Indianapolis

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

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

Welcome to our weekly event in the upstairs room of The Sister Café, rue Chair et Pain 3, one block from the Grand Place. Please get there early enough to order your drink at the bar first. Thank you! After introductions we will collect questions from the group participants, choose one by voting then discuss it for an hour. Then most of us stay for drinks and bizarre conversations. Past questions have been wide and not confined to academic philosophy: What is a genuine friend? Is social media turning us into emotional zombies? Do we lose some of the experience of things by defining them? Are we driven by sex? Is loneliness a personal failure? Is morality relative? **Crucially, be kind and respectful and generous** in your disagreements; remember how much you personally enjoy someone else proving you wrong before celebrating your cutting counterexamples.

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

Join us on our weekly Sunday run to get your day started on the right foot. Whether you're a first-timer with the Brussels Runners Meetup or a familiar face, we can't wait to see you there! What to Expect: Distance : \~13 km. Pace : \~6 min/km. Mixed Terrain : A combination of dirt paths, forest trails, and possibly some road sections. Scenic Views : Enjoy the beauty of nature as we traverse diverse landscapes. Good Company : Run with like-minded individuals and make new friends. Post-Run Coffee : Optional post-run gathering for refreshments and camaraderie. **Bag Drop** : Yes Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability. By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. Questions and comments are welcome.

🌟 Hello Yogis and Future Yogis! 🌟 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️ Whether you're a seasoned Yogi or a complete beginner, come and join us every **SUNDAY MORNING - from 11:00 to 12:15 - for Queer Yoga in Brussels :)** No need to worry if you've never tried Yoga before – everyone is welcome! 🌈 Just bring yourself in some comfy clothes (mats are provided) and let the magic happen :-). 🌿 **Class Details:** * This is an "open event" - for everyone, LGBTQ people and their friends no matter their **gender, age, race, sexual orientation or level of fitness / practice**. * Classes take place [Merci Wellness - Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles](https://www.merci-wellness.be/plan-acces.php). Very easy to get there, either by bike or metro (Hotel des Monnaies). * Ring bell "MERCI WELLNESS" - third floor ! * ⏰ 11:00 to 12:15 (doors close at 10:55 as **class starts at 11:00 sharp** \- it is not possible to join late\)\. 💸 **Cost:** * Single class: 15 euros 🧘‍♂️ * 5-class pass: 65 euros (valid for 3 months - a great deal for regular yogis! 🎉) You can pay your class on site either in CASH or through PAYCONIC. **Come and this great group of Sunday Morning Yogis** \- to spend a moment in a nice atmosphere and discover the benefits of Yoga\, from increased flexibility\, better posture\, a stronger body to a calmer mind\. See you on the mat! 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️✨ Edson P.S. Also, make sure to check out our new class **"Yoga for Men"** \- every Wednesday at 18:30 in the same location \- you can find the class list on our Meetup main page \!

Let's meet to write ! Schedule : 11:00 - 11:30 am : Presentation tour. Share briefly with the group about your project and your "goal of the day". 11:30 - 13:30 : Let's write ! 13:30 : Conclusion tour. Did you achieve your goal of the day ? See you soon !

* 42km loop from Parc du Cinquantenaire to [Parc de Tervuren](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rc6PPwXwFGhUfprTA) and return through the forest. * Coffee 10h30 \| leaving 11h00\. * Estimated moving time 2h45 not including lunch and some brief stops. * Lunch at the halfway point in Tervuren—bring your own. * Meet at [Guingette Maurice](https://www.google.com/search?num=10&sca_esv=c9874bb074d0c29e&biw=2048&bih=1022&sxsrf=ANbL-n7VfOmjMKdEleL4ozbIswY-bStEPw:1777023676638&q=Guingette+Maurice&si=AL3DRZGNtcdgKOqVhotcr-UG2kkYpwR2WO4qu3O00NmpwBmLnWGlJ-sJ67ZY5GMMMbeMY-1kVZqsmva8UgiBKmBXfuRGV7y4itqLk5c6f-bOxJRrBHBdGct3W4jSxNn4GyEwXFP3l5Pl&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiDpYOImYaUAxVDTqQEHXotOi0Q_coHegQIPRAB) in Parc du Cinquantenaire. * View the route or download the GPX from [here](https://loc.wiki/t/263938562?wa=sc). * If bad weather is forecast this will be cancelled or rescheduled so check this event page before start time. * More general information on the [About](https://www.meetup.com/brussels-cycling-group/) page. * Tel: 04 86 40 6816

