn't the competitive advantage in our industry anymore. Judgment is. **The product builders who'll define the next decade aren't the ones generating more output or ideas - they're the ones who can stand in front of infinite plausible options and point to the one that matters.** Join us on February 5th as Akash Kedia takes a fresh look at what AI really changes in product work. Building is indeed easier than ever, which means judgment matters more than ever, too. When everything is fast, bad decisions ship just as easily as good ones. If you've felt the discomfort of infinite options but zero clarity, and you're ready to think harder about what good judgment actually looks like, this one's for you! Thank you to our host **N26** for making this event possible. **Agenda** 18:30 - Doors open 19:00 - Hello from ProductTank 19:05 - Main Talk 19:30 - Fireside chat with Akash 19:45 - Q&A with Akash 20:00 - Networking 21:30 - Event ends Please note * **N26 is a bank so please bring your IDs as you’ll need it when entering the venue.** * The event is RSVP only: to enter, you must RSVP here on Meetup. * We'd like to capture the event with photographs for promotional purposes, such as sharing on LinkedIn after the event. If you have any concerns or preferences regarding this, please feel free to let us know beforehand.

**Authentic Relating & Circling with Sophie and Marco** Come and connect and learn the powerful practices of Authentic Relating and Circling. We normally do about a half-hour of Authentic Relating in paired-shares, followed by Circling in up to two breakouts, usually rejoining the large group at the end. However the program will change according to the experience of the participants at each event. If you are not familiar with Authentic Relating & Circling, you can read Marco's book on the [Circling Guide](https://circlingguide.com) website. All events are beginner-friendly and no prior experience is necessary. If all goes well, you will feel that this is what you have been doing your whole life, and all you ever wanted was to be with people who share this way of being! **PS:** **don't look at Meetup RSVP's, as this event is advertised through multiple channels. Please always register due to limited space. To register and get the address, RSVP and then message Marco here on Meetup or else WhatsApp to +49 1573 9667979 or follow this link: [https://wa.me/4915739667979](https://wa.me/4915739667979)** **\*\*Why attend?\*\*** * Are you seeking more fun, connection, and deeper understanding with the people in your life? * Do you lack an honest, loving space to communicate your needs and desires? * You long for a supportive community where all issues can be brought openly and with care? * You are curious about how the powerful practices of Authentic Relating and Circling can enhance your life? *If so, our Authentic Relating and Circling evenings are for you!* **\*\*Who should attend?\*\*** These sessions are open to people of all genders and sexual orientations who want to bring Authentic Relating skills and practice into their life. This program is ideal for you if: * You're interested in other people and how they think and feel. * You enjoy stepping out of your comfort zone. * You're self-responsible and open. * You want to be seen, heard, and appreciated for what's important to you. * You want to engage with others in tender conversations about the challenges of being human. **\*\*Dates\*\*** *We're offering Authentic Relating & Circling every Thursday from 19:00-21:30.* **\*\*Cost\*\*** The cost at the door is 25€ / 30€ / 20€ (depending on your income). Alternatively buy a 5-pass card for €80 (€16 per session). **\*\*Location and Directions\*\*** Kleiststraße @ Eisenacher Str., 10787 Berlin-Schöneberg Our house is a short walk from Nollendorfplatz U, and is also served by several buses. For the exact address message Marco here, or (better)message Whatsapp +49 1573 9667979 (https://wa.me/4915739667979). **\*\*Other Programs\*\*** In addition to AR & Circling live in Berlin, Sophie and Marco have other programs and services, online and in person. These include individual and couples coaching, our 6 week Authentic Relating in Community (in [English ](https://circlingguide.com/arc)and [German](https://circlingguide.com/arcs/)), retreats & immersions. For details refer the the Connecting Circle website at [https://connecting-circle.de/](https://connecting-circle.de/). Join our WhatApp announcement channel [http://bit.ly/46fNuDE](http://bit.ly/46fNuDE) Join our Telegram announcement channel [http://bit.ly/45XXbb6](http://bit.ly/45XXbb6) **\*\*Facilitators\*\*** Marco Beneteau, author of the "Circling Guide" ([www.circlingguide.com](https://www.circlingguide.com/)), the most popular book on Circling within the Authentic Relating tradition. Marco has been leading AR groups for seven years. Sophie Lemperle-McGrath, founder of connecting-circle ([www.connecting-circle.de](http://www.connecting-circle.de/)) is a Gestalt & AR facilitator, mediator and "Getting Real" couples Coach. *Our Authentic Relating & Circling nights are fun and engaging. We hope to see you there!* **\*\*Agreements & Terms of Service (Please read)\*\*** **Authentic Relating and Circling is not therapy**. People encounter states, emotions, beliefs, and sensations in themselves and others which can be difficult. We explore the unknown, the volatile, the ambiguous, as well as welcome emotions many deem as “negative” or “inappropriate” such as feelings of inadequacy, anger, sexuality, and joy. We refer to the willingness to feel difficult and uncomfortable truths as the “commitment to connection,” which of course includes a willingness to set appropriate boundaries, and speak a desire for space, distance, and non-contact. By attending our events you take responsibility for your level of participation, which might include choosing to leave. If all this sounds potentially overwhelming or destabilizing for you, if you have mental illness or significant emotional challenges that you feel may be exacerbated by this type of transformational environment, or if you are not sure that you can be self-directed in taking care of your needs during the event, then we advise you not to attend. We look forward to seeing you!

The Language Café is primarily aimed at people who are struggling with their mental health which can make it hard to go to regular courses. We want to create a safe space for everyone to learn and practise without pressure. Everyone is welcome! Please try to be on time so we can all get started together :) We mainly practise on a beginner/lower intermediate level and adapt to everyone's prior level of German. The Language Café will focus on teaching you the most important words and phrases and basic grammar in German. The content of the course is adapted to real life. (everyday life in Germany, dealing with authorities, etc.) We will cover different topics every week and you can join us anytime, since the topics do not necessarily build on each other. The Sprachcafé is for free. \*If you cannot make it please cancel your participation so someone else from the waiting list can join, thank you!\* \| \| \| \|

This event will take place in **Schöneberg,** at the café Caffein & Vinoin, where we have booked a table! By popular demand, this will be a special, book swap edition! We'll play our non-christmasy, hasard-based version of a book-based Secret Santa, and then read for a while! Meet us at 6:30pm (the address is Kolonnenstrasse 54). Grab your current book, and a bring along a **second, wrapped book** you would like to swap! Can't wait to read and play with you guys! L&F

\*\*\* English below \*\*\* ### Einladung **Du bringst die Frage** **Das Spiel bringt die Klarheit** **Wir halten den Raum** Du bist herzlich eingeladen, gemeinsam mit anderen einen achtsam gestalteten Raum für tiefgehende Fragen und persönliche Klärung zu betreten. Der Flow Game Salon bietet dir die Gelegenheit, mit einer für dich bedeutungsvollen Frage präsent zu sein – und im Kreis neue Perspektiven und Resonanz zu erleben. Das Flow Game ist ein dialogisches Reflexionsspiel, das dich einlädt, innezuhalten, zuzuhören und Impulse für das zu empfangen, was in deinem Leben gerade zählt. Keine Vorkenntnisse erforderlich! **Ort:** Facilitation Academy, Wilhelmshavener Street. 18, 10551 Berlin **Sprache:** Meist Deutsch oder Englisch (wir passen uns an, nach Bedarf) **Spendenbasis:** 20–50 € pro Person inkl. Hosting, Vorbereitung, Raum und Snacks (Empfehlung) ### 🕒 Ablauf (ca.) * **15:45 – 16:00** – Ankommen * **16:00 – 16:45** – Check-in-Fragen & Café * **16:45 – 19:30** – Flow Game spielen (im Kreis oder in Kleingruppen) * **19:30 – 20:00** – Reflexion & gemeinsamer Abschluss ### Praktisches * Komme gern in bequemer Kleidung – wir sitzen und bewegen uns vielleicht leicht im Raum. * Es gibt Tee, Kaffee, Wasser und kleine Snacks. Wenn du etwas Besonderes mitbringen oder teilen möchtest, sehr gerne! * Wir sind ein wechselnder Kreis von Gastgeber:innen aus dem Berliner Flow Game Netzwerk. Die jeweils anwesenden Hosts bestätigen ihre Teilnahme im jeweiligen Event. * Je nach Gruppengröße spielen wir in einem gemeinsamen Kreis oder in parallelen Gruppen in verschiedenen Räumen. Wir freuen uns auf dich – und deine Frage. Jede Perspektive bereichert den Kreis, unabhängig von deiner bisherigen Erfahrung mit dem Flow Game. Herzlich, das Flow Game Salon Team **\*\*\* english Version \*\*\*** **Invitation** **You bring the question** **The game brings the clarity** **We hold the space** You are invited to join others in a mindfully designed space for deep questions and personal clarification. The Flow Game Salon offers you the opportunity to be present with a question that is meaningful to you - and to experience new perspectives and resonance in the circle. The Flow Game is a dialogical reflection game that invites you to pause, listen and receive impulses for what matters in your life right now. No previous knowledge required! Location: Facilitation Academy, Wilhelmshavener Street. 18, 10551 Berlin Language: Mostly German or English (we adapt as needed) Donation basis: 20-50 € per person incl. hosting, preparation, room and snacks (recommended) **Schedule (approx.)** 15:45 - 16:00 - Arrival 16:00 - 16:45 - Check-in questions & café 16:45 - 19:30 - Play flow game (in a circle or in small groups) 19:30 - 20:00 - Reflection & closing together **Practical** * Come in comfortable clothes - we may sit and move around the room slightly. * There will be tea, coffee, water and snacks. If you would like to bring or share something special, please feel free! * We are a rotating group of hosts from the Berlin Flow Game network. The hosts present confirm their participation in the respective event. We look forward to hearing from you - and your question. Every perspective enriches the circle, regardless of your previous experience with the Flow Game. Sincerely, the Flow Game Salon Team

✨ A Stand-Up Comedy Show about fixing ourselves, our parents, and our dating life… ANOTHER DAY!✨ 🌟This stand-up comedy show features the wildest stories and observations about the Berlin party life, his parents, and his dates…sometimes all at once🌟 The show will end around 22:00, so there will still be plenty of time to hit the bar and club scene afterwards. **🎟️ Get your Tickets here:** [https://fienta.com/fixmelater050226](https://fienta.com/fixmelater050226) 🕗**Times:** **5th of February** Doors open: 19:30 Show Start: 20:00 Show ends: 22:00 **📍Location:** **SaliGari** Simplonstraße 23, 10245 Berlin **🎟️ Tickets:** **Standard Admission:** 15€ **Student Admission:** 12€ Tickets for students with valid student ID **Walk-Ins:** €17 at the door (subject to availability) **❓FAQ:** **How funny is it going to be?** Very funny! It will be a mix of clean, dark, and emotional jokes and maybe even some dirty jokes, so whatever your style of comedy is will be part of the show. **How relatable are the jokes?** Like we grew up together! Ludwig was born in Bavaria and is based in Berlin now, which means that whether you come from a village or the big city, you will find the struggles more than relatable. **Should I bring my friends?** Comedy is always best with great company, so yes! Bring your friends and laugh together! **Can I bring my kids?** The show is meant for an audience of at least 16+. **What do audience members say about the show?** Hilarious! - Marcus, Austria 🇦🇹 Great show! - Jenny, Australia 🇦🇺 So funny and weird in a great way! - Josephine, USA 🇺🇸 **More about me:** **LUDWIG BENECKE (CH/GER)** Ludwig Benecke, the relentlessly funny and charming "nice guy" of stand-up comedy! For the past three years, he has been tirelessly showcasing his wit and humor to audiences all over Europe and the United States. As a Swiss-German nice guy navigating the unpredictable world of comedy, Ludwig hilariously recounts his journey from a life as an economic engineer to pursuing a creative career. His material covers everything from dating miseries and his upbringing to sharp observations about his former corporate job, offering a unique and relatable perspective on life's challenges. He is now based in Berlin and has been described by various people as “funny.” **IG @Ludwigcomedy**

Liebe Business Frauen! wir hoffen, ihr seid gut ins neue Jahr gestartet und laden euch herzlich zu unserem ersten Treffen 2025 ein! Unser Thema lautet also: „Mit Power ins neue Jahr“. Gemeinsam möchten wir den Grundstein für ein produktives und erfolgreiches 2025 legen. Freut euch auf: Klarheit über eure Ziele: Welche Meilensteine wollt ihr dieses Jahr erreichen? Strategien und Ideen: Praktische Ansätze für euren Business-Alltag. Kreative Ansätze und Impulse für euer Business. Austausch und Vernetzung: Erfahrungen und Ideen teilen, um voneinander zu lernen. Inspiration und Unterstützung von Gleichgesinnten. Startet mit uns in ein Jahr voller Möglichkeiten – lasst uns zusammen wachsen und uns gegenseitig stärken! Bringt eure Visionen, Fragen und Energie mit – wir freuen uns auf einen motivierenden Austausch in unserer tollen Runde! Ihr seid außerdem herzlich eingeladen, Ideen für einzubringen, die ihr aus eurem Business bei einem unserer nächsten Treffen präsentieren möchtet. Ob spannende Projekte, innovative Ansätze oder wertvolle Learnings – teilt eure Expertise mit der Runde und inspiriert die anderen Teilnehmerinnen! Ihr werdet mit frischen Impulsen, klaren Zielen und neuer Energie nach Hause gehen – bereit, euer Jahr aktiv zu gestalten und Großes zu erreichen! Vor allem ist das Treffen eine schöne Gelegenheit, uns mal wieder oder zum ersten Mal zu sehen und (noch besser) kennenzulernen und auszutauschen. Wir freuen uns auf bekannte und neue Gesichter. Herzlich, Ina, Ute & Marta Wichtig zu wissen: Das ist ein Netzwerktreffen, sei darauf gefasst, dass du mit anderen Menschen sprechen musst. Über uns: Im Rahmen des Frauen Business Netzwerks bringen wir Unternehmerinnen und Selbstständige Frauen zusammen. Hier finden sich erfolgreiche und selbstbewusste Frauen aus unterschiedlichen Branchen, die konkret eine Kooperation suchen oder einfach nur andere, visionäre Unternehmerinnen kennenlernen möchten! Die Treffen starten immer mit einem spannenden Impuls-Vortrag und gehen dann über in die Vorstellung und Verknüpfung der Teilnehmerinnen. Wir möchten einander informieren, motivieren und gegenseitig unterstützen.

**⭐ NEW LOCATION! ⭐ PLEASE ARRIVE BEFORE 8PM! ⭐** The Creative Code Stammtisch is a casual show-and-tell for artists, makers, designers, coders, performers, learners and anyone interested in the use of computing skills for artistic expression. The event is free and open to all, regardless of age, origin, gender or experience. Beginners and first-timers should feel especially welcome! You don't have to be a coder yourself 😃 HOW TO FIND US? Find Prachtsaal Studio by crossing the courtyard next to Cafe Augusta on Jonasstr. 22, 12053 Berlin. **NOTE: NEW LOCATION!** WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT? We start with quick introductions, then open the floor to anyone who wants to present something. There are usually around six 10-minute slots available, plus time for questions from the audience. First-timers are encouraged to share their work. Topics range from net art to computational design and interactive installations all the way to wearable electronics or generative poetry. If you’re wondering whether your own project might fit, take a look at the [Stammtisch archive](https://creativecodeberlin.github.io/Stammtisch/) to see what others have shared in the past. This event is *not* just for coders! New-media artists and anyone working with technology in their art are very welcome to share. If you enjoy art and/or technology, you’ll likely have a great time, and maybe even learn something new! BEGINNERS WELCOME! If you’re new to creative coding, you can find beginner-friendly resources at [creativecode.berlin/learn](https://creativecode.berlin/learn). THIS IS YOUR SPACE We do our best to create a welcoming environment for all people regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. People from group generally underrepresented in open-source, art, and technology fields are warmly encouraged to come by. And if you know someone who might enjoy this meetup but isn’t sure it’s for them, let them know they’ll be welcome! SAFE SPACE POLICY We support the Berlin Code of Conduct: [berlincodeofconduct.org](http://berlincodeofconduct.org/) Please read and make sure you agree with its content. ACCESSIBILITY Prachtsaal Studio is located on an easy to access ground floor. We're very sorry to say that the bathrooms are not wheelchair accessible yet. DO I NEED TO SPEAK GERMAN? We speak mostly English so international guests are more than welcome! Our team also speaks French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Finnish and German... though language availability may vary depending on which organizers are present :) CONTACT Raphaël de Courville team@creativecode.berlin +49 (0) 176 70070572 or get in touch via [creativecode.berlin](https://creativecode.berlin/) *** The featured artwork of the month is by [Grit Kit](https://gritschuster.de/). We'd love to feature your work on the cover for the next Stammtisch! Please send an image at team@creativecode.berlin

