Ghost Towns

Exploring Entrepreneurial Projects in Singapore and also in the China-Asean Economic Agency business in Guangxi, China. Explore the various channels of starting, operating and growing a thriving business in fast-growing industries. Explore opportunities to overcome the pressing challenges that Singapore faces: fastest ageing population, declining productivity, sky-rocketing costs, super competitive environment and ever growing number of foreign talents entering the already very tight economic spaces.....and many more. Complaining about these challenges will not help at all. Let's explore viable options and avenues opened to the average individuals to overcome these social-economic pressures.

Explore, Discuss and See how you can be connected to the vast opportunities available in the strategic China-Asean Special Economic Zone, earmarked to become the 'largest trading city in the world'.

**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.

Whether you are looking to buy your first home or considering investing in real estate properties, this meetup is perfect for beginners in real estate investing. Book Coach Douglas for an informative session on the basics of real estate, different investment strategies and how to make the most out of your property purchase for personal use or as an investment. Take the first step towards achieving your financial goals through property ownership. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn and grow your real estate knowledge!

Come and join us for an Introduction to Meditation! Every week, we meet up to do guided meditation in English. Before the meditation event, there will be a short talk to introduce and explain who we are and what we do. If you are new to Buddhism or meditation, it is an ideal place to start. General information : • public meditation open to beginners • meditation lasts half an hour • session is free of charge • questions : before our meditation starts, and after it’s over, you may receive a introduction to meditation and to Buddhism and answers to your questions on these topics. • no special clothes required Hope to see you there!

Looking for board game events in the West? Paul's Tabletop organizes sessions every 1st and 3rd Monday at the Clementi Zone 2 Resident Network. Join us for a fun and relaxed evening of board games, laughter, and great company. Whether you're a strategy pro or just learning the ropes, there's a seat for you at the table. 📅 **When**: Every 1st and 3rd Monday, 7.45pm 📍 **Where**: (Clementi Zone 2 RN) 343 Clementi Ave 5, #01-216, S120343 👥 **Who**: Open to everyone – all experience levels welcome! We’ll have experienced hosts at multiple tables running different games, so there’s something for everyone—from party games to more strategic play. If you’re new, don’t worry—there’s always someone happy to teach the rules! Best Part? All sessions are free! Just show up and play, don't need pay. **More on Paul's Tabletop:** Paul's Tabletop is an active board game community that holds regular tabletop sessions in the West. We currently host at Clementi, Queenstown and Tiong Bahru. We also organize regular board game retreats, events and auctions. Started by a crazy guy named Paul, our games are hosted by the community, for the community. Come join us and let's explore this wonderful world of cardboard together! We play a full range of games from Avalon/Secret Hitler/BOTC all the way to 18XX, Lacerdas, Splotters, TI4 and everything in between (Euros, Dungeon Crawls, 4X, Sandbox, LCGs, Co-ops etc). Our events are primarily organized on telegram, you can check it out [here](https://t.me/+tVrjvrmRl-RmMDc9). **Our Event Schedule:** Free for All Gaming @ Clementi Zone 2 RN - Every 1st and 3rd Mon Open Games @ Dundee Queenstown - Every 2nd and 4th Sun Under 3 Complexity @ Tiong Bahru Canopy - Every 1st and 3rd Thurs Open Games @ 348 Clementi - On Weds Note, sign ups on Meetup are not the final count as we primarily organize through [Telegram](https://t.me/+tVrjvrmRl-RmMDc9).

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

Meet/Brief/Start : **4.45pm @ Queenstown MRT Exit C** Distance: **27.60km** \*Minumum age requirement to participate: 21 years old** Routes : Queenstown MRT exit C-> Alexandra PCN -> Marina Bay -> Gardens by the Bay -> Marina Barrage -> ECP Dinner : East Coast Lagoon Food Village **Attendance Confirmation** is required 2 days before event start. please check incoming messages from event chat. **Safety/Disclaimer**: Participants should **ride in a single file** at all times, keeping a **safe braking distance** and **look out and give priority to pedestrians**. Participants recognise that cycling can be **strenuous and must ensure they are in good health and have the required fitness level** for the ride. Participants are to **ensure their bikes are in proper riding condition, with working brakes, wheels properly inflated, font and rear reflectors/lights fitted** according to LTA regulations, and **wearing of helmets** and **appropriate cycling clothing/footwear**. Weekend Social & Leisure Riders is a not for **profit, social interest group**. While the Organisers do their best to facilitate a safe ride, participants who join our rides do so **at their own risk** and **accept full responsibility for their safety** during the event. By joining our rides, participants accept that the organisers are not **responsible or liable for any injury, accident, death or other unforeseen incidents, nor loss or damage to your belongings/equipment**, and that you agree also for **yourself, your heirs, executors and administrators to waive any claims** associated with the afore-mentioned. Organisers reserve the right to **amend, postpone or cancel the event at any time, as well as not to allow a participant to take part or continue the event** for various reasons, not limited to: **late turnout, unsuitable clothing/footwear, unsafe cycling equipment, un-roadworthy bicycle condition, unsuitable fitness level/health issues or inappropriate behaviour**. Thank you for your **attention**! :)

Welcome back to Rumble. This year our focus is to help you climb stronger, descend safer, and move more confidently on hikes. We’ll keep our 4 core stations — feet and calves, engine, climbing strength, and downhill control — so you can actually feel progress over the weeks, not just get through a workout! **Meeting Place:** as seen in the image (Right next to Old Hill Street Police Station; opposite Funan) Accessible via different MRT lines and bus stops 3 min walk from Clarke Quay Stn Exit E **Duration:** 1.5h **Level:** Intermediate **What to expect:** 1. Warm-up & dynamic stretching 1. Stamina, Stability and Single Leg strengthening exercises with Stairs/Steps :) 1. Jogging/briskwalking between stations **Items to bring/wear** * comfortable sports attire and appropriate shoes * (Arm-length) Towel and water bottle * Most of us will be carrying our bags as part of hike training (you can choose to leave them in your car if you’re driving or bring a small bag) Make sure you are able to run with your bag! (e.g. BACKPACK) **Note:** * In the event of wet weather, the event will be cancelled. However, if it is just a light drizzle, we may still proceed with caution or head to AU office for Signature Indoor Workout. * If you will be late or unable to make it, please inform me in advance (WA +6597318648) or update your RSVP by 8 p.m. the night before so that I can inform the next person on the waitlist. * We’re capping this at **20 pax per session** so it stays focused and manageable. * Priority will go to 2026 AU trip participants and Elite AU club members. If there are slots left, it will be given to members of the publi.c If you’re on the waitlist, it may not move strictly in order as trip participants are prioritised. We will start on time so come at least 5 minutes earlier! If you’ve done Rumble before, you already know what this is about. If you haven’t — come try once. You’ll either love it or hate me slightly. Both are acceptable. Join us for more adventures at: https://bit.ly/3Rv6XrT
Telegram: https://t.me/liveopenly
Whatsapp Community https://bit.ly/AUBroadcast

Kampung Ravenswood, Singapore's largest BOTC group brings gaming @ Marina One! Whether you are a light social gamer, a strategy gamer or totally new to gaming, enjoy your weekend with friends and enjoy gaming here! This event is focusing on Blood on the Clocktower, a murder mystery social deduction game with a twist. If you're new to the game, our experienced hosts will be guiding you every step of the way. What is Blood On The Clocktower (BOTC)? Watch here: [https://youtu.be/M-aZP47Nm9g?si=GEoGvRoApcY-6Alw](https://youtu.be/M-aZP47Nm9g?si=GEoGvRoApcY-6Alw) BOTC is a social deduction game played in a large group of 7-15 players. Be mentally prepared to engage in chaotic back-and-forth conversations and work together with your team to win the game. Lying in a social deduction game? Who knew... Game review: [https://youtu.be/ImcG8sC7qT4?si=8-eCYYf6Skt-rLzO](https://youtu.be/ImcG8sC7qT4?si=8-eCYYf6Skt-rLzO) Price: FREE! Come down and enjoy. Venue: Marina One, B2 (East Tower), opposite Luckin Coffee. Please contact Momo ([wa.me/6596701344](wa.me/6596701344)) or Muthu ([wa.me/6597125916](wa.me/6597125916)) for assistance.

**TRIP CONFIRMED. LAST 2 SLOTS!** Grab Fast. Welcome to the enchanting world of **CAUCASUS** \- a region of spectacular alpine sceneries\, rich historical wonders\, culinary delights embraced by the genuine hospitality of its people\. Spanning **Eastern Europe** and **Western Asia,** it is situated between the **Black Sea** and the **Caspian Sea,** blessed with natural beauty and timeless heritage. So come, step on board and join us on this **13D Adventure** as we take you on this amazing journey to explore the **GREAT CAUCASUS** - **GEORGIA, ARMENIA and AZERBAIJAN**. From ancient monasteries and snow-capped peaks to vibrant cities and local traditions, get ready to experience a seamless, deeply moving adventure curated for those who seek authenticity and depth. Yes ... it’s a rare & unique opportunity for you to enjoy our specially curated itinerary with your fun-loving friends (suitable for solo-travellers & seniors as well) as we take you back in time to enjoy one of the world’s most captivating regions. From the ancient rock carvings of **Gobustan** to the stunning **Lake Sevan** and the solemn monasteries of Armenia, each destination promises an immersive experience like no other. With us, you will get to stroll around cosmopolitan **Baku**, lively **Tbilisi** with its cobbled streets and cozy **Yerevan** with its pink architecture and amazing views of **Mount Ararat** (the landing site of Noah’s Ark). This adventure will be accompanied by stunning views of the **Caucasus Mountains** in Spring with temperatures ranging from 12C - 21C. Here are just some of this Amazing Adventure **HIGHLIGHTS** – * *Iconic Gergeti Trinity Chutch* * *Views of Mount Arafat (Noah’s Ark resting place)* * *Etchmiadzin – World’s First Cathedral* * *Armenian Genocide Memorial* * *Sevanavank Monastery* * *Garni Temple* * *Lake Sevan* * *Geghard Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage site* * *Gyumri* * *The sacred Khor Virap site* * *The impressive UNESCO Vardzia Cave Complex* * *Stalin’s Historic Town & birthplace with deep Soviet-era roots* * *Aragvi River* * *Kazbegi – alpine beauty & stunning landscapes* * *Ananuri Fortress* * *Mount Kazbek* * *Stalin Museum* * *Mtskheta* * *Ancient Jvari Monastery* * *Old World Charm of Tbilisi* * *Bridge of Peace* * *Sulfur Bath District* * *Narikala Fortress* * *Highland Park* * *Martyrs’Alley* * *Baku’s historic Old City* * *Maiden Tower* * *Shirvanshahs’ Palace* * *Magnificent Carpet Museum* * *Impressive Flame Towers* * *Gobustan National Park* * *Ateshgah Fire Temple* * *Bubbling Mud Volcanoes* * *Ancient Petroglyphs* * *Heydar Aliyev Center* * *Yanardag* * *Yashil Bazaar* * *Symphony of Stones* * *Baku Bay* * *Miniature Book Museum* * *Didi Baba Mausoleum* * *Shanakhi* * *Silk Road Village of Lahij* * *Sheki's UNESCO Old City* * *Palace of the Sheki Khans & Round Temple* * *Schuchmann Wine Chateau* * *Rezo Gabriadze Theatre's Clock Tower* * *Chronicles of Georgia* * *And more!* Yes! We’ll be covering most of the Top Attractions of these 3 countries plus some “off-the-beaten’ track and adding in some scenic leisure hikes (1 to 3 hrs) for you to fully enjoy the history & timeless beauty of these places. It will be a remarkable adventure with like-minded friends that we believe you’ll cherish and remember for a long time! \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **WHY SO CHEAP? - \*EUR 1895** **ONLY!** (\**This **Special Price** is only* *applicable* *for the Last 2 available slots)* Thereafter price will be EUR 2095 once the 2 Slots are taken. **PRICE INCLUDES:** * Luxurious 3+\* & 4\* Hotels (with good breakfast) * Other meals as per Itinerary * Main Group Transfers from/ to Airport * Guided walks/ hikes to secret unknown places * Accompanied by our TLC Tour Leader * English Speaking Local Tour Guides * A chance to visit & explore several **UNESCO World Heritage Sites** * **More than 30+ Amazing attractions/ historical sites** * Happy Hour Session (on Last Night) * Fun & laughter with new TLC friends! **EXCLUDES:** * International Flight (5\* TURKISH AIRLINES) on PROMO NOW @ **$995 Only.** So the earlier we have the **Min. Group of 12 pax** formed, we can all proceed to Grab the Promo) * Personal Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended) * Personal Early Arrival/ Extended Stays * Visa Fees if applicable * All other arrangements not mentioned in the above Inclusions \*\*\*\*\*\* **Ideal Group Size : 16 - 24 pax** **DEPOSIT** - **JUST \*S$495 ONLY!** to secure your slot. All who've transferred the small sincerity deposit will be invited for our **Trip Briefing/ Q & A Discussion** where I'll be sharing the Trip Itinerary/ Promo Flight/ Inclusions etc. with this Confirmed Group. **\*NO RISK.** *(Deposit will be refunded if you inform us within 3 days after our Trip Briefing/ Q & A session or the Event is cancelled by the Organizer. Thereafter, there shall be no refund once the Trip is confirmed.)* Remember, this is a **"First to Transfer, First to Confirm"** basis based on your transfer date/time & not on your RSVP. So be the First to grab your slot now! Please RSVP with your Mobile No. (visible only to us) so that we can forward you the Event Details & Trip Briefing Date. \*\*\*\*\*\* **REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT:** 1. RSVP NOW and transfer SIN **$495** to - TLC ADVENTURE TOURS PTE LTD via - A) PAYNOW to **UEN: 201615037Z** B) Or ATM/Online to: TLC **DBS Current Acct: 070-90238-1-9** 2. Once you've transferred, **WhatsApp David (Hp. 9745 1777)** your proof of payment and Meetup name so that we can confirm your slot. 3. We'll add you to a WhatsApp Group once the Event is FULL to discuss & decide on the Flight that we intend to take. So the earlier everyone transfer the Deposit and we can get the Group formed so that we can proceed to book the flight, the more everyone saves! \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** PLEASE READ THIS LINK FOR OUR T&Cs BEFORE YOU RSVP: [https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/terms-and-conditions](https://www.tlcadventuretours.com/terms-and-conditions) *By joining this trip, I agree to & accept TLC’s terms and conditions.* *We reserve the right without prejudice to return payment and not permit participation - without the obligation to explain or give any reason.* This Specially curated Itinerary is organized by TLC Adventure Tours Pte Ltd \(TA License: 02896\) \|

**Special Token Promotion** **🏆** **Play & Win** **– Battle your way to victory and earn a token for every game you conquer!** **🤝** **Bring your Friends** **– Come with friends or family and enjoy instant rewards. Everyone gets a token!** **(While stocks last)** Join us at the library for an engaging afternoon of board games, with selections of English games and Chinese games**.** Discover the joy of tabletop gaming with our carefully curated collection featuring Asian board games, Singapore games, and games on Chinese culture and heritage. New to these games? No worries at all. Our friendly game masters will be on hand to teach you the rules and help you get started. Come ready for an afternoon filled with strategy, laughter, and friendly competition. It's a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow gaming enthusiasts, learn something new, and simply have a good time. Click here to see our list of featured games. [https://go.gov.sg/chinatown-boardgames-listing](https://go.gov.sg/chinatown-boardgames-listing) **特别奖品推广活动** **🏆** **玩游戏赢奖品** **– 奋力作战取得胜利，每赢一局游戏即可获得一份奖品！** **🤝** **带朋友来** **– 只要带朋友或家人一起参加，每个人都能获得额外奖励奖品！ （数量有限，送完即止）** 欢迎参加图书馆桌游活动！我们准备了多元化的中文桌游和英文桌游，其中包括亚洲桌游、新加坡本土游戏，还有富有中华文化元素的特色游戏。 没玩过这些游戏？别担心！现场有引导员为您详细讲解规则，让您快速上手。 来和大家一起动动脑筋，享受游戏带来的乐趣吧！在这里您可以结交新朋友，度过一个充实愉快的下午。 想了解有哪些精彩游戏？请点击这里查看完整游戏清单。 [https://go.gov.sg/chinatown-boardgames-listing](https://go.gov.sg/chinatown-boardgames-listing)

Join us on a medium paced walk passing through forests, reservoirs and nature relics in the central part of Singapore! We will be passing via Lower Peirce Reservoir. **Meeting Point: MacRitchie Reservoir, outside Gink-Go Café (formerly Mushroom Cafe)** **Meeting Time: 8:30 am** Distance: 9 km Duration: 2.5 hours Ending Point: Thomson Nature Park **Items to bring:** \- Wear comfortable walking shoes \- Sufficient water \- Hat / Cap \- Sunglasses \- Raincoat / Umbrella \- Snacks for refuel **Additional Notes:** \- Do have some light breakfast before the walk\. \- There will be water refill points along the way\. \- In case of bad weather\, any change of plans will be announced on the morning of the walk\. \- We will not be able to wait for late\-comers\. \- Participants can leave anytime during the walk\, but please do inform event host\. \- Please confirm or update your RSVP 24 hours before the event\, so that anyone on the waiting list will be able to attend if anyone can't make it anymore\. \- The 'Waitlist' may not go in order as we reserve the right to prioritise the spots for our trip participants who are training for our upcoming treks\. Thank you for your understanding\! Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures! [https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

**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.

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

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.