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Indianapolis Events Today
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Happy hour at Tap 99!
Meet us for Happy Hour!
Tap99 is a self pour beer bar with 99 Taps. Yes, they actually have 99. They have beer, cider, seltzer, and wine on tap.
Never been to a self pour bar? Here’s how it works, from their website: “To begin pouring, guests open a tab at our check-in desk using a credit or debit card and after showing an I.D. They then receive a pour card that is linked to their tab, that will keep track of what they have poured. Guests then insert the card into the card reader below any of the taps to begin pouring. Guests can pour a few ounces or a full glass of their favorite drink.” At the end you’ll be charged based on the pours you’ve gotten (prices are on the individual taps). They DO have food, and actual happy hour specials from 3-7!
They’re located across from Nat’s Park and as of right now there are no big events happening in that area on 5/28 so it shouldn’t be crazy packed. Closest metro stop is Navy Yard/Ballpark- exit the Half St exit.
Come and chill!
Hope to see ya! 🍻
Diaspora Roundtable - An intimate evening of dialogue & elevated dining
[Reserve Your Seat Now](https://DiasporaRoundtableDC.eventbrite.com/?aff=MU)
A Curated Diaspora Dialogue in a Refined African Dining Setting
In partnership with Afropolitan Cities & Breathing Art Studio, Ahaspora brings you the 2nd edition of the Diaspora Roundtable 2026 — Africa Day Edition — an intimate, high-level evening of dialogue, connection, inspiration, and cultural experience.
📍 The Continent DC
📅 Thursday, May 28, 2026
🕔 5:00 PM (EST)
Taking place during Africa Day Week, this special edition brings together leading voices across the African Diaspora for a powerful exchange. This Diaspora talk series is designed to spotlight the global impact of Africa’s Diaspora, while exploring how diaspora communities are shaping narratives, driving innovation, and unlocking real pathways for engagement, investment, and long-term collaboration across the continent.
Through curated dialogue and storytelling, the roundtable creates space for honest perspectives, shared experiences, and forward-thinking ideas — connecting those who are building, investing, and influencing across borders.
This gathering is part of the Ahaspora in the USA series — an ongoing initiative focused on strengthening diaspora engagement, building meaningful bridges between Africa and the world, and positioning Africa as a central player in the global future.
Set within one of Washington, DC’s premier African fine dining destinations, the experience blends thoughtful conversation with a refined culinary atmosphere — creating an intimate environment that is as elevated as it is engaging.
What to Expect:
• A dynamic, high-level roundtable conversation with leading diaspora voices
• A refined dining experience in a culturally immersive setting
• Thought-provoking insights on influence, investment, and Africa–Diaspora collaboration
• Meaningful networking with leading voices, founders, professionals, creatives, and cultural leaders
Because the future of Africa’s global story will not be written in isolation —
it will be shaped through connection, collaboration, and action across the Diaspora.
🍾 DC Polyam's One Year Anniversary Celebration! 🎊
WOW can you believe it's been a full year since we started DC Polyam?! To thank you all from the bottom of our hearts, we are hosting our one-year anniversary celebration on Thursday, May 28th, at Easy Tiger Tavern.
Come by yourself, invite your friends, come with your polycule, the more the merrier! We want to celebrate with you, and we look forward to seeing all of the regular and new folks there! 🎊🍾
We always enforce a set of house rules in order to maintain a safe space:
* **Respectful Behavior** towards hosts and other guests is required; anyone who violates these rules may be asked to leave the event.
* **Expectations:** Check your expectations at the door. Being at this event does not signal sexual availability or indicate any aspect of sexual orientation. Our events are about developing friendships and connections within the community. This is a no cruising event, in order to maintain a comfortable atmosphere for our guests.
* **Safe Spaces:** We strive to create a safe space for people of ALL identities, including those who do not identify as polyamorous.
* **No photography, video, or recording** of any kind is allowed **without prior verbal consent** of all parties involved.
* **Verbal Consent:** Please be sure to ask and wait for a yes before hugging or initiating any physical contact, and encourage each other to speak openly about consent and personal boundaries. This helps foster a culture where personal boundaries are supported and attendees are empowered to speak confidently of their limits. (i.e. “Can I give you a hug?” “No thank you, but I would love a handshake.”)
If you have any questions please feel free to reach out!
