Fundraising for Animals

🏃‍♂️ Sunday Vacations | Train Together, Finish Together --- Thinking about joining the **20km of Brussels on May 31st**… but don’t want to train alone? 👉 Join our **after-work training group** and prepare together in a fun, social, and motivating atmosphere. Whether you're a beginner or already running regularly — **you’re welcome.** --- ## 📆 Weekly Runs (April → May) We train **twice a week after work**: ### 🔵 Once per week – Easy Social Run 👉 Perfect to build consistency and meet the group --- ### 🟣 Once per week – Long Run (Main Session) * Distance increases every week * Structured pace groups 👉 This is the **key session** to prepare for the 20km --- ## 🏳️ Follow Your Flag (Pace Groups) To keep things simple, we use the official **20km Brussels pacemaker system**: * 🟠 **Beginner (≈ 2h15)** Run/walk friendly — just aim to finish * 🟣 **Steady (≈ 2h00)** Comfortable and regular pace * 🟢 **Intermediate (≈ 1h45)** Faster group for those who want a challenge 👉 Not sure? Start easy — you can switch anytime. --- ## 📊 Long Run Progression We gradually build up to the race: 6 km → 8 km → 10 km → 12 km → 14 km → 16 km → 18 km 🔥 * lighter week before the race --- ## 🏁 Goal 📅 Sunday 31 May 2026 🎯 Run the 20km of Brussels — together --- ## 💡 What to expect * Friendly, international group 🌍 * No one left behind * Natural pace groups * Motivating and social vibe 👉 We start together, run in groups, and finish together. --- ## ☕ After the run Optional drink or snack — because it’s also about **meeting people and having fun** --- ## ⚠️ Practical info * Bring water * Wear proper running shoes * Join at your own responsibility * Beginners welcome --- ## 🌍 About Sunday Vacations We are a **Brussels-based community** organizing social activities, hikes, and trips. 👉 This training is part of our mission: **bringing people together through shared experiences** --- ## 🔗 Participation To join, a **Sunday Vacations membership** is required: * Explorer (€5/year) → + €5 organizing fee * Voyager (€50/year) → no organizing fee * Ambassador (€150/year) → no organizing fee + perks 👉 Details: [www.sundayvacations.com/membership](http://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) --- 🔥 Don’t train alone — join us and enjoy the journey to the 20km!

Join us for an energizing Qi Gong class focused on physical exercise techniques that help cultivate and balance your energy. Qi Gong is a traditional Chinese practice that combines movement, breathing, and meditation to improve overall well-being. In this session, you will learn various exercises aimed at enhancing physical strength, flexibility, and vitality. Whether you are a beginner or have experience with Qi Gong, this class is designed to help you connect with your inner energy and feel rejuvenated. Come discover the power of Qi Gong and train your body and mind for better health and harmony.

let's join the dyke march and occupy the streets of Brussels. Meeting point : the Crazy circle. Most likely it will be very crowded, so check the exact meeting point détails in the comment section of the event just before we gather Stay tuned 😁 more info [https://www.instagram.com/dykesbxl?igsh=MWE0OHJlYW5qNDVyZg==](https://www.instagram.com/dykesbxl?igsh=MWE0OHJlYW5qNDVyZg==)

**Join us for a relaxed and tasty afternoon at the Brussels Food Festival 🍔🌮🍜, an open-air food event taking place in Auderghem**. The festival brings together a wide selection of international street food, food trucks, and culinary specialties, offering a great opportunity to discover different flavors in a lively outdoor setting. 🌞✨ Participants can walk through the festival area, explore different food stands, try dishes from around the world 🌍, enjoy drinks or desserts 🥤🍰, and spend time in a friendly social atmosphere. This event is ideal for anyone who enjoys food, cultural discovery, casual conversation, and meeting new people in Brussels 🤝😊. The vibe will be warm, easy-going, and festive, with plenty of opportunities to connect while exploring the different stands together. 🎶🍽️ There is no fixed program: the group can meet at the entrance 📍, walk around together, choose food individually, and enjoy the festival at a comfortable pace. **To keep the experience pleasant for everyone, it is important that all participants respect each other, behave normally, and contribute to a safe, friendly, and positive group atmosphere.** 🙏😊 Entry is free 🎉. Participants only pay for the food and drinks they decide to buy. **Location** **📍 Brussels Food Festival** **Boulevard du Souverain, opposite number 183** **1160 Auderghem, Brussels**

**What to expect** An evening for neurodiverse adults (18+) to come together, share experiences, and make new friends. The evening will be semi-structured, running from 7pm to 9pm. We will start with one or two presentations by our members on topics of special interest to them. These can be far-ranging: from anime to birdwatching to ideas for a neurodivergent-friendly café. Next all participants will be randomly assigned to a small discussion group of 5-6 people to discuss a particular topic related to their neurodivergent experience. After about 30 minutes of discussion you will be reassigned to a different group to discuss another topic. Afterwards, you are free to mill around the room to chat with anyone about anything you want for the remaining time we have the room. **For Who?** Neurodiverse adults (18+) A formal diagnosis is not necessary. This event is open to anyone who can relate to the difficulties and experiences of being neurodivergent. **When** First and third Fridays of the month, with the exception of school and normal holidays. See Meetup for the exact dates and any updates/changes to each event. There will be free water, tea and coffee at the International House, as well as sift drinks at the honesty bar where everything is 2€ (Exact change or card)

✨ **Meet new people in Brussels in a friendly, relaxed and international atmosphere.** The ambience is relatively quiet, calm and sober for easy-going casual conversation, with no chaos and loud party music in the background! 🍻 Large selection of **drinks and food** available 🌍 **Internationals, expats & locals** welcome 💪 Organized weekly **since early 2025** 📱Please **join our WhatsApp community** via the following invite link for receiving all the latest updates regarding this and many other social events in Bruxelles: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0) 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 **Over 10,000 members** **overall in our multicultural and diverse Brussels community!** Many of our participants work in EU institutions, NGOs, tech and international organizations. The event was also covered in a recent article from Brussels Times: [https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/1949146/euromeet-the-real-life-brussels-social-network](https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/1949146/euromeet-the-real-life-brussels-social-network) 😀 Our events usually attract **30–40 attendees each week**, with an age average of around 35 years old (the event announcement is relayed across multiple social media, not just on this page). Many participants come with friends or colleagues, so feel free to bring someone along! 👩 Our events usually also attract a **balanced mix of men and women**, and many participants attend solo for the first time. The organizer and host of the event will help introduce you to other participants, in case you don't know anyone else yet when you first arrive at the event. Our events remain a relaxed international social meetup experience focused on friendship, conversation and community — **not a dating event.** 🩷 **Safe, respectful environment, and zero tolerance for any harassment!** The organizer is always present all evening in case of problems. You can also leave any anonymous feedback about the event here under this form: [https://gmogni.aidaform.com/brasserie-meetup-feedback-form](https://gmogni.aidaform.com/brasserie-meetup-feedback-form) **.** Looking to meet new people and expand your social circle in Brussels, as well as your network of professional contacts? Join us **every Friday evening anytime from 18:30** **and until at least 23h** **at** **the** **“Quartier Leopold”** **brasserie**, in the heart of the famous Place du Luxembourg in front of the European Parliament, for a fun, relaxed night of **drinks, food, spontaneous conversations, and great vibes**! 💛 . 📍 **Location**: “Quartier Leopold” brasserie, Pl. du Luxembourg 9, 1050 Ixelles 📌 **Google Maps**: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCvSP1AGZNX2ZV3C8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCvSP1AGZNX2ZV3C8) (don't worry if you see the bar marked as "closed" on Google Maps for the Friday nights, they will always be open for us!) **🌐 Website of the venue**: [https://www.quartier-leopold.be/en](https://www.quartier-leopold.be/en) 📸 **Pictures gallery from previous events:** [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LRbsinA1wEtUrDhlyw8K6Uz9YKeq0_dw?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LRbsinA1wEtUrDhlyw8K6Uz9YKeq0_dw?usp=sharing) . ✨ **Why you’ll love it**: ✅ **Everyone is welcome**, even if you don’t know anyone else yet—expats, locals, newcomers, solo adventurers, or groups! ✅ **Best time for newcomers:** 18:30–19:30, when it’s easier to meet people. ✅ Completely **free to attend**—just grab a drink and join the fun! Please ask the bartenders when you arrive if unsure where to find our meetup group and tables ✅ Possibility to make also useful **professional exchanges and networking** with other participants who work in similar domains, so remember to bring also your business card! ✅ Tons of **indoor and outdoor space available**. ✅ Possibility to have **dinner at the brasserie** during the meetup (until 22h), thanks to its comprehensive selection of dishes available in the menu: [https://www.quartier-leopold.be/web/content/1467?unique=b27f82e985f525417a92cbeaf0f1ac1c5e2fb4a0](https://www.quartier-leopold.be/web/content/1467?unique=b27f82e985f525417a92cbeaf0f1ac1c5e2fb4a0) ✅ **Want to keep the night going?** After the meetup, we often continue as a group to explore nightlife hotspots in the city center. . 💬 **Stay connected with our Community**: ▶️ Join our **Facebook/Messenger chat** to get updates and easily find the group on arrival:[ ](https://m.me/ch/Abaqvj9lxNT3_xh7/)[https://m.me/ch/AbaV86vk4SHop_eD/](https://m.me/ch/AbaV86vk4SHop_eD/) ▶️ Otherwise, if you prefer to use **WhatsApp**, please join this other group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0) ▶️ We are also active on **Telegram**: [https://t.me/euromeet_meetup](https://t.me/euromeet_meetup) ▶️ And don’t forget to join our **EuroMeet Facebook group** for many more social events in Brussels: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/euromeet](https://www.facebook.com/groups/euromeet) ▶️ Finally, we also manage a **professional networking group on LinkedIn** as well, for more easily retrieving each other's LinkedIn profiles and identifying people who also work in similar domains: [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13194613/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13194613/) . Come alone or bring a friend—either way, you’ll leave with **new friends, great memories, and maybe even some ideas on how to develop further your professional career!** See you this Friday! 🍻✨😀 . 📧 **Got questions or comments?** Reach out to the **organizer Gabriele**: gabriele.mogni@gmail.com . **Our community values respect and inclusiveness**. If you ever feel uncomfortable, the organizer is present all evening to help. . 👉 Please **RSVP on Meetup** if you would like to attend our next event, so that we can plan accordingly. . *** #BrusselsEvents #BrusselsNightlife #BrusselsLife #MeetupBrussels #BrusselsMeetup #ThingsToDoBrussels #VisitBrussels #PlaceLuxembourg #EUdistrict #AfterWorkBrussels #FridayVibes #FridayInBrussels #BrusselsSocial #SocialInBrussels #MeetNewPeople #MakeNewFriends #InternationalBrussels #ExpatsInBrussels #ExpatLifeBrussels #BrusselsExpats #InternationalFriends #GlobalCommunity #BrusselsCommunity #EuroMeet #NetworkingBrussels #YoungProfessionalsBrussels #PartyInBrussels #BrusselsDrinks #BrusselsByNight #FunInBrussels

We do cycles of 4-6 weeks, with a progressive intensity, and the last session is lighter. Program: 15’ warm up **To be defined** Cool down to get back to the starting point… or more S=All out sprint RF = Run fast, at MAS (Maximum aerobic speed) CF = Run comfortably fast (1h threshold) J = Jog, recuperation Notes: It should take about one hour in total, as the cool down will end when we reach back to the meeting point. It's NOT required to have an activity tracker or smart watch to be able to follow the program, as I'll be giving signals with a whistle. For the "run" part, you can follow your own pace and we'll be regrouping in the "jog" part. Intervals training is not advised for total beginners. To have an idea, the average pace at the warm up is around 5'45"/km-6'/km so this pace should feel very comfortable ***Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.*** By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

# 🌲 Coo Escape: Ardennes Forest Hike & Waterfall Views **Trade the city for forests, fresh air, and panoramic Ardennes landscapes.** Join Sunday Vacations for a scenic Sunday hiking experience around Coo and Trois-Ponts — featuring forest trails, elevated viewpoints, riverside sections, and the famous Coo waterfalls. Designed for international professionals, expats, locals, and solo joiners, this experience combines movement, nature, and meaningful social connection in one of Belgium’s most beautiful regions. *** ## Experience Overview This curated Ardennes loop hike begins from **Trois-Ponts railway station** and takes us through scenic forest trails, panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Amblève Valley, and the iconic surroundings of Coo. Expect a relaxed but active Sunday with a welcoming international group atmosphere, social picnic breaks, and plenty of opportunities to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature. People increasingly join outdoor community experiences not just for the activity itself, but for the sense of connection and belonging they create. *** ## Event Type 🌿 **Curated Experience** *** ## Highlights * Scenic Ardennes forest hike * Great viewpoints over the Coo region * Discover the famous Coo waterfalls * Beautiful riverside and woodland trails * Relaxed international community atmosphere * Solo joiners welcome * Ideal Sunday nature reset * Train-accessible from Brussels *** ## Plan / Itinerary **08:45** – Meet at Starbucks Coffee, Brussels Central Station **09:01** – Train departure from Brussels Central **11:05** – Start of the hike from Trois-Ponts railway station **13:15** – Picnic & social break with scenic views **14:00** – Continue panoramic forest circuit toward Coo **16:30** – Optional stop near Coo waterfalls **17:05** – Train back toward Brussels **18:55** – Estimated arrival in Brussels *Schedule may slightly adapt depending on group pace and weather conditions.* *** ## Meeting Point 📍 Starbucks Coffee – Brussels Central Station Please arrive on time so the group can depart together. *** ## Hike Information 🥾 Distance: Approximately 16 km ⛰ Difficulty: Moderate with some elevation 🔄 Route Type: Loop Circuit 📍 Region: Coo & Trois-Ponts, Belgian Ardennes *** ## Price / Contribution **Community contribution:** €5 for non members and Explorer members Includes: * Event organisation * Group coordination * Guided community hiking experience Not included: * Train tickets * Food & drinks * Personal expenses Participants purchase transportation independently unless otherwise specified. **VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code.** *** ## Membership ### Sunday Vacations Memberships * **Explorer** – €5/year * **Voyager** – €50/year * **Ambassador** – €150/year Members receive access to discounts, priority registrations, and selected community perks throughout the year. *** ## Who This Is For Perfect for: * Expats and international professionals * Solo joiners * Nature lovers * People looking for meaningful social experiences * Beginner to intermediate hikers * Anyone wanting a refreshing Sunday outside Brussels Research consistently shows that expats highly value experiences that support social connection, quality of life, and community belonging. *** ## What to Bring * Hiking shoes with good grip * Water bottle * Packed lunch or snacks * Rain jacket / weather layers * Small backpack * Positive energy *** ## Important Notes * Some trails may be muddy or slippery depending on weather conditions. * This is a community-oriented hiking experience, not a competitive sports activity. * The route may be adjusted slightly depending on weather or trail conditions. * Please ensure you are comfortable walking for several hours with breaks. Nature-focused and wellbeing-oriented travel experiences continue to grow as people increasingly seek restorative and intentional ways to spend their weekends. *** ## Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a community organiser facilitating social and cultural experiences and does not operate as a licensed travel agency. Transportation and all third-party services are independently provided by external operators and remain the responsibility of participants unless explicitly stated otherwise. Participants join voluntarily and are responsible for ensuring they are physically fit for the activity. *** ## Call to Action 🌿 Ready for a proper Sunday escape? Join us for forests, waterfalls, panoramic Ardennes views, and good company — all just a train ride away from Brussels. Spots are limited to maintain a relaxed and social group atmosphere.

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The **20km of Brussels is fully booked**… and our Sunday Vacations group is already complete this year. 👉 But don’t worry — **you’ll be able to join us for 2027** **([https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-details/the-20-km-of-brussels-2026](https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-details/the-20-km-of-brussels-2026))** In the meantime, we’ve found the perfect alternative **👉 The 15km of Woluwe = ideal test run + great social experience** -- ### 🏃 Why Join This Event 💡 **If you're running the 20km Brussels:* This is the **perfect real-life test** before race da ✔ Test your pace ✔ Test your endurance ✔ Get into race conditions (crowd, water stations, atmosphere) 💡 **If you missed the 20km this year:** 👉 This is your moment to still enjoy a **race experience in Brussels** 👉 No pressure, just fun, movement, and good vibe -- ### 🌿 The Experience We’ll join the race **together as a group** ✔ Beautiful route through Woluwe & nature ✔ Mix of city + forest vibes ✔ Friendly, festive race atmospher ✔ Sunday Vacations energy + communit 👉 And of course: **optional drink after the race 🍻** -- ### 📅 Practical Inf *** Date: **Sunday 17 May 2026 ** *Start: **Stade Fallon (Woluwe-Saint-Lambert) *** Distance: **15 km ** *Level: **Intermediate (not beginner) -- ### 👥 Who Is This For *Those preparing for the **20km Brussels*** - Those who** missed it this year **but still want the vib *Runners who enjoy a **social + international group** - Solo participants welcome -- ### 🎟️ Registration ⚠️ You must register **individually via the official race website** 👉 We meet as a group, but each person handles their own race registration -- ### 💬 Sunday Vacations Participation ### ⚠️ Important This is a **community meetup**, not an organized race by Sunday Vacations All race logistics are handled by the official organizers -- ### 🔥 The Mindset This is not just a run 👉 It’s your **test before the big one** 👉 Or your **second chance to experience race day** Either way — we do it **together**

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 50+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Instagram** [https://www.instagram.com/frc_brussels](https://www.instagram.com/frc_brussels) **Global FRC**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

May roses started blooming so we will do our 11 km loop hike around the Coloma International Rose Garden this Sunday 🌹 Our meeting point is the Gaasbeek Ice cream Bar parking lot 🅿️ in Lennik. After the hike we can either have lunch in that same bar or just a drink or an ice cream 😉 🍦 See you on Sunday! Sandra 0497/243455

Please [register yourself on the website ](https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/7QLiiTnqLMxNg6Bdm5Bm)to receive the details of how to join. This powerful healing technique removes the negative energies and blockages to then nbe replaced by life energy or prana. Organized by Juliana Cruz, a Pranic Healing practitioner for over 10 years. These donation-based sessions are in a group session, done by different practitioners who have learned Pranic Healing. The sessions take from 20 to 30 minutes. * **Sunday** **From 11:30 to 12:50** 20 - 30 min session per person First-come, first-served. This practice comes after a meditation (from 10:30 to 11:30) to receive and share energies of loving-kindness to the entire Earth. You can join by [registering yourself here](https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/j5YTbU6YaGLgGOXyvMNn). With love, Juliana

Open to public: Friday, 5/15/26: 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday 5/16/26: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Hosted by OSU The 2026 Chadwick Arboretum Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser Location: Lawn area south of the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center 2201 Fred Taylor Dr, Columbus, OH 43210 Spring Plant Sale Spring into greenery at Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens! Join us for our annual Spring Plant Sale Fundraiser and dive into a lush world of botanical delights. With over 16,000 fresh, exotic, and time-tested edible and ornamental plants, there's something for every green thumb! Experience the thrill of our tree and shrub auctions, where you can bid on unique specimens to enhance your garden sanctuary. Step into our Learning Lab, where engaging educational demonstrations on various garden topics will unfold throughout the three-day sale, enriching your knowledge and inspiring your green endeavors. Take part in an exciting, live auction offered each day, as well as a silent auction on Thursday and Friday. Explore vendor booths brimming with gardening essentials and delightful treasures. And while you shop 'til you drop, indulge in delectable treats from a delicious, local food truck. Proceeds from this event go directly to The Ohio State Chadwick Arboretum, student organizations, and local businesses alike. Come one, come all! Let's cultivate a brighter, greener future together. Credit/debit cards only.

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

**You're invited to join local Columbus animal advocates as we watch PETA's workshop together on cage-free campaigns. Free vegan pizza will be provided! After the workshop Q&A, we'll have a group discussion and brainstorm on future activism plans. Hope to see you there!** **Here are the details:** **WHEN: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 6pm EST** **WHERE: KTC Columbus** **If you cannot attend in person, you can still view the workshop virtually at https://www.facebook.com/events/1567122777711333** **Here's some background on the workshop:** **Please join us for an eye-opening online PETA Playbook discussion with PETA’s Associate Director of Vegan Campaigns, Amber Canavan, where we’ll ask the hard-hitting questions about the cage-free campaigns and their impact on both hens and vegan efforts.** **Whether you’re looking to strengthen your outreach or sharpen your messaging around the egg industry’s humane-washing tactics, this workshop will give you practical tools to help others understand what “cage-free” really means for hens and why the label is misleading.** **We’ll explore how to keep conversations respectful, fact-based, and focused on the animals’ reality while encouraging others to take effective action.** **Please join us for this important workshop to learn how you can cut through cage-free marketing and help animals.** **Come ready to learn, ask questions, and ignite your activism for animals!**

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Join us as we get together to see the top-reviewed comedy-drama, I LOVE BOOSTERS! The film comes from writer/director Boots Riley and follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. It is written/directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You) and stars Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore. BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: I Love Boosters was the opening film at this year’s SXSW Festival and premiered to rave reviews! It is currently earning a tremendous 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it, “an unexpected celebration of friendship, community, and solidarity.” Others call the film “an exercise in radical empathy,” a “masterful” and “optimistic” film designed to “provoke discussion” while making the audience laugh. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c) SUMMER OF ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S! Established way back in 1870 in Cincinnati, this historic, family-owned brand is famous for their delicious small batch ice cream and any chocolate chunk flavors! They are currently the only commercial ice cream maker using the French Pot method that they’ve been using since they first opened! Plus, those chocolate chunks, oh my goodness! Vegan options are available. PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but Showtime and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events! Should be another good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan