Chicago Cubs

### **MOUNTAINS – Stories about the climb** ### **Live Storytelling Night (Berlin)** “It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” — Edmund Hillary Some mountains are made of rock. Some are made of doubt, distance, language, love, grief, ambition, or simply getting out of bed when things feel heavy. This May, THE BEAR invites you to an evening of true personal stories about going uphill — about effort, resistance, resilience, and the quiet (or loud) voice that says: keep going. Our host, Izzy Ahrbeck, returns to Berlin fresh from the landscapes of Patagonia — where the mountains are wild, the wind is real, and every step reminds you that climbing is never just physical. Come as you are. Bring your uphill story. Or simply sit back and listen. We climb together. *** ### 🎤 What this event is An evening of **true, personal storytelling—told live on stage.** No scripts. No acting. No fiction. Just real people sharing real moments when life felt steep: * choosing the harder path * starting again from zero * pushing through thin air * reaching a summit that wasn’t what they expected * almost turning back Some stories will be funny. Some raw. All of them human. Music for the evening comes from Rory, adding sound and atmosphere to our climb. *** ### 💭 Why come? Because storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it’s connection. You’ll leave feeling: * more connected to others * reminded of your own experiences * maybe even inspired to tell your own story *** ### 🐻 How the evening works * **Open Stage** \- We randomly selected storytellers' name from our legendary top hat 👉 Want to tell a story? Put your name in the hat during the evening. First time? Even better. We’re known for being a welcoming space for new storytellers. *** ### 🎤 Want to prepare a story? If you’d like feedback before the event, you can send your idea to: 📩 hello@thebear-storytelling.de When booking, choose a **Storyteller Ticket** so we know you’re interested. 📍 **Venue:** Theatre Pool 📅 **Date:** May 21st 🕖 **Time:** 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm 🗣 Language: English (welcoming to all levels and backgrounds) *** ### [🎟 Tickets](https://www.thebear-storytelling.de/events/2026/05/21/mountains-stories-of-the-climb) Entry is **by donation** (Recommended: €15–20) https://www.thebear-storytelling.de/events/2026/05/21/mountains-stories-of-the-climb Give more if you can, less if you can’t. Everyone is welcome. *** ### 💬 Audience question of the night **Tell us about a time in your life when the path felt steep. What kept you climbing?** *** ### ✨ Final note Whether you’ve climbed mountains, careers, identities, relationships, or invisible inner walls — this night is for you. ## **Our Mission** ## *THE BEAR* **has grown into one of Berlin’s most beloved live storytelling events: a place where strangers become a community through the simple act of listening.** Supported by: [THE BEAR e.V. ](https://deref-web.de/mail/client/3fe0d0dh9KM/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fthebear-storytelling.us6.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3Db5d7f087b587f8f081c447437%26id%3Dfc0e2d8df3%26e%3D711d4db9af), [Moving-Speaker.com](https://www.moving-speaker.com/), [Female Speaking Berlin](https://www.femalespeakingberlin.com/), and [Experience Berlin Youtube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@Berlin-Videos).

Join us for a daily chess meetup in the heart of Berlin at Schönhauser Allee 174. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, feel free to drop by anytime between 7 PM and midnight, every single day of the week. No registration is required – just show up and enjoy a game in a fun, inclusive, and casual environment. Newcomers can take advantage of a friendly crash course to get started, while experienced players share strategies, discuss best practices, and even explore quirky variants like Duck Chess or Bughouse. Boards, sets, and clocks are provided, with time controls up to 10 minutes per player for a rapid, engaging experience. It’s the perfect way to unplug, detox from screens, and connect with a diverse, kind-hearted community of chess lovers. The gathering welcomes all levels and backgrounds, creating a vibrant, family-friendly space where everyone can enjoy the game and forge real connections.

