Historic Preservation

**We have filled all 20 paid spots now. So will not be accepting any more payments. I have removed the banking information now.** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Melbourne Walk and Shoot is collaborating with Jacob from the Curiosities vintage store , 327 Sydney Road Brunswick , to give members the opportunity to photograph models in both vintage and contemporary fashion! This will be a 2 hour photoshoot, involve 3 models, a mix of vintage and cutting edge fashion and a combination of indoor and outdoor fashion portrait shoots. Every attendee will have time with all 3 models and opportunity for indoor and outdoor photography. This event is capped at 20 attendees. and will require a payment of **$15 to be made by Fri 15/5. Only the first 20 members who have paid the fee will be permitted to attend this event.** Please make sure you include your first and last name when you make your payment into this account. **The fee will go towards the models and use of the venue.** Afterwards we plan to have a lunch to debrief and also to do a little optional street photography walk for those that would like to search the streets for more fashion! Because this is the first time we are offering this event and numbers are limited, we intend to run this event again if interest is shown. Please only RSVP if you have strong interest in this event. It will be in the nature of being a try out of different models in different outfits and poses in a learn by experiencing and observing format. You will need to be willing to share/ forward photos to Jacob and the models for their use as well as this is collaborative in nature and the models will likely be thrilled to get images for their own portfolios. **Ground rules and Tips** \*You will be assigned a group in Part 1 and Part 2. You can switch out of your group for part 2 if you wish. Only the group actively shooting to interact with the model at that time. Please respect the photographers and models who are actively working, keep noise and side conversations to minimum. \*Respect is key- respect personal space of models and do not make physical contact . \*Show appreciation for models efforts, thanking them at end of session, providing images for models afterwards. \*Try to actively build rapport and confidence by regular positive feedback ie 'that pose is great' and avoid negative interactions ie 'That's wrong'. \*Constant 'chimping' ( checking back of your camera) will likely interrupt workflow for you and models so avoid this. SCHEDULE 8am - 8.45 am Meet at side lane near Curiosities vintage store 327 Sydney Road , Brunswick to meet and guidelines/ instructions session. 8.45- 9.45 am Part 1 Meet models and both indoor and outdoor shoots happening simultaneously . 9.45- 10.15 Model rest time, outfit change and groups swap over 10.15 - 11 am Part 2 Indoor/ Outdoor shoots. 11am - 12 noon. Small wander down Sydney Road, free time to relax. 12-1 pm Lunch ( optional) at The Penny Black, 420 Sydney Road, where will make a group booking for shared table , burgers, schnitzels, small plates available . 1pm-2.30 pm Photo walk down Sydney Road, for street photography and any fashion looks we find! Event then continues beyond the day in that we will provide a contact point for getting your photos back to Jacob and models!

**Ballarat Day Trip: Autumn Special** 🍂 **Saturday\, 23 May \| 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM** 🌟 Experience the charm of Ballarat in autumn with Bondaroo! Join us for a scenic day trip filled with historic landmarks, cultural discoveries, and beautiful seasonal landscapes. 🏛️✨ Designed especially for international students, this trip blends exploration, connection, and fun group experiences - a great opportunity to discover regional Victoria while enjoying the colours and atmosphere of the autumn season. **📍 Starting Point:** Southern Cross Station platform 5A or 6A **Time:** 8:45 AM sharp **📅 Date:** Saturday (23 May) **💬 RSVP:** Secure your spot on [Eventbrite ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-day-trip-with-bondaroo-registration-1989444505069?aff=oddtdtcreator)now! **Highlights:** Lake Wendouree, Ballarat Farmers Market, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Ballarat Tramway Museum, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Ballarat Town Hall, Chinese Library, and Art Gallery of Ballarat **🎟 Ticket Information** • Please register via **Eventbrite**. This Meetup page is for promotion only — RSVPs here will not be counted in the final attendee list. • **$10 deposit** (secures your spot, non-refundable if cancelled within 24 hours of the event) • **$49 total price including the deposit** (includes BBQ and light refreshments, pay the rest on the day) **⚠️ Important Notes** • Please ensure you have a **valid Myki with sufficient balance** for V/Line travel • Wear comfortable clothing and check the weather * Bring your water bottle to stay hydrated 👉 Limited spots – **book now on Eventbrite:** https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-day-trip-with-bondaroo-registration-1989444505069?aff=oddtdtcreator Pack your cameras and ready your senses for a day full of discovery and enchantment in Ballarat with 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. * By attending this event, you accept our [Terms and Conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Afnnu5xW6Yhtgl4LGDAVEMSdJ-7M3aC7Cs-s_t0uOo/edit?usp=sharing), including [media consent policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=drive_link), and agree to adhere to our [liability waiver ](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=drive_link)

A two-day workshop presented by Nicky Bassett & Tony Petcopoulos Saturday 23rd May 9:30am-4:30pm & Sunday 24th May 9:30am-4:30pm Please join us as we explore our heart’s power to achieve higher states of consciousness, and our soul’s journey that enables us to become more open-hearted spiritual beings guided by love and wisdom. We begin by discussing the convergence of ancient heart wisdom traditions and recent heart-based scientific findings; and identify heart qualities that can increase our physical, emotional and mental well-being, resulting in awesome spiritual transformations including enhanced intuition, reduced karma and clarity of vision. Then, using H.P.Blavatsky’s treasured classic *The Voice of the Silence* as our guide, we reflect on our soul’s journey by exploring the significance of *The Voice*, the Doctrine of the Heart, the power of concentration, thought-forms and our shadow, and our path through the seven Portals that can lead us to spiritual wisdom. The workshop will include techniques and activities along with a two 50-page reference booklet to be distributed at the end of each day to reinforce the key concepts. Nicky and Tony have travelled the world since their early twenties, studying and practising various sacred traditions in search of Self, and have taught the Ageless wisdom for many years. Nicky’s tertiary studies in psychology and business have supported her work as an academic communications lecturer, management and training consultant, astrological counsellor and CEO. Tony is a retired social worker with 35 years’ experience in employee assistance schemes specializing in stress, burnout and community development and has studied at Adyar in India. They welcome you on this magical journey deep into our hearts. To register and pay the $30 to attend this special event, please contact the Melbourne Theosophical Bookstore in person or via the phone 8638 0364 during opening hours - Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 11am-4pm. **The MTS is committed to providing events that align with and further The three objects of The Theosophical Society:** * To form a nucleus of the universal brotherhood of humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, caste or colour. * To encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy and science. * To investigate unexplained laws of nature and the powers latent in the human being. However this being stated, the MTS does not endorse any health, spiritual, science-related, philosophical or theological /other assertions or claims made by any facilitator we host.

**Every Friday \| 6PM \- Late \| Free Entry** 🎉 *The ultimate weekly hangout for Magic players - new and experienced alike.* Unleash your inner planeswalker at **Mana on Tap**, a free weekly Magic: The Gathering event hosted in Fortress’s Arena. Whether you’re a seasoned spell-slinger or brand new to the game, join us every **Friday night from 6 PM to Late** for games, drinks, and good vibes with fellow Magic fans. ### **Learn to Play** Just picked up your first deck? Want to learn the ropes? Borrow a starter deck for free at Fortress and join a casual Learn to Play session hosted by friendly game guides. Meet fellow new players, pick up tips, and duel in a relaxed, welcoming setting. ### **Play Your Way** Casual, competitive, or something in between, **all formats are welcome** (though most people play Commander). Whether you’re into Commander, Pauper, Standard, or Modern, there’s a seat at the table for you. Bring your deck or borrow one, and play at your own pace. ### **Commander Conclave** Our spacious Arena is perfect for **Commander Night**. Dive into multiplayer games, meet fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy stellar lighting, comfy seating, and easy access to food and drink from our full-service bar. Order via buzzer and get back to the action faster. ### **The Venue** Held in **The Arena** at Fortress, enjoy plenty of space, low-volume ambience, and on-tap beverages while you play. Stay fueled with food and drinks delivered straight to your table - no need to pause the game. **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/)*

Hi Radiant Ladies, Join us for a refreshing Saturday walk at Ruffey Lake Park. 👭 Walk at your own pace 🐕 Dogs welcome ☕ Coffee after 🌦️ We walk every Saturday (unless it’s pouring) New ladies welcome. See you! 

Leanne & Lyn 💕

**Malvern & Armadale Fully Guided History Walk Tour** *Discover how John Gardiner's cattle run turned into a thriving township* **Date: Saturday May 23rd - meet at 12.15PM for a 12.30PM start** \- walk goes to approx 3PM\-ish **Only $25 per person** \- please pay at start of walk \(cash or cards welcome\) **Starting Point:** We will meet at the courtyard area in front of the coffee shop "Giorgios" 12.15pm - for the 12.30pm sharp start. (NB: corner of High Street and Glenferrie Road) You'll see me there from 12.00noon ... on the High Street Side of the corner. **About This Walk** \- Malvern has long been an attraction for shoppers and many also enjoy its fine dining\. On this walk we'll examine the Malvern background from its art\, buildings\, yes its interesting people\.\.\. and its lasting cultural influences in Melbourne society\. Join us as we meander the streets around Malvern and Armadale unlocking the past\. **After our walk** \- we will enjoy a lovely cuppa at a nice cafe together and chat about what we've seen\. **How To Get There:** \*Parking: is best in (typically) Willis Street or Malvern shopping center nearby \*Tram No 6 on High Street or Tram 16 Glenferrie Road \*Trains - Armadale then get tram 6 or Malvern and then tram 16 either train station is in walking distance

## 🇯🇵 Progressi部: Japanese-English Language & Culture Exchange 🇦🇺 **"Serious Study, Authentic Community" — 本気で学び、本気で交流する。** Join us for our weekly exchange designed for those dedicated to practicing Japanese and English. This is a space to improve your language skills, share cultural insights, and make new, like-minded friends in a respectful environment. ### 🎯 Who This Group Is For We welcome individuals who are here to **actively practice their Japanese or English**. Whether you are looking for a study partner or want to learn more about culture, this is a community for focused and meaningful interaction. **✅ 受付方法 / Event Check-in (Strictly Required)** 到着の際、必ず主催者に以下の提示をお願いします / Upon arrival, please present the following to the organizer: * **Meetupの参加申し込み（RSVP）画面をご提示ください。** / Show your Meetup RSVP confirmation screen. * **予約なし（No RSVP）での参加はお断りしております。** / No walk-ins permitted without a confirmed RSVP. * **Participation Fee: $3 CASH** Non-Japanese citizens. ### 🚫 Conduct & Safety Policy To ensure a high-quality experience for all members, we maintain a strict standard of behavior: * **Immediate Ban:** Any individual found guilty of misconduct or creating "trouble" will be banned from the group immediately.**.** * **Organizer Authority:** The Organizer reserves the right to remove any member at their sole discretion to maintain the safety and integrity of the community. * **Respectful Interaction:** All members are expected to be polite and mindful of others. Do not make fellow participants feel uncomfortable or pressured. * **Privacy:** Please respect the personal boundaries of others. Do not pressure members for private contact information. **If any member makes you feel uncomfortable, please report it immediately to the organizers: Shin, David, or Ray.** *** ### 📝 Event Details * **Time:** Saturday, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM * **Arrival:** Please arrive **10–15 minutes early** due to limited seating. * **Entry Fee:** **$3 CASH** (Non-Japanese citizens). This contribution covers monthly meetup hosting fees. * **Photography:** Photos will be taken during the event for our community archives. ### 🇯🇵 日本語でのご案内 メルボルン市内のカフェで、本気で学べる日英言語文化交流会を主催しています。 * **目的:** 日本語・英語の練習、そして同じ目標を持つ友人作りを目的としています。 * **参加費:** 日本国籍以外の方は $3ドル（現金のみ）。 * **ルール:** 迷惑行為やトラブルを起こす方の参加は一切禁止です。主催者の判断により、即座に退会・出入り禁止の措置を取らせていただきます。 * 困ったことがあれば、すぐにオーガナイザー（Shin, David, Ray）までお知らせください。 ### 🔗 Connect With Us * **Facebook:** [facebook.com/groups/progressibu](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu) * **X (Twitter):** [twitter.com/progressibu](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://twitter.com/progressibu)

Join me for a family friendly afternoon walk, coffee and a game of bocce in the Royal Botanic Gardens. This environment is a stunning place to relax, explore, and make new connections in all seasons. There are winding paths, groves, lakes, lawns and more than 8,500 species of plants. We will stop in at the Terrace cafe for takeaways, or bring your own drinks and snacks and we can stop for a chat and a game on the lawns. Our walk will finish at the Shrine of Remembrance to see the beautiful views of the city. This walk is rated easy, it is relatively flat and we will walk at a slow to moderate pace so we can socialise along the way. There are a few sections with stairs but there are alternative pathways close by. **Agenda:** I will meet you at **2pm** at the circular sculpture near the Observatory & Visitors Centre, 100 Birdwood Avenue. There is a map and photo of the meeting place below. We will head off no later than **2.15pm** We will reach the Terrace Cafe by **3pm**, have a coffee and a game of bocce on the lawns, then explore the gardens finishing at the Shrine of Remembrance at 5pm. When you RSVP **please click Attend** on the event page and I will be in touch about the details via direct message. As this is a rain or shine event I will also be available in the Event Comments on the day, and add any updates there if needed regarding weather conditions.

\*\*\*Kingdoms, Dynasties, Kings and High Kings of Ireland \*\*\* Over coffee @ the Lobby Lounge - Westin Hotel Melbourne 23/05/2026 10AM A prelude to my forthcoming session on the Cycle of the Kings in my other group. This session will include \* mythological kings and ancestors \* sources and manuscripts \* historical overview of kings/dynasties of Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster. \* The Northern and Southern Ui Neill \* The conception of the High King of Ireland. \* Viking incursions \* Brian Boru and the battle of Clontarf \* Decline of Irish Kingship - the Anglo Norman invasion through to the Tudor conquest Main sources drawn from https://grokipedia.com/page/List_of_kings_of_Leinster https://grokipedia.com/page/List_of_kings_of_Munster https://grokipedia.com/page/List_of_kings_of_Ulster https://grokipedia.com/page/List_of_kings_of_Connacht https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Uí_Néill https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Uí_Néill https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGUJDdJBsG8 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_of_Ireland

We’re heading to Ararat - historic former gold-mining town. Please follow **all three steps to confirm your spot**. Please remember to get the free V/Line tickets right after you get the Trybooking ticket. Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20 - Early Bird, $25 - Regular) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DMFZZ](https://www.trybooking.com/DMFZZ) Step 3: Please get the free return V/Line ticket ($0.00). [https://bit.ly/48XyAUU](https://bit.ly/48XyAUU) Onward: 10:35 Return: 16:14 Trybooking tickets will be scanned at the meeting point. Please note that the ticket will be only refunded if the event is moved or cancelled. There are no refunds. The tickets also cannot be transferred to a different event. Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an "Unpaid" status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. **Meeting Point:** Let's meet in the Corner of Spencer Street and Bourke Street (Station Side - Near the steps) at 10:00 AM and head to take the train. We are meeting much earlier than departure time to ensure we get seats. We should be back in the city around 7 PM. Meeting Point Photo: [https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2) Map: [https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Spencer+St+%26+Bourke+St,+Docklands+VIC+3008/@-37.8171681,144.9534121,20z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad65d4e4c1a2cad:0x5d63752e26275ea0!8m2!3d-37.8171007!4d144.9531805](https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Spencer+St+%26+Bourke+St,+Docklands+VIC+3008/@-37.8171681,144.9534121,20z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad65d4e4c1a2cad:0x5d63752e26275ea0!8m2!3d-37.8171007!4d144.9531805) Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 - Early Bird, $25 - Regular Transport: V/Line - Free J Ward Museum (Optional): $17 Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre (Optional): $14 Photos: All the photos will be uploaded to our Facebook Group (Explore Melbourne) - [https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) and to meetup. Tentative places we plan to visit by walking around town: \* Langi Morgala Museum \* Ararat Gallery TAMA \* Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre \* Alexandra Gardens Park \* Ararat Town Hall Optional ones you can walk to: \* J Ward Museum (Optional): $17 \* Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre (Optional): $14 Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia. We have seven simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ **Not a dating group!** – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 **No phone numbers**, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please **don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups**. 🔞 Our events are only **open to people aged 18 and older**. 📢 Please **do not advertise other events or groups**. 😅 **Don’t be a social octopus!** – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We **don't allow carpooling** due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 **No sales pitches!** – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **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 safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

KereKere Green in Fitzroy Gardens We will be discussing Philosophize This! Episode 18: Avicenna Can be found on the Philosophize This! website ( https://www.philosophizethis.org/podcast/avicenna-mz68j ), Spotify, YouTube Music, or other places you listen to podcasts. Everyone welcome

**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.

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.

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.

**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.

Hosted by OSU Extension Summer 2026 Food Preservation Workshops Join Shari Gallup from Ohio State University Extension, for a summer food preservation series at the Bryn Du Mansion. Discover how to safely preserve food at home. Learn basic food preservation methods including pressure canning, water bath canning and drying. June 4 - Water Bath Canning July 9 - Pressure Canning August 6 - Drying Fruits and Vegetables We're excited to once again welcome Shari Gallup from The Ohio State University Extension Office to lead a series of Life Local food preservation workshops. These hands-on sessions are designed to help participants learn practical, time-tested techniques for preserving seasonal foods at home. Registration is not yet open but will be available soon. Stay tuned for details on this wonderful series. Time 5:00 p.m. Location Bryn Du Mansion 587 Jones Road, Granville https://www.bryndu.com/public-events

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