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Modern coaching methodology says that multi-level ability group is the best learning environment for enrolling new students, progression and achieving results. Aikido art from the beginning was designed to be suited for people different physical abilities. At Mumei Shudan, they continue this tradition and enable students to learn and experiment. They are dedicated to improving the skills of every student. They create focus points for learning at each class and combine them into progressive sequences within a week or a month. ### **Address** 149C Selegie Rd, Singapore 188314 ### **Schedule** Fridays 7PM - 8PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

**For ages 12 and above.** Aikido provides the Practitioners with knowledge and skills that will enable them to defend themselves against an opponent of superior size and strength through the use of smooth, fluid and circular movements. It emphasises blending with an opponent’s force rather than meeting it head on. Through the practice of Aikido, individuals can develop character qualities and values such as self-confidence, discipline, respect, and a sense of care and concern for one another. The class also aims to help Practitioners to better manage stress, violence or even work-related issues with a calm, peaceful and a more harmonious approach/mind-set. Thus, the benefits of Aikido go beyond merely physical fitness and can contribute towards the overall development of an individual. ### **Address** 9 Sin Ming Rd, B1-02 Thomson V One, Singapore 575630 ### **Schedule** Fridays 830PM - 930PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

(FULLY BOOKED!) **ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF TOHOKU IN SPRING!** **Tohoku Escapade: A Spectacular 10-Day Road & Rail Journey Through Japan’s Untamed North!** **TOHOKU,** Japan’s best-kept secret, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From **lovely spring flowers,** **serene gorges** & **surreal lakes** to **ancient temples, samurai towns**, and **secluded onsen villages**, Tohoku offers an authentic journey through Japan’s soul. Each prefecture boasts its own seasonal flavors — from **Aomori’s crisp apples** to **Akita’s soul-warming kiritanpo** and **Sendai’s** **famous gyutan**. With fewer touristy crowds, deeper traditions, and spectacular scenery, **Tohoku** is where nature and culture blend seamlessly — perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience rich in discovery, flavor, and timeless charm. The **6 Secret Gems** of Japan's Northern Region - **1\. AOMORI \-** Japan’s northernmost Honshu prefecture, is a land of rugged beauty, mystical traditions, and world-class apples. Wander the enchanting trails of **Oirase Gorge**, marvel at the vivid colors of **Lake Towada**, or discover ancient rituals at **Mt.** **Hakkoda's trails**. The region is home to the spectacular **Nebuta Museum**, **rich fishing villages**, and atmospheric **onsens** tucked in the forests. Aomori’s blend of wild nature and spiritual depth makes it truly unforgettable. *** **2\. AKITA \-** offers serene countryside charm, colorful spring flowers, and rich cultural heritage. Hike the volcanic terrain of **Mount Hachimantai**, soak in **Nyuto Onsen**’s hidden hot springs, and explore **Kakunodate**, a beautifully preserved samurai town. Visit local farms, enjoy Akita’s prized rice and sake, and experience the warmth of the **Namahage** folklore. This is the Tohoku of deep roots and deep relaxation — traditional, tranquil, and full of character. *** **3\. IWATE** is Japan’s second-largest prefecture, known for its dramatic **coastline, spiritual landmarks**, and **alpine adventures.** Discover the **UNESCO-listed** **Hiraizumi temples**, hike the scenic paths of **Geibikei Gorge**, and soak in legendary **Hanamaki Onsen**. The **Sanriku Coast** offers unforgettable ocean views and resilience stories post-2011. With fewer crowds, Iwate feels like a secret sanctuary — where history, nature, and tradition converge in harmony. *** **4\. YAMAGATA \-** is a treasure trove of mountain temples, lush valleys, and artisanal culture. Climb the 1,000 steps of **Yamadera Temple**, hike through the stunning **Zao** mountain ranges, or rejuvenate in charming **Ginzan Onsen**, famed for its nostalgic Taisho-era ambiance. Enjoy seasonal fruits from its fertile **orchards** and discover Yamagata’s strong traditions in crafts, soba-making, and festivals. This is where nature and heritage are equally revered. *** **5\. MIYAGI \-** Centered around vibrant **Sendai**, Miyagi offers a blend of modern city life and natural wonders. Cruise through the iconic **Matsushima Bay**, one of Japan’s top scenic views, or explore **Naruko Gorge** ablaze in different colors. Sample **gyutan** (grilled beef tongue), relax in volcanic hot springs, and uncover stories of samurai lords at **Sendai Castle**. Miyagi balances urban energy with serene landscapes — ideal for travelers who want a bit of everything. *** **6\. FUKUSHIMA \-** surprises visitors with its scenic diversity and resilient spirit. Explore the samurai town of **Aizu-Wakamatsu**, hike through vibrant lakes and forests in **Bandai-Asahi National Park**, and soak in the tranquil beauty of **Tsuchiyu Onsen**. Spring transforms the region into a painter’s palette of sparkling colors. With heartfelt hospitality, stunning alpine vistas, and deep cultural layers, Fukushima is a place of renewal and rediscovery. **BONUS GEM: NIKKO!** As a grand finale to your Tohoku adventure, we'll add in **Nikko** as well which offers a magical blend of **sacred shrines**, **majestic waterfalls**, and **crimson autumn leaves**. Marvel at the ornate beauty of **Toshogu Shrine**, stroll through the tranquil **Kanmangafuchi Abyss**, and soak in mountain onsens with forest views. Just two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a serene escape where nature and spirituality meet — the perfect way to reflect, recharge, and complete your Japan adventure. Yes ... venture beyond the tourist trails and into the soul of Japan. This 10-day immersive **Road & Rail journey through TOHOKU** — spanning all six prefectures of this lesser-known gem plus the spectacular beauty of Nikko (BONUS) — is your chance to witness **Japan’s most spectacular landscapes**, discover **deep-rooted traditions**, indulge in **farm-to-table delicacies**, and bathe in the therapeutic waters of ancient **onsens** surrounded by golden forests. **Why Join This Adventure?** Unlike typical Japan tours, this curated experience offers a **rich tapestry of seasonal beauty and authentic encounters**. From walking through enchanted forests in secluded national parks to tasting freshly harvested apples and seasonal fruits at countryside orchards, every moment is crafted to slow you down — and awaken your senses. **Highlights of the Journey**: * **Scenic Hikes** in some of Tohoku’s most picturesque spots like **Oirase Gorge, Hachimantai**, or **Naruko Gorge** – a photographer's dream in the tranquil trails of nature. * **Cultural Immersion** as you explore charming **samurai towns,** **centuries-old** **castles**, and **folklore museums**. * **Visit Local Farms** to sample seasonal produce and connect with Japan’s rural roots. * **Enjoy breathtaking scenic short hikes (1 - 3hr)** to secret waterfalls, picturesque mirror lakes, sacred shrines, cedar, oak, pine forests, ancient trails blanketed in autumn colors. * **Thermal Onsen Retreats** in atmospheric ryokans — a soul-soothing experience after a day of exploration. * **Culinary Journeys** featuring regional specialties: seafood from **Sanriku, Aomori apples, Akita kiritanpo, Sendai gyutan**, and much more. Whether you're a hiker, a nature lover, culture seeker, or foodie for Japan's cuisine, this trip blends **comfort and adventure**, **bullet-train rides and road freedom**, allowing you to discover **a more scenic, immersive and soulful Japan**. **If you've already visited the major cities eg. Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto etc**, it's time to go deeper. **Tohoku is Japan unfiltered** — wild, warm, and wondrous in the embrace of autumn at its peak time! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* These beautiful **'hidden places'** which I'll be sharing with you is curated from my own recee, research & past trips over my 40+ years of adventures there in Japan. So once we've received your small **'sincerity deposit,'** you'll be invited to join our **TEAM TLC TOHOKU Fun Group** once RSVP closes for our **Trip-Briefing/ Itinerary-Sharing/ Q & A session** where I'll be sharing with you on all these breathtaking amazing hidden places that we'll be exploring! Check out this 2 videos - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmntZKX0Z5I&t=335s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmntZKX0Z5I&t=335s) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bilw56WFeI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bilw56WFeI) This is not your usual boring **'Eat, Sleep, Shop'** type of tours conducted by most Tour Agencies. It's a scenic sightseeing trip where we travel together with friends who share similar interests as **One Team** with a **"Can-do"** spirit of adventure. So if the above fits you, RSVP now and join the Confirmed Group for our discussion. \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **EVENT DETAILS:** **\*\* PICTUREQUE TOHOKU! JAPAN'S HIDDEN PARADISE \*\*** **Ideal Group Size**: **12 - 16 pax** *(\*Priority Slots will be given to Drivers first. Let us know if you can drive)* **Date: 29 May (Fri night) to 7th Jun (Sun) 2026** \- \(\*Just 4 days leave with Vesak Day holiday\) **Cost:** **$2395 Only!** *(Includes **Bullet-Train RAIL PASS abt $300!** This Price is only for the 1st 12 pax to transfer the small deposit. USUAL PRICE is **$5K+** to cover all these 6 Region's scenic spots plus spectacular NIKKO & Tokyo! Exclude Promo Flight from $400+ onwards.)* ***NOTE:*** *This Trip is done during the lovely Spring flower & school holiday season. As such prices of accommodation & rental vehicles will start to rise. So the earlier you transfer & the Group is formed, the more everyone saves $$$)* **Sincerity Deposit** of just \***$395** - **NO RISK!** *(\*Refundable within 3 Days after the 1st Group Pre-Trip Briefing/ Itinerary Sharing/ Q & A session if you or we decide that this Road-Trip Adventure may not be suitable for you.)* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* As I only intend to take in max **16 pax**, the earlier this GROUP is formed, the more everyone saves! Proposed Itinerary & Flight Details will be sent to all **CONFIRMED PAX** once RSVP closes. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **How to secure your slot?** 1. RSVP on this Event Page first with your Mobile No. so that we can invite you to our Trip Briefing/ Itinerary Sharing/ Q & A session 2. Transfer a small deposit of just **$395** asap (**REDUNDABLE.** Totally **NO-RISK**) to secure your slot via PayNow or ATM/online to: **TLC ADVENTURE TOURS PTE LTD:** A) PAYNOW to UEN: 201615037Z B) TLC Corporate **DBS Current Acct: 070-90238-1-9** 3. Once done, WhatsApp the transfer screenshot/receipt to me, **David @ Hp: 9745-1777.** Please indicate your Meetup Name and this Event - **TOHOKU** so that I can reply u to Confirm your Slot. Note: As we only have **16 SLOTS**, this will be on a **"FIRST TO TRANSFER, FIRST TO CONFIRM"** basis and not on your RSVP. Please provide us your Mobile No. when you RSVP so that we can forward you the Event Details for the Trip Briefing once RSVP closes. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** PLEASE READ THIS LINK FOR T&Cs BEFORE YOU RSVP: [https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/terms-and-conditions](https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/terms-and-conditions) *By my participation on this trip, I agree to & accept TLC’s terms and conditions.* *We reserve the right without prejudice to return payment at any time and not permit participation - without the obligation to explain or give any reason.* This Trip is organized by TLC Adventure Tours Pte Ltd (TA License: 02896)

Inspire Fitness Asia is the first-ever fitness concept to combine Muay Thai, Interval Training and Meditation. At Inspire, both physical and mental health carry equal weight. After battling anxiety for many years, founder Daryl Lawlor discovered muay thai and meditation brought him deep peace of mind. He designed Inspire Fitness’ studio as an extension of his experience, to help others who might be struggling with similar anxiety to find peace. This class will involve: * Bagworks * Padwork * Footwork ### **Address** 462B Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427674 ### **Schedule** Fridays 7PM - 745PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

**LEARN MANDARIN WITH US** **和我们一起学华语/普通话** Come and join us every Saturday afternoon and learn some useful Mandarin from proficient speakers in a friendly and casual atmosphere. Besides learning the language, you will also get to make new friends from all around the world. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate and advanced learner, we welcome you. The meetup starts at 4 pm. We will try our best to arrange seating at this time so that each group has expert Mandarin speakers. If you come later than 4.10 pm we cannot guarantee ideal seating. Seating priorities will be given to those who signed up. **欢迎会说华语/普通话的朋友** 我们非常欢迎会说华语/普通话的朋友来参加我们这个华语/普通话练习小组，帮助来自世界各地的朋友学习华语/普通话。 *** GETTING THERE Take Downtown (blue) Line or Circle (yellow) Line to Promenade MRT. Take Exit C at Promenade MRT, and go up to level 3. LOCATING US INSIDE THE FOOD COURT Look for a round tables section near the wall of the food court away from the stalls. You can drop the Event Host a message if you are lost. NO COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES We welcome anyone who is keen to learn a language or help others learn the language. However, this is NOT the platform for individuals who have other intentions, such as recruiting members for their business or organization or selling products or services. We will not hesitate to ask such individuals to stop attending our meetups.

We had a badminton session at **Bidadari Community Club@Woodleigh Mall** on Saturday **30th May 2026**. Welcome all high beginner and Low Intermediate players to join us for some badminton workout. * 2:30pm - 4:30pm * Low Intermediate and above Player Only. * Court 2 * 2 hours per session * S$10 per session * Shutter provided (RSL Supreme) * Location - Bidadari Community Club, 11 Bidadari Park Drive 367803. * Do join us if you are available.

**For ages 13 and above.** Aikido is a martial art which originated in Japan with its founder, Morihei Ueshiba, in the early twentieth century and has since grown to become one of the world’s most popular martial arts. At its most basic level, Aikido is an empty-handed system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in the varying use of sword (bokken), staff (jo) and knife (tanto) techniques. The core principle of Aikido is not to resist the laws of nature but to harmonize without the undue application of aggressive strength. In practice, aikido techniques are applied by efficient redirection of the attacker’s power against him/her using minimal force and without being overly injurious. The word “aikido” is formed of three kanji, namely 合 (ai) meaning joining or unifying, 気 (ki) which means spirit or energy, and 道 (dō) which is loosely interpreted as “the path” or “the way”. ### **Address** 346D King George's Avenue, 5th Floor, Singapore, Singapore ### **Schedule** Sundays 230PM - 330PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

Join us for a lively and casual meetup at **MOZmoji**, where good vibes, great bites, and meaningful conversations come together. Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and unwind in a vibrant, social setting. 📍 **Venue**: 252 South Bridge Road #02-01 Singapore 058801 👥 Group Size: 3-6 pax only

Welcome to the Party of Fives Meetups! If you are a gamer who wants to go beyond the usual PARTY gaming fare at boardgame meetups and cafes, this is it! We don't usually play Cards against Humanity, Exploding Kittens and Unstable Unicorns. That's just us. Make us play if you can. We will be playing an assortment of board games ranging from light strategic kinds to heavy thematic ones. Games we usually play range from light ones like Azul, Splendor, Jamaica to medium ones like Yokohama, Endeavor and Nippon and of course heavy ones like Twilight Imperium, Gloomhaven, Tainted Grail and Kingdom Death Monster! Do not be surprised if you see us painting miniatures or are engaged in some sort of insanely time-consuming enhancements towards our game elements in our games. Everyone get their kick in different ways. :) Painting groups are also in their groups of fives ... For the game designers out there, just tell us that you are a creator when you see us and we will have our own private creative sessions mapped out in a feasible way. Most others don't care so we should not disturb the force unnecessarily. We will contact you when you sign up and place you into appropriate messaging groups with different needs to facilitate further communication. Total noobs are totally welcome! While we don't serve food ourselves, we are smack right in the middle of the legendary Golden Mile premises with an huge range of eateries from super curry puffs, loud Japanese izakaya food, heavenly chicken rice with steamboat, hellish black burgers and authentic Thai food that is just sick. All within a pebble's throw away. Tea and dinner sessions (at our own expenses) usually follow the gaming sessions according to our designated groups. Due to the current Covid-19 and social distancing restrictions, you are not allowed to join us for these food consuming sessions only. For your understanding, please If you have something specific in mind, do a shout out below and we see if we can help within reasonable grounds. There will be a charge of SGD $15 (ARENA: $15), (HEAVY/CAMPAIGN GAMES: $25) collected at the door (in cash) to help with the running of the event. How to sign up for our sessions: • Join the Singapore Manga Anime Games & Cosplay Assembly as a member. • RSVP below and retain a screenshot of your RSVP as proof. • Note that without proof of RSVP you will not be allowed into the premises. • Note that those who sign up but do not show up will not be allowed to sign up for future Party of Five sessions. • Note that RSVP closes 6 hours before the event takes place. For those who will like to form groups to play other games, feel free to shout out your intentions at the comments section below: Note that there won’t be any game masters around to help you with your games on site. The meetup will run from the time stated to the time ended. By signing up for this meetup, you agree to the terms and conditions set above.

