Folklore

**Register now to attend! =>** [https://konfhub.com/ksug-sg-2026-05-21](https://konfhub.com/ksug-sg-2026-05-21) **<=** **Latest promotions** discovered by our community! * Up to **65%** OFF **[Linux Foundation](https://mm.ksug.ai)** bundles Code: **MM26BUNAI** * **25%** OFF **[FinOps X Day](https://ksug.ai/discount/?tab=events&ref=meetup)** Code: **KSAIX26899** * Missed **75%** off [LF / CNCF](https://lf.ksug.ai/)? [Get Notified](https://ksug.ai/?notify&ref=meetup) for next BIG drop! We're excited to collaborate with **[Confluent](https://www.confluent.io/)** to welcome you to the upcoming **KSUG.AI x Apache Kafka Meetup @** [IMDA Singpore office](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SCJVhPcV2h89Eby28)! 🎉 **Agenda and topics preview:** * 18:30pm - 19:00pm: Food, Drinks & Networking * 19:00pm - 20:00pm: [Jun Rao](https://www.linkedin.com/in/junrao/), Co-founder, **[Confluent](https://www.confluent.io/)** * 20:00pm - 20:30pm: Additional Q&A / Networking Food and drinks will be provided between **6.30 and 7 pm** on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a great opportunity to learn and network with our peers. Thanks to our partners @**[Confluent](https://www.confluent.io/)**! **[Register here](https://konfhub.com/ksug-sg-2026-05-21) to secure your spot!** See you all there! **Location:** [IMDA Singapore 10 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 117438 · Singapore](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SCJVhPcV2h89Eby28) **Volunteers / Sponsors / Speakers:** [KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meetup) is actively seeking speakers & sponsors to support our KubeSmart & AI community. Whether it is by offering venue spaces, providing food, or financial support. Sponsors will not only speak at our meetups, receive prominent recognition, but also gain exposure to our extensive membership base of 200,000+ Cloud Native + AI enthusiasts globally. [Volunteering](https://volunteer.ksug.ai/), [Submit Topics](https://speaker.ksug.ai/), [Sponsor Us](https://sponsor.ksug.ai/)! 🚀 **Let's be [kubestrong](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kubestrong/)!** 🎉 Please take a note this event is organized by our peers. We thought it's useful to our members. Join **[#Discord](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua)** for latest update 👉 [https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua) 🔖 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬: ☸ 30% OFF **[Kubernetes](https://lf.ksug.ai/)** Certs - Code: **30K8SUG** ☸ 20% OFF **[FinOps](https://ksug.ai/finops)** Certs - Code: **KSAI_20** 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐖𝐞 𝐃𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬: ✅ Learn 𝐅𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 ⚡ ✅ Certify 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑 💰 ✅ Grow 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑 💪 𝟐𝟎𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ follow **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** 🔥 [linktr.ee/ksug.ai](https://linktr.ee/ksug.ai) *By registering, you consent to the management of your personal information in accordance with KSUG.AI Meetup's [Privacy Policy](https://ksug.ai/privacy). Additionally, you agree that our sponsors may contact you.* **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** is an independent community and not affiliated with or endorsed by CNCF. Kubernetes, K8s, Kubestronaut are registered trademarks of The Linux Foundation.

Hello everyone! Join us for an IN PERSON Apache Kafka® meetup on May 18th from 6:30pm, hosted by IMDA in Singapore! **📍 Venue:** IMDA 10 Pasir Panjang Rd, Mapletree Business City Level 5 Events Room 1&2 Singapore 117438 \*\*\* **🗓 Agenda:** * 18:30pm - 19:00pm: Food, Drinks & Networking * 19:00pm - 20:00pm: Jun Rao, Co-founder, Confluent * 20:00pm - 20:30pm: Additional Q&A / Networking \*\*\* **💡 Speaker:** Jun Rao, Co-founder, Confluent **Talk:** Queues for Kafka **Abstract:** Event streaming is great but sometimes it's easier to use a queue, especially when parallel consumption is more important than ordering. Wouldn't it be great if you had the option of consuming your data in Apache Kafka just like a message queue? For workloads where each message is an independent work item, you'd really like to be able to run as many consumers as you need, cooperating to handle the load, and to acknowledge messages one at a time as the work is completed. You might even want to be able to retry specific messages. This is much easier to achieve using a queue rather than a topic with a consumer group. KIP-932 brings queuing semantics to Apache Kafka. It introduces the concept of share groups. Share groups let your applications consume data off regular Kafka topics with per-message acknowledgement and without worrying about balancing the number of partitions and consumers. With this KIP, you can bring your queuing workloads to Apache Kafka. Come and hear about this innovative new feature being added to Apache Kafka 4.1. \*\*\* If you would like to speak or host our next event please let us know! [community@confluent.io](community@confluent.io)

Join me on Tuesday mornings for a hatha yoga class at Botanic Gardens to unwind, stretch, & breathe in the fresh air. Small class size. Hi! I'm Karyn. I organise this small group Hatha Outdoor yoga class for beginners at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Find me at [Lalang Life](https://www.lalanglife.sg/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=meetupevent) IG [@lalanglifesg](https://www.instagram.com/lalanglifesg/) (a collective of yoga instructors for private yoga sessions at home/your preferred location). **Small Group Outdoor Hatha Yoga Class at Singapore Botanic Gardens** *Perfect for beginners who want to start their yoga journey in a* UNESCO World Heritage setting. **What You'll Experience:** This is an intimate outdoor hatha yoga class for *newcomers to yoga* and those seeking *a gentle introduction to mindful practice*. With class size **capped at just 4 participants**, you'll receive personalised attention while enjoying the tranquil environment of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. **Who This Class Is For:** * Complete beginners who have never tried yoga before * Busy professionals looking for stress relief in nature * Anyone intimidated by large studio classes who prefers small group settings * Nature lovers who want to combine outdoor time with wellness practice **What Each Session Includes:** * Breathing exercises to ground yourself, centre your mind and be ready for the practice * Gentle loosening and warm-up exercises that prepare your body safely for yoga poses (asanas) * Beginner-friendly yoga asanas (poses) taught with clear, step-by-step guidance * Relaxation and pranayama (breathing techniques) to end your practice **Why Choose Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Gardens** * Enhanced mental well-being: Studies show that being in green spaces reduces stress * Fresh air & sunshine benefits: Outdoor practice improves oxygen flow and energy levels * Small group: Maximum 4 participants ensures individual attention Meetup collects payment in USD. If you will like to pay in SGD, sign up on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/outdoor-yoga-for-beginners-3548139?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb) (SGD20) or DM for paynow payment. Payment to me made by 5pm the day before. **Things to bring:** * ***Yoga mat*** * A small towel * Water * Optional ground sheet/picnic mat or large garbage bag. We may practise on the grass. If you might be uncomfortable laying your yoga mat over the grass (which tends to be damp), do bring something to place under your mat. * Insect repellent will be a good idea **Location** **Meeting point.** We'll meet at the open lawn where the **Bougainvilleas and Bamboo collection** is. Look out for my *yellow* bag. * If you are coming from the **Botanic Gardens MRT Exit A** (circle line), (1) enter the gate then walk through Trellis Garden. (2) Take the middle path. (3) Turn right once exiting Trellis Garden. (4) Look out for the bamboo trees. Then walk on the stone path. (5) You should see the open lawn with bougainvilleas. (6) Look out for my Yellow bag. * If driving, the nearest carpark is near Melati Gate. Google map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6) **Note: In case of rain or otherwise, the session shall be cancelled and not proceed. I will try my best to inform you of such cancellation via your registered email at least 45 minutes before the session. I appreciate your understanding on this. Your fee will be refunded if the class is cancelled due to rain.** **Release and waiver of liability** By your getting a ticket to this event, you: \- consent to the voluntary participation in the yoga session conducted by the organiser; \- understand that you should consult a physician before participating in the yoga session;\- recognise that it is your responsibility to notify the organiser of any serious illness or injury before the yoga session; \- will not perform any postures to the extent of strain or pain; \- assume full responsibility for any risks\, injuries\, or damages\, known or unknown\, which I might incur because of the yoga session; \- knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly waive any claim you may have against the organiser\, for injury or damages that you may sustain because of participating in the yoga session\. **Photography/videography** Photos and/or videos may be taken during the class. The photos/videos may be put up in the public domain for publicity purposes. If you do not wish to have your photo/video used, please inform me during the class.

**Check out [funeventssg](https://www.instagram.com/funeventssg/) Instagram for the latest updates!** Looking for a fun & easy way to meet new people? Join us for a relaxed **Board Games Social Mixer** where everyone’s welcome! Enjoy **a wide selection of games**, **free-flow snacks & drinks**, & **plenty of laughs** along the way. No experience needed — come solo or bring friends & **make new connections** through **fun & play**! 🎲✨ **All are welcome, regardless of race, language, religion, nationality, age\* or marital status, as long as you are willing to participate in the activities!** *\*Children are welcome as long as there are accompanying adults* ^Couples, large groups of friends or colleagues who wish to play among themselves and/or with members of the public are welcome too as long as RSVP is made in advance **Coming with your own friends, colleagues or family? Feel free to join too & special arrangements for a private table will be made for you!** Date: **18 May 2026 (Monday)** Time: **6.45 p.m. — 10.30 p.m.** (It is fine if you can only arrive later) Venue: **THE MIND CAFE MEGA** **30 Prinsep Street #01-01 Singapore 188647** *For information on car parking & last trains, click [here](https://www.themindcafe.sg/locate-us/)!* Entry Fee: **SGD13 nett (Heavily Discounted Rate)** **Best Deal for the Largest Social + Gaming Event in SG!** Inclusive of **Self-service** **Freeflow Snacks**, **Freeflow Drinks** & **Unlimited Gaming** for the night! * **Nett price including GST & Service Charge!** * **Well-lit**, **spacious**, **high-ceilinged**, **cosy** & **clean environment!** * **The only social + gaming event** that can accommodate **200 pax!** * **More than 800 boardgames** to choose from! * A **wide variety** of **Self-service Freeflow Snacks & Drinks (non-alcoholic) that you can help yourself to!** You may also order a mouth-watering Main Course at SGD12.90nett which is cheaper than usual! * **Complimentary Token of Appreciation** if you **bring & host your own games**! (PM me in advance) * **Special discounts** for purchase of selected **[boardgames](https://www.instagram.com/p/CswLndaPs_r/)** **exclusively for this event**! \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **IMPORTANT**: 1\. Please ensure you have no close contact with Covid\-19/Mpox positive person\(s\) within the last 5 days\. 2\. Entry fee to be paid to The Mind Cafe upon entry\. Please keep the receipt as proof of payment\. 3\. Participants are strictly not allowed to take photographs or video recording of others at the event without permission\. 4\. Photographs will be taken by the organiser at the event for marketing & publicity\. Should you be uncomfortable with that\, kindly inform the organiser to omit you in the photographs\. 5\. You are encouraged to wear your mask for your own safety\. 6\. Please be considerate\. As seats are limited\, kindly un\-RSVP if you are unable to make it\. 7\. Please observe hygiene when playing the games & treat the games with care\. You may consider using chopsticks/ forks to eat the snacks\. 8\. Please ensure that the games do not get wet\. Kindly use a coaster/ serviette if it is an iced drink\. 9\. No form of solicitation\, MLM\, investment\, scam or harassment will be tolerated\. Kindly inform the organiser on the spot should you encounter anything that makes you uncomfortable\. 10\. Please take care of your personal belongings\. Exchange of any contact information is solely at your own discretion\. The organiser is not accountable for any incidents or loss of personal belongings\. The organiser reserves the right to deny entry to anyone who fails to comply with the rules. By signing up for this event, I agree to the terms & conditions stated above to ensure a safe and conducive environment for all! :)

Join us for a ROCKiN' GööD TiME with "The Phantoms" - a FÜN bunch of musicians & singers! More details to be announced later... 👻 👽 👻 Watch for Videos (to be posted on X): https://x.com/ringaling29

Join us for a laid-back drawing session with Joon, an artist originally from Korea who lived in New York before making Singapore home. We’ll draw together, but that’s just the starting point. Expect conversations about travel, museums, what it’s like to build a life across different cities, and the friendships that form across cultures. Bring your questions, some paper, a pencil/pen, or just yourself. Can’t draw? That’s fine. Neither can most of us. Beginners very welcome — we’ll keep it simple. Find Joon’s work on Instagram at [@joonartistic](https://www.instagram.com/joonartistic/). 📍 Yugoslavia Cage, KINEX Mall — near Paya Lebar MRT 🆓 Free as always. Just buy a drink or snack from the cafe to support the space.

🎨 Guided Watercolor Sessions Take a mindful pause and immerse yourself in the calming flow of watercolor. Join me for a 1.5-hour guided session where we’ll explore gentle techniques, play with color, and reconnect with creativity — no experience needed. ✨ Fee: $40 per person 🕒 Duration: 1.5 hours 💳 Payment: Paynow to 92250120 to book your slot. 🖌️ All materials will be provided. Spaces are limited to keep the experience personal and cozy. Message me to reserve your spot or to find out more. I’d love to paint with you! Check out my IG @jadorestudio_

Meet: King Albert Park MRT Station (DT6) Passenger Service Centre When: Saturday 23rd May 4pm\*\* Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\* Do something different on a Saturday. Join us for a Mini Hike through the Maju Forest. There will be \*MUD\*! Come prepared with a good hiking shoe. The Jurong Railway Tunnel is an abandoned, 1960s-era freight railway tunnel located under Clementi Road, near Maju Camp and the Bukit Timah area in Singapore. Built around 1965 to connect the Jurong industrial estate to the main railway line, the structure is a popular urban exploration spot known for its muddy conditions, "hidden", and often flooded, passageway covered by jungle. - *Mothership* We will end at Clementi Mall for dinner What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides. Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes. Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present. Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk. Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks. ***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.*** Thank you for your kind understanding. Disclaimer: Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out. Walking comes with a risk of personal injury. ***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***

Join us for a refreshing guided walk through one of Singapore’s most iconic hilltop destinations! Take in sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline and harbour while enjoying the cool breeze, lush greenery, and energizing outdoor atmosphere. This walk is perfect for anyone looking to stay active during the holiday season, connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and enjoy a relaxing escape from the busy city routine. Whether you’re aiming to boost your stamina, meet new people, or simply unwind in nature, this experience is suitable for all fitness levels. 🥾 Event Details Date: Thursday, 24 May 2026 Meeting Time: 2:45 PM (for a sharp 3:00 PM departure) Meeting Point: Telok Blangah MRT Station – Exit A (Street Level) Ending Point: HarbourFront MRT Station 🕒 Kindly arrive on time as the group will depart promptly at 3:00 PM. Latecomers may need to make their own way to catch up with the group. ⚠️ What to Bring / Recommendations ✅ Comfortable walking or sports shoes ✅ Raincoat or umbrella ☔ ✅ Hat/cap and sunblock 🌞 ✅ Water bottle 💧 ✅ Power bank 🔋 ✅ Positive energy and smiles 😄 👟 Walk Information The walk will be conducted at a moderate, brisk pace suitable for most participants. Enjoy the fresh air, scenic surroundings, and festive spirit while exploring the beautiful trails and viewpoints around Mount Faber. 📝 Disclaimer Participants are responsible for their own safety and well-being throughout the activity. Please stay alert, follow the guide’s instructions, and notify the organizer if you feel unwell or wish to stop during the walk. Outdoor walking may involve uneven paths and natural obstacles. By participating, you acknowledge and accept these risks. The organizer will not be held liable for any injuries, accidents, or incidents arising during or after the event.

Some quiet morning time doing writing / working at a cafe.

**Solo Travelling Gokon** **Date: Saturday, 23 May 2026** **Time: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM** **Location: The Harbour Place, 114 Tanjong Pagar** **Event Overview:** **In Japan, a gokon ("mixer") 【合コン】 is an event where people can meet opposite gender in a group and they can talk and get to know each other over a meal. For this event, you can connect with fellow travel enthusiasts over great food and engaging conversations. This exclusive Solo Travelling themed Gokon is the perfect opportunity to share your travel stories, exchange tips, and meet new people who share your passion for exploring the world.** **Event Details** 1. **Participants: 6 participants (3 Ladies, 3 Gentlemen)** 2. **Age Range: Ladies aged 25 to 39 | Gentlemen aged 25 to 49** 3. **Participation Fee: Ladies: $20, Gentlemen: $50 (Gentlemen's fee includes a subsidy for the ladies' dining costs)** **Menu Selection** **Guests can choose from the curated menu items below (details to be updated):** **Included 1 meal + 1 alcohol drink provided** RSVP Note: please indicate your gender and age and make payment to Kimi at 8796 4912 to reserve your place. Note that event will be canceled if the minimum of two ladies and two gentlemen is not met and your payment will be refunded in full. In the case when you have a change of plans and you cannot attend, please note that we are unable to provide a refund unless a replacement has been found by you or us.

\* Please note the change in venue. !Beware of scams & false impersonation! We do not feature new authors or charge a speaker fee but wish you the best. Country: Turkey Written in: 1943 Pages: 192 Still unheard of by many English readers, Madonna in a Fur Coat is long considered to be among the country's top literature in Turkey. Thanks to social media reviews on YouTube and TikTok (BookTok!), it's seen a recent resurgence in popularity. So after you read the book you should be able to find some extra content to feed you before the discussion! Here's a review from [Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/Madonna-Fur-Coat-Sabahattin-Ali/dp/0241293855) Madonna in a Fur Coat by Sabahattin Ali is a quiet, deeply moving novel that lingers long after you finish reading. The story tells us about Raif Efendi, a man whose past reveals a deep, life-changing love in 1920s Berlin. Through his colleague’s eyes, one can see how people are easily misunderstood. Raif Efendi comes across as unremarkable and distant at first. As the story unfolds, you see the depth of his character. His time in 1920s Berlin, and his connection with Maria Puder form the heart of the story. Alongside him is the unnamed narrator, his colleague and friend, who becomes an important aspect in how we understand and see Raif. At first, the narrator thinks of Raif the same way everyone does, but later his perception shifts. This change adds another layer to the story, making the readers more curious about Raif. The portrayal of love makes the book stand out. It shows how two people can feel deeply for each other and still not be destined to be together. There is no clear reason to blame, which makes the story feel even more real. Raif’s journey feels both heartbreaking and enduring, as he carries his past quietly into the rest of his life. This is a story about love, loss, and the silent weight people carry. \*\*\*\*\* **New to the Hungry Hundred Book Club?** Here's what you need to know: 1. Read the book (If you don't manage to finish it by the meetup date, don't worry. As long as you're not going to be too disappointed by spoilers, you're still welcome to join.) 2. Come to the meeting, usually (but not always!) on the last Sunday of every month. 3. Be prepared to order food/drink at the venue to show our appreciation for letting us use their space. This is a requirement. A lot of time and effort has been put into finding a place that will accommodate our group without an outrageous minimum charge or rental fee, and you'll never be asked to contribute to organiser fees, so please show your respect and support for the restaurant that's letting us use their space. 4. Discuss! It's a casual conversation, so don't be afraid to ask questions and let us know what you think. 5. Starting in May 2026, attendance fees collected will be split 50% towards Meetup platform fees, and 50% donated to the Singapore Book Council (or other Singapore based charitable organisation). Once Meetup platform fees are covered, 100% will be given to charity.

The topic for May is "Ink" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

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

**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.

Join us as we kick off Summer Movie Season with a Happy Hour & a movie event to see the sci-fi action-adventure, THE MANDOLARIAN AND GROGU! The sci-fi action-adventure follows a lone bounty hunter and his apprentice Grogu (Baby Yoda) embark on an exciting new Star Wars adventure. Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: In the film, Djarin and his apprentice Grogu are enlisted by the New Republic during a period where remaining Imperial warlords threaten the galaxy. The film is written/directed by Jon Favreau (the mastermind behind the early MCU films) and stars Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwild1rw7Aw HAPPY HOUR PLAN: For Happy Hour food and drinks before the show we’ll meet in the bar area at nearby Bravo at 5:15pm! We’ll have a section reserved for the group, so keep an eye out for us and we’ll keep one out for you! CMG Pro Tip: If you can, bring cash as it helps make for a quicker exit from the restaurant. MOVIE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and meet in the lobby area at 6:30pm! Tickets on sale now and advance purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list you seat number in the Comments section of this event. Happy Summer and See You Soon, Dan

**Pagans on the Patio! Summer/Fall Series** A casual gathering the first Thursday of each month. Time to relax, meet new people, and reconnect with old friends. There is no charge for the event itself and all are welcome but there are a few guidelines: 1. **You are expected to purchase food and/or drink to compensate the Cantina and our server.** 2. **No soliciting. Do not bring samples of your wares or brochures of your services.** 3. **Please respect the spiritual and political views of others that are present. No disruption of the peace.** In case of inclement weather, we will find seating indoors. I hope to see you there. Blessed be! \~ Cynthia ❤️---