Groepsfotoshoots

I'm excited to host the 22st edition of *Strangers to Friends*! Every event so far has been warm, fun and full of great connections. So we’re doing it again! Curious about our previous events? Check out our photo albums (only visible on the laptop version of Meetup). **What to expect** * A safe, relaxed environment to meet both locals and expats, whether you want to meet new people, experience an international atmosphere or talk about business, it’s all possible. * Start the evening with a few rounds of conversation cards: pair up with someone you don’t know, answer meaningful questions and rotate every 10 minutes. Within just one hour, you’ll get to know several people really well and enjoy meaningful conversations. * Everyone comes on their own, so it’s easy to connect. **Practical details** * Doors open at 20:00, after 30 minutes we start with conversation cards * Venue: Boekencafé Libertas, Klarendalseweg 477-1, Arnhem * 20 min walk from Arnhem Central * 7 min walk from Arnhem Velperpoort * You’ll receive 1 drink token for (beer/wine/soft drinks) and snacks all night! * Find us on the right side of the café at the bar, by the window and garden Bring a smile and join us for an evening where friendships grow, business ideas spark and real-life connections happen. Back to basics, away from screens, meeting face-to-face. Warm regards, Julia

**Speeddaten Utrecht** Al twaalf jaar organiseren we speeddates in Utrecht. Ontmoet je graag een groot aantal singles in korte tijd, dan is speeddaten iets voor jou! Tijdens een speeddate heb je ongeveer 15-20 dates van 4 minuten. Wanneer de bel klinkt, schuift de helft van de singles door naar de volgende tafel. Op je datekaart geef je aan met wie je verder in contact wilt komen. **Locatie** Het speeddaten vindt plaats bij [Anne&Max Domstraat](https://www.annemax.nl/vestigingen/utrechtdomstraat/), een sfeervol en ruim opgezet restaurant. We hebben een apart gedeelte van het restaurant gereserveerd, zodat je alle privacy hebt tijdens het daten. **Matchmail!** Binnen een dag na de speeddate ontvang je van ons een e-mail met de voornaam en het e-mailadres van de singles met wie je een match hebt. Heb je bij alle deelnemers ‘nee’ ingevuld? Dan is je volgende speeddate [gratis](https://aboutlove.nl/geen-klik-volgende-speeddate-gratis/)! **Kom je ook speeddaten bij About Love?** Heb je zin in een avond vol ontmoetingen in Utrecht? Schrijf je dan nu in voor deze speeddate! Bij About Love ben je in goede handen; wij zijn een ervaren speeddate-organisatie met uitstekende [recensies](https://aboutlove.nl/is-speeddaten-leuk/) en bieden speeddates aan voor de laagste prijs. Date je mee? >> [https://aboutlove.nl/event/details/speeddaten-singles-utrecht/](https://aboutlove.nl/event/details/speeddaten-singles-utrecht/)

## Details **What is Toastmasters?** Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that’s been empowering people to become confident communicators and leaders since 1924. Worldwide, there are more than 266,000 members in over 14,200 clubs in 150 countries. In the Netherlands, there are over **40 clubs** across the country, including those in major cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. This network of clubs and their learn-by-doing program is sure to help you improve. You can visit Toastmasters clubs as a guest or become a member. **What does a meeting look like?** Some of the members give short, prepared speeches, which other club members later evaluate. A typical meeting also includes short impromptu speeches. In this improvisation part of the meeting, everybody gets a chance to speak, including guests, if they wish. We usually end the evening with a drink at the bar. **How do I become a guest at a meeting?** It’s easy! Simply RSVP for one of our upcoming meetings here on Meetup to let us know you’re coming. If you have any questions, contact us at [utrechttoastmasters@gmail.com.](http://utrechttoastmasters@gmail.com./) If you visit and like us, we can talk about membership! **Additional information** Our cozy venue has a maximum capacity of 30 people - perfect for an engaging. Please be on time to grab a seat and mingle before the speeches begin!

*Since the guided meditations for this event are in Dutch, this description is too.* Wil je je drukke week afsluiten en ontspannen aan het weekend beginnen? Dan ben je geheel vrijblijvend welkom bij de vrijdagavond meditatie van [Jewel Heart](https://www.jewelheart.nl/). Deze meditatieavond heeft een licht en open karakter. De meditaties bestaan uit drie delen. We beginnen met het gewaarworden van je lichamelijke sensaties. In een korter deel twee doen we een loopmeditatie en in deel drie is er een eenvoudige, geleide visualisatie meditatie. Het geheel wordt afgesloten met een gesprek onder het genot van een kop thee, voor wie daar zin in heeft. 📍[Jewel Heart, Hatertseveldweg 284, Nijmegen](https://maps.app.goo.gl/D4FzqLbkaqs2JNDG8). Loop de oprit op en dan is de ingang aan je rechterzijde 🕒Zaal open vanaf 19.30 uur, meditatie van 20.00 tot 21.00 Je bent van harte welkom! Aan deze activiteit kun je per keer meedoen. Er zijn geen verplichtingen. Op vrijwillige basis kun je op de avond zelf een donatie doen. Kijk ook naar onze -[Open activiteiten](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/open-activiteiten/) -[Cursussen](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/cursussen-overzicht/)

**Please note: you need to buy a ticket to the show (link below)** Join us on Friday 15th May at "The Shed" a really cosy, intimate private theatre in Utrecht (around the corner from Louis Hartloper Complex, Ledig Erf). Mad Cow Comedy is hosting the Irish Comedy Night with John O'Keeffe, so we'll meet before the show for drinks and a chat from 7pm and then watch the show at 8pm. **Show Description:** **Comedy in English - John O'Keeffe - Functional Mess** *Are you a functional mess? Are you daily wondering what the point of your life is? Do you have a better relationship with your postman than your family? Are all your relationships toxic and meaningless and delightful? Well, you are clearly a mess. And this show is for you. Sometimes sweet, sometimes dark, but always funny - join award-winning Irish comedian John O'Keeffe as he explains his chequered dating life, impossible family, self-diagnosed ADHD and his flimsy, threadbare hopes for the future* **Tickets for the show can be purchased here:** https://irish-comedy.eventbrite.nl Please let us know if you're coming. Hope to see you soon! Rachel & Cat

Come play improv theatre in English and kick off your Friday evening with laughter, creativity and new people. This [drop-in workshop](https://www.improvutrecht.nl/drop-in-workshops/) is open to everyone, whether you are trying improv for the very first time or you have played before and want to stay sharp. **Special topic: Movement & Theatre improv** Movement improvisation is a wonderful basis for all other forms of improvisation. Well before we had language we had movement; there is so much that can be expressed without words. Instead of the games that are used in theater improv, we work mostly with “scores”, or a kind of blueprint to what will happen in a space of time. A kind of a structure. We will do exercises that originate from Viewpoints, physical theater, and other forms of improvisation (including a bit of Contact Improv at times), and moving in/with/through the space, non verbal contact and how we can communicate through our bodies. Anyone can participate, you don’t need any experience in movement or theater nor complete fluency in English. This workshop is without shoes: bring non-slippery socks We play from 20:00 to 22:00. Doors open between 19:50 and 20:00 and you enter together via the side entrance on Troelstralaan. After the workshop, many people head to O’Leary’s nearby for a drink and a chat. Sign up by adding your name via [https://bit.ly/iudropin](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fiudropin%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5K0FVPivgkRn67BEoDofHkr7Es12_1bq4hDCggWDXNdpNhLZnzLNMNtrNdqw_aem_j1YiiuZaWNnyDZ5jbnCCBQ&h=AT2fpKsMMORdusQhpZ9iv0ed8772wQ5kPJcHxIGz5i8iQEJK0FVlSpqVqEh62oBzSisT7moNRPBSDvWIuZEL9WgLIXRbLyqXfXj7sE7CYyKbKxqnakD0W31HOEXSgK_5tuPYJFStscaUvrh-0pc&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3WQkDUYF4F66VuKR4XhsJ2afRvpjsAkK93Octb-hRh_JIzYk-7ePG7XSFfHFYxd9GLxqQgCwnPjN2yiYBNVADfb7VXyjFO1sHIArS4Jo43x4NQHr-b2RMtZUH_TIvYncgegRNFx3P2HDQbu5bCg5dzFhmaWlgHFa4). If you can no longer attend, please remember to remove yourself so someone else can join. The workshop works on a Pay What You Thought It Was Worth basis. Suggested donation is €10 to €20, but you are always welcome regardless of what you can pay. Contributions help cover the room and the professional trainer giving up their Friday evening. Whether you come to learn, to meet people, or just to have a joyful Friday evening, you are very welcome.

**This might be the girls night you didn’t know you needed.** Many women are living in constant “on” mode- always busy, always giving. And somewhere along the way, we forget how good it feels to simply *be together*. This is your invitation to a real **girls night, where you can come as you are.** Every 3 weeks we come together to relax, laugh, connect and support each other — without pressure, without fixing, without performance. **When women gather in a safe and supportive space, something powerful happens.** We uplift each other through shared laughter, honest conversations, and non-judgement presence. Being around other women who get it can make everything feel a little lighter and brighter. It helps us feel less alone, more supported, emotionally stronger - sometimes simply by being in the same room together. Sometimes we talk. Sometimes we listen, Sometimes we laugh - and even sing - until our bellies hurt. You’re free to share what’s on your mind, or simply enjoy the energy of being around other women who get it. There’s no agenda. No judgement. Just genuine connection, joy, and friendships that feel *easy and real.* And often, there’s that quiet thought: *“oh wow, I didn’t know I needed this.”* All I ask is that you come exactly as you are — tired, joyful, quiet, loud, curious, or unsure. Everything is welcome. We meet every 3 weeks - The upcoming months will only be in Utrecht. Later on we will switch between Utrecht, Amsterdam and Leiden - because connection grows when we keep showing up for each other — not perfectly, just honestly. ✨ Come as you are. ✨ Leave feeling lighter, more connected, and a little more yourself. p.s. If you can't come after all, please cancel attending the event here in the app, so others know they can join for sure after all. When being on the waitlist, I'll contact you to see what I can do. Probably we can meet with more people. 🤗

## 🎨**Activity for EXPATS & English Speakers** ☕ Are you an art enthusiast living in or around **Amersfoort, Hilversum, Utrecht, Nieuwegein, IJsseltein, De Bilt and the rest of cities of the Utrecht's province** who love painting or drawing? Maybe you've felt the joy of creating but struggled to find others who share your passion and speak **ENGLISH**? **You're not alone! 😉** ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## 🖌️**About this event** You will meet other Art Lovers like you to Draw, Paint and have some drinks Together ! Our events are not just about sketching or creating art—they’re about building connections. Every two weeks, we meet at a café to have a relaxing time drawing a painting. Please keep on mind that **ENGLISH i**s the official language we will use to integrate everyone in our conversations. ⭕⭕⭕➡️ **IMPORTANT ⬅️** ⭕⭕⭕⭕ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**Book formally your Seat 🪑via [WHATSAPP](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** **If you want to confirm officially your attendance and separate your seat🪑. Book your seat in meet-up, and contact us via [WHATSAPP HERE](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f) to receive more information on the address of our activities.** **Thanks a lot for your understanding!** 💐🥰 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**How Does It Work?** This event is simple, this initiative takes 2 Hours. Most of the participants use pencils, water pencils or watercolours. Main aim is to socialize while we draw. There will be plenty of time to talk and get to know each other. We have to mention that this event is suitable for all levels. Many have started to draw in our event actually. Also it is very important that you **[JOIN US AT OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f),** to stay up to date on our upcoming events and participate in our Drawing and Painting Contests! **👉: [https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** 🍀 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### ☕**Where?** We will meet in different cafes mainly in the *center of Amersfoort ( and some occasions in other cities around)*. I will inform you of the exact place some days in advance this event. The place will depend on the number of attendees. ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### **🎟️ What is included?** 🟢 **2 HOURS TO HAVE FUN!** 🟢 **15 mins warming-up creative activity and paper material**🖌️🎨 🟢 New friendships and **conversations in ENGLISH** in a relaxed atmosphere 🟢 **Souvenir picture** with you and the rest of Art Lovers 📷 🟢 Exclusive **access to our Art Lovers Community** on which you will receive: ***\~\~\~ Drawing challenges,*** ***\~\~\~ Training content,*** ***\~\~\~ FREE Entries only to members*** ***\~\~\~ Drawing Competitions*** 🟢 Time to **create alongside fellow artists and amateurs** 🟢 The freedom to **work at your own pace** 💃🕺🎈 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 🖼️**Art Materials?** Bring your own practical art materials to be adaptable to sketch on a coffee table. Like your sketchbook, pencils, watercolor, markets, pencils, your Tablet..etc ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## **See you to Paint, Draw, and drink together!🌟☕🍷🍪🍰**

Have you always wanted to visit the Netherlands, but for no specific reason, you never actually did it? How about spending a weekend of street photography in one of the most beautiful Dutch cities-Utrecht-with me? | lived in Utrecht for 8 years and can show you all the beautitul spots. Find more details on my website! Workshop Details Where: Utrecht, The Netherlands When: 16.05.2026 Time: 07:30 — 10:30PM What you’ll Learn * Master how to use natural light and shadow to create striking black and white images * Capture candid street moments with confidence * Embrace ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), a creative technique that combines deliberate camera movement with a slow shutter speed to create abstract, painterly images * Discover the timeless beauty of black and white street photography Your participation costs 150 CHF. Please register directly through my website to secure your spot: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops More info on www.katjabouwman.com/workshops or visit my Instagram account katja_zuerich

Have you always wanted to visit the Netherlands, but for no specific reason, you never actually did it? How about spending a weekend of street photography in one of the most beautiful Dutch cities-Utrecht-with me? | lived in Utrecht for 8 years and can show you all the beautitul spots. Find more details on my website! Workshop Details Where: Utrecht, The Netherlands When: 17.05.2026 Time: 12:00 — 15:00 AM What you’ll Learn * Master how to use natural light and shadow to create striking black and white images * Capture candid street moments with confidence * Embrace ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), a creative technique that combines deliberate camera movement with a slow shutter speed to create abstract, painterly images * Discover the timeless beauty of black and white street photography Your participation costs 150 CHF. Please register directly through my website to secure your spot: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops

We’re heading out for a beautiful cross border hike through forest, heathland, open landscapes, and a very special midpoint stop: **De Achelse Kluis**, a historic abbey on the border between the Netherlands and Belgium. The hike starts in the Netherlands and takes us through the peaceful **Leenderbos**, one of the most atmospheric forest areas in North Brabant. Expect woodland paths, sandy tracks, heath, open views, and that lovely Veluwe style feeling of moving between forest and open landscape. As we continue south, we make our way toward the Belgian border and our main break location: **De Achelse Kluis**. This unique abbey complex lies between **Hamont Achel** and **Leende**. With roots going back to the 17th century, and later known as a Trappist abbey, it offers a beautiful neogothic setting with a brasserie, abbey shop, and a calm historic atmosphere. After several kilometers of forest and heathland walking, arriving at the abbey will feel like a real reward. We’ll take our longer break here, with the option to enjoy the brasserie, have a coffee, try Limburgse vlaai, taste an abbey beer, or simply relax around the grounds. After the break, we cross back into the Dutch side and return through the Leenderbos, completing a full loop through forest, heathland, and quiet countryside. A hike with forest energy, abbey atmosphere, monks’ history, and a touch of Belgium. 📲 **WhatsApp group** I’ll open a temporary WhatsApp group for everyone signed up before the hike, so we can coordinate carpooling, final break arrangements, and any last minute updates. **📍When and where to meet?** We’ll meet at 11h15 at Busstop "Leende, Valkenswaardseweg/A2"" https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uij4AmfEos2foDbQ8 ⏰ **We start walking a few minutes after meeting up** We don’t wait for latecomers, as we have a long route ahead and want to enjoy the full day properly. **🚗 Coming by car?** Please check your parking options beforehand so you arrive on time. **⏸️ Planned Breaks** After around **10 km:** 60 minute break at **De Achelse Kluis** I still need to confirm the practical arrangements with the brasserie, including whether we can just have drinks or whether we need to order food as well. I’ll share the update in the WhatsApp group once confirmed. **💸 Payment** Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space. 🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5. Please pay here: https://tikkie.me/pay/ute915nnuvqfl74002hh **👟 Good to know** * Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 8 May at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable. * Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits. * If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably. * At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities. * Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily. * Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay. * What to bring: Snacks and water. * Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike. * T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.

Gran Fondo Rosa is a must ride in the Netherlands, and since years we are riding under the ATAC flag! 3 distances available: 80, 120 and 170km. It’s a sportive so not a race, you choose your pace and we enjoy the race ride. Roads are closed and there are food and drink stops along the way. When signing up, select FRIEND TEAM and then type ATAC as the team. We will have our own table at the pasta party. Sign up here: https://www.nltourrides.nl/gran-fondo-rosa/#inschrijving Cheers !

**RSVP's at MeetUp.com are limited to a total of 10 and will be ignored. If you would like us to wait for you when we walk, please register for this photowalk at our Clubhouse:** [https://www.heylo.com/events/94898f98-af8d-4b65-b31d-922abfe6568e/-OrIio1QR8h3tjQXgzFM](https://www.heylo.com/events/94898f98-af8d-4b65-b31d-922abfe6568e/-OrIio1QR8h3tjQXgzFM) *\* The event is listed at MeetUp for promotion only.* *\* The number of attendees listed here is not the actual number.* \~ During this walk, you’ll capture how different historical periods coexist in the city — from medieval to modern. The idea is to photograph how Utrecht’s rich history blends with contemporary life, offering a visual journey through time. Think about old facades vs. modern shops, or capture the contrast between historic buildings and modern hustle. Alternatively, as bonus assignment, you can also do a color hunt. Each participant picks one color and during the photowalk, looks for subjects where that color clearly stands out. The goal is to make at least three photos that work together as a small series. This challenge is about training your eye, improving composition, and becoming more aware of color and subjects in everyday scenes. Submit a collage on Heylo, displaying your time capture, or selected color. We will meet at Domplein, near the Sun (big orb) in front of the Academiegebouw of Universiteit Utrecht. The planned route is: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1rkouqq2VDsGSWb_Zgve9V7R6KAjhtw4](https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1rkouqq2VDsGSWb_Zgve9V7R6KAjhtw4) The walk is about 4km, so we expect to finish around 16:00. After the walk we could stop for a drink at Mariaplaats (optional, not included and at your own expense), share our results and talk photography. ***Let's meetup and have fun!*** *Please note:* * ***The photowalk starts at the posted time.*** Try to be there early, but if you are running late... just find us. The link to live location of the group (via Google Maps) will be shared in the Event Chat in our Clubhouse at [https://heylo.group/utrechtphotography](https://heylo.group/utrechtphotography). * ***If you register for this photowalk and you can not make it, please update your RSVP!*** * The photowalk could be cancelled or postponed in case of really bad weather. * The end time is an estimate only; the length of the actual walk could be different from posted. * Check before you go if all your equipment is working properly; lens cleaned, batteries charged, memory cards empty. * ***Come prepared:*** wear comfortable shoes, bring water and a snack, check the weather forecast - and don't forget your camera * The organisation is not responsible for any personal injury, loss, or damage to personal property during the photowalk. Participants are advised to have appropriate (travel/liability) insurance. * During the walk, pay attention to your surroundings, traffic, curbs and people. * ***Be respectful of residents, their property and privacy.*** *And finally:* * Any type of camera is welcome. * If taking pictures or making photos gives you joy, you are more than welcome!

Update!! Because too cold (and maybe rainy), we move this event to an indoor venue. Still BYO food/drinks! And think maybe boardgames? _________ With warm & good weather on the horizon again, it's time again to get more picnic-y & outdoors-y 🌄 For this new season, let's revisit the old picnic gathering formula, but add into the night vibe & spicy dance theme (in this case tango, because other dances are oversaturated with events 😊) The premise: A picnic gathering starting from 15:30 & ending 20:00 Since it's evening vibes, BYO food/drinks/games still applies but think time appropriate (don't go big on alcohol though!) Dancing aspect, music starts 16:00 & ends 20:00 sharp! Exact location in Griftpark: To be concluded, but assume close to where the meetup event location currently is set at Additional notes for the tango aspect: *you're very much welcome to join in & dance, even with no experience. I can show you a thing or two so you can get a taste & give it a go 😊 Depending on how many, either via a quick group tryout or I help you out individually - The tango aspect of the event is through the Utrecht Tango Cafe Milonga community (also organized by Constantinos) More info --> [https://www.utrechtcafemilonga.com](https://www.utrechtcafemilonga.com) If you have any further questions, feel free to message the host Depending on the time & weather, and whether people are up for it, follow-up drinks can always follow later that day. To those interested, I hope to see you there! 😄

Let's check out the Maker's Market in German Village, a large outdoor Artisan Market, featuring over 65 Makers, Goods, Art and Delicious Food Trucks! Admission is FREE! [GVMM](https://www.gv-mm.com/) Let's get outside and enjoy the New Spring Season and Warm Weather! We will meet at Stauf's Coffee Roasters in German Village on South 3rd Street at Noon, 12 PM and then take a brisk walk to the Maker's Market, just south of Schiller Park. We can initially get coffee at Stauf's Coffee Roasters, if anyone may want to do so. Parking is widely available at Schiller Park and surrounding side streets. Thanks and hope to see you come out!

[Old School Groove](https://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolGrooveBand/) \- Vintage rock\, southern rock\, blues\, reggae\. Originals mixed with 60s & 70s classics\. Getcha groove on\! **[Flint Station](https://www.theflintstation.com/)** is an old depot venue for drinks and live music. They usually have a **bbq food truck** on location. Feel free to bring your own takeout. I'll bring a basket of snacks. NO COVER *They're planning for a beautiful summer evening performance in the beer garden. However, if the weather doesn't cooperate...they will be upstairs in the old-time dance hall. Either way...it's going to be a night to remember!!* **PARKING**: either near the beer garden or across the street.

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

**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.

Short North Street Skates return Saturday, April 4 and we’re excited to get back rolling together. These weekly rollouts are a chance to move through the city as a group, build community, and create more visibility for skating and small-wheeled movement in Columbus. Details: Meet: 1160 N High St 9:30 AM meet 10:00 AM rollout All wheels welcome We’ll be skating through the Short North and surrounding areas at a steady, social pace. Routes will use a mix of streets and bike lanes, so comfort navigating the city is helpful, but you don’t need to be an expert. If you’ve been meaning to come out, this is a great place to start. Come solo or bring a friend!