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

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

**The Behavior Gap: Where Products Win or Lose** Teams today have more data than ever, and yet many still struggle to understand why customers adopt, engage with, or abandon their products. Teams sprint, ship faster, and chase more signals… all while metrics stall and confidence drops. The missing piece isn’t more data. It’s often the behavioral insight between the metrics, explaining why the numbers move in the first place. Dashboards can tell you what customers did, but understanding why they did it (and how to influence what they do next) requires a deeper blend of insights. This session is about closing that gap. Drawing from real-world experience designing and scaling products as [ZoCo Design](https://zocodesign.com/)’s CEO, [Lacey](https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceypicazo/) will share how to cut through the noise and identify the insights that actually change behavior—moving people, and moving metrics. You’ll learn: * Why understanding customer behavior is a quant and qual challenge * How to spot the signals that actually predict behavior change * Where AI accelerates insight, and where it creates distraction * How to get meaningfully closer to customers, without adding more tools This talk reframes how to evaluate performance and identify what levers actually improve it, helping your team to make smarter bets with greater confidence. Every meaningful outcome is driven by behavior change. And when you know how to design for behavior, you stop guessing, and start building things that work. **About Our Speaker** [Lacey Picazo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceypicazo/) is the Founder and CEO of ZoCo, a healthcare product studio that turns complex, high-stakes ideas into products that drive real-world adoption. She partners with healthcare organizations to uncover critical care delivery insights, focus product strategy through behavior design, and build solutions that patients and providers actually use. Thanks to our 2026 sponsors: [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)

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." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! 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

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

QA or the Highway is a one-day, affordable, regional, professional conference featuring real-world experience and thought leadership in the QA and testing industry. This is a ticketed event please register here: https://www.qaorthehwy.com/ Featured Keynote Speakers: **Matthew-Hope Eland** **(Wizard at Leading EDJE)** \- An AI Specialist and Wizard at Leading EDJE who is known to teach software engineering\, AI\, and data science concepts in the most ridiculous ways possible\. Matt has used machine learning to settle debates over whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie\, reinforcement learning to drive the behavior of digital squirrels\, data analytics to suggest improvements to his favorite TV show\, and AI agents to play board games and create an AI agent with the personality of a dog\. Matt is the author of "Data Science in \.NET with Polyglot Notebooks" and "Refactoring with C\#" as well as several LinkedIn Learning courses\. Matt helps organize the Central Ohio \.NET Developer Group\, runs several blogs and a YouTube channel\, has a Master’s of Science in Data Analytics\, and is a current Microsoft MVP in AI and \.NET\. **Tatyana Arbouzova** **(CEO at Innovate QA)** \- Tatyana Arbouzova is an engineering and business leader with a strong background in Quality Engineering across multiple industries\, including Big Tech\, Healthcare\, and Entertainment\. She has held leadership roles at world\-class companies such as Microsoft\, VMware\, Disney\, and The Pokémon Company International\, where she focused on building quality\-driven cultures and scaling teams to deliver high\-impact products\. With decades of experience\, Tatyana has helped organizations transform their quality practices so teams can deliver software efficiently\, confidently\, and with measurable business outcomes\. Today\, Tatyana advises software companies on adopting AI to optimize quality practices and improve how software is delivered at scale\. She is also a passionate community builder and the founder of Innovate QA\, a thriving Seattle\-based community and conference for quality professionals\.

Topic to be announced. **THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/ **DIRECTIONS** Franklin University Fisher Hall 300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8 Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map. NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com