📅 **Week 3 Focus: Training Your Own Deep Learning Model** Each 7-week cycle focuses on a small, well-defined part of a larger system—and over time, these cycles build toward a complete, real-world project Feel free to join at any week and we will catch you up. There is no need to be at the beginning of the cohort to build. Complete beginners welcomed! 📌 By the End of a Full Cycle, You should Have 🎯 A working project in your own GitHub repo 🎯 A small but real portfolio piece you can demo or write about 🧠 **Current Project** This cycle’s shared project is an **image-based knowledge extraction system**. In Week 2, we explored classical computer vision with OpenCV and introduced the full data labeling workflow needed for deep learning models. In **Week 3**, we’ll make the jump into modern deep learning with **YOLO**: * Quick recap of OpenCV techniques and how they compare to deep learning approaches * Intuition-first overview of how YOLO works (what it predicts, how training actually happens) * How labeled datasets are used to train object detection models * Walkthrough of training YOLO on your own project data \*\*\* **👋 Who Is This For?** 🔹 Beginners who learn best by doing — no prior experience needed 🔹 Career switchers from product, engineering, design, marketing, or other fields who want to break into data 🔹 Analysts, engineers, and PMs looking to sharpen their skills or build real-world projects 🔹 Data professionals who want a creative playground outside of work 🔹 Anyone with big questions and a love for learning through experimentation \*\*\* **BUILD. LEARN. EXPERIMENT. OVER COFFEE.** Come hang out, meet like-minded people, and work on something fun. 📍 Based in Berlin – in-person meetups only (for now!) 💻 Laptops + ☕ highly encouraged Join our Discord → [https://discord.gg/dPnmzcCP8w](https://discord.gg/dPnmzcCP8w) Check out our program resources: [Google Drive](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15DmZqD4bLBk2vU4zpvh1HiB3_5n09v-q?usp=sharing) \*\*\* ✨ Who’s Hosting? I’m Lindsey, a senior data scientist working on AI, causal inference, and data products. I’ve built models for fraud detection, uplift modeling, and LLM-based systems. I am always open to suggestion for different format for this meetup.

Life gets heavy sometimes — and we believe no one should carry that weight alone. This discussion circle is a supportive space where we gather to speak openly about our struggles, mental health journeys, and personal challenges — without fear of judgment. Whether you’re facing anxiety, burnout, grief, or just feeling lost, this is a time for real talk, real people, and real healing. 
We’re not therapists or professionals — we’re humans navigating life, just like you. What we offer is empathy and understanding. 
What to expect:
• Respectful conversations
• Listening without pressure to fix
• Optional prompts to get things flowing
• A calm, welcoming environment 
Come as you are. You don’t need to have it all figured out. 
The event takes place every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month and is donation based :)

Join us for an upcoming in-person Lean Coffee meetup. Lean Coffee is a lightly-structured meeting format where the attendees create the agenda. Bring your management challenges; whether you're managing people, products, processes or beyond, and solve them together with peers from a diverse set of backgrounds. This event is great for anybody trying to create better ways of working and wants to share with + learn from others trying to do the same.

Network and get inspired with entrepreneurs from diverse disciplines and cultures every first Friday of the month. The idea is collective contribution. Everybody bring 🥨🍷🙋 share their skills and experiences. Agenda 18:00-18:30 Boarding 18:30-19:15 Intro-Round Everybody 1-2 min: Tell your name, what you do and how we cam help you Pause (15 min.) 19:30-20:15 10 min pitches + 10 min feedback/discussion Pause (30 min) 21:15-22:00 Final-Round ***** Event is free of charge! Bring 🥨🍷🙋‍♂️ instead. ***** Let’s networth through a common community project in 2026:😀 Let’s build together a 🔥 FirstFriday 🔥Youtube-Channel! 🎦 from 0 to hero! With SHORTS of our events, TUTORIALS and even PODCASTS from our experts. 😀 We are opening doors to discover new talents, who are willing to participate in any way they choose (equipment, editing, sharing, creating content…). Join us!

Our monthly PHP meetup. A virtual shindig courtesy of Zoom. Check back here for the details around 6:15 pm

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Join members of the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. There _might_ be a little snow, but there _will_ be effectively infinite serve-yourself coffee, so it evens out if you ask me. Just a reminder, while the other locations are great too, we’re at the Lane Ave one this time.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia