Historic Preservation

**HIKE OVERVIEW:** **The Castlemaine to Maldon Rail Trail is a 16.7km, moderate hike which runs parallel to the Victorian Goldfields Railway. It passes through bushland, farmland and some gold-era historical sites.** **We will start and meet at Castlemaine Train Station and walk towards Maldon. Our route will take us via Muckleford Train Station.** **We will return back to Castlemaine aboard the steam train operated by the Victorian Goldfields Railway. This historic railway served rural Victoria from 1880 through to the 1970’s and has been restored to its former glory.** **Excursion class one way tickets are $37 ($32 concession) and once you have confirmed your attendance, I will advise here in comments when to book your one-way ticket from Maldon. Please wait for the go-ahead to book your tickets as the event may be suspended if we don’t attract enough interest.** ***when advised*** **you can book your tickets at the following link:** [Book train ticket](https://secure.vgr.com.au/BookingCat/Availability/) **USEFUL LINKS:** **For more details on the route including the gradient involved please see the links below.** [https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/railway-track-maldon-to-castlemaine?sh=uoghfo](https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/railway-track-maldon-to-castlemaine?sh=uoghfo) [https://www.vgr.com.au/](https://www.vgr.com.au/) **Lunch** **Lunch: In Maldon we will stop for lunch at the Maldon Hotel, 58 Main St.** [Maldon Hotel](https://www.google.com.au/search?client=safari&hs=mGY&sca_esv=b3ca9c57de57aa89&channel=41&biw=393&bih=641&sxsrf=ANbL-n5zcNoRt1nlnk20vEuCOQZJ3tv4UQ%3A1778719407548&kgmid=%2Fg%2F1tdfyvxv&q=Maldon%20Hotel&shem=rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh%2Fx%2Floc%2Fact%2Fm4%2F3) **BEING PREPARED:** 1. **Arrange your transport** 1. **Check the weather forecast** 1. **Suitable footwear / clothing** 1. **Plenty of water / food / snacks** **RSVP’s / START TIME:** **Plans change, but please keep your RSVP up to date to allow others the chance to attend. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before the start time and message if you are running late. Remember that phone reception won't always be available so contact me as soon as possible if required.** **NOTIFICATIONS:** **All notifications will come via the Meetup app. Ensure you have enabled alerts & check the app in the lead up to an event. Notifications may include; comments, instructions & cancellations.** **QUESTIONS:** **Please feel free to post any questions.**

**Brighton to Point Ormond – Elwood Beach** ***As it is Mothers Day next Sunday, our next walk will be the following Sunday, 17th May.*** This popular walk along the Elwood foreshore is the perfect outing for an autumn Sunday morning. Join the thousands of Melburnians who regularly walk, jog and ride this wide, well-formed path along the shores of the Bay. Our coffee stop this morning will be at Northpoint Cafe, after we’ve walked from Brighton Beach to Point Ormond and return. **Start:** Bay St, Brighton. Assemble at the beach end of Bay St. **Parking:** Park along Bay Street or in St Ninians Road, off Bay St, just back from the beach. Parking is FREE. **The Walk**: The walk is along the Bayside Trail as far as Point Ormond Lookout and then return the same way. **Total distance**: 6.0 km. **Time:** Allow 2 hours for the walk, including coffee at the end. **Difficulty:** Easy **Toilets:** At several places along the way. **Coffee:** The café at Northpoint Cafe, or other venue (selected on the day) **Cost:** Free

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your cheeseboard and coaster, use the *MEETAMC10* coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Unleash your creativity at our Resin Art Workshop in the heart of Melbourne! Join us for a fun and interactive session where you'll learn the art of resin pouring from expert instructors. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop is perfect for everyone. You'll create stunning, unique pieces to take home and enjoy, all while surrounded by like-minded creatives. Our workshops provide all the tools, materials, and guidance you'll need to bring your vision to life. Discover the mesmerizing flow of resin, explore vibrant pigments, and watch your art evolve into a glossy masterpiece. Each session is designed to be both educational and relaxing, making it the ideal activity to unwind, socialize, and spark inspiration. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and dive into the colorful world of resin art with us!

