GO Green Save GREEN Make GREEN

COSTAL WALK followed by SOCIALISING with CHEAP FOOD and DRINKS in a convivial pub atmosphere. **WALK START POINT: HASTINGS Station** (National Rail). Look for Ken with the Kens Events/Meetup Flag/Badge outside the station. WALK ROUTE: Hastings Station to Bexhill on Sea primarily along the coast. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 5 miles. WALK END POINT: A large pub in Bexhill on Sea (The Picture Playhouse) near Bexhill Station WALK STOP OUT POINT: Always close to bus routes. **After today's (Sunday 31 May) walk, some members will return to Hastings and stay overnight at the Travelodge in Hastings, in order to join our 7 mile (approx.) circular Saxon Shore Way hike and Hastings Country Park on Monday 1st June.** BREATHE FRESH AIR: Give up the city streets for a day and improve your overall fitness levels on a green or coastal walk. **Social Event**: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. *Be sure to join us in the pub for the whole experience!* COST: Free for members (who show their Ken's Events Membership card). For others there is a £5 fee for this event. Scroll down to bottom of page to see disclaimer and notice of risks. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group and only post photos of other members with their consent. Kens Events also has a Facebook Page, Instagram and Twitter accounts. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) Instagram Page [Kenswalks](https://www.instagram.com/weekendgreenwalks/) Twitter [@KenEvents](http://www.twitter.com/KenEvents) Kens Events also has a Facebook Group that you can join. [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Kensevents](http://www.facebook.com/groups/kensevents) For weekday and evening walks join Ken's Weekday and Evenings Walking Group. [(https://www.meetup.com/KENS-WEEKDAY-EVENING-WALKS/)](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-WEEKDAY-EVENING-WALKS/) RAIN POLICY: Light rain is not usually a problem . However if torrentail rain is forecast, please check back to this webpage on the day of the event around 3 hours before the start for the latest update. Tell your friends you are going! Unfortunately no large dogs and small children are permitted on these walks. **NOTICE of RISKS applicable for all walks:** Please dress appropriately for weather and terrain conditions. Only wear good sturdy shoes, with ankle support, and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and able to walk for at least 8 miles. This walk is suitable for the average experienced hill walker. Expect some hills. Do not attend this walk if you do not fit that description or if you have a medical condition (especially heart and/or lung conditions) that may impact upon your capability of completing the walk. These walks are city walks and countryside walks where all the usual risks of injury during such walks apply resulting from interactions with road traffic, joggers, cyclists, e-scooters,other members of the public, animals (farm, domestic and wild), plants (allergic reactions), uneven surfaces, including portruding tree roots and potholes and there may be low overhanging branches. In these walks we cross busy roads, use towpaths alongside water, bridlepaths, country lanes and sometimes ill defined paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Some tracks may be muddy and slippery, and conditions may be wet and icy. The walk leader is not and does not purport to be a professional guide, or a medical professional, but is instead a like minded individual who also enjoys hill walking and who is familiar with the intended route. Do not attend this walk unless you accept and consent to the above risks. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. **DISCAIMER** All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-basic-electrics-35/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-basic-electrics-35/) ⋆⋆⋆ **Suitable for absolute beginners** A one-day introductory workshop to help learn the first principles of DIY electrics in the home. This short home electrics workshop covers the most common requests that homeowners, landlords and tenants want to know more about in their homes. Explained in simple terminology, and with practice on fiddly -but unplugged in – electrical fittings, learners can leave feeling less wary about this familiar but invisible energy and confident about safely tackling the essential electrics at home, without requiring any ‘Part P’ certification. First principles are explained in a clear and simple way, without complicated formulas or equations. Learn how to assemble a simple lighting circuit with an inline switch, using inexpensive hand tools. This forms the basis of understanding how the wiring behind your switch plates and ceiling roses fit together. See how to test and avoid faulty wiring when performing simple repairs at home. Look under the ‘bonnet’ of your consumer unit (Fuse box) and understand what it’s connected to and how to turn the supply off and on. Understand the basic wiring system in your home. Practice changing switches to dimmers, look behind socket plates and understand how to change ceiling pendants. Stay safe in your home by finding out what you can and can’t do yourself without any certification. If coming to our workshop in Central London is not possible, then why not try our on-demand basic electrical course online?

