Cultural Activities

**Meet:** Tanjong Rhu MRT (TE23) Passenger Service Centre **When:** Thursday, 28 May, 5:00 PM Most of our events take place rain or shine unless otherwise stated in the event chat. Please check the event page on the day of the event for the latest updates and important information. Please be punctual. Attendees are encouraged to arrive slightly early to avoid disappointment. There will be a 5-minute grace period for attendance taking. We are unable to wait beyond that, as it would be unfair to those who arrived on time. Join us for a relaxing walk along the Kallang River! We’ll follow the river via the Pelton Canal towards Grantral Mall — otters have been spotted along the canal, so keep an eye out :-) Dinner will be at Grantral Mall after the walk. See you there! :-) **What to Bring:** * Shades * Umbrella * Water * Comfortable walking shoes * Long pants (preferred) * Mosquito repellent This is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of thunderstorms, we will pause for coffee or an early dinner and resume the walk once the weather improves. All event updates and communication will be via the event chat. Please check the chat on the day of the event for any changes or announcements. Kindly note that I may not be able to respond to messages once the walk has started, as I will be assisting attendees and leading the group. Please RSVP responsibly to give those on the waitlist an opportunity to join. If you are unable to attend, do update your RSVP by the day before the event whenever possible. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Disclaimer** Your physical well-being and safety are your own responsibility. Please exercise caution during the walk and inform me if you feel unwell or need to leave early. Walking carries an inherent risk of personal injury. By joining this event, you acknowledge and accept responsibility for your own safety and participate at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be held liable for any accidents, injuries, or incidents arising from participation in the event.

**Priority given to regulars, intermediate level players and players who have their private message function switched on. If you dont have it switched on, I cannot ask for your availability and skill level etc** **2 hrs..For Intermediate level and above..** **Decided to organize TT for people living in Central/North side of the island.** **Things to take note** **• Pls message me at 96751920 or drop a private message here if you have any questions.** **• Do bring your own bat. Balls would be provided.** **• If for some reason you aren't able to make it on that day, please remove yourself from the RSVP list so as to not deprive those in the waiting list a chance to play.** **\*\***\***\***\*NOTE: FOR THOSE WHO HAD RSVP BUT 1. **DID NOT TURNED UP ON THE DAY OR** 2. **DID NOT INFORMED THAT THEY AREN'T ABLE TO MAKE IT OR** 3. **DID NOT WITHDRAW RSVP WHEN THEY CANNOT MAKE IT** **ON THE FUTURE MEETUP WHICH YOU RSVP, YOU WOULD BE LIABLE TO PAY FOR THE SESSION YOU HAD MISSED PREVIOUSLY.** 1. **REPEATED OFFENDERS (MORE THAN 2 TIMES) WILL MEAN AUTO DROP DOWN TO "NOT GOING" LIST IF I SEE YOUR NAME ON RSVP LIST ON THE NEXT MEETUP.** *** **• Find us at Tables 1-5** **Any questions, please feel free to drop me a message.** **Cheers**

Start your morning with an energizing nature hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, one of Singapore’s most iconic rainforest trails. This session focuses on building cardiovascular endurance, exploring scenic forest routes, and preparing participants for future hikes and adventure activities. Whether you're looking to stay active, reconnect with nature, or meet like-minded outdoor enthusiasts, this hike offers a refreshing way to boost both your physical and mental well-being. As the festive season approaches, it’s also a great opportunity to maintain your fitness momentum while enjoying the outdoors with a supportive community. ✨ Why Join ✔ Improve cardiovascular fitness and stamina ✔ Experience beautiful rainforest trails with natural elevation ✔ Prepare for upcoming hikes and outdoor adventures ✔ Meet positive, health-conscious individuals who enjoy the outdoors 📍 Event Details Location: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Date: Thursday, 28 May 2026 Meeting Time: 8:45 AM (Sharp) Meeting Point: Beauty World MRT – Passenger Service Counter Activity Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM 🥾 Route Overview • Bukit Timah Nature Park • Bukit Timah Summit – Loop Trail • Wallace Trail • Dairy Farm Hut • Return to Bukit Timah Nature Park 🎒 Preparation Please come prepared with: ✅ Proper hiking or sports footwear ✅ Water for hydration ✅ Comfortable attire for outdoor activity Optional: ➕ Light snacks ➕ Sun protection ➕ Insect repellent ⏰ Please be punctual as the group will start on time. ⚠ Disclaimer This is a casual community activity. Participation is voluntary and at your own discretion. Participants are responsible for ensuring they are physically fit for hiking activities and for their own safety during the event. Outdoor activities may involve natural risks such as uneven terrain, slips, falls, weather changes, and physical exertion. By joining, participants acknowledge and accept these risks. The organizer will not be liable for any injuries, loss, or incidents that may occur during the activity. 🌱 Come hike, recharge in nature, and connect with a community that values health, fitness, and outdoor adventure. Limited slots available – RSVP to secure your spot.

## 🌱 Introduction to Gardening **– 28 May** 🌱 We are excited to have a **Introduction to Gardening** SWEE! Day event **28 May**! Join us for a relaxing and enjoyable session where we will have: 🌿 **Seed Exchange** 🪴 **Plant Exchange** 💬 **Simple Gardening Sharing Session** Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, everyone is welcome! Come learn more about gardening, share your experiences, and make new friends who enjoy plants and nature. 😊 👉 Kindly let us know if you are interested in joining the event. 👉 Feel free to bring along seeds or plants for sharing and exchange. If you enjoy gardening and would like to connect with others in the community, we warmly welcome you to join us. **We look forward to seeing you there! 🌸** Please contact Edward at 8533 3971 to confirm your attendance or if you have any enquiries. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Who Are We ?** We are from Bless Community Services SWEE! club, where we organize activities for seniors. Our activities are as follows : | **Day** | **Time** | **Event** | **Remarks** | | --- | ---- | ----- | ------- | | Mon | 8am | Morning Walk | Routes vary weekly | | Wed | 9am | Line Dance | Intermediate class. **$10/mth** | | Wed | 1pm | Ukelele, Rummi-O | | | Thu | 9am | Line Dance | Beginner class. **$10/mth** | | Thu | 1pm | Chi Calligraphy | All 3 levels. **$10/mth** | | Thu | 4pm | Photography Club | **\*Monthly**. Mobile phone photography. | | Fri | 9am | Stretching +Aerobics | | | Fri | 10am | Pickleball | Paddle and ball available. |

## Details **♟️ Geek Out, Stress Out 🎯** **Note:** If you are hosting games, you can create a session under this event via this URL: [https://playbojio.vercel.app/](https://playbojio.vercel.app/) Ready to flex that board game brain? This night is for the seasoned gamers, the engine-builders, the tableau tacticians, and the worker placement pros. We're diving into the deeper end of the tabletop pool—**strategy games that challenge, engage, and maybe even melt your brain (in a good way).** Whether you're plotting your next move in a Euro classic or trying out a hot new release, this is your space to **go big on games** and connect with fellow strategy lovers. Bring your A-game, bring your favorite titles to share, and let’s get into the good stuff. **Venue:** Geekster **Time:** 7pm to 11pm (Every Thu) **Address:** 100 Lorong 23 Geylang #03-02 S388398 (Near to Aljunied MRT, take the shorter path at Atrix Bulding) **Fee:** Option A: Roll 2 dice and the sum will be the entry fee Option B: S$8 per entry Both options come with **ONE** complimentary drink **🎲 Play Arena Rules 🎲** 1️⃣ Max capacity: 24 people (excluding Geekster). RSVP is first come, first served. If you can’t make it, please de-RSVP so others on the waitlist can join. ✅🔄 2️⃣ Be respectful—no excessive noise or aggressive behavior. 🚫🎭 3️⃣ You’re welcome to bring your own games! Just make sure they’re ***clean*** and ***mold-free***. Comment below with what you're bringing. 😊🎲 4️⃣ Handle all games with care. Damage to Geekster’s games may incur a replacement fee. 💸⚠️ 5️⃣ No outside food or drinks (except plain water). Keep food and drinks away from games. 🚱🍔 6️⃣ Feeling unwell? Please stay home. Hosts may deny entry if needed. 🤒❌ 7️⃣ Keep an eye on your belongings; management isn’t responsible for lost items. 🎒👀 8️⃣ Theft = police report + permanent ban. 🚔🚨 Please join our **Telegram** group here for more details/updates: [https://t.me/+6r-3vSQcxwNjZjM1](https://t.me/+6r-3vSQcxwNjZjM1) **CONNECT WITH US!** **📌 Follow us on** [IG](https://www.instagram.com/geekster.sg/) **📌 Check out our latest arrivals and pre-orders on our** [website](https://www.geekster.sg/)

Step into the sultry, magnetic world of Argentine tango for an unforgettable evening of rhythm and connection! Even if you’ve never stepped onto a dance floor, you’ll be captivated by the haunting melodies and passionate beats of this iconic genre. Come soak up the atmosphere as you watch skilled dancers bring the music to life, expertly curated by the renowned DJ Joxlyn, whose selections perfectly capture the soul of the tango. Free entry for non dancers and everyone will receive a free trial class voucher to help you take your first steps into this beautiful dance. Join us for a night where the music moves you and discovery awaits! PS: A standard cocktail or alcoholic drinks is only $8 from Chimichanga!

**You’ve built a career—but are you building something that truly matters?** If you’ve ever wondered whether your skills could be used for something more meaningful, you’re not alone. Join us for a morning walk near Raffles Place for networking and knowledge sharing focused on meaningful work and venture building. Connect with like-minded professionals and founders, engage in meaningful conversations, and discover opportunities to contribute to a more sustainable future. This meetup is the perfect platform to expand your network, exchange ideas, and learn the secrets behind venture building. Let’s explore how your experience can help build a better future—alongside others who are turning that same restlessness into real impact. [Note: Please be on time as this is a walk! We may grab a coffee after the walk, so please message me if you would like to join for that only!]

A relaxed weekend brunch with good food, good drinks, and even better conversation. Six seats, one table, and a mix of people you haven't met yet — that's the whole idea. I plan to keep every brunch small on purpose. Six people means everyone gets heard, conversations go somewhere, and you actually leave knowing the people you sat with. **Before you join — a couple of things** This event is carefully put together, and I'd like to keep it that way. Before your spot can be confirmed, please make sure: * Your Meetup profile has your **real name** * You have a **clear photo of yourself** \- not a logo\, not a pet\, not a landscape Once that's sorted, **send a WhatsApp to 8152 7329** to convey your interest. Spots are only confirmed by the host — do not turn up unless you've received confirmation directly from me. **Please read this part** Life happens, I get it. But with only six seats, a last-minute cancellation or no-show leaves a gap that's hard to fill. Out of respect for everyone at the table: No-shows will result in a ban from the group. If you're canceling with less than 48 hours to go, please WhatsApp me first as a courtesy. **See you soon.** ☀️

To confirm your participation, please email **completeme@outlook.sg** or WhatsApp **(65)** **81252321** us at least 3 days before the event. Please note that marking yourself as “Interested” on Meetup does not confirm your slot. Kindly contact us early to secure your place. **Walk-ins are not allowed.** Join this special Public Holiday edition of our speed dating experience — a time when we often welcome many new participants who are usually unable to join our regular weekend events due to work or other commitments. Enjoy a dynamic group of 4 rotation format where you’ll have the opportunity to meet every participant of the opposite gender in a structured and engaging setting. The event will proceed with a minimum of 32 singles, ensuring a vibrant and diverse crowd. After the session, mutual matching will take place. Your ticket includes: ✨ 1 complimentary drink ✨ Guided group rotations ✨ Mutual matching ✨ A week-long facilitated Telegram chat group If you’re looking to meet new people, expand your circle, and potentially discover someone special — this is an event designed for you. **Cost:** BFF (Best Friends Forever) - 2 Ladies' Tickets $39 Lady's Ticket $29 Gentleman's Ticket $48 This event is organised by **CompleteMe Dating Agency**. Founded in 2012, CompleteMe is a Singapore-based dating agency known for its curated dating events and speed dating sessions designed for working professionals. Having organised over 1,000 dating activities, the agency has helped countless singles meet, connect, and build meaningful relationships over the years. As a legit dating agency, CompleteMe conducts verification checks to ensure that all participants are legally single.

To confirm your participation, please email **completeme@outlook.sg** or WhatsApp **(65)** **81252321** us at least 3 days before the event. Please note that marking yourself as “Interested” on Meetup does not confirm your slot. Kindly contact us early to secure your place. **Walk-ins are not allowed.** Science says endorphins boost attraction. So instead of sitting across a dinner table… why not move together? Join us for a fun monthly community run and workout led by a certified personal trainer, specially organised for singles. This session is designed for beginners and casual runners who want to stay active while enjoying the outdoors. This is a non-competitive run and the pace will be comfortable for most fitness levels. Whether you want to improve your fitness, refresh your mind, or simply enjoy a run and workout in the park, come join us for this energising session. Your experience doesn’t end there. You will be invited to a private Telegram group for one week, providing the opportunity to continue conversations either in the main group or privately with your matches. Your ticket includes: ✨ Personal Trainer session ✨ A week-long facilitated Telegram chat group If you’re looking to meet new people, expand your circle, and potentially discover someone special — this is an event designed for you. **Cost:** Lady's Ticket $18 Gentleman's Ticket $18 This event is organised by **CompleteMe Dating Agency**. Founded in 2012, CompleteMe is a Singapore-based dating agency known for its curated dating events and speed dating sessions designed for working professionals. Having organised over 1,000 dating activities, the agency has helped countless singles meet, connect, and build meaningful relationships over the years. As a legit dating agency, CompleteMe conducts verification checks to ensure that all participants are legally single.

Wake up to a fun-filled Saturday morning of board games at Tampines Mart! Whether you're a seasoned board gamer or new to the world of tabletop games, this space is perfect for everyone. Bring your favorite games or try out the ones provided by our welcoming group of board game enthusiasts. Meet new friends, strategize your next move, and enjoy a casual and social gaming experience in the heart of Tampines. Don't miss out on this opportunity to bond over board games and make memories that will last a lifetime. See you soon!

Step into a warm, welcoming space where ladies and gents can meet, mingle, and build genuine new friendships. Whether you’re coming alone or tagging along with a friend, the evening is designed to help you feel comfortable and connected. ✨ What Makes This Event Special? \- FREE entry for ladies \(RSVP required\) \- First 10 attendees to arrive at the meetup will get a complimentary shot\! \- Guided social experience to help you meet people comfortably \- Fun icebreakers to make conversations even easier \- Fast\-friending rounds so you can connect with multiple attendees \- A reserved space just for our group\! \- Happy Hours\! TICKETS: (**payable in cash and will be collected by** **Clara at the start of the evening**) Ladies - FREE Entry Gents - 20 SGD \-\-\- 🕖 Evening Flow 8:00 PM – Arrival & Welcome Settle into our reserved area, grab a drink, and let Clara introduce you to a few friendly faces. 8.30 PM to 9:30 PM – Fast Friending \- Meet a new person every 3\-6 minutes\. \- Shelly will guide each switch so you can connect with many lovely attendees in a short amount of time\. After 9:30 PM – Open Mingling Continue conversations with your favourite connections or meet more people at your own pace. **Our venue for the evening -** We have a reserved area where our members can meet each other in a supportive environment! \- We are not a close knit tight group\. Our evenings are warm and comfortable for members attending for the first time and those coming alone\. You will not feel alone\! \- We have many groups in this city\. Members of our other groups who RSVP are included as guests of the organisers in order to give you an indication of expected people\. \- This evening is for ladies and gents in the 21 to 45 age group\. While some will be at the younger end of this range there will also be others at the other end of the range and lots in\-between\! You will naturally gel with others of your own age range and so you will always find many attendees who fit your range\. \- We are not a dating group\. Our events are not organised to manage your dating life\. Our group is created to help ladies and gents meet other like minded ladies and gents\. Please do not attend our event if a perfect gender balance is important for your enjoyment of our meet\-up\. \-\-\-\-\-\-\- Why do we have tickets? 1. Cover our costs - Our host is compensated for their time and work. We also pay meetup and have dedicated staff to manage our events, hosts, venues and communication. 2. Group Safety - By securing your ticket we have a record and you contribute to a well organized evening where everyone is more committed and better behaved. 3. Management - Tickets help us better manage attendee group size, book suitable space and activity. ABOUT [fastfriends.co.uk ](https://fastfriends.co.uk/)- We have connected members successfully for the past 10 years in over 30 cities (operating as Expatsclub, MeetConnectDevelop and fastfriends.co.uk). **Here are some videos which will give you some guidance -** Secrets of socializing at our meetups - [http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing](http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing) How to make new friends - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs) How to make people like you at our socials -[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI) Why you should attend our evenings - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8)

Join us for an evening of friendly, one-on-one conversations. You will chat for 6 to 8 minutes at a table with a participant of the opposite gender before the guys move to the next table. During the event, you will receive a choice list to indicate up to half of the opposite gender that you would like to know better. Mutual matches will be privately shared via email within 1-2 days. 🔗 For event description and more details, refer to: **[https://www.oneplusone.com.sg/upevents.html#one](https://www.oneplusone.com.sg/upevents.html#one)** 📍Venue: **a food outlet or communal spot in town and near MRT**. It may not be halal. Either no minimum spending or just a few dollars for drinks/snacks. Details will only be provided to the confirmed applicants. 🕖 Meet-up time: **5pm**. Session is until around 7pm or earlier. Cost: **$6 for ladies. $12 for guys**. These are admin fees. 🎂 **Recommended age range: mid-20s to the 30s, or close to that range**. For males who are around mid-20s or below, we recommend checking with us for suitability before applying. ✅\* *Please bring your Singpass app for quick on-site verification that your marital status is Single or equivalent (open app > View all > Family > Marital status). As a genuine organiser, we put in reasonable effort to check that attendees are single. If your status is unverified, the Contact List will reflect "Unverified" next to your name*. 📋\* Only verified singles who attend the entire session will receive the Contact List, which includes the names of the opposite gender. Applicants can voluntarily add any of their contact details (e.g. email, telegram, IG) to that list if they wish to. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📝 **How to apply:** 1. Event is only for Singles who are S'poreans, PRs, EP & S-Pass holders. 2. To apply, RSVP in this Meetup page & we will follow up with you. You may also apply via the link above. 3. If you are shortlisted, we will directly request you to make payment. ❓If you have questions, please contact Jerald at 90170885 or [Lim.Jerald@gmail.com](http://Lim.Jerald@gmail.com)

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

This is the 50th Anniversary of the Judgment of Paris. Significantly, in 1976, California wines unexpectedly outperformed French wines in a blind tasting with nine French judges, challenging the perception that only French wines were of the highest quality. This event helped elevate the status of California wines on the global stage and is considered a pivotal moment in wine history. House Wine, in Worthington, modestly, recreates that moment in history with a tasting both American and French wines in a fun, casual atmosphere. Come at 6:45, pay your fee at the register and join your friends for this "Judgey" tasting. https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/wine/the-judgment-of-paris-turns-40/ Arrive when you can and we'll have a table for gathering. Feel free to bring your own food as it is welcomed at this local gem or order from the newly opened Worthington Inn, or local favorites such as Dewey's, Everest, Jet, Worthington Tavern and The Whitney. Each person pays their tasting fee, typically $15, and gets their wine glass, then approximately five pours of the wines being served. **Parking is tough**. Try the second lot behind House Wine accessed by the land by the back parking lot or the municipal lot one block north of House Wine. **Waiver and Liability and Attendance Policy.** Participation by you and your guests means you agree to the Waiver of Liability and Attendance Policies on our Group Page. People who have two more or Attendance policy violations are subject to removal from the group.

Inspired by our successful events like "Saturday Mornings @ East Market" and other "Pot Luck in the Park" lunches, this gathering promises to be a blend of fun conversations, language exchange, and cultural insights, all while sharing wonderful foods with each other. **Please bring a dish to share and anything you would like to drink.** We will provide plates, plastic silverware and napkins. So, come hungry and ready to chat!