Enjoy Williamstown Botanic Gardens, Williamstown Beach beach, a Williamstown Sunday ***Craft*** Market in historical heritage side. With short break at Kiosk or Cafe near beach during walk. During walk (or towards ends of walk, but not Meetup end) visit *Sunday Craft Market* near Gem Pier, on shops & historic buildings side of Williamstown. Forecast TBA (16C & rain if Sun; 22C partly cloudy if change to this Saturday). Meet Outside Williamstown Station (last station on the the line\*). Under Big Tree just Outside Station entrance. (Is only 1 Platform here). Meet 12:30-12:40pm. My Phone 0402816644; Best to phone/text. We'll be walking past Williamstown Beach Station during walk, if any persons wish to join us, but not for the Full Meetup/Walk. 2 mins by train back to Williamstown Station (if u drove), or 15 mins walk. Route/plan may vary depending on temp (if gets quite hot, we'll go to village side, with plenty shaded places); OR if weather changes. We may walk early or later during walk to Sunday *Craft* Market (open till 4); all Craft Market items are Created, Handmade, Home Grown or Baked. (*Different market & different location - Alongside Nelson Place/Near Gem Pier - to one we went to last time)* We'll spend about 30-45 minutes there — Check out stalls, grab a coffee or cold drink. And some food, or treats :) to take home. Bring shopping bag or something to put any purchases, if you do, in. If we do market near towards end of walk; after *official Meetup end, we can go to best, most range, icecream & sorbet place in Melbourne.* For those who wish to leave; is easy 7 mins walk to Williamstown Station. Another option, *for yourself,* info re Williamstown to St Kilda Ferry is below As well as visit to Market we'll walk to & through the Park like Botanic Gardens. We'll stop here briefly. Also Toilets less busy & bit cleaner available here, than along beach. (No Toilets at Market, but some at Station/Meet Point) We'll also walk along the foreshore path near the beach. Group can choose to stop at the on foreshore kiosk/cafe — if weather is pleasant & not too breezy or fresh or too hot (__C forecast), OR to go to proper but casual cafe, with beach & bay views. After our almost final stop, we can walk to/via either Williamstown Beach Station (or, Williamstown Station). Those who drove can easily get train 1 station back to Williamstown Stn, if have a myki, OR credit card (new) Option tap may be also available. Or if some people wish, can walk back to Williamstown Station, BUT it will mean, total duration of event will be longer than posted/scheduled. OR, after Meetup/Walk & Cafe some may like to take Ferry to St Kilda — $22 one-way (/$34 return if wish to, if Home is in Williamstown area). I've put duration as generous 2.5 hours (to allow for longer time at market, & at kiosk OR cafe). But we can finish earlier, if you wish. Total actual walking time/distance: approx 75-90 minutes/4-5 kms. Remember to wear hat, sunscreen & bring water. This Walk/Wander is also posted on/combined with 2 more groups; event/meetup is Open to all (18+ - under 18s may attend with an adult). A train arrives at 12:26. Intention is walk to start by/before 12:45pm! If are late getting there; or on next train (arrives 12:46) please post comment on Meetup. I'll post comment which way we go, to start. But may not respond promptly to comment msg, as may be pointing out some items & explaining re them My Phone 0402816644. Best to phone/text, than msg me via Meetup. Public Transport: Take (direct) Train from Flinders St Station or Southern Cross Station, to Williamstown Station. Or take a train from (the new) Town Hall Station or State Library Station, & change at Footscray Station, to Platform 6 for Williamstown Line train. \*If unfamiliar with the Williamstown Line, last 3 stations are: North Williamstown, Williamstown Beach, Williamstown Station/line ends. Mentioning, as some general public get off train at Williamstown Beach Station when meant to go Williamstown Station. Parking/Driving: Recommend parking in Hammer St, & then walk around corner (along Ann St), to Williamstown Station area. There's a few only unrestricted parking spots directly outside the Station, but doubtful if a good place to park, for a few hours. There's the Railway travelers carparking area 35 metres from the station. Finding Me/Us: Exit Williamstown Station (only 1 exit/1 platform) & look to the left, where there's a big tree. Or if drove, go to Ann St (on north side of Station) & walk past Station. [\*Please Note: I posted/edited/copy-modified quickly details (from last walk in Williamstown); please check details in a day or 2, for any alterations]. (And I will condense so easier to read it all).

Enjoy Williamstown Botanic Gardens, Williamstown Beach beach, a Williamstown Sunday ***Craft*** Market in historical heritage side. With short break at Kiosk or Cafe near beach during walk. During walk (or towards ends of walk, but not Meetup end) visit *Sunday Craft Market* near Gem Pier, on shops & historic buildings side of Williamstown. Forecast 27C, partly cloudy, sunny at times. **Meet Outside Williamstown Station** (last station on the the line\*). Under Big Tree just Outside Station entrance. (Is only 1 Platform here). Meet 12:30-12:40pm. My Phone 0402816644; Best to phone/text. We'll be walking past Williamstown Beach Station during walk; if any persons wish to join us, but not for the Full Meetup/Walk; 2 mins by train back to Williamstown Station (if u drove), or 15 mins walk. Route/plan may vary depending on temp (if gets quite hot, we'll go to village side, with plenty shaded places); OR if weather changes. We may walk early or later during walk to Sunday *Craft* Market (open till 4); all Craft Market items are Created, Handmade, Home Grown or Baked. (*Different market & different location - Alongside Nelson Place/Near Gem Pier - to one we went to last time)* We'll spend about 30-45 minutes there — Check out stalls, grab a coffee or cold drink. And some food, or treats :) to take home. Bring shopping bag or something to put any purchases, if you do, in. If we do market near towards end of walk; after *official Meetup end, we can go to best, most range, icecream & sorbet place in Melbourne.* For those who wish to leave; is easy 7 mins walk to Williamstown Station. Another option, *for yourself,* info re Williamstown to St Kilda Ferry is below. As well as visit to Market we'll walk to & through the Park like Botanic Gardens. We'll stop here briefly. Also Toilets less busy & bit cleaner available here, than along beach. (No Toilets at Market, but some at Station/Meet Point) We'll also walk along the foreshore path near the beach. Group can choose to stop at the on foreshore kiosk/cafe — if weather is pleasant & not too breezy or fresh or too hot (__C forecast), OR to go to proper but casual cafe, with beach & bay views. After our almost final stop, we can walk to/via either Williamstown Beach Station (or, Williamstown Station). Those who drove can easily get train 1 station back to Williamstown Stn, if have a myki, OR (new) credit card Option tap may be also available. Or if some people wish, can walk back to Williamstown Station, BUT it will mean, total duration of event will be longer than posted/scheduled. OR, after Meetup/Walk & Cafe some may like to take Ferry to St Kilda — $22 one-way (/$34 return if wish to, if Home is in Williamstown area). [ANZAC Station & Metro Tunnel Line is great option, if in Inner South Suburbs/ Bayside east side Suburbs; to get Inner West, & Bayside West, suburbs, As can change at Footscray Station, to Williamstown train. Instead of crowded tram to CBD/to Southern Cross or Flinders St Stns]. Another option (Private Operator): Ferry from St Kilda to Williamstown [$22 one-way/34 return] then 12 mins/850m walk to Williamstown Stn] I've put duration as generous 2.5 hours (to allow for longer time at market, & at kiosk OR cafe). But we can finish earlier, if you wish. Total actual walking time/distance: approx 75 minutes/3.5-4 kms. Will be nice 21C Sunny; remember to wear hat, sunscreen & bring water. This Walk/Wander is also posted on/combined with 2 more groups; event/meetup is Open to all (18+ - under 18s may attend with an adult). Some attendees may not be single, & some may not be 30s-60s range — is demographics of one group this is on. & often Rsvps, to my events. Getting there: A train arrives at 12:26. If late or on next train (arrives 12:46), please post a comment on Meetup. If all rsvps arrive by 12:40 we'll leave. My Phone 0402816644. Best to phone/text, than msg me via Meetup. Public Transport. Take a Direct Train from Flinders St Station or Southern Cross Station, to Williamstown Station. (Williamstown trains wont go via City Loop, then). Or take a train from (the new) Town Hall Station or State Library Station, & change at Footscray Station, to Platform 6 for Williamstown Line train. \*If unfamiliar with the Williamstown Line, last 3 stations are: North Williamstown, Williamstown Beach, Williamstown Station/line ends. Mentioning, as some general public get off train at Williamstown Beach Station when meant to go Williamstown Station. Parking/Driving: Recommend parking in Hammer St, & then walk around corner (along Ann St), to Williamstown Station area. There's a few only unrestricted parking spots directly outside the Station, but doubtful if a good place to park, for a few hours. There's the Railway travelers carparking area 35 metres from the station. Finding Me/Us: Exit Williamstown Station (only 1 exit/1 platform) & look to the left, where there's a big tree. Or if drove, go to Ann St (on north side of Station) & walk past Station.

Celebrate Melbourne's creative community at **The Artisan’s Guild**, running **every Sunday, 2–6pm** inside the **Fortress Melbourne Tavern**. Meet local artists and makers, discover unique handmade pieces—from prints and pins to jewellery and crafty curios—and chat with the people behind the work. Make an afternoon of it: order a pint or a mocktail, grab some legendary Tavern fare, and settle in amongst the cozy medieval vibes. Even watch our D&F tables pave their adventure together! Whether you’re hunting for a gift, building your hoard of treasures, or just here for the chill weekend vibes, this is the perfect low-key Sunday. Free entry. Family-friendly. Drop in anytime. Are you a maker interested in a stall at a future Guild? Get in touch with Fortress Melbourne to apply. hi@fortress.games **TERMS & CONDITIONS** * *Fortress is a licensed venue, and as such, a valid ID is required and checked upon entrance to the premises.* * *Unaccompanied minors are not permitted in the venue at any time. Please make sure any guests under 18 are accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.* * *Minors are not allowed in the venue past 8:00 pm* * *No outside food or drinks.* *More information on valid forms of identification and Fortress' minors policy can be found here: [www.fortress.games/minors/](https://www.fortress.games/minors/)*

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → YARRA Ranges** 🌲🏙️ * 📅 **SUN 17 MAY, DAY TRIP ☀️** * 🍃 Where forest whispers meet gentle adventure \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Yarra Ranges Escape — A Refined Nature Experience** Step beyond the city into the quiet elegance of the Yarra Ranges — where forest air is crisp, the pace is unhurried, and every moment feels considered. Hidden among the forest stands the old chimney — a subtle reminder of Victoria’s early timber days — alongside a peaceful water wheel turning slowly beside the stream. This is a place to slow down. We **hike** gently through lush forest trails, listening to birds and flowing water, with time to pause, take in the surroundings, and maybe spot a **koala** resting high in the trees. We then gather for a **European satay meal,** thoughtfully prepared and fully included, enjoyed outdoors in a calm natural setting — simple, refined, and shared. A **guided meditation** invites stillness and clarity, before we ease into a serene **kayaking** experience on a quiet lake, surrounded by soft reflections and open space. ✨ Small group. Premium comfort. Seamless experience. A day designed to feel effortless, balanced, and quietly memorable. 🌿This is more than just a trip. *\* It’s a day of simple pleasures — nature, movement, and good food, all taken slowly. 🌿* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌟 **What’s Included** ✅ Guided 9 km **forest hike** (easy) 🥾 ✅ **Kayaking** on a calm lake (all equipment included) 🛶 ✅ Guided **meditation** in nature 🍃 ✅ **European satay meal (included in the program)** 🍽️ ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee** & tea ☕ ✅ Premium round-trip transport **MERCEDES** minivan 🚐 ✅ Small-group atmosphere & meaningful connections 👥 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Your Itinerary: A Day in the Yarra Ranges** 🕢 **7:30 AM** — Pickup at St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street 🚐 **8:00 AM** — Short stop for **break** & refresh ☕ **9:15 AM** — Arrival + **morning coffee,** tea & snacks (included) 🌿 **9:30 AM** — Forest **Hike** begins (9 km, easy, \~160m elevation) 🍽️ **12:30 PM — European satay meal (included) + Snacks/drinks (inc.)** 🧘 **1:30 PM** — **Meditation** & grounding in nature 🛶 **2:30 PM** — **Kayaking** session (easy & **beginner**-friendly) ☕ **3:30 PM** — Relax by the lake / tea break 🚐 **4:30 PM** — Depart back to Melbourne 🌆 **6:00 PM** — Return to **city,** calm and refreshed 📍 Drop-off: Hamer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** YR 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/](https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*A day in nature is a day well spent** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Join **Bondaroo** for a relaxed Sunday morning exploring the vibrant Docklands waterfront and local farmers’ market together. This casual social event is a great way to get outdoors, discover new spots around Melbourne, and connect with new people in a friendly atmosphere. We’ll begin at Docklands Library before taking a scenic walk along the harbour, enjoying the waterfront views, public spaces, and city scenery. From there, we’ll explore the Farmers’ Market, where you can browse local stalls, artisan products, baked treats, and fresh produce at your own pace. 📍 **Meetup Location:** Library at The Dock ⏰ **Time:** 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM ### 🌟 Highlights & Activities 🚶 Relaxed waterfront walk around Docklands 🛍 Explore local market stalls and artisan goods 📸 Enjoy city views and discover hidden corners of the harbour 🤝 Meet international students and new friends ☕ Optional coffee or snack stop along the way This is a low-pressure social event — feel free to come solo or bring a friend along. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and check the weather before attending. See you there! **Note**: This event has limited spots. Please only RSVP if you plan to attend. If your plans change, kindly cancel your RSVP so someone else can join. ✨ **Bondaroo** **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * Adherence to the liability waiver is mandatory: [Read here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=sharing) * By attending this event, you are consent to our media policy: [Read here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=sharing)

**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.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

Customer identity resolution becomes increasingly complex as organizations scale across multiple systems, regions, and data formats. Traditional rule-based approaches often fail to keep up with data variability, require constant manual tuning, and struggle with real-time processing needs. This session presents a practical approach to building a scalable identity resolution pipeline using AWS services and modern AI techniques. The architecture combines data ingestion through Amazon S3 and AWS Glue, transformation pipelines using Spark on EMR, and machine learning models deployed via SageMaker for entity matching and standardization. Graph-based relationship modeling is implemented using Amazon Neptune to improve resolution accuracy by incorporating household and shared attribute context. We will walk through how machine learning models can be used for name and address normalization, how intelligent blocking strategies improve matching efficiency, and how feedback loops can be introduced to continuously improve accuracy. The session also highlights how serverless components such as AWS Lambda can be used for orchestration and real-time processing. **SPEAKER BIO** Mosaic Syed is a Senior Data Engineering and Cloud Solutions Architect with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions across global enterprise environments. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosaic-basha-syed-92300856 **CALL FOR SPEAKERS** Learn more: [https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/](https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/) **THANK YOU** *VEEAM* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Veeam*, please visit their website: [https://www.veeam.com/](https://www.veeam.com/) **DIRECTIONS** 8800 Lyra Dr #450 · Columbus, OH go to 4th floor. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Wild Ones Columbus Annual Native Plant Sale Saturday, May 23th, 2026 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (Eastern Time) Overbrook Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4131 N High St, Columbus, OH, 43214 Public Welcome, Family-Friendly Free Event A wide variety of native flowering plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees will be available from Wild Ones Columbus and local vendors Natives in Harmony, Leaves for Wildlife, and Scioto Gardens. Wild Ones will publish a list of plants that will be available at this year's sale closer to the event date. Be sure to stop by! Show up anytime!