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-wood-stool-weekend-11/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-wood-stool-weekend-11/) ⋆⋆⋆ Suitable for absolute beginners. Enjoyable for everyone. One weekend workshop. 10am – 5pm. By popular demand – a content-packed two-day basic carpentry woodwork course spread over one weekend. Beginners will be given plenty of help and more experienced students may work at their own pace. Make your own pine wood stool and take it home with you to be admired by friends and family. This is a great starter workshop that introduces the skills of how to measure accurately, cut precisely, and join planks together using dowels. In addition to this, the legs- made from class broomsticks – are connected to the base using a ‘wedged through tenon’ which is a classic woodworking joint and produces a very strong and pleasing result. The tools used include handsaws, chisels, planes, and spokeshaves and you can even get a chance to try an old-fashioned ‘bit and brace’ drill if you choose. If you are contemplating our longer ‘[Carpentry for Beginners](http://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/beginners-carpentry/)’ course, this can be a great way to gain confidence. Beginners will be given plenty of help and more experienced students may work at their own pace. If your knowledge of woodwork is a feint but a fond memory of CDT or carpentry at school, you are in the right place. Our experienced tutor will guide a small group through the design and making of an elegant pine stool using traditional hand tools. The workshop focuses on jointing wood with dowels, using and caring for a plane and chisel, using spokeshaves, and drilling with an auger. Intrigued? Come and find out more. All personal protection and the use of tools and materials are included. This workshop takes place over one weekend: 10am – 5pm.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-traditional-upholstery-weekend-40/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-traditional-upholstery-weekend-40/) ⋆⋆⋆ If you would like to get stuck into a project a bit more traditional than the drop-in dining chair seat that we tackle in our [‘Intro to Upholstery](http://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/workshops/upholstery/)‘ workshop, this chance to make a footstool you will own forever is the very thing for you. Over two full days, an experienced upholsterer will fast-track you through the wonderful world of upholstery and help you build a fabulous footstool using traditional methods. Choose from our selection of top fabrics, or bring your own, and squeal with delight when you see the gracious cabriole legs that your footstool will be fitted with. Don’t worry about lugging a heavy piece of furniture around town, you can leave your work at The Goodlife Centre between classes if you choose. Plenty of guidance in a small group with a great tutor. To upholster your own chair see our project-based upholstery course – [Bring Your Own Chair to Upholster.](http://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/upholster-your-own-chair/) *All of our upholstery classes are for absolute beginners. It doesn’t matter which one you choose to take first. Each technique that is offered is part of all the processes that every upholsterer has to learn.* **KEY PROCESS: TRADITIONALLY BUILT AND SEWED** Before the advent of foam in the middle of the twentieth century, the only way to make wooden seats more comfortable was to build up layers using available materials. The small fabric footstool is built from layers of woven webbing, hessian, vegetable fibre, animal hair, and calico and is sewn with specialist needles and stitches. Although this method is more labour-intensive than the modern method of using foam, it is much longer lasting and preferred in more expensive pieces of furniture. Use fabric of your own, or use one of our luxurious upholstery fabrics at the centre. The use of all tools and materials is included. We also have a selection of tools and materials that we use in our workshops for sale at the Centre for you to continue your new hobby at home. Beginners welcome. **Course Dates:** This course is run over a weekend. Saturday & Sunday 10:00am – 5:00pm.

**On Sunday 31st May, we're hugely excited to be heading to Kew Gardens for another wild afternoon of social fun.** But this isn't just a leisurely stroll through one of the world’s most beautiful gardens - we'll also be adding a dash of fun and friendly competition with one of our signature photo hunts. If you’ve never done one before, it's like a scavenger hunt, but with rare plants, cryptic clues, and playful photo challenges designed to test your creativity and teamwork. Once the clock starts, you’ll have around 2.5 hours to explore the gardens and complete as many weird and wonderful tasks as you can - all while competing against other teams for a shot at glory (and prizes). And when the time’s up, we’ll regroup at a nearby pub to share stories, tally up the scores and crown the champions of the day. And best of all, whilst standard weekend entry to Kew is normally £28, we’ve managed to secure an amazing deal... meaning this **entire afternoon of awe-inspiring nature and friendly competition is just £5.95pp!** Spaces are limited and always fill up fast and so if you're keen to join, RSVP soon to lock in your spot. **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN** Venue: Kew War Memorial, 17 Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AA ([https://maps.app.goo.gl/rejGdyN2mTDxpxUh9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rejGdyN2mTDxpxUh9)) Closest Tube stations: Kew Gardens (15 min walk) Start Time - 1:30pm Finish time: 5:00pm \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, the project was set up to help 20s and 30s in London meet, connect and hopefully build lifelong friendships. To help make this happen, we also host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community or to follow us on social media, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship)**

Our beloved Sunday Supper club at one of our all time favourite venues. MEAL VENUE: The Bhel Poori House AKA Indian Veg............... @ 92/93 Chapel Market, Angel, N1 9EX · London. Angel Underground Station, Northern Line OR Bus: 472. If driving, there is free parking in and around White Lion Street and Penton Street (but do watch out for Khan's tax theft "ULEZ" scam) Brief run down, It is an all you can eat Indian buffet for £12 last event.. THEY ONLY TAKE CASH....... (please bring small notes and change :-) ) (drinks & non-buffet deserts extra ) Free event hosted by Mike Any questions? Please don't hesitate to ask and it would be great to see you all on the 31st. Now the weather is improving come and join us.

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/49603 **Game Description:** Come and join a mid intermediate session in Canning Town 🚨Directions🚨 📍Enter via Morgan Street 🚶‍♂️5 minute walk from Canning Town Station🚗 Free car parking on site 🚿 Showers, changing rooms, water fountain & toilets are present **Rules** \- 3 teams of 6 \- Games to 15 points \- Max 2 games in a row \- Please be kind and respectful to all players 🧡

PirateGold is a **dastardly treacherous app-supported outdoor improv game!** Marooned on an island that conceals a **bounty of treasures**, the aim of the game is to **set sail with as much plunder as possible**. Assemble a rich crew, beg, steal, borrow, trade, or do whatever it takes! Watch the **Player Tutorial Video** to learn how to play! [https://youtu.be/q88AYgqQbO4](https://youtu.be/q88AYgqQbO4) \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **📍 LOCATION/HOW TO FIND 📍** Travel to Great Portland St or Regent's Park Underground Station and walk 3mins towards Regent's Park. Cross over Outer Circle Road and walk into Regent's Park up the tree-lined path (The Broad Walk) for 3mins. Turn right by Griffin Tazza (statue with winged Lions) and follow the path a short way Map (Event Location): **[https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljy9oyXgL5uhwnx99](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljy9oyXgL5uhwnx99)** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* Find out more about the game here: **[playculture.com/pirategold](https://www.playculture.com/pirategold.php)** This is a fun meetup that's like **a real-life video game!** If you like role-playing games, **you will love PirateGold! 🦜** Our Gameplay Meetups are **100% FREE** and open to everyone (kids are allowed if accompanied by an adult). We are LGBTQ+ friendly and encourage everyone to be who you are - **we love you for you!** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **📱 Get the PlayCulture App:** You'll be using the 100% free PlayCulture app to play at our meetups. Get it here: **[www.playculture.com/app](https://www.playculture.com/app)** (and if you're feeling creative, start designing your avatar!) **❤️ Support PlayCulture!** If you are loving our free gameplay meetups please consider supporting us on Patreon! **[patreon.com/playculture](https://www.patreon.com/playculture)** or drop us a one-off donation **[playculture.com/donate](https://www.playculture.com/donate.php)** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **REVIEWS** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *The organisers are friendly and courteous, and really care that everyone has fun* \- Amanda ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *The whole experience was great for the soul. I have made new friends who are now my go to activity buddies. I highly recommend it to your inner child!* \- Anon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *I think for a lot of us it was more than just play, it was a safe space to be ourselves and to have fun. I enjoyed meeting like-minded people who love playing as much as me!* \- Anita \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **🚀 WHAT HAPPENS AT OUR MEETUPS? 🚀** Your friendly game leader will explain the rules and kick off the first game! Games last about 50 minutes, with about 10 minutes of social time in-between to laugh about who got marooned and who got rich! At the end of the meetup we get food and hang out until the owls are hooting **⚡ HOW DOES THE GAME WORK? ⚡** This game uses the free PlayCulture App ([playculture.com/app](https://www.playculture.com/app)). Players divide into teams and receive a treasure map! Follow the map and use the app to dig for treasure... Then the real fun begins! Your destiny is in your hands: embrace the life of a pirate and plunder as much booty as possible? Become a merchant and trade your way to victory? Or become a Kingsman with a royal decree to clean up the pirate menace? It really is up to you how you play, the more creative the better! Board your boat to leave the island before the game time runs out. At the end you will see a leaderboard showing everyone’s scores **🎈 CAN I BRING MY FRIEND? 🎈** Absolutely! If you want you can stick together and play as a ninja team! Just select extra tickets if you are bringing someone with you **🥾 WHAT TO BRING** 🌊 \- Smartphone with mobile data\, **fully charged battery** and PlayCulture App installed ([playculture.com/app](https://www.playculture.com/app)) \- Comfy shoes **📜 RULES 📜** PirateGold takes place in public spaces, so please remember these rules: \- Non\-players always have priority \- Safety first: don’t do anything to endanger yourself or anyone else \- Don’t run around blind corners or across roads\, no risk\-taking\! \- Smile and enjoy\! **❤️ MORE INFORMATION 🤔** We're very happy to answer any questions you may have, just message us on Meetup, or email [info@playculture.com](http://info@playculture.com/), or visit [www.playculture.com](http://www.playculture.com/) **📷 PHOTOGRAPHY 🎥** Please note that we may film or take photos at our events, either for promotion or for our YouTube channel. By attending our events you agree to feature **📢 REMEMBER 📢** You are responsible for yourself and for your own safety. By attending you are agreeing to our terms (available here: [playculture.com/disclaimer](https://www.playculture.com/disclaimer)) Take care out there in the big wide world, and let us know if anything is troubling you **❤️**

Join us for a leafy lovely leafy wander along good flat paths through the centuries old beauty of Epping Forest. We'll wind through tall oak trees and hornbeams, punctuated by occasional ponds and clearings, and end with the option of celebratory drink in a local pub. If you are not a regular walker, do join us - there will be options to leave the hike early and take the tube if you are tired. **SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)** **Distance**: 23km/14 miles **Duration**: 6 hours walking **Grade**: Beginner/Intermediate: Easy, along good paths. **COST AND LOGISTICS** **Cost**: £10 **Meet**: 10.15am Epping Tube Station **Finish:** 5.30pm Snaresbrook Tube Station / Cuckfield pub **Recommended morning trains from London** Epping is at the end of the Central Line, 40 mins from Bank Station. There's a pop-up coffee shop at the station, so get there early! **REVIEWS** [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [MeetUp](https://www.meetup.com/aaa-outdoor-hiking-adventure-travel/feedback-overview/) **PRICE INCLUDES** * Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid. **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * PayPal fees **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST** [(](%5D(https%3A//mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[complete list](www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Packed lunch and snacks * Water - 2 litres recommended * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the hike, please message the Host listed on here, and update your RSVP status to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the hike is full, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com **after the event**, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We’ve run over 1,000 trips in the last 18 years, so you’re in good hands. That said, all participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA London Group [Terms and Conditions](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions). © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted [FAQs](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions) \| [Terms and Conditions](www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews)

Have you ever wanted to get together outdoors and chill out amongst good company whilst being immersed within nature & amazing weather? If so, then this is the right event for you. Welcome to another one of the CHILL events where you have the opportunity to settle in the parks, form friendships, socialise, have a picnic and so much more whilst being immersed within the luscious greenery, botanicals and the gorgeous weather.

With this particular chill event, we will be settling in the inner circle gardens of Regent’s Park. The inner circle has some beautiful botanicals and some lovely greenery to settle on which is really ideal for relaxing, having a picnic and even being amongst good company. There is a small twist to this. Since summer is approaching, we may have some island music playing in the background to enhance the ambiance. If all goes well, we may do an aftermath and let democracy decide what to do. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy

WHAT - Chill in Regents Park
WHERE - Regents Park
WHEN - 6:30pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - Regents Park
NEAREST STATIONS - Baker Street & Great Portland Street Stations
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Maybe bring your ID if we do an aftermath. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Have you ever wanted to partake in hikes where you get exposed to new areas with luscious forms of nature, some amazing views and possibly some hidden gems? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to another Hiking event where all of this is possible. This is the opportunity to form friendships, discover a different perspective of London, improve your fitness, embrace nature but also feel great about yourself. With this particular Hike, we’ll be hiking from Crystal Palace to Streatham Common. We’ll be traversing through many parks, forests and nature pathways but also make new discoveries too. This is also part of the capital ring which is a 78 mile pathway split into 15 hiking routes. This is section 4. If you want to be part of the journey, feel free to join us. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy Starting point: Crystal Palace Station Ending point: Streatham Common station Walking length: 6.3km Duration: 2 hours Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. WHAT - Hike WHERE - Crystal Palace to Streatham common WHEN - 2pm - 5pm MEETING POINT - Outside Crystal Palace Station NEAREST STATION - Crystal Palace station REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

SCIENTOLOGY **TOOLS** **FOR LIFE** What if you had simple tools which you could use to improve your relationship with others? What if a step-by-step procedure could help you achieve your goals in life? What if you could learn the secret to mastering any subject you wanted to master? Come and find out!

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

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 Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

**🔥 Lincoln Street Salsa HAS MOVED TO EVERY FRIDAY, NO MORE SATURDAYS!** **🔥 Lincoln Street Salsa @ 1717 Brice Rd, Reynoldsburg 43068** **🔥 Salsa, Bachata, Merengue Dancing!** **🔥 NO PARTNER OR EXPERIENCE NEEDED!** **🔥 Every FRIDAY, 8 pm - 1 am** **🔥 8:00 pm - 8:30 pm = Registration** **🔥 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm = Beginner Dance Class** **🔥 9:30 pm - 1:00 am = Open Dance Party** **🔥 LincolnStreetSalsa.com** **🔥 Questions? Text Todd 614-774-8146**

Join us Tuesday (6/2) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hundred Acre Woods in Westerville. This is a beautiful trail that is filled of hills and roots but a picturesque wooded landscape to hike. Wear your hiking boots if you have them. We will do 2 loops of the 1 mile trail.

The emotional pain from past bad experiences easily lingers in the present, making it hard to enjoy life and create your future. Even when you think you've moved on, the negative emotions can be triggered, sending you back into the pain of that experience. And we are talking about pain; emotions such as grief, depression, anxiety, fear (or terror), boiling anger, simmering resentment, feelings of shame, blaming and regret can leave you incapacitated to a greater or lesser degree. In this local event we will be discussing the reasons why these past bad experiences have the power to affect you long after they occurred. We'll go over why the emotional pain can be so strong. We'll also discuss some simple solutions to overcome your emotional pain and be free to fully enjoy your life again. Examples of painful experiences include: * A broken relationship or divorce. * Death or loss of a loved one. * Death of a pet. * A sudden shock or bad news. * A betrayal. * Being part of an abusive relationship. * A bad injustice. * Loss of a job, position or business. * A grave illness or injury. The negative emotions from these experiences don't just go away on their own. But the good news is there is a way to clear them out of your way. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

**Welcome to the Women’s Columbus Bogleheads® Sub-Group** This sub-group is for **women who want to learn and discuss finances in a safe, supportive space**. For those interested in moving towards financial independence and retirement by learning investment basics, choosing your 401(k) investments, minimizing taxes, and more. We’re a local chapter of **Bogleheads®**, following a long-term, practical investment philosophy: [Investment Philosophy](https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy): https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy [Bogleheads Forum](https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php): https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php No question is too small, and no experience is too simple. Share, ask, and learn — at your own pace, without judgment, in a group of like-minded women. Let’s build confidence and knowledge **together**!