Crowdfunding

**Welcome to Networx London!** Are you a business owner, entrepreneur, or tech professional looking to build valuable connections? Join a relaxed and engaging evening designed for leaders and innovators across industries. Whether you're a CEO, executive, investor, finance expert, IT professional, business professional, or aspiring founder, this is your space to connect with like-minded people and spark new opportunities. We start at **6:30 PM** with a warm welcome and light icebreakers to get conversations flowing, followed by **open networking all evening**. No formal pitches—just real connections, fresh ideas, and meaningful relationships in a friendly, laid-back setting. 📍 **Venue: The Sycamore, Holborn** A modern, relaxed venue in central London, just steps from Holborn station. Perfect for after-work networking, drinks, and great conversations. 📅 **Event Schedule** **18:30 – 19:00** \| Welcome & Warm intro **19:00 – 19:30** \| Open Networking **19:30 – 21:30** \| Informal Networking \(no pitches\, no pressure\) 💡 **Why Attend?** Connect with Founders, Co-Founders, Entrepreneurs, and Startup Leaders in a relaxed and dynamic setting. Discover career opportunities, meet companies hiring top talent, and exchange insights with peers. Get inspired by new ideas and find partners, clients, or investors to grow your startup, project, or business. **Who Should Attend:** This event is perfect for Founders, Co-Founders, Entrepreneurs, Startup Leaders, Investors, Finance Experts, IT Professionals, and Business Professionals looking to expand their network, grow their business, or gain fresh perspectives from a diverse mix of startup leaders and innovators. **🎟 Tickets & Entry:** To avoid the venue getting overcrowded and ensure everyone enjoys an amazing night, we've introduced a small ticket price to keep things running smoothly. **Limited spots!** Register today and hit **Follow** for updates on future weekly events. 📸 **Event Photography** Please note that photos and videos may be taken for promotional purposes. \*\*🔗 Join our WhatsApp group to connect before and after the event:\*\*👉 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg "https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg")

**Welcome to Networx London!** Are you a startup founder, investor, or professional looking to explore opportunities in investing, capital, and business growth? Join a relaxed and engaging evening bringing together people active in startups, finance, and investment. Whether you're a founder seeking funding, an investor exploring opportunities, or a professional in business, finance, or tech, it’s a space to connect with like-minded individuals and discover real opportunities. 📍 **Venue: The Sycamore, Holborn** A modern, relaxed venue in central London, just steps from Holborn station. Perfect for after-work networking, drinks, and great conversations. 📅 **Event Schedule** **18:30 – 19:00** \| Welcome & Warm intro **19:00 – 19:30** \| Open Networking **19:30 – 21:30** \| Informal Networking \(no pitches\, no pressure\) 💡 **Why Attend?** Connect with founders, investors, and professionals in a relaxed setting focused on funding, investment, and business growth. Explore opportunities, share insights, and build meaningful connections. **Who Should Attend:** Founders, entrepreneurs, investors, finance and business professionals, and anyone looking to expand their network and explore opportunities in startups and investment. **🎟 Tickets & Entry:** To avoid the venue getting overcrowded and ensure everyone enjoys an amazing night, we've introduced a small ticket price to keep things running smoothly. **Limited spots!** Register today and hit **Follow** for updates on future weekly events. 📸 **Event Photography** Please note that photos and videos may be taken for promotional purposes. 🔗 \*\*Join our WhatsApp group to connect before and after the event:\*\*👉 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg "https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg")

Come and join a friendly but competitive bunch of players each and every Tuesday at UEL Sports Dock. If love playing Badminton for fun or competitively then pay us a visit. Cost of session £12 (Payment must be made before the session ends. The details of bank transfer to be advised by email, once you RSVP.) Feather shuttles are used. • There is a large car-park at UEL (FREE 5.30pm onward). • Nearest DLR stations are Gallions Reach and Cyprus, then a 5 minutes walk to UEL Sports Dock. • Session are more suited for Intermediate to Club standard players, although we cater for all standards of play. Simple "If"Rules: • If you want to attend, you must RSVP • If you want to bring a friend you MUST RSVP for them • If you do not RSVP, you will be turned away If you RSVP and DO NOT attend you will be fined £20, unless you remove your RSVP at least 24hrs before the session start time. Please respect the session limit, they are for your own good as over crowding means less games for you! The organisers decision on all matters is final. Important Note: Your are responsible for your own well-being. Black Arrows Badminton Club or the management at UEL are not responsible for any injuries or loss of items.

**Looking for a business networking event in London for property professionals and business owners?** Join us in **Firzrovia** for a quality networking evening hosted by a digital business card app GMax Card. **What to Expect** * Connect with **property professionals, landlords, and business owners** in a relaxed but purposeful setting. * **Build valuable business relationships** across the property and business ecosystem, exchange ideas, spot market trends, and uncover opportunities. * A **lightly structured event** \- not a formal conference\, nor a random pub mingle\. * An **atmosphere that feels quality yet relaxed**, with space for real professional conversations. * Hosts are there from the start to **help with introductions**. **Who You'll Meet** * **Property professionals** and **landlords** \- residential and commercial * **Property management professionals** \- including block managers\, estate agents\, and letting agents * **Business owners** with property interests * **Property developers** and asset managers * Finance and investment professionals active in **real estate and property** markets **How the Evening Flows** 18:30 - Arrival 19:00 - Short introductions 19:30 - Open networking 21:30 - Close Hosts are there from the start to **help with introductions**. **Venue: The Refinery at Regent's Place** A modern, spacious venue in the heart of Fitzrovia with large windows and a relaxed, professional atmosphere — ideal for focused conversations. Located right next to Meta Offices and just minutes from Warren Street station and very close to Euston. **Entry & GMax Cards** * Free RSVP: Event access only * Paid ticket (when available): Includes a contactless GMax Card (ask host to claim; not distributed automatically) **Dress Code** Business / smart casual **Hosted by:** [GMax Card - a digital business card](http://www.gmaxcard.com/) platform designed for modern networking and professional connections beyond LinkedIn. Share all your contact details through one simple link. **Important Info** * 18+ (ID may be required) * Photos/video by [CineEye Audiovisual Production Studio](http://www.cineeye.co.uk/) (inform us if you prefer not to appear) * Attendance is at your own risk. Organisers and the venue are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage. **Limited spots - register early!**

Looking to brush up on your BSL skills or connect with other learners? Sacred Grounds is hosting a weekly Sign Club every Tuesday from 5-7pm. This casual and informal meetup is perfect for anyone learning BSL, whether you're just starting out or looking to keep your skills sharp. Come along to practice signing, connect with others in the community, and even try ordering your coffee in BSL! There’s no fee to join - all we ask is that if you're able to, you support the coffee shop by purchasing a drink or snack while you're here (please note that outside food and drinks are not permitted). Sacred Grounds is all about creating a warm and inclusive space, so don’t be shy - come sign with us! We look forward to welcoming you.

PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST book and pay for your ticket in advance at https://www.privateequitynetwork.co.uk/ The London Family Office & Private Equity Business Networking Committee would like to extend you an invitation to our May 2026 Networking Reception to be held in the private lounge of Sterling Bar the the Famous Gherkin - and hope you can join us for after-work drinks, canapés and productive networking to make new contacts and ideas for 2026. We now have over 8000 diverse and relevant London members so it’s the perfect opportunity for making new third sector connections. PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST book and pay for your ticket in advance at https://www.privateequitynetwork.co.uk/ ALSO PLEASE NOTE we take most of our event bookings through our website and EventBrite so the numbers booked is much larger than displayed on this Meetup page (normally about 40-60 guests).

The second episode in our special series designed to open different conversations about AI, tech, and their impact on our lives. (Substack about our rationale for this event series [here](https://open.substack.com/pub/experimentsingroupwisdom/p/bored-of-having-the-same-conversation?r=445zi1&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true) 😊) We’ll use the typical THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS IN PUBS (TEiP) method of getting into great conversations: small group discussions, tiny imaginary stories, lots of questions, and many opportunities to shuffle groups (more detail below). **The thought experiments for these events are written by special guest writer and TEiP regular, Francesca.** She’s in the middle of a fellowship at Newspeak House (London College of Political Technology) and has her finger on the pulse of many issues related to technology and its impact on our lives. (You can find her writing [here](https://themagpiebrain.substack.com/)). As Francesca alludes to in one of her thought experiments: **discussing concepts and ideas with other people (rather than asking ChatGPT) is like going to the gym for your mind.** But as anyone who has been to TEiP will know, TEiP’s lighthearted and playful atmosphere means that it’s more like a fun dance workout than crossfit or weightlifting. **How we'll do it** (timings approximate): * 7:00pm - Arrive at Newspeak House. Nearest station Shoreditch High Street. * Organise ourselves into small groups (3-4). * Have a look at the thought experiments (announced on the day of the event) * 7:15 - Introduction to the event * 7:20 - First rotation begins - Talk about the first thought experiment, but feel free to veer off topic and pursue new avenues of conversation. * 7:45 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the second thought experiment. * 8:15 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the third thought experiment. * 8:45pm - Wrap up - votes to discern general views of the room; info about upcoming events; feedback/requests for future meetups. * 9:00 Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations. We have the room until 10 :-) **Notes on the general atmosphere:** * The vibe is to let conversation flow rather than stick strictly to one topic. * While we'd like to talk about 'meaningful things', we also see the value in lighter topics, so don't worry about not being 'deep' enough! * Feel free to suggest ideas for future THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS IN PUBS meetup groups, both in terms of structure and topics to discuss. **Where we'll meet:** This group will be at NEWSPEAK HOUSE. The nearest Overground Station is Shoreditch High Street. Nearby Tube stations: Bethnal Green, Whitechapel, Old Street, and Liverpool Street. You can access the venue step-free on the ground floor. Bathrooms are available at the venue. **Please note: There is no bar at the venue, but you are very welcome to bring your own drinks.** **Who should come:** Everyone! We believe that the more perspectives, the richer the conversation. This group is not about being experts in Philosophy, it is about doing philosophy. That is, bringing our various life experiences and lenses on the world to group discussions about the human experience, the nature of reality... etc.... **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- newsletter and other writing **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DapwAXpnOHO5DRYThobpe4)** \- stay in the loop **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** \- see what we look like **[WEBSITE](https://www.alltogether.one/)** \- everything else **If having different conversations about technology, AI and their impact on our lives sounds good, or intriguing, to you, please join us :-)**

**What we are about:** Life drawing sessions every Wednesday 7.30pm-9.30pm This class is for all drawing levels, aiming to improve your own drawing style and learning about drawing the human form and anatomy in a relaxed and friendly environment. The class invites you to study guided or untutored with professional models in a variety of different poses. Usually we begin with a series of short poses and warm up exercises from 1min to 5mins. Followed by longer studies of 10, 15 and 20mins. We have a small break and the we’ll continue with a 25 min pose and concluding with a 20 minute pose. A different model each week All levels welcome Guidance given/optional Drawing materials and paper provided and included in the price. We are a friendly, welcoming, sociable group. Price: Drop-in, single session £15 - weekly sessions art materials and paper provided You can pay by cash or use this pay pal link : // [paypal.me/CreativeLifeDrawing](http://paypal.me?CreativeLifeDrawing) please choose - pay friends and family members If you like to secure your spot you can pay via this meet-up site but they will add some additional fees. CreativeLifeDrawing [J_wolfmail@yahoo.com](mailto:J_wolfmail@yahoo.com) Jennifer Wolf

🚀 Startup Momentum Community Social A recurring meetup for founders, aspiring founders, startup enthusiasts, and ambitious people who want to build meaningful things and surround themselves with others doing the same. ❌ This is not a traditional networking event. The goal is to create a genuine entrepreneurial community built around openness, action, momentum, and helping each other move forward. Whether you’re: • Building a startup • Exploring a new idea • Looking for collaborators or a cofounder • Trying to hire great people • Feeling stuck on a problem • Interested in startups, AI, business, or the future • Or simply looking for more entrepreneurial people around you — you’re welcome here. Some people attending will already be founders. Others may just be starting their journey. What matters most is curiosity, ambition, openness, and a willingness to engage thoughtfully. 💡 What makes this different? This meetup is designed around meaningful conversations and real value exchange. Bring: • Startup ideas you want feedback on • Problems or blockers you want help solving • Questions you’ve been thinking about • Interesting things you’re building or learning • An openness to helping others make progress too The best conversations here are not: “What do you do?” They’re: • “What are you trying to build?” • “What are you stuck on?” • “What kind of people are you hoping to meet?” • “How can I help?” We strongly encourage people to be open about what they’re trying to achieve and what support, introductions, collaborators, skills, or feedback they’re looking for. The goal is for everyone to leave with: ⚡ More momentum 🤝 Valuable new relationships 💭 Better ideas and clearer thinking 🎯 Actionable next steps 🙏 Please help create the kind of startup community you’d want to be part of: • Ask thoughtful questions • Be curious about what others are building • Share ideas generously • Offer support and feedback where you can • Make the most of every interaction Many attendees will be coming alone, so don’t worry if you don’t know anyone beforehand. 🌱 This is our very first event. The long-term vision is to build a recurring startup community where ambitious people genuinely support each other, exchange ideas, form collaborations, and grow together over time. 📲 There’ll also be a WhatsApp community you can join after the event to stay connected between meetups and continue conversations afterward.

Hello makers, it's the 75th(!) IndieBeers, the flagship monthly event from Ramen Club. **IndieBeers is London's #1 indie makers pub meetup** \- our goal is to help indie makers\, solopreneurs & bootstrappers from across the capital meet IRL\, exchange ideas and support each other\. **This event's powered by MongoDB** London founders, builders and AI people — MongoDB.local London is on 7 May at Old Billingsgate. A full-day event on taking AI products from prototype to production, featuring speakers including CJ Desai (MongoDB), Harry Stebbings (20VC) and Luciana Lixandru (Sequoia Capital). **Apply for a complimentary pass [here](https://luma.com/17mpuzyj).** **Meetup format:** * Meet at the The Bricklayers Arms in Shoreditch from 6pm * We'll be stood/sat on the right of the bar as you go in * Ask for Charlie to get your IndieBeers sticker * Drink beers (well, anything you like) * Talk about what we're working on, try and help each other **Contact:** Twitter: [@indiebeers](twitter.com/indiebeers) With peace, love & MRR, Charlie

For those of you who want a nice relaxed drink and not necessarily a meal to accompany it, Croydon Eats Out brings you a regular opportunity to meet, drink and have a nibble - well, it has to involve some sort of eating! When you arrive, please look out for the Meet Up sign or ask at the bar as we have booked an area. Whether you'd prefer to dive straight in to conversation with other CEO members or would like an introduction is entirely up to you, so look out for Fran who is your host. Travel: Please check the TFL website (http://journeyplanner.tfl.gov.uk/) to plan your route. Ground rules: • This is a social networking event - This is the place to have a nice chat over a drink, meet new people and exchange ideas. If you're coming to sell or pitch your business, dish out flyers or business cards, this isn't the event for you. Likewise, this isn't a dating event either.

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-london-online-tickets-1984545575238?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - [+971 50 472 4873](http://wa.me/971504724873) ( WhatsApp Only)

**Looking for a business networking event in London for finance, banking, and business professionals?** Join us in Canary Wharf for a **founder-led networking evening** co-organised by London tech startup **GMax Card**. **What to Expect** * Connect with professionals in **finance, banking, FinTech, investment banking, property and business** * Build valuable business relationships across the **finance, banking and business ecosystem** * **Exchange ideas**, spot trends, and uncover opportunities * **A lightly structured event** \- not a random mingle in a local pub\, not an overcrowded conference An atmosphere that feels **quality yet relaxed**, with space for real after-work conversations. Hosts are there from the start to help with introductions. **Who You’ll Meet** * Finance, banking & investment professionals * Asset management, capital markets & fund specialists (private equity & venture capital) * FinTech & B2B specialists * Business owners, decision makers, founders, entrepreneurs and property pros * International professionals on a business visit to London **How the Evening Flows** **18:30** \- Arrival **19:00** \- Short introductions **19:30** \- Open networking **21:30** – Close Hosts are there from the start to help with introductions. **Venue: Market Halls, Canary Wharf (Upper-Floor Bar)** Located in the heart of Canary Wharf, **Market Halls Canary Wharf** offers a lively yet polished setting for professional networking. Our event will take place in the quieter **upper-floor bar area**, ideal for natural business conversations. The venue is easily accessible via the **Elizabeth line**, with quick connections from both the City and Central London. **Entry & GMax Cards** * **Free RSVP**: Event access only * **Paid ticket (when available)**: Includes a contactless **GMax Card** (ask host to claim; not distributed automatically) **Dress Code** Business casual / smart casual **Important Info** * 18+ (ID may be required) * Photos/video by [CineEye Audiovisual Production Studio ](www.cineeye.co.uk)(inform us if you prefer not to appear) * Attendance is at your own risk. Organisers and the venue are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage. **Limited spots - register early!** Join our [WA Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FJdEP809H5U8WQ4y4BLLS5?mode=hqctcli) to stay connected between events, and follow us on [LinkedIn](http://linkedin.com/company/gmax-card) for upcoming dates.

Join us for two art sessions at Cyphermunk House. **3pm - Mask Workshop** Get hands on with the Sustainable Art Project and this large scale crafting session to make your own mask. **7:30pm & 8:30pm - Sovereign Psychography** Neuro-linguistic programming detox through induced semi-trance via automatic writing workship by CC. [TICKETS](https://btcpay.btc.aw/apps/rvvVwGSSSiJ7UgtzjmBdxy1Uq6a/pos) Promotional activities related to shitcoins not permitted. No unsolicited photograhy. Peace and love.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Shibam Coffee](https://shibamcoffee.com/)!

(Note: RSVPing here on meetup does NOT reserve your seat. To do that, you’ll need to register at our website, **[HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=In-Person-Columbus-Meeting-How-I-Get-Private-Lenders-and-Partners-to-Fund-My-Deals-14-6-2-2026)**.) Tuesday, June 2nd, 5:00–8:30 PM Eastern Central Ohio Chapter Meeting IN PERSON IN COLUMBUS How I Get Private Lenders and Partners to Fund My Deals If you can’t fund it, you don’t have a deal. And right now, funding is where more investors are getting stuck. Private lenders are more cautious. Partners are asking better questions. And deals that look good on paper still fall apart when the money doesn’t show up. That’s why we’re bringing in a panel of investors who are actually getting their deals funded right now. You’ll hear how they’re finding money, structuring deals, and building relationships that lead to repeat funding. Here’s what you’ll learn: * Where they’re finding private lenders today * How they start conversations that lead to funding * What makes lenders and partners say YES * How they structure deals to be fundable * The biggest mistakes investors make when raising money * How to build repeat funding relationships **Early Session (6:00–7:00 PM Eastern):** **Having Trouble Finding Tenants? How Community Shelter Board Can Help** Nicholas Brenner will walk you through programs designed to help rapidly rehouse tenants, including financial support that can stabilize your rentals. **The Deal Room (7:00–7:30 PM Eastern)** Bring deals, funding needs, buyers, and problems. This is where connections turn into action. This meeting is for serious real estate investors nationwide, and we’re known for our high-content, real-life education and our nationwide community of dealmakers. Members and non-members at all levels are welcome. Register below to reserve your seat. Remember, to actually reserve your seat, you have to go **[HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=In-Person-Columbus-Meeting-How-I-Get-Private-Lenders-and-Partners-to-Fund-My-Deals-14-6-2-2026)** and register on our website!

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-columbus-online-tickets-1988563717610?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - +971504724873 ( WhatsApp Only)

**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.

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*