Cider

**On Friday 2nd January, we're excited to be kicking off another year of social fun with our latest Friday Night Bowling Social.** Yep that's right... we'll be heading back to one of the best value activities in the whole of London, Duckpin Bowling at Brewdog in Waterloo for an evening of bowling and social drinks. If you've never heard of Duckpin Bowling, it is a variant of traditional bowling that's seen incredible growth of popularity over the last few years. The rules of the game are very similar to standard bowling, with bowlers trying to knock down pins in the fewest rolls over 10 frames. However, with lighter balls, shorter lanes and smaller pins, with Duckpin Bowling you'll need even more precision and skill to get a strike. **Best of all, it is one of the cheapest Bowling experiences in the whole of London at just £8.35pp!** Places are limited though and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis and so if you would like to join us for this, please RSVP as soon as possible! **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN** To start the night, we will be meeting nearby at the Thirsty Bear pub in Waterloo at 7:30pm to give you a chance to meet and with your fellow bowlers. However, we'd kindly ask that you arrive **no later than 8:10pm,** so that we can head over together in time for the experience. **Meet Point** \- Thirsty Bear\, 62 Stamford St\, London SE1 9LX \([https://goo.gl/maps/35TPL864JuAS1ev39)](https://goo.gl/maps/35TPL864JuAS1ev39) **Closest Tube stations**: Southwark (5 min walk), Waterloo (10 mins walk) **Start Time:** 7:30 PM **End Time:** 10:30 PM **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, our community project was set up to help Londoners in their 20s and 30s meet, connect and hopefully build life-long friendships. To help make this happen, we also host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community, follow us on social media or buy us a coffee, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship)**

Every week is a badminton academy for improver/intermediate/advanced standard. I also run nine teams that play in leagues out of the academy. Unfortunately this class does not cater for beginners! Wanting people who wish to enjoy and improve with games and advice with a coach who has played county and national level badminton, and has also played for England. Just come along, bring a racket, very friendly atmosphere! Class from 7.30 - 9.30pm weekly, £14.00 per session or £35.00 for three sessions t be paid up front and must be used within six months, payable by cash only. I have coached players from beginner to international standard. Please message me with any questions. Thanks

Welcome! 😊 You can join us for a **unique experience** where you'll be allocated to a gathering/group **based on your interests** (more details on this below!). Come unwind, meet new people, and enjoy some drinks in a relaxed setting. Whether you're looking to make new connections or simply unwind after a long week, this event is perfect for you. **Here's how it works...** ✨ 1. **IMPORTANT:** To attend and be matched with a gathering, answer our quick, personality & interests quiz on [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com) to become a member (*includes gatherings every week - you must be a member to attend*) 💭 🪄 2. We carefully match you with a gathering of amazing people 🫂 📍 3. We book the table for around 10 people in your gathering at a great venue & let you know **your** **venue** **& table details** (venues will be near the station mentioned in location section) 🥂 🎉 4. All you have to do is show up and have a great time! 🥳 If you have any questions, please email info@okgather .com It's the perfect way to meet people with similar interests and expand your network/social circle (while having a lot of fun!). Save your seat now at [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com)

We play every Friday 7 a-side football at Highbury Fields 3G Football Pitch - 1 hour game - Fun game - Confirm your attendance online via Footy Addicts website (www.footyaddicts.com) We do not use Meetup to confirm attendance any more, please sign up on Footy Addicts and join the attendance list at the game page!

We play every Friday 7.30pm at Evelyn Grace Academy • 1 hour friendly game - normal 11 a-side rules • 3G, artificial grass surface, big goals and sidelines • Closest station: Brixton • Book your spot online via Footy Addicts website - http://www.footyaddicts.com ------------------------------------ All bookings are managed via Footy Addicts website ONLY! footyaddicts.com We do not use Meetup any more to manage our attendance list. Please sign up on Footy Addicts and confirm your attendance online!

**​Founders Running Club (FRC)** brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. ​9:15 Bag drop at the Regent's Bar and Kitchen, Regent's Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MmZdAVM8yXT9euKc7 ​9:30 Warm Up starts at the Inner Circle & York Bridge, South Gate: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6) 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 27 cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)** **Stay updated:** **Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/)** **Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/)** **LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/)** **Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC)** **Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)**

**7.30 - The Stranded, 430 Strand, WC2R 0JR** **8.45 - The Lemon Tree, 4 Bedfordbury, WC2N 4BP** **10.00 - The Marquis, 51-52 Chandos Place, WC2N 4HS** The Stranded, 430 Strand, WC2R 0JR - https://www.thestrandedldn.com - is a new pub for the group, having only opened last summer. It's only 100 yards or so from Charing Cross station - you'll find it on the opposite side of the road walking eastwards along the Strand, away from Trafalgar Square. It specialises in Czech lagers, principally Budvar's, dispensed using side-pour taps rarely found in the UK. However, it's also unusual in offering a range of Timothy Taylor's ales rather than just the ubiquitous Landlord. The plan is to move on to The Lemon Tree, 4 Bedfordbury, WC2N 4BP - https://www.lemontreecoventgarden.com - at about 8.45 and then The Marquis, 51-52 Chandos Place, WC2N 4HS - https://www.themarquiscoventgarden.co.uk - at around 10.00. The Lemon Tree is a quieter pub better suited to conversation, whereas The Marquis is best known for music, it's USP being classic tracks on vinyl. I expect most people will choose whichever one suits them best or flit between the two. As ever, we may do things differently on the night. Please take a note of my number - 07761-816862 - so that you can phone me if you can't find us **(but no texts or messaging please)**. *Please sign up as soon as possible if (but only if) you fully intend to attend and cancel promptly if your plans change so we don't end up with no-shows when other people are on a waitlist.*

**PLEASE BOOK IN ADVANCE TO GUARANTEE YOUR SPACE AT THIS IN-PERSON EVENT:** **Booking is available at the following web-page: [https://thelifecentre.com/workshops/law-of-attraction-and-meditation-to-create-your-ideal-life](https://thelifecentre.com/workshops/law-of-attraction-and-meditation-to-create-your-ideal-life)** This special Sunday evening event provides an opportunity to relax, reflect and focus in the presence of like-minded people. The event will share powerful written exercises and meditation to assist you in increasing your well-being, connecting with your true self and creating the life you choose. Tracy’s pioneering presentation delivering the Law of Attraction Centre technology is optimistic and soothing, whilst bringing empowering results on all subjects. Benefits of Attending: * Discover how to deliberately attract more of what you want: abundance, improved relationships, creativity, health & well-being or any other desire * Take time out from your usual routine to devote time to yourself * Find greater meaning and inspiration in your life * Learn powerful tools for emotional liberation * Meet and connect with like-minded people in an uplifting and friendly space This event is suitable for you whether you are new to the Law of Attraction principles or you have been applying them for longer. \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Testimonials: “*I love the tenor of what Tracy does. Sincere. Heart-felt. Authentic. Enthusiastic about the journey. Enlivened by the potential. Awakened to the discovery and the simplicity. Committed to unconditionally being a part of the joy. Recognising that the potential for joy is always there.”* “*Very informative and amazing positive energy.”* “*Highly recommend, it is clear that Tracy practices what she teaches.”* “*The group meditation is powerful. So too is the process that Tracy has developed that combines clearly and simply explaining the Law of Attraction with exercises that focus upon the positive and wanted in our lives. Going to these seminars and developing a meditative practice has been one of the best gifts I could have given myself.”* “*I have really enjoyed meeting like-minded people at the group who are focused in a positive way and I have found it very inspiring hearing their experiences with the Law of Attraction.”* “*Feel-good and bursting with a sense of real possibilities.”* For a large collection of success stories of Law Attraction Centre members living the Law of Attraction, please see: https://www.lawofattractioncentre.com/law-of-attraction-success-stories/ \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ The event will commence at 6pm and finish at 7.30pm. Please bring a pen and something to lean on for writing. Price: £22 **\*\*\*The event is taking place at the Life Centre Notting Hill, to reserve your place, please visit: [https://thelifecentre.com/workshops/law-of-attraction-and-meditation-to-create-your-ideal-life](https://thelifecentre.com/workshops/law-of-attraction-and-meditation-to-create-your-ideal-life)** The event is taking place in London at the Life Centre Notting Hill which is a relaxing sanctuary for well-being. It is a 4 minute walk from Notting Hill Gate underground station. Notting Hill Gate is served by the Central, District and Circle Lines. Notting Hill Gate underground station is 2 minutes from High Street Kensington on the Circle Line and 7 minutes from Oxford Circus on the Central Line. \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Facilitated by Tracy Friend: Tracy Friend is a leading spiritual teacher and one to one coach whose pioneering approach has touched thousands of people’s lives internationally. Her teachings benefit from extensive knowledge and experience of different spiritual paths including insight meditation, non-duality teachings and the Law of Attraction. She is co-founder of the Law of Attraction Centre and founder of Liberating the Heart. Tracy hosts regular groups, workshops, seminars and retreats. She specialises in helping people to create the life they want in addition to awakening to their true nature. Tracy holds a first class honours degree in Psychology from the University of Bristol and she has extensive knowledge of meditation with her having participated in over 35 residential silent meditation retreats in the UK and Asia. She is a qualified meditation teacher, reflexologist, yoga teacher, therapeutic yoga consultant, Chinese medicine herbalist and qigong teacher. Visit her websites: https://www.lawofattractioncentre.com/ and https://www.liberatingtheheart.com/ *Please note that it is necessary to be aged 18 years or older to attend events.*

# **West London Outdoor Bouldering & Rock Climbing – With Professional Climber Fazal (Apefoo Training)** Welcome to the **West London Outdoor Bouldering & Rock Climbing Group!** Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced climber ready to break into higher grades, this group gives you access to **professional-level coaching**, real outdoor experience, and a supportive climbing community. ### 🧗‍♂️ **Led by a Professional Climber** I’m **Fazal**, founder of *Apefoo Training* on YouTube and Instagram — a sponsored climber with over **15 years in the UK climbing scene**. I’ve climbed all over the country, helped climbers develop from V0 to advanced levels, and I’m currently projecting climbs in the **8c range**. My background includes: ✅ Professional-level outdoor experience ✅ Over a decade of indoor climbing across London ✅ Strength, conditioning, and mindset coaching ✅ A growing online presence in the UK climbing community I bring all that knowledge into every trip so you get **real coaching and real improvement**, no matter your skill level. *** ### 🌄 **What This Group Offers** This isn’t just another climbing meetup — it’s a chance to join real UK outdoor bouldering adventures designed to help you grow. Every session includes: ✔ Outdoor guidance from a professional climber ✔ Safe climbing practices and technique coaching ✔ Supportive and friendly group energy ✔ Personalised tips tailored to your level ✔ Chances to climb new rock, new styles, new grades Locations vary depending on weather, including: * Peak District (Sheffield) * South Wales * UK coastal crags * Dartmoor * Midlands sandstone and bouldering circuits **Transport, equipment, and support are provided** — just bring your shoes, chalk, and energy. *** ### 🚀 **Level Up Your Climbing** I specialise in: • Helping new climbers start safely and confidently • Guiding intermediate climbers through technique plateaus • Training advanced climbers working toward high-grade projects • Personal development — strength, mobility, mindset, fear-management, projecting strategy If you want to climb harder, move better, build confidence, or discover the UK’s best bouldering — you’re in the right place. *** ### 🎥 **See Training, Trips & Climbing Content** Check out my YouTube channel *Apefoo Training* for a look at what we do: 👉 [https://www.youtube.com/@ApefooTraining](https://www.youtube.com/@ApefooTraining) Videos include climbing tutorials, outdoor trips, training breakdowns, and performance insights. *** ### 📅 **How It Works** * Trips run every Saturday or Sunday (weather dependent) * Pickup from Ruislip Library (HA4) * Intro offer: **£35 per person** * All gear included (bring your own shoes if possible) * Food available (+£10) Spaces are limited each trip to ensure proper coaching and safety. *** ### 💬 **Join Us** If you want to explore the outdoors, climb smarter, get stronger, and join a motivated group with real coaching — **this is the place**. Let’s climb, explore, and push your limits together. 🧗‍♂️ Led by a Professional Climber I’m Fazal, founder of Apefoo Training on YouTube and Instagram — a sponsored climber with over 15 years in the UK climbing scene. I’ve climbed all over the country, helped climbers develop from V0 to advanced levels, and I’m currently projecting climbs in the 8c range. My background includes: ✅ Professional-level outdoor experience ✅ Over a decade of indoor climbing across London ✅ Strength, conditioning, and mindset coaching ✅ A growing online presence in the UK climbing community I bring all that knowledge into every trip so you get real coaching and real improvement, no matter your skill level. 🌄 What This Group Offers This isn’t just another climbing meetup — it’s a chance to join real UK outdoor bouldering adventures designed to help you grow. Every session includes: ✔ Outdoor guidance from a professional climber ✔ Safe climbing practices and technique coaching ✔ Supportive and friendly group energy ✔ Personalised tips tailored to your level ✔ Chances to climb new rock, new styles, new grades Locations vary depending on weather, including: Peak District (Sheffield) South Wales UK coastal crags Dartmoor Midlands sandstone and bouldering circuits Transport, equipment, and support are provided — just bring your shoes, chalk, and energy. 🚀 Level Up Your Climbing I specialise in: • Helping new climbers start safely and confidently • Guiding intermediate climbers through technique plateaus • Training advanced climbers working toward high-grade projects • Personal development — strength, mobility, mindset, fear-management, projecting strategy If you want to climb harder, move better, build confidence, or discover the UK’s best bouldering — you’re in the right place. 🎥 See Training, Trips & Climbing Content Check out my YouTube channel Apefoo Training for a look at what we do: 👉 [https://www.youtube.com/@ApefooTraining](https://www.youtube.com/@ApefooTraining) Videos include climbing tutorials, outdoor trips, training breakdowns, and performance insights. 📅 How It Works Trips run every Saturday or Sunday (weather dependent) Pickup from Ruislip Library (HA4) Intro offer: £35 per person All gear included (bring your own shoes if possible) Food available (+£10) Spaces are limited each trip to ensure proper coaching and safety. 💬 Join Us If you want to explore the outdoors, climb smarter, get stronger, and join a motivated group with real coaching — this is the place. Let’s climb, explore, and push your limits together.

**Join Us for an Epic Irish Night in Soho! 🎉🍻🍀** Get ready for an memorable evening at **Waxy O'Connor**, Soho's coolest Irish bar, right in the heart of London! ✨ We're gathering downstairs at the Cottage Bar for a night of pure, foot-stomping fun. 🕺💃 **What to Expect:** * **🎶 Live Folk Music**: The stage comes alive at **7 PM** with authentic folk tunes that'll have you singing along, dancing on benches, and channeling your inner leprechaun! * **🍴 Classic Irish Bites**: Dig into hearty pub grub like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, or loaded nachos—comfort food that hits all the right spots. * **🍺 Central Bar Vibes**: Sip on frosty pints of Guinness, crisp lagers, or expertly mixed Irish cocktails in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. * **🪑 Cozy Spots for All**: Claim a snug booth, pull up a bar stool, or join the crowd on communal benches—**everyone is welcome** to the craic! **📍 Where**: Waxy O'Connor, 14-16 Rupert St, London W1D 6DD. *Head downstairs to the Cottage Bar section—follow the sound of fiddles and laughter!* **📌 Pro Tip**: Arrive at the start time to snag the best area at the bar. No tickets required—free entry, first-come, first-served. Come for the pints, stay for the folk, and leave with stories that'll have you grinning for days. Let's make this Irish gem roar! 🎤🍻😎 *See you downstairs—sláinte!* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

Thank you to Gary for showing me this route, I thought I would repeat it on our group. We're meeting outside Hackney Wick station at 11am. This is one stop from Stratford on the Mildmay Line. I thought we'd meet there instead of Stratford, as Hackney Wick is a quaint little place. The route follows the **Thames Path**, going through **Victoria Park**, the waterways of the **Regent’s Canal**, **Limehouse Basin,** **Shadwell Basin,** **Wapping Woods, Tobacco Dock, and St Katharine's** **Dock**, before finishing near the historic **Tower of London**. We'll stop for a coffee along the way, and finish in the (optional) Wetherspoon pub for some well deserved food and/or drink. I am aiming to arrive at the pub for about 3.30pm. I ask for a nominal contribution of £2 to help cover Meetup organiser fees, or you are able to pay £4 to cover the whole of January if you prefer. No shrapnel please. A few members opt to pay £20, which will cover you for a half-year. RISK WARNING/DISCLAIMER: Please remember that as with any physical activity, there can be dangers associated with hiking/walking, especially around waterways, forests, farms and countryside. Your decision to voluntarily participate in this activity is an informed decision. and by attending this event you agree and accept to take sole responsibility for your own actions, your own safety, and your own belongings. Please dress appropriately, including sturdy shoes. Please bring any necessary medication with you. You will need to be sufficiently fit to walk several miles at a moderate pace. We may occasionally cross or walk short distances on roads; country and woodland tracks can be muddy or slippery; animals may be encountered on occasion. INSURANCE: If either yourself or any guests you bring along require insurance for this walk, then you must arrange this yourselves. GUESTS: If you are bringing any guests along, there is no facility on the Meetup site to record their details. Please ensure that you make them fully aware of the Risk Warning/Disclaimer and Insurance statements.

***FREE TOUR TICKET FOR ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL MEETUP MEMBERS*** Use Promo Code **MEETUP2025** to get your free ticket and route smart guide at [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197) You can do the tour solo/with your favorite peeps, or try to generate a group ride of Meetup CycleNuts by RSVPing here and posting the day and time you are interested in others joining you. Either way, have fun on your memory-making adventure, and thank you for being a CycleNut! ### SOL in Columbus, OH \- A Smart\-guided Short One\-way Loop Bikeway Tour Short One-way Loop (SOL) in Columbus on bikeways. The smart-guided tour is mostly through scenic riverside parks with a quick downtown peek. All of that in 10 miles! 83% of the route is bikeway, and the rest is Google Maps designated "bicycle-friendly roads". This short ride passes through several beautiful riverside parks. Passing through downtown the route runs alongside Huntington Park baseball stadium, Nationwide Arena hockey stadium, near North Market (worth a stop if you enjoy markets with lots of tasty treats), within a few blocks of the state capitol, convention center, art museum, center of science and industry, several first-class hotels, and much more (see Points of Interest list below). Easily, anywhere along the way, the tour can be detoured to nearby points of interest. This smart-guided route comes with CycleNuts' 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. If your bike has gears, you might use them to climb in a few spots. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour (even a single-speed if you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned). The route is shaded about 50% of the way. Sweating is optional - you set your pace, starting time, and touring agenda. Points of interest: COSI Scioto River North Market German Village The Scioto Mile Brewery District Huntington Park Nationwide Arena Columbus Union Station Arch Greater Columbus Convention Center **The Meetup plan = Show up, Rally with whoever else shows up, and Roll following the smart-guided instructions.** This is a smart guided tour route that can be ridden any day or time, solo or with others. It is only posted with a repeating set time and date with a tour leader to fit the Meetup format, and, more importantly, to encourage you to get out and ride when it is convenient for you. **If you are going to ride it and would like the company of others, then simply RSVP and post in the comments when it is that you are going to ride - date and time.** Take pictures/videos and share. Have fun! ***This is a repeating event on the calendar***\*, but the date and time do not necessarily need to be what is posted. **If you are interested in riding with a group, then simply RSVP and leave a message in the comment section** giving the date and time you would like others to join you. If you are interested in riding by yourself or with your private group of friends, then simply do it.\* ***The mission of this format is to create a catalog*** *of free group tour routes available for CycleNuts to ride as a group, or solo, in an area spanning several states. **The goal is to get people out cycling** either in groups or solo. **The vision is a cycling community with resources** available for bike tours, bike talk, and a format for lives experienced at the speed of bike.*

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

Come out to Improving for our monthly iOS and Mac meetings. This Month's Presentation: Nothing yet. (You should volunteer). What is Cocoaheads (http://cocoaheads.org/)? CocoaHeads is a group devoted to discussion of Apple Computer's Cocoa Framework for programming on MacOS X and iOS (including the iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch). During monthly meetings, members present on their projects and offer tutorials on various programming topics. What is BuckeyeCocoa (http://buckeyecocoa.org/)? BuckeyeCocoa is a group of Objective-C/Swift developers/enthusiasts. We host monthly Cocoaheads and near-weekly NSCoder meetings in Columbus, Ohio. The meetings are free to attend. Presentations! Presenters welcome! We are always in need of people willing to present material. Any Swift and/or Objective-C related topic is welcome. Times can be 5 minutes (i.e. lightning talks) to a maximum of 2 hours. Interested? Contact info is on the BuckeyeCocoa website. To volunteer for a presentation contact us at @BuckeyeCocoa on Twitter. Follow us on Twitter! @BuckeyeCocoa (https://twitter.com/#!/Buckeyecocoa/) For more information: http://buckeyecocoa.org/

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm the second & fourth Wednesday of every month at Two Dollar Radio Headquarters (HQ). Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens around 6:45pm. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Two Dollar Radio HQ! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Other customers are welcome at Two Dollar HQ at the time, so please bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **ACCESSIBILITY:** Two Dollar Radio HQ's entrance door on Cline Street is wheelchair accessible, they have two gender-neutral bathrooms that are both wheelchair accessible, and their ordering and table-seating area is as well. Working service dogs are allowed. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Two Dollar Radio HQ does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public street parking on all surrounding streets, on both sides of Parsons Ave. You are also welcome to park in the Columbus Metropolitan Library parking lot across the street (1113 Parsons Ave). Two Dollar Radio HQ has a bike rack on the corner of Cline and Parsons, and the library has bike parking (across Parsons). * **FOOD/BEVERAGE:** Two Dollar Radio HQ is a bar and vegan cafe. Their food is 100% vegan and made from scratch, with love. They also serve a range of wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as coffees and teas. If you're able to, please consider thanking our venue by purchasing something!!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [5 Bean Coffee](https://5beancoffee.com/)!

Join us to discuss our January read: Midnight in Everwood Marietta Stelle longs to be a ballerina but, as Christmas draws nearer, her dancing days are numbered – she must marry and take up her place in society in the New Year. But, when a mysterious toymaker, Dr Drosselmeier, purchases a neighbouring townhouse, it heralds the arrival of magic and wonder in Marietta’s life. After Drosselmeier constructs an elaborate theatrical set for her final ballet performance on Christmas Eve, Marietta discovers it carries a magic all of its own – a magic darker than anyone could imagine. As the clock chimes midnight, Marietta finds herself transported from her family’s ballroom to a frozen sugar palace, silent with secrets, in a forest of snow-topped fir trees. She must find a way to return home before she’s trapped in Everwood’s enchanting grip forever. In the darkness of night, magic awaits and you will never forget what you find here…