**Come join us for a friendly social run at Parc du Cinquantenaire** 🌳🏛️ We’ll meet at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels and run either 5 km, depending on how everyone feels on the day. All levels are welcome 🤝 The focus is on enjoying the run, staying active, and meeting new people. Bring your running shoes 👟, water 💧, and positive energy ⚡ . 📍 **Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels** **📞 Contact: 0471695419** Let’s enjoy a great run together! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️✨

What's up Friends! 👋 Let's meet at Le Pantin for another round of games and laughs. Games: 🎲 The pub has a fair collection of games. Feel free however to bring any of your own favorites. Food & Drinks: Le Pantin serves only drinks🍸🍺🍹, however you’re also welcome to bring your own snacks 🍟🍩🍿 to enjoy during the games. Ordering: 🤑 At least one drink is mandatory - this is how we support cool places like this! Timing: ⏱️ We kick off at 14:00, and you’re welcome to stay for as many games as you like. Joining later? Just let me know in advance in the chat so we don’t slow down the start 😊 🚦If you find yourself on the waiting list but you absolutely want to join or if you have any other question - feel free to contact me directly via the chat. 📢 Further details may be shared via the group chat or via DM 💬. Make sure to check your messages 👀 at least on the day before the event to avoid missing any mega important 🙄 announcements. 🐈‍⬛ The Friends Code: 👉 Which games are played will be agreed by the group 👉Depending on preferences and group size we usually split into several tables 👉 Got a favorite game? Bring it along or drop a suggestion in your reply 👉 Can't make it? Cancel on time so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot 👉 Don't show up (or show up at your own risk:) if you are on the waiting list. There may be no space for extra players and you risk to get disappointed. See you folks 😉

Let's continue the tradition and play UNO, everybody is welcome :) If you're on the waitlist please check your messages, especially on Sunday. If people drop off last minute I tend to message people on the waitlist to see who can come. We'll be playing at the lobby of Radisson RED, Brussels. The address of the hotel is: Rue d'Idalie 35, 1050 Bruxelles My number is 0471 45 55 02. Feel free to call if you cannot solve a physics question, cannot find the place or simply need a hug. I have quickly written a set of rules on how we play. It is assumed that the reader has a basic concept of the game. *** Setup: * Each player starts with 6 or 7 cards each (depending on total number of players) * A card is shown in play in the middle of everyone, this is known as the top card. Goal: * The goal of the game for each player is to get rid of all cards in your hand Rules: * Whenever you go from two cards to one card, you have to say "UNO". * Each player takes his turn one by one, initially going in the clock-wise direction * A card may be played if it matches the same colour or same number or same type as the top card in play * The two black cards (Draw 4 and Wild) can be played regardless of the top card in play. * Interruption rule: You may interrupt the general flow of the game (clockwise or counter-clockwise) if you have the EXACT same card as the top card in play. If you manage to play the card prior to the person whose turn it's supposed to be, then the game continues on from you in the same direction it was previously. (Unless the reverse card was interrupted, then the direction changes). * Draw2 or Draw4 cards can be played in accordance to the interruption rule. The following person after the interrupt has to take the accumulated number of cards. If however, cards have already been drawn AND seen by the person who was supposed to take the cards, then only the remainder of cards has to be drawn. * Once someone has no cards remaining in his hand, play stops and we start counting points. Points: * Number cards have the face value as the number of points. i.e. number 6 is worth 6 points, number 0 is worth 0 points, number 4 is worth 4 points. * Skip, reverse and Draw2 are worth 20 points each * Wild and draw4 are worth 50 points each

**Dreamcollector, c’est plus qu’un rassemblement : c’est un club de passionné·e·s.** Un lieu où l’on vient pour admirer, échanger, rencontrer… et repartir avec des souvenirs, des contacts et l’envie de revenir. ### Un rendez-vous régulier pour toutes et tous. Que vous veniez avec une ancienne, une sportive, une voiture de prestige — ou simplement par curiosité — vous êtes au bon endroit. Ici, on partage la même chose : **la passion des belles mécaniques** et l’ambiance qui va avec. ### Exposer, découvrir, rencontrer Dreamcollector, ce n’est pas “juste des voitures alignées”. Sur place, vous retrouvez aussi des **artisan·e·s et professionnel·le·s** de l’univers auto : pièces, accessoires, objets de collection, lifestyle, services… De quoi découvrir, apprendre, et dénicher de vraies pépites. ### Une ambiance conviviale (vraiment) Venez en solo, entre ami·e·s ou en famille : on prend le temps, on mange un morceau, on partage un verre, on discute… dans une atmosphère **simple, respectueuse et passionnée**. ### Les avantages membres En devenant membre, vous accédez à des avantages exclusifs : * la possibilité **d’exposer votre véhicule** lors de nos événements * des **réductions chez nos partenaires** * des invitations à des événements chez nos partenaires * des réductions sur des événements automobile comme Interclassics Brussels ### Rejoignez la communauté Dreamcollector Envie de vivre l’expérience de l’intérieur ? **Inscrivez-vous** et rejoignez un club qui fait bouger la scène auto, avec des événements pensés pour rassembler — sans prise de tête, avec passion.

**PLEASE READ THE ATTENDANCE POLICY (below) IF IT'S YOUR FIRST TIME** **SUNDAY COFFEE & JAPANESE CONVERSATION** 日曜日のコーヒー＆日本語会話 Our "Japanese/English Conversation Exchange" offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Japanese culture and language, all while helping native Japanese members to learn their target language. 私たちの「日本語/英語会話交流」は、日本の文化と言語の世界に没頭しながら、ネイティブの日本人メンバーが英語、フランス語、またはオランダ語を学ぶのを手助けするユニークな機会を提供します。 **Date: /** 日付：**(almost) every Sunday** **Time: /** 時間：**from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm** **Location: /** 場所：**Cafe Caberdouche - Place de la Liberté 8, 1000 Bruxelles** **Venue Note: /** 会場の注意：**The manager of the cafe kindly accepted us to book a table on a regular basis. To thank him for his kindness, please order AT LEAST ONE DRINK**. カフェのマネージャーが親切にも私たちに定期的にテーブルを予約することを承諾してくださいました。その親切に感謝の意を示すために、少なくとも1杯のドリンクを注文してください。 **Location Assistance: /** 場所の案内：**If you can't find us, ask one of the waiters. They know where we are :) You can also send us a message.** 私たちを見つけられない場合は、ウェイターの一人に尋ねてください。彼らは私たちがどこにいるか知っています :) メッセージも送っていただけます。 **Event Agenda: /** イベントのアジェンダ： * **4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: JAPANESE CONVERSATION** \- Join us for the Japanese conversation and cultural exploration\. Beginners are welcome / 日本語会話 \- 最初の30分は日本語の会話と文化探求に充てられています。初心者も聞くだけでも歓迎です。30分後に参加しても構いません。多言語交換 \- ベルギーの多様性を体験し、ネイティブの日本人メンバーが英語、フランス語、またはオランダ語を学びたいと熱心に待っています。さまざまな言語で異文化交流の会話に参加しましょう。私たちの日本の友人にベルギーの文化、伝統、生活を紹介しましょう。 * **6:00 PM: EVENT CONCLUSION** \- Please respect the event's start and end times to maximize your language exchange opportunities\. Your participation and enthusiasm are appreciated\! イベントの終了 \- イベントの開始時間と終了時間を尊重して、言語交換の機会を最大限に活用してください。参加と熱意に感謝します！ **Attendance Policy: --->** 以下の日本語 * We're excited to have you join our events and appreciate your commitment to learning and growing together. To ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for all participants, please take note of our attendance policy: 1. **Punctuality:** Please arrive on time for scheduled events. Late arrivals can disrupt the flow of the event and may miss important information. 2. **Language Commitment:** If you sign up for language-specific sessions, such as Japanese conversation or language exchange, we kindly request your commitment to actively participate in that language for the designated duration. 3. **Respect:** Treat fellow participants, organizers, and cafe staff with respect and courtesy. Harassment or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. 4. **Removal Policy:** A participant who is not respectful towards other members will be removed from the group and blocked, with no warning. This point is not negotiable. 5. **Cancellation:** If you are unable to attend an event you've registered for, please let us know as soon as possible. This helps us plan accordingly and allows others to take your place if there's a waitlist. 6. **No-Show Policy:** Three no-shows (failing to attend without prior notice) may result in restrictions on event registration to ensure fairness to other participants. By attending our events, you agree to adhere to these guidelines. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and connect. Thank you for being part of our community! **出席ポリシー：** 私たちは、イベントに参加していただけることを楽しみにしており、皆さんが一緒に学び成長することに取り組んでいただけることを感謝しています。すべての参加者が生産的で楽しい経験をするために、出席ポリシーにご留意ください： 1. 時間厳守：予定されたイベントには時間通りにお越しください。遅刻はイベントの流れを乱し、重要な情報を見逃す可能性があります。日本語のみのセッションは午後4時、全言語のセッションは午後4時30分開始です。 2. 言語へのコミットメント：日本語会話や言語交換など、特定の言語のセッションに登録された場合は、その言語での積極的な参加をお願いします。 3. 尊重：他の参加者、主催者、カフェのスタッフには敬意と礼儀をもって接してください。嫌がらせや迷惑行為は許容されません。 4. 退場ポリシー：他のメンバーに対して敬意を持たない参加者は、警告なしにグループから削除され、ブロックされます。このポイントは交渉の余地がありません。 5. キャンセル：登録したイベントに参加できない場合は、できるだけ早くお知らせください。これにより、他の人があなたの代わりを取ることができます。 6. ノーショーポリシー：事前の通知なしに3回のノーショー（欠席）がある場合は、他の参加者に公平になるようイベントの登録に制限がかかる場合があります。 私たちのイベントに参加することで、これらのガイドラインに従うことに同意するものとします。私たちはみなさんが学び、つながることができるように歓迎される包括的な環境を作り出すことを目指しています。コミュニティの一部としてご参加いただき、ありがとうございます！ **Note: Please stay tuned to our event page for updates and schedule changes. We can't wait to see you there and exchange languages, cultures, and stories!** 備考：更新やスケジュールの変更については、イベントページをご覧ください。そこで皆さんにお会いして、言語や文化、物語を交換できるのを楽しみにしています！

**💝 Personality-Matched Speed Dating for Indianapolis Locals from Home — Real People** Joining means you'll cycle through quick private Zoom rounds with Indianapolis singles matched to you by age and personality, as a skilled host keeps the pace natural. When booking your spot, a two-minute quiz captures your personality — your personality profile from that quiz to pair you with compatible Indianapolis locals, meaning your rounds are curated and not random. When it is all over, we disclose mutual matches quietly — keeping your selections private otherwise — and what happens next is entirely up to you. **Select your age group to secure your place:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) **⚠️ Spot not held yet:** An rsvp on this page is not a confirmed spot, so register through the age group link, complete the form, and take the two-minute personality quiz — numbers are intentionally limited so register early, and the quiz plus registration together hold your place. --- **Who it is for:** - Daters within Indianapolis getting away from profiles that never convert to actual dates and need a better way to meet people. - Anyone at all around Indianapolis finished with matches that fade out before meeting and want actual face-to-face conversation. - Members near Indianapolis getting away from swiping left and right with no results and are ready for something that feels natural. - Those in Indianapolis finished with digital dating that never converts to anything real and are serious about meeting someone. **Here is the format** 1. **Find your age group** – by using the link for your bracket above, then take the brief quiz, as the quiz plus registration is what counts. 2. **Hop on** – at the event start by opening your Zoom link, no download is needed since it works in any browser, and a friendly host manages everything once you are on. 3. **Connect** – back-to-back private Zoom rounds with Indianapolis locals selected for your age group, while a host ensures every round feels natural, as each round is with a Indianapolis local matched to your profile. 4. **Discover your matches** – mutual connections are confirmed and sent after the session, with contact info only shared when both of you said yes, and the outcome is yours to take forward at your leisure. **Details** - **Format:** Online and live on a live Zoom call running short speed dating rounds throughout, matched by quiz results and age at every round. - **Where:** All online — from your laptop or mobile device, no special equipment — just a device with a camera and internet, and you can join from your couch or anywhere else that works. - **Host:** A dedicated host keeps everything on track and stress-free throughout, which takes all pressure off the format entirely — everything from round one to the final match is handled. - **Vibe:** Warm video date rounds with Indianapolis people who actually turned up, and you leave with more energy than you arrived with. - **Duration:** You are looking at about an hour give or take including the welcome, and most people say it flies by. ⭐ *"Great evening — the matching was spot on"* – Indianapolis local, first event --- ✨ Short rounds with real Indianapolis locals — select your bracket and register and the evening takes care of itself tonight. The evening starts the moment you register. 🎯 ✨

**Presenter:** Auri Rahimzadeh, Principal Software Architect, Momentum3 **Time:** Pizza at 6:00, Presentation Starts at 6:30pm Eastern **Location:** Theoris, 9000 Keystone Crossing, Suite 230, Indianapolis Auri's been using AI a lot. Are you? Let's discuss how to be your most effective self by using AI in your development workflow. Looking forward to seeing you there!

**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.

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the Upper Arlington Library (**Tremont** Branch) in **Meeting Room A** to speak in Italian for 1 hour.

For the last 5 years, Central Ohio Friends and Columbus Social Connection have teamed up for some incredible nights out and some of the biggest social events in Columbus with our biggest combined event bringing out 80+ people. ⚠️ Please only RSVP through ONE group to help keep headcount accurate. Now we’re celebrating where it all started. On Friday, May 22, we’ll be joining Central Ohio Friends 🍻 **Starting at Whistle & Keg at 8:00 PM** before making our way through the Arena District Making a stop at Brothers Bar & Grill in the Arena District the same place their very first event was held back in 2021. Whether you’ve been to one of our events before or **have been waiting for the right one to come out to,** this is a great one to jump into. Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff. If you find value in these events consider contributing Link can be found in comments!

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.