**Meet:** Treptow Sbahn. Outside Sesam Cafe (see pin) **Time:** 18:00 **Distance:** 35km **Theme:** Cycle Loop + History + Social Let’s make the most of the long evenings with some history-themed cycle tours this summer. The idea is to meet up after work, get a little cycle in, see some sights and end in a beer garden. **The Tour** The first destination will be Schöneweider: the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis – where modern electricity was pioneered. (see more on this below). We will – more or less – follow the [route of industrial cultur](https://industriekultur.berlin/erleben/fahrradrouten/wasser-und-strom/)e. First we will head East along the South bank of the River, cruise around the industrial heritage of Schoneweider with a few stories form me, then head back up the North side to the Funk Haus (itself a monument of industrial culture) for a sundowner beer and perhaps a bite to eat at [café Zola](https://maps.app.goo.gl/QpGL6UiyQoZG6Bxv8). After that its lights on for a return journey to Treptow/Freidrichshain – estimated time of arrival 9pm. **The Cycling** 20km loop to start and then a little sightseeing and a gentler pace. As long as you have a reasonable bike and are used to cycling around town, you should be fine to join in. **What to Bring** Spare inner tube for your tyre size, cash, waterproofs, suncream, snacks, a smile. Hope to see you there Simon Schöneweider is the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis. It was here that modern electricity networks were developed by AEG, creating a pioneering electricity generation and transmission system that served as a model for all. Not only did they build the power station and grid running from it, they then went on to build the factories necessary to produce components for the electrification of the cities around the globe. Turbines, lamps, cables, valves and much more were manufactured in this kilometer long stretch of the riverside. Along with it came new residential areas as the population swelled to 26 thousand from virtually nothing in 30 years from the 1890s. Today many of the buildings are derelict, some are under development and others are art spaces or ateliers. All retain their beauty and fascination as monuments to Berlin’s industrial past. Come and explore this unique and lesser-known slice of Berlin’s History together.

**Meet:** Treptow Sbahn. Outside Sesam Cafe (see pin) **Time:** 18:00 **Distance:** 35km **Theme:** Cycle Loop + History + Social Let’s make the most of the long evenings with some history-themed cycle tours this summer. The idea is to meet up after work, get a little cycle in, see some sights and end in a beer garden. **The Tour** The first destination will be Schöneweider: the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis – where modern electricity was pioneered. (see more on this below). To get there we will take a lovely piece of new cycle lane along the new ring road and loop out. Then its back up to Schoneweide and – more or less – follow the [route of industrial cultur](https://industriekultur.berlin/erleben/fahrradrouten/wasser-und-strom/)e. First we will head East along the South bank of the River, cruise around the industrial heritage of Schoneweider with a few stories form me, then head back up the North side to the Funk Haus (itself a monument of industrial culture) for a sundowner beer and perhaps a bite to eat at [café Zola](https://maps.app.goo.gl/QpGL6UiyQoZG6Bxv8). After that its lights on for a return journey to Treptow/Freidrichshain – estimated time of arrival 9pm. **The Cycling** 20km loop to start and then a little sightseeing and a gentler pace. As long as you have a reasonable bike and are used to cycling around town, you should be fine to join in. **What to Bring** Spare inner tube for your tyre size, cash, waterproofs, suncream, snacks, a smile. Hope to see you there Simon Schöneweider is the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis. It was here that modern electricity networks were developed by AEG, creating a pioneering electricity generation and transmission system that served as a model for all. Not only did they build the power station and grid running from it, they then went on to build the factories necessary to produce components for the electrification of the cities around the globe. Turbines, lamps, cables, valves and much more were manufactured in this kilometer long stretch of the riverside. Along with it came new residential areas as the population swelled to 26 thousand from virtually nothing in 30 years from the 1890s. Today many of the buildings are derelict, some are under development and others are art spaces or ateliers. All retain their beauty and fascination as monuments to Berlin’s industrial past. Come and explore this unique and lesser-known slice of Berlin’s History together.

Here, If you are good .... you are doing it wrong! Join us for a fun, low-pressure meetup where everyone's a terrible volleyball player! Whether you're a complete beginner or just really, really bad, we're all here to have a laugh and enjoy the game. No experience necessary, just a willingness to have a good time. See you there! NOT SUITABLE for competitive players ! ***This is an indoor event. Please bring hall-sport shoes with light colour soles, street shoes or dark soles are not allowed.*** Follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/landlsc

Drunk driving is not cool, but drunk writing is! This is a community event for writers, with drinks! Work on your own projects or use the creative writing prompts provided. Join us at Das Gift, where we will have focused 20 minute writing sprints, with breaks in between. Das Gift is at Donaustraße 119, 12043, Berlin.

**\>\>\> Registration takes place on Luma: [https://luma.com/yp90isjd](https://luma.com/yp90isjd)** **Welcome to KREATIV UNTAPPED #1 – Storytelling Untapped w/ Ben Sauer** **A hands-on session. No slides. Just your stories.** We couldn't be more excited to tap into this with you at Thoughtworks Berlin. *Follow us on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped).* **KREATIV UNTAPPED** is a creative playground born in Berlin — and we're kicking off with the discipline that sits at the heart of every other one: **storytelling.** Because here's what AI can't replace: the human desire to create. Creativity is what makes us uniquely human — it's a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs training. Most of us have stopped. **KREATIV UNTAPPED** is where we change that — through hands-on sessions with working practitioners across visual arts, tactile crafts, narrative & sound, and spatial & performative disciplines. **This evening** is about words, voice, and presence. In a world full of decks, dashboards and screens, we've forgotten how to just… tell a story. This evening is a practice in putting the slides away and using the oldest tools we have — your voice, your hands, your story. **Expect a short provocation from [Ben](https://bensauer.net/), a hands-on session with a sketching element to flex that creative muscle, a round of group sharing, and time to actually meet the people in the room.** **Who's this for?** Anyone with a story to tell — and the willingness to tell it without a slide deck. No job title. No prior experience. Just the willingness to tap in. Creativity untapped. Connection for real. \-\-\- **ABOUT [BEN SAUER](https://bensauer.net/)** Ben Sauer is a speaker, author, and coach who teaches the art of strategic storytelling — and the perfect person to launch this series. He's the author of "Death by Screens: How to Present High-Stakes Digital Design Work and Live to Tell the Tale" — a go-to resource for designers, product people and creatives who want to stop boring their audiences and actually be heard. Ben spent years as a UX designer at Clearleft, then as Director of Product for AI at Babylon Health, leading a team of 100 on products worth $100m+. He has trained teams at NASA, Amazon, and the BBC, and spoken at The Economist, NEXT Conference, UX London, VW + Audi and dozens more — frequently as the audience's top-rated speaker. More about Ben: [https://bensauer.net](https://bensauer.net/) \-\-\- **AGENDA** • 18:30 – 19:00 · Check-in • 19:00 – 19:15 · Intro – what KREATIV UNTAPPED is and why we're here • 19:15 – 20:15 · Hands-on storytelling session with Ben Sauer (incl. sketching element) • 20:15 – 20:45 · Group sharing round • 20:45 – 20:50 · Wrap-up & what's next • 20:50 – 21:30 · Networking \-\-\- **ADDITIONAL NOTES** **Donation-based event** This first edition is donation-based — give what feels right. Your contribution supports building KREATIV UNTAPPED into something lasting. Donations are non-refundable. **Photos & video** We'll be taking photos and potentially videos throughout the evening. By attending, participants agree that visual material may be used for promotional purposes. Anyone who prefers not to be photographed can let us know on arrival. **Where** Thoughtworks Berlin Revaler Str. 31 (Event Space), 10245 Berlin (In walking distance from S Ostkreuz) \-\-\- **FOLLOW US** LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped) **\>\>\> Registration takes place on Luma: [https://luma.com/yp90isjd](https://luma.com/yp90isjd)** See you there! Creativity untapped. Connection for real. \-\-\- ***An event by our friends from KREATIV UNTAPPED***

***“Terrible Frisbee – Fantastic People!”*** *Low Pressure. No intensity, Terrible Skills. Maximum Fun.* Are you unfit? Uncoordinated? Confused by frisbees? **CONGRATULATIONS, you’re perfect for this.** We a re a group of people who has no idea how to play ultimate frisbee, but want to have fun while trying! Join the worst game of frisbee ever attempted by the friendliest bunch in town. No pressure, no score, just chaotic joy. 🎯 **Expect:** * Frisbees flying in the wrong direction * Chaotic and weird running * Out-loud laughter * Very cool people doing very uncool moves 🚫 **Not welcome:** * Intense players * People who wants to show off their skills * Folks who want to win 🎒 Bring: comfy clothes and shoes, water, and your weirdest energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landlsc/

!!! Note the corrected meeting spot, which for some reason keeps getting changed in the event: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA) \-\-\- **Mandarin Learner Meetup in Berlin! *(Free resources below)*** **Learning Mandarin is like trying to tame a** 🐲**.** It can feel frustrating, but you’re not alone. **[WeHanzi](wehanzi.com)** is here to support! **[WeHanzi](wehanzi.com)** is an independently built iOS app created by Ben and Gina. We've turned the entire learning experience into ***Comprehensible Input* through both simplified and traditional manga** with support for **Zhuyin**, **Pinyin**, **flashcards**, **audio**, **direct translation**, an integrated dictionary. We also specifically design region-specific language to reflect real-life usage in both **mainland Chinese Mandarin** and **Taiwanese Mandarin**, allowing you to naturally compare and explore the differences between the two, so you don’t end up saying something that makes perfect sense in Beijing, but gets you funny looks in Taipei 😏. Now, together with our good friend Matthias from **[Gemeinsam Chinesisch & Deutsch lernen](https://www.meetup.com/gemeinsam-mandarin-chinesisch-und-deutsch-lernen/events/308204343/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events),** we’re inviting you to our very first **in-person Mandarin Learner Meetup in Berlin** together! All levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced learners. Just come hang out, share your stories, laugh at our tone mistakes! As a community, we can learn from each other and turn Mandarin into a piece of cake! 🍰 **Come and join us!** 📱 App: [Wehanzi.com](https://wehanzi.com/) 📸 Free bite-sized resources: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wehanzi/) 📚 More free tools: [wehanzi.app/menu](https://wehanzi.app/menu) **📍ABOUT THE MEETING SPOT** Please note that we will meet HERE, on the 3 wooden tree benches slightly left of the main entrance gate of Tempelhofer Feld: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA) We'll meet at the meeting spot first and then - depending on the weather - decide as a group to either walk around Tempelhofer Feld or go to a closeby restaurant to warm up and chat. So please be on time. Or if you are running late or can't find us, just give Matthias a call on 0176-21984345. See you all soon, Gina & Matthias

Chitta Walks is for people whose days move fast, while the mind never fully lands. Thoughts keep looping even when nothing is urgent. The body moves, but attention is elsewhere. Over time, this disconnect drains clarity and ease. This walk is a simple reset. We meet in Berlin’s Tiergarten and walk at a gentle pace. Parts of the walk are in silence, with light guidance and a few short prompts. The walk itself is the practice, bringing body and mind back into the same moment. No apps. No performance. Just a clear space to slow down and notice what is happening. If you want to slow down without withdrawing from life, join a Chitta Walk. ✨ **What to expect (approx. 90 minutes):** * A short arrival and orientation * A guided silent walk (phones off, no conversation) * One concise science-based impulse on attention or stress * Optional reflection in pairs or small groups * A simple takeaway or experiment for daily life 🚶**Who this is for:** * Professionals, creatives, and people in transition. * People who feel mentally busy and want more clarity and balance. * Those curious about mindfulness, but grounded and practical. * Anyone comfortable with silence and gentle self observation. 🔔 **Practical notes:** * Duration: 60-90 minutes * Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing * No prior experience needed * Group size is limited to keep the space quiet and focused 🧭 **Facilitator:** My name is Partha Sarathi, you can call me PS. I have lived in Berlin for over 12 years. With a background in physics and materials science, my interest in mindfulness grew through personal experience with stress and health challenges. I facilitate the space and structure of the walk, inviting shared exploration rather than instruction. 🤔 **Why Chitta Walks?** Chitta is a Sanskrit word referring to the mind or field of awareness, used here in a practical, non-religious sense. Chitta Walks is about noticing how the mind works by slowing down and walking together. Mindful walking makes thought patterns visible in real time, while moving and sensing in the world. The name points to a simple capacity: noticing what is happening in the mind without immediately trying to fix, judge, or optimize it. 🌿 **Possible effects:** A calmer nervous system. Clearer attention. A felt sense of being more present in your body. Subtle insights into how your mind reacts under everyday conditions. A quieter, more grounded way of moving through the city. **Come as you are. Walk. Notice. Leave with a little more space inside.**

!!! ABOUT THE MEETING SPOT !!! For some reason, the map pin keeps jumping back to the wrong meeting spot and [meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) won't let me change it! Please note that we will meet HERE: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA) \-\-\-\-\- 大家好！ Thanks to everyone joining in our past events - 很高兴认识你们! Now let's meet again to learn German and Mandarin Chinese together, because as they say in German: "Wer rastet, der rostet!" :) Feel free to bring a friend as well! We'll meet here, on the 3 wooden tree benches slightly left of the main entrance gate of Tempelhofer Feld: https://maps.app.goo.gl/L8SuKJxoLLa8hXCdA We'll meet at the meeting spot first and then - depending on the weather - decide as a group to either walk around Tempelhofer Feld or go to a closeby restaurant to warm up and chat. So please be on time. Or if you are running late or can't find us, just give me a call on 0176-21984345. See you all soon, 昊兴 (Matthias)

**Looking for a fun, social outdoor sport in Berlin this summer?** Join us to get to know Strandvölkerball - a German twist on dodgeball played on sand! **🏐 What is Strandvölkerball** Strandvölkerball is a **German version of dodgeball played on sand**, combining quick reflexes, teamwork, and a lot of laughs. No experience needed! Most people who join are beginners or haven't played since school. Our ball is very soft! **📍Central Berlin Location** We play **weekly games right next to the East Side Gallery** **in Friedrichshain**, one of the most iconic spots in Berlin. It's the perfect setting for enjoying summer evenings, moving in the sand, and meeting new people. You also have a great view of the beautiful Oberbaumbrücke. **🌞 Weekly Social Games - All Levels Welcome** * **Mixed games every week during the summer** * Focused on **fun, movement, and community** * **Beginner-friendly** – easy to learn, no pressure * Come solo or bring friends! * **Check back on the day of the event** \- sometimes we have to cancel due to **heat, storm, or lack of participants** During the season, some of our training sessions may be reserved for tournament preparation. **🏆 Friendly Tournaments & Special Events** We also host occasional **tournaments**, which are still focused on **fun and inclusive competition**. To join a tournament, you should visit at least some of our social games to learn the rules. Please read the tournament descriptions carefully. 🔥 **Season Highlight: The StrandVÖLKERball-WM** Our biggest event is the **StrandVÖLKERball-WM**, a multi-day festival with: * Teams from all over Germany * Great music, good vibes, and lots of high-quality Strandvölkerball games * Open participation, attend a few trainings, and you'll likely find a team * Want to start your own team? Awesome! Register at: [strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/](https://strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/) **If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us or check our [Website](https://strandvoelkerball.de/).** We can help you with everything, from joining your first social game to finding a team for one of the tournaments. \-\-\- **Auf der Suche nach einem unterhaltsamen, geselligen Outdoor-Sport in Berlin diesen Sommer?** Komm zu uns und lerne Strandvölkerball kennen – eine deutsche Variante von Völkerball, die im Sand gespielt wird! **🏐 Was ist Strandvölkerball** Strandvölkerball ist eine deutsche **Variante von Völkerball, die im Sand gespielt wird** und schnelle Reflexe, Teamwork und jede Menge Spaß vereint. Keine Vorkenntnisse erforderlich! Die meisten Teilnehmer sind Anfänger oder haben seit ihrer Schulzeit nicht mehr gespielt. Unser Ball ist sehr weich! **📍Mitten in Berlin** Wir spielen wöchentlich **direkt neben der East Side Gallery in Friedrichshain**, einem der bekanntesten Orte Berlins. Es ist der perfekte Ort, um Sommerabende zu genießen, sich im Sand zu bewegen und neue Leute kennenzulernen. Außerdem hat man einen tollen Blick auf die schöne Oberbaumbrücke. **🌞 Wöchentliche Community Games - Alle Spielstärken willkommen** * **Jede Woche im Sommer gemischte Spiele** * **Spaß, Bewegung und Gemeinschaft** stehen im Vordergrund * **Anfängerfreundlich –** leicht zu lernen, kein Druck * Komm alleine oder bring Freunde mit! * **Schau am Tag der Veranstaltung noch einmal vorbei** – manchmal müssen wir aufgrund von **Hitze, Sturm oder zu wenigen Teilnehmern** absagen. Während der Saison können einige unserer Trainingseinheiten für die Turniervorbereitung reserviert sein. **🏆 Freundschaftsturniere & Sonderveranstaltungen** Wir veranstalten auch gelegentlich **Turniere**, bei denen der **Spaß und der integrative Wettkampf** im Vordergrund stehen. Um an einem Turnier teilzunehmen, sollten Sie mindestens einige unserer Community Games besuchen, um die Regeln zu lernen. Bitte lesen Sie die Turnierbeschreibungen sorgfältig durch. 🔥 **Saison-Highlight: Die StrandVÖLKERball-WM** Unser größtes Event ist die **StrandVÖLKERball-WM**, ein mehrtägiges Turnier mit: * Teams aus ganz Deutschland * Toller Musik, guter Stimmung und vielen hochkarätigen Strandvölkerball-Spielen * Offene Teilnahme – Nimm an ein paar Trainingseinheiten teil und du wirst mit Sicherheit ein Team finden! * Möchten Du dein eigenes Team gründen? Super! Registrier dich unter: [strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/](https://strandvoelkerball.de/wm-landing/) **Wenn Du Fragen hast, zöger bitte nicht, uns zu kontaktieren oder unsere [Website](https://strandvoelkerball.de/) zu besuchen.** Wir helfen dir gerne weiter, vom ersten Community Game bis hin zur Suche nach einem Team für eines der Turniere.

Saturday afternoon is perfect to play Werewolf - in the Mauerpark. We are a group of friendly people who will teach you how to play Today´s games: Werewolf **IMPORTANT** It's relaxed playing, nothing for ambitious gamers or people who take it too serious.

**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.

Click Here For More Videos: [https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/](https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/) The Biggest Salsa Night to hit your mid-week is happening at Latin City Wednesdays. Get the feel of the Latin Beat as your hips and feet groove the right way. Viva Dance Columbus (2809 Festival Lane Dublin, OH 43017) 830pm-930pm Cuban Salsa Lessons 930pm-Midnight Open Latin Dance Party 15 With Lesson 10 Just Open Dance Free Parking, No Need to Bring a dance partner, No Sandals Please and Plenty of Space to Move Around.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

**Abstract:** This is a practical playbook for building a production-grade data lakehouse. It walks through foundational principles — naming conventions, least-privilege access, automated CI/CD testing — before diving into medallion architecture. Furthermore, metadata-driven design patterns show how configuration tables and dynamic notebook orchestration eliminates hard-coded pipelines. The deck covers star schema modeling, guidance on choosing between Spark, Pandas, and SQL, and data quality enforcement using DQX with YAML data contracts. Finally, we dive into security best practices and performance optimizations. **Host:** Justin Shea, Mehdi Jeddi, Erik Pak, and Sou-Cheng Choi **Talk Format:** This is a hybrid event. To attend online, join us on Zoom here at 6pm: https://iit-edu.zoom.us/j/89379230295?pwd=NdETyE5sdYuSrvsrBZXSBFkUESBVkg.1 Meeting ID: 893 7923 0295 Passcode: 5t5WYn **Sponsor:** Adyen, UIC College of Business, and PyData Chicago co-host this event. UIC will provide the meeting site. Adyen will sponsor pizza and soft drinks for the onsite participants. **Address:** University of Illinois - Chicago, Douglass Hall, Room 220, 705 S Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60607 **Logistics:** “UIC Douglass Hall” is recognized on Google Maps, which can guide you through campus. Once you arrive, proceed to the second floor, room number 220

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan