Bamboo

Meet other local people interested in Language Exchange: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join our Shanghai Language Exchange group. Do you speak Spanish🇪🇸, French🇫🇷, German🇩🇪, Hebrew, Portuguese🇵🇹, Italian🇮🇹, Russian🇷🇺, Japanese🇯🇵, Korean🇰🇷, Chinese🇨🇳, Arabic🇦🇪 or English🇬🇧🇺🇸?Practice your Spanish, French, German, Hebrew, Portuguese, French, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Arabic, and English All language levels are welcome! Follow us for upcoming events! 请关注近期精彩社交活动！ 微信公众号 WeChat Official Account: 说会英语 手机（同微信号）Phone Number (Same for): +8617317121983 WhatsApp/WeChat：17317121983 📆周日Sunday, 🟢English Talkspace🟢 ⏰:14:00-16:00 🏠 3/F, No.399 Nanjing West Road, Huangpu District Tomorrow Square, Shanghai:🏠南京西路399号3楼【机遇中心 X-Meta bar】 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/thznK3L37XFo6sTF8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/thznK3L37XFo6sTF8) 📆Wednesday 🟢English&Chinese Talkspace🟢 🎟#小程序://互动吧/SXwE0VoPIcGgHVI ⏰19:00-21:00 📍 📆周五Friday, 🟢Language Exchange🟢 🎟#小程序://互动吧/TOXhHCiaBlNSkgr ⏰Time: 19:00---21:40 🏠上海市静安区新闸路1788号3层 3F，No.1788, Xinzha Road, Shanghai [https://maps.app.goo.gl/cdqiGUASXAvjFmPN6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cdqiGUASXAvjFmPN6) [WhatsApp Group：https://chat.whatsapp.com/BRscBnmLynICxeOQycSvWq](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BRscBnmLynICxeOQycSvWq) 🎫：Early-bird: 40 RMB = 6$ 【set going before 】 normal 50 RMB = 7$ At the Door 60RMB = 8$【At the door buy 】 📆Saturday 【周六】Fudan 🟢Talkspace International Students Language Exchange 复旦同济留学生交流会🟢 ⏰:19:00-22:00 【Saturday】 🏠: 复旦科技园副楼一楼 📍No 11, Guotai Road,Yangpu District, Shanghai WeChat：17317121983 WhatsApp：+8617317121983 https://wa.me/8617317121983 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8) #公众号：说会英语 #视频号：说会英语 #小程序://互动吧/h1LX5oWSDmgO10v #小程序://微博/H1VOJN21MjI0Tjx #公众号：说会英语 #视频号：说会英语 #小红书：说会英语 #微 博：说会英语 #战略合作：复旦科技园 Fudan University Science Park 戏外书店 Obook X-meta 说会联盟

Looking for a dining experience that goes beyond just food in Shanghai? Step into a world where cuisine meets performance, and every dish tells a story. At **Xu Yan (叙宴)**, dining becomes an immersive cultural journey — blending fine Chinese gastronomy with theatrical storytelling and stunning visuals. More than just a restaurant, Xu Yan is a multi-sensory dining experience where tradition, art, and modern creativity come together on one stage. **Time & Date:** Flexible booking (**1 day in advance**) **Location:** No. 40 Wenshui Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China (上海市静安区汶水路40号). **Access:** Metro Line 1, Wenshui Road Station (Exit 2). **Hours:** Lunch 11:50 AM - 2:00 PM; Dinner 6:50 PM - 9:00 PM. **Recommendations:** It is highly recommended to arrive 1–2 hours early if you have booked costume/makeup packages. **Activity Duration:** 3 hours **Shanghai Xuyan • Xu Dunhuang pricing:** ❤ Lunch: SVIP Seats: 598/person (same price for all sizes). VIP Seating: 498/person General Admission: 398/person ❤Dinner: SVIP Seats: 698/person (same price for all sizes). VIP Seating: 598/person General seating: 498/person. ❤ Attire: Makeup and hairstyle – 188/person, clothing – 100/person. ❤Child ticket: 1\. Height below 130 cm: 198/seat\. Options include VIP\+regular seating\. 2\. You must sit in the same area as an adult; you cannot be seated alone\. 3\. Child tickets do not include the option to select SVIP seating\. **What's included** * Meal * Performance * booking service fee * Transportation * All personal expenses and fees not mentioned in the inclusions.

dear all, We will move to Bailian Zhongshan BEFORE jing’an opens. Welcome to join us Please confirm with me first before you signed up My WeChat is ellenliu12345 60rmb for 2 hours , 6 people share a court 小伙伴们， 所以我们在静安开放之前将会在百联中环打，欢迎加入我们

Hi There, Every Friday 40+ Expats, Tourists, and locals join us to make new friends, have fun and learn new things, stay company and share views and opinions on different topics. Don't worry about your language level or being new, Hosts will welcome you warmly at the venue and introduce you to a few other attendees so long as you come early. You'll soon feel at home!! **We have our area booked for Meetup. Please ask the cafe staff for language Exchangers Shanghai, they will help you find us.** → **Special thanks to our partners** **HSBC,** a British [universal bank](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_bank) and [financial services](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Financial_services) group headquartered in [London](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London), England, with historical and business links to [East Asia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Asia) and a [multinational](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multinational_corporation) footprint. It is the [largest Europe-based bank by total assets](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Europe), ahead of [BNP Paribas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BNP_Paribas), with US$2.953 trillion as of December 2021. **italki**, the global language learning platform offering 1-on-1 online lessons with qualified native-speaking teachers → **How does it work：** A. Done RSVP on meetup & payment before coming over B. Show the host ticket you bought to check in & get a wristband C. Order one drink at least before taking a seat D. Grab seats, make a self-introduction, start topics, then free chat with other folks. Change seats once in the middle of it → **Costs & Payment methods :** **Online on WeChat mini-program (\*\*\*Get ￥10 Refund on-site** if you RSVP before Thursday 11:59 PM on meetup) **Female** ￥40 / person ( Only 15 Early bird Spots ) ￥50 / person **Male** ￥50 / person ( Only 15 Early bird Spots ) ￥60 / person \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **At Door** ￥70/ person(all genders) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Add Eric's Wechat ( Shmeetup ) to score tickets via WeChat mini program. Registration is valid after both RSVP and payment are made.** \*\***All tickets include one free drink** \*\*Refunds only if the event is canceled. Your credit will be switched to the very next event on the same day of next week once only if couldn't make the one which u already paid for → **Check-in Time:** **6:45-7:45 pm,** (@Eric with a word of I’ll be late on group chat if u arrive during 7:45-8:15 pm, **Do Not accept any check-in after 8:15 pm**) Plz don’t forget to update your RSVP to free up space if you can’t make it anymore, Thanks → **Event time:** **7:00-9:40 PM Every Friday** → **l Venue:** **Leclair de Genie 闪电巴黎 ( 5th floor of Réel Mall 芮欧百货五楼** **)** → **l Address:** 1601 Nanjing Rd (W), Jing'An district, Shanghai, China → **l Subway:** Exit 4 of Jing' An temple station of **Line 2/7/14** We’d also love to know what you expect from this group, and what types of activities you’d be into. open to all propositions for the meet-ups activities By participating in our events, you agree to be photographed and/or filmed. The photos and videos will be shared on our social networks You may be removed from the group if rude, aggressive, harassing, or coming only to date If you have any questions Just add **Eric‘s WeChat: 15026652832** If you will miss Friday’s event, feel free to join our Sunday (Link below) https://www.meetup.com/language-exchangers-shanghai/events/ \*\*\* Disclaimer： Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their own determinations and for their own safety, conduct, and well-being; recognizes that possibly attend activities, and agrees to participate solely at their own risk. The hosts shall not be held liable for any inconvenience, accidents, rescues, injuries, etc. \*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* 若想获得活动最新照片，或其他疑问欢迎加 管理员微信入群: @活动地点：**Leclair de Genie 闪电巴黎** @活动地址： 上海市静安区南京西路1601号**芮欧百货五楼** @活动时间： 每周五 晚7:00-9:45（请提前5-10分钟到场） @交通方式： 2/7/14号地铁 到 静安寺地铁站 下 从4号口出步行3分钟 即到 \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* 免责声明： 本活动本着自愿参与的原则，参加活动者视为具有完全民事行为能力的人（18岁以上公民），对于任何原因造成的人身财产等一切伤害和损失完全自行负责，活动主办方不承担任何责任。所有现场参加者默认同意并接受本声明！ \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* 欢迎参加周日场次（链接如下） https://www.meetup.com/language-exchangers-shanghai/events/

what is the best way to spend your weekend ? come to join us for badminton to have fun! please prepare racket by yourself , shuttlecock will be provided , add my WeChat : ellenliu12345 to sign up by our WeChat group . 60 RMB for 2 hours , we play double for fun game , 6 people share one court

Hosted by **Dasein Institute**, Join our daily online mindful practice program for timeless Chinese classical wisdom. ## Schedule (China Time) **Monday – Thursday: 20:00 – 20:30** Collective bilingual recitation of Confucian & Daoist classics, including *The Analects*, *Tao Te Ching* and other ancient Chinese scriptures. **Friday: 20:00 – 20:30** Guided reflection, group discussion and sharing on how to integrate ancient wisdom into daily life, achieve inner transformation, and consciously reshape your life path. ## Program Overview This is a structured daily practice circle from Monday to Friday, designed for global learners. Through consistent recitation, stillness practice, and weekly reflection, we anchor our mind in the present moment, absorb the essence of Eastern philosophy, and turn ancient teachings into tangible real-life changes. We explore both Confucian wisdom and Daoist philosophy, practice mindful presence, and build inner stability through short, daily half-hour sessions. No prior knowledge is required. All sessions are held fully online. ## Program Investment **Monthly Plan: $80 USD per month**; **Annual Plan: $800 USD per year** (Save $160 with yearly enrollment) The monthly fee grants you full access to all weekday daily recitations and Friday discussion sessions, as well as entry to our exclusive global community. ## What You Will Gain * Daily 30-minute mindful bilingual recitation (Mon-Thu) * Weekly guided group discussion & life application sharing (Friday) * Inner calm, focused awareness and mental stillness * Practical methods to apply classical wisdom into everyday life * Tangible inner transformation and conscious life reformation * Access to the private global like-minded community of Dasein Club All sessions run online, with no geographical limits. Seekers from all time zones are welcome to join.

We are delighted to introduce **Dasein Saturday Lunch Gathering**, born from our deep exploration of the sacred bond between food and spiritual practice. This is a weekly bilingual gathering for mindful connection, hosted in our private kitchen and exclusive lounge. Closed to the general public, each session is limited to just 15 seats to ensure an intimate atmosphere — and every plant-based meal is specially crafted by a **Michelin-starred chef**, blending nourishment with culinary artistry. Our guests are like-minded souls who pursue spiritual growth, inner awakening, and conscious living. Connection • Culture • Wellness • Awakening — these are our core values and shared purpose. ## Why Plant-Based? More people are moving away from animal products and embracing sustainable living—not as a passing trend, but as an inner awakening. Drawing on holistic wisdom from Dr. John Dingyi Young, Anthony William, Dr. Greger, Dr. Xu Jia, and the profound insights of *Man’s Higher Consciousness*, we journey from physical healing to expanded awareness. This is far more than “what we eat.” It is about honoring our bodies, respecting the planet, and cherishing the life in every bite. Our lunch gathering is a gateway: through mindful eating, we nourish the body, heal the soul, and awaken to a more conscious way of living. ## Event Details: **Time**: Saturday\, April 25 \| 12:00–14:00 **Location**: Kingboard Plaza, 269 Tongxie Road, Changning District, Shanghai **Language**: Bilingual (English & Chinese) **Fee**: No registration fee; minimum one plant-based set meal (¥158) order per person. **Capacity**: Limited to 15 guests **Register with Wechat：cizaiyingyu** Crafted by a Michelin-starred chef, this meal may well be the start of your new awakening.

▶️ What we do / 我们聊什么？ 我们不仅有AI活动 还有AI 茶话会 AI路演 还有复旦 大学创业 AI 项目展示 We meet to talk about AI and its impact on daily life and business（人工智能如何影响我们的生活和商业）. Instead of worrying about being replaced by AI，我们一起探索： How to benefit from AI, not be replaced by it （如何用好 AI，而不是被它取代） Fun side projects, startup ideas, and real use cases Tools, prompts, agents, automation… anything AI ▶️ Open, casual, for everyone / 轻松开放，欢迎所有人 Every Saturday 7:30pm, Anyone is welcome to: give a short talk or demo（欢迎闪电分享 / 小分享） share a story or idea about AI or just come, listen, and chat over coffee 无论你是开发者、创业者、学生、设计师、投资人，还是刚开始对 AI 好奇，这里都有适合你的位置。No prior AI background required. 🏠: 复旦科技园副楼一楼 📍Fudan science park ▶️location video guide： [https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8) 🎫：Early-bird: 35 RMB = 5$ 【set going before 】 normal 40 RMB = 6$ At the Door 50RMB = 7$【At the door buy 】 #公众号：说会英语 #视频号：说会英语 #小程序://互动吧/h1LX5oWSDmgO10v #小程序://微博/H1VOJN21MjI0Tjx #公众号：说会英语 #视频号：说会英语 #[小红书：说会英语](https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5f2ccb430000000001000244) WeChat：17317121983 【Please be sure to add us to get the latest information】 Language Exchange - YouTube 🔴Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/languageexchangeshanghai 🔴Whatsapp group which you can join here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BRscBnmLynICxeOQycSvWq 🇬🇧🇺🇸🇳🇱🇦🇷🇬🇭🇿🇦🇧🇩🇫🇯🇦🇪🇷🇺🇵🇦🇯🇲🇵🇪🇵🇷🇹🇷🇬🇷🇺🇦🇦🇿🇨🇳🇨🇳🇨🇳🇨🇳🇨🇳🇨🇳🇨🇳🇨🇳

👉 **To join:** Please add Daisy on WeChat at **daisy00233** **We conduct all discussions over WeChat only.** Hello, my name is Daisy Wen. I studied English Literature as an undergraduate and later completed an LLB with the University of London. Beyond academics, I have a long-standing fascination with Chinese tea culture. In China, tea is far more than a beverage. It is deeply woven into history, daily life, etiquette, art, and philosophy. Even the Japanese tea ceremony traces its roots back to tea traditions of the Tang Dynasty. I am beginning to organize small, relaxed visits to tea farms for those who are genuinely curious about tea — how it is grown, harvested, processed, and appreciated. If you enjoy meaningful cultural experiences and good conversation over a proper cup of tea, I am forming a WeChat group for like-minded friends. Let us meet for a cuppa and see where the journey takes us.

**\*\*About Activity\*\*** Unlock the flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine in our exclusive Private Cooking Class! Learn to create irresistible dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Shepherd's Purse Wonton using traditional techniques that bring bold, fresh flavors to life. **\*\*Highlights\*\*** \*\*\*\*\*Kung Pao Chicken highlights the bold and exciting flavors of Sichuan cuisine, where tender chicken is stir-fried with a medley of crunchy peanuts, fresh vegetables, and fiery Sichuan peppercorns. With its origins in Sichuan province, Kung Pao Chicken showcases the art of combining bold flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it a beloved classic in Chinese cuisine. \*\*\*\*\*Shepherd's Purse Wonton presents a delicate yet flavorful blend of traditional Chinese ingredients, with plump wontons filled with fragrant Shepherd’s Purse leaves, minced meat, and seasonings. The wontons are gently steamed or boiled to perfection, it highlights the harmony between fresh herbs and tender fillings, making it a cherished comfort food with a timeless appeal. **\*\*About Chef\*\*** \- Chef Tony Jiang Founder & Director of Chinese Famous Media Chef Michelin\-Star Restaurant Associator Principle Director of Zwilling Gourmet SchoolVice President of Disciples Escoffier China Awards: \- 2025 Michelin Bib Gourmand Hong Kong \- 2021 Outstanding Chef of the Year\, The Best Restaurant Awards \- 2019 Authoritative Chef of the Year The Best Restaurant Awards\- 2017 Best Contributor Discuples Escoffier China Delegation \- 2015 French Gastronomic Spirit \- Sopexa **\*\*Itinerary\*\*** \- 4:45pm: Gathering & Introduction \- 5:30pm: Chef's Demostration \- 6:30pm: 3\-4pax/station\, each team to prepare \- 7:00pm: Food appreciation & Photo Taking **\*\*Detailed Info\*\*** **Time&Date: 16:30 - 19:00 Every Wednesday & Sunday, 2026** **Meet up Location:** Jing An Temple Metro Station (Line2) Exit 1 **Activity Duration:** 2 - 3 Hours **Price:** 500 RMB / Pax **Group size:** 4-20 People **What's included in the price:** · Food Ingredients · Cooking Utensils · Apron · Tableware · Chef instruction service · Complimentary Water + Soft Drinks · First-Aid Kit **What's not included in the price:** · Your own expenses **\*\*Trip Inquiry\*\*** Telephone/WhatsAPP:0086 15001791355 Wechat: OKDealTravel Email: [contact@okdealtravelchina.com](http://mailto:contact@okdealtravelchina.com/) **\*\*Full payment** is required when signing up for this activity. If cancel above 3 days prior to departure, full refund will be offered; if cancel 0-3 days prior to departure, 100rmb cancellation fee will be charged.

Meet other local people interested in Language Exchange: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join our Shanghai Language Exchange group. Do you speak Spanish🇪🇸, French🇫🇷, German🇩🇪, Hebrew, Portuguese🇵🇹, Italian🇮🇹, Russian🇷🇺, Japanese🇯🇵, Korean🇰🇷, Chinese🇨🇳, Arabic🇦🇪 or English🇬🇧🇺🇸?Practice your Spanish, French, German, Hebrew, Portuguese, French, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Arabic, and English All language levels are welcome! Follow us for upcoming events! 📆Saturday 【周六】 🟢 International Students Talkspace留学生交流会🟢 🎟#小程序://互动吧/Sl7QHUqQbsY1pHC ⏰:19:00-22:00 【Saturday】 🏠: 复旦科技园副楼一楼 📍Fudan science park ▶️location video guide： [https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8) 🎫：Early-bird: 35 RMB = 5$ 【set going before 】 normal 40 RMB = 6$ At the Door 50RMB = 7$【At the door buy 】 #公众号：说会英语 #视频号：说会英语 #小程序://互动吧/h1LX5oWSDmgO10v #小程序://微博/H1VOJN21MjI0Tjx #公众号：说会英语 #视频号：说会英语 #[小红书：说会英语](https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5f2ccb430000000001000244) Talkspace help visitors, international friends, business professionals, and newcomers integrate into local life, explore local culture, and build language and emotional connections. Breaking language barriers · Creating spaces for dialogue. Through cultural exchange and interactive communities, we connect the world, helping people quickly integrate into new cities and experience authentic local culture. By combining linguistic, physical, and cultural spaces, we promote both cultural development and individual growth.

We are delighted to introduce **Dasein Saturday Lunch Gathering**, born from our deep exploration of the sacred bond between food and spiritual practice. This is a weekly bilingual gathering for mindful connection, hosted in our private kitchen and exclusive lounge. Closed to the general public, each session is limited to just 15 seats to ensure an intimate atmosphere — and every plant-based meal is specially crafted by a **Michelin-starred chef**, blending nourishment with culinary artistry. Our guests are like-minded souls who pursue spiritual growth, inner awakening, and conscious living. Connection • Culture • Wellness • Awakening — these are our core values and shared purpose. ## Why Plant-Based? More people are moving away from animal products and embracing sustainable living—not as a passing trend, but as an inner awakening. Drawing on holistic wisdom from Dr. John Dingyi Young, Anthony William, Dr. Greger, Dr. Xu Jia, and the profound insights of *Man’s Higher Consciousness*, we journey from physical healing to expanded awareness. This is far more than “what we eat.” It is about honoring our bodies, respecting the planet, and cherishing the life in every bite. Our lunch gathering is a gateway: through mindful eating, we nourish the body, heal the soul, and awaken to a more conscious way of living. ## Event Details: **Time**: Saturday\, April 25 \| 12:00–14:00 **Location**: Kingboard Plaza, 269 Tongxie Road, Changning District, Shanghai **Language**: Bilingual (English & Chinese) **Fee**: No registration fee; minimum one plant-based set meal (¥158) order per person. **Capacity**: Limited to 15 guests **Register with Wechat：cizaiyingyu** Crafted by a Michelin-starred chef, this meal may well be the start of your new awakening.

Connect with fun-loving, young-at-heart single players (ages 20–45) at a relaxed, board games-inspired evening. Talkspace help visitors, international friends, business professionals, and newcomers integrate into local life, explore local culture, and build language and emotional connections. Talkspace 帮助新到一个城市的旅游者、出差者、工作者能够更加快速的融入到这个新的城市和了解更加地道的当地文化。致力于帮助个人培养语言、沟通能力。建立人与人的语言链接与情感链接空间。 目前我们已经在中国6个城市 组织社群语言活动 🇳🇱🇦🇷🇬🇭🇿🇦🇧🇩🇫🇯🇦🇪🇷🇺🇵🇦🇯🇲🇵🇪🇵🇷🇹🇷🇬🇷🇺🇦🇦🇿 🍹🍻🥤🧉🍹🥤🥂🍇🍒 现场也会有一些零食和水果 There will also be some snacks and fruits available. 🎫：【All Tickets Includes One Drink】 STUDENT学生票¥30 【Show Us your Student Card or ID】 EARLY BIRD早鸟票¥40 = 6$ 【set going On meetup before is early bird 】 REGULAR 预售票¥50 = 7$ AT DOOR现场票¥60 = 8$【At the door buy 】 🍹🍻🥤🧉🍹🥤🥂🍇🍒 📆Saturday 【周六】Fudan Discount ticket特惠¥ 25 only tonight 🟢Talkspace International Students Language Exchange 复旦同济留学生交流会🟢 ⏰:19:00-22:00 【Saturday】 🏠: 复旦科技园副楼一楼路演大厅 📍No 11, Guotai Road,Yangpu District, Shanghai WeChat：17317121983 WhatsApp：+8617317121983 [https://wa.me/8617317121983](https://wa.me/8617317121983) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmf1TkzZ45SUR2nX8)

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

The theme for May is Thriller. • The book we will be discussing is A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. (determined by votes from April Book Club. Let me know if you'd like a free digital copy of the book) • This event will be at the main library. Feel free to come whether or not you've started or finished the book. • Small snacks will be provided. You're welcome to bring your own snacks & drinks too! Let me know if you’d like to volunteer to bring snacks or drinks for the group.

**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.

Welcome, readers! Our May read is **_Kindred_ by Octavia E. Butler.** The story follows Dana, a Black woman living in 1976 California, who is suddenly pulled back to a Maryland plantation before the Civil War. She learns her survival is tied to a white slaveholder’s son. Forced to move between centuries, she must endure the brutal realities of slavery while fighting to hold on to her identity. Tense, intimate, and unforgettable, Kindred explores how the past refuses to stay buried. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Wild Ones Columbus Annual Native Plant Sale Saturday, May 23th, 2026 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (Eastern Time) Overbrook Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4131 N High St, Columbus, OH, 43214 Public Welcome, Family-Friendly Free Event A wide variety of native flowering plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees will be available from Wild Ones Columbus and local vendors Natives in Harmony, Leaves for Wildlife, and Scioto Gardens. Wild Ones will publish a list of plants that will be available at this year's sale closer to the event date. Be sure to stop by! Show up anytime!

**Our June novel is: *The Eights* by Joanna Miller** **This month’s novel is set during World War I. It’s a 20th-century historical fiction story about friendship and war, with coming-of-age elements and a slightly haunted tone. The book is 384 pages in print and 10 hours and 9 minutes on audiobook.** Oxford, 1920. For the first time in its one-thousand-year history, Oxford University officially admits female students. Burning with dreams of equality, four young women move into neighboring rooms in Corridor 8. Beatrice, Dora, Marianne, and Otto—collectively known as The Eights—come from all walks of life, each driven by their own motives, each holding tight to their secrets, and are thrown into an unlikely, unshakable friendship. Dora was never meant to go to university, but, after losing both her brother and her fiancé on the battlefield, has arrived in their place. Politically-minded Beatrice, daughter of a famous suffragette, sees Oxford as a chance to make her own way - and some friends her own age. Otto was a nurse during the war but is excited to return to her socialite lifestyle in Oxford where she hopes to find distraction from the memories that haunt her. And finally Marianne, the quiet, clever daughter of a village pastor, who has a shocking secret she must hide from everyone, even her new friends, if she is to succeed. Among the historic spires, and in the long shadow of the Great War, the four women must navigate and support one another in a turbulent world in which misogyny is rife, influenza is still a threat, and the ghosts of the Great War don’t always remain dead.

Community Backyards Workshop .Community Backyards Workshop - Westerville Join us for the Westerville Community Backyards workshop! This is a FREE class on how you can protect our waterways and environment with small changes in your gardening habits. We will discuss rain barrels, rain gardens, composting, and native plants. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but not required. * Location: Westerville Community Center, 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082 * Date and time: Sat, May 30, 2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM * Organizer: Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/h2w5ms8 **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days