Ocean City, MD Getaway🏖️🩳⛱️👙
**🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ- we have a new WhatsApp chat .. everyone was removed from chat last Friday. Some have the link , but I am finding others are not seeing the new chat link . A new chat has been established - please request to be entered into the new chat if you will be going on the OC Getaway - Thanks**
**https://chat.whatsapp.com/JSl4HviiNMBCkfyaxAQ1NX?mode=gi_t**
**Hey Everyone!**
****************\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****FAQ’S FOR OCEAN CITY TRIP 2026!\*******************\***
**WHAT WILL WE BE DOING?**
**We will be in OC mingling, making connections, enjoying great food and drinks, and of course, making memories, all while strolling the beach and boardwalk and enjoying that ocean breeze and air! We will also have themed nights to include a white party night and tropical night.**
**\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****An official Itinerary will be issued soon once the OC businesses open for the season! Stay Tuned :)\***************\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\***************\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\***********
**WHEN ARE WE GOING ?**
**This year our annual Ocean Trip will take place on Thursday,May 28th-Sunday, May 31st. You do not have to come all four days. Please come as your schedules allow. However, the organizers will be there starting on Thursday early afternoon and until Sunday late afternoon. We will pinpoint an official time once the itinerary is posted. PLEASE NOTE: TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM the beach will not be provided! However, we may possibly gather together a team of carpools to mitigate fuel costs! Will discuss more on this at a later date.**
**Who is invited ??**
**Everyone who is of legal adult age is invited to join us! All are welcome and if you are bringing a guest, please inform us in advance so that we know how many to expect! Thanks**
**WHERE ARE WE STAYING?**
**The Hyatt Ocean City/Oceanfront will be the official host hotel for our group. You are free to stay where you wish. However, we have negotiated a group rate with the Hyatt and I have posted the link in the chat for booking your hotel reservations.**
**\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****Please note: A deposit equal to the first night's room rental plus tax will be required upon booking. Cancels must be submitted no later than 72 hrs prior to check in. Any cancel requests not received within that timeframe will be subjected to losing deposit. All hotel reservations for the Hyatt MUST be booked by April 30th, 2026. Balance will be due on day of check in.**
******* **Update- May 12th- There are no more available rooms in our group block at the Hyatt! Please feel free to book at the Hyatt - However the discounted group rate would not apply to your booking** **********
**OCEAN CITY GETAWAY ITINERARY**
**🌊 OCEAN CITY GETAWAY 2026 ITINERARY**
**📌 IMPORTANT NOTES**
* **Some activities may require tickets or entry fees.**
* **Most locations are walkable from the Hyatt; others accessible via the OC Beach Bus.**
* **OC Beach Bus: $4 Ride-All-Day pass (exact cash or prepaid).**
* **All activities are optional and at your own expense.**
* **Times may change—updates will be shared via WhatsApp.**
* **Daily morning “touch base” meetings will review plans.**
**🏖️ THURSDAY – MAY 28**
**3:00 PM – Hotel Check-In (Hyatt Ocean City Oceanfront)**
**Settle in, unpack, relax.**
**4:00 – 6:00 PM – Meet & Greet**
**Drinks & light appetizers at Seascape Pool Bar**
**Dress: Beachwear / Swimwear**
**6:00 PM – Reset for Dinner**
**7:00 – 9:00 PM – Group Dinner**
**Franco’s Pizza & Bar**
**10:00 PM – Late – Karaoke Night @ SandBar**
**After Midnight (2–4 AM) – Night Owls Hangout**
**Hyatt Lobby – Card/Board Games (BYO snacks & drinks)**
**🌴 FRIDAY – MAY 29**
**Theme: Tropical Attire**
**8:00 – 9:00 AM – Morning Walk (Meet in Lobby of Hyatt )**
**9:00 AM – Breakfast @ Hyatt**
**10:00 AM – Daily Touch Base Meeting at Hyatt**
**12:00 – 3:00 PM – Beach Day @ Assateague Island**
* **Carpool ($25 per car entry)**
* **Activities: Beach, Sunbathing, hiking, biking, and kayaking( additional fees apply for biking and kayaking )**
* **Bring essentials (beach chairs, water, sunscreen, bug spray, towels)**
* **We will also have lunch at 5 Tides before leaving the island**
**3:30 PM – Touch Base (Hyatt Hotel Lobby)**
**5:00 – Beach Time/ Free Time**
**8:00 PM – Late – Dinner, Drinks & Dancing @ Seacrets**
**(Group Photo)**
**After Midnight (2–4 AM) – Night Owls Hangout**
**Hyatt Lobby – Card/Board Games (BYO snacks & drinks)**
**🤍 SATURDAY – MAY 30**
**Theme: White Attire**
**8:00 – 9:00 AM – Morning Walk( meet in lobby of Hyatt )**
**9:00 AM – Breakfast @ Hyatt**
**10:00 AM – Touch Base Meeting at Hyatt**
**Morning–Afternoon – Free Time / Beach - Explore-**
**12:00PM – OC Rocket Cruise**
**(Advance tickets strongly recommended/ please purchase tix for 12PM cruise )**
**2:00PM - Lunch at MR Ducks before OC Rocket Cruise**
**3:30 PM – Touch Base Meeting-At Hyatt**
**5:00PM – Late – Dinner & DJ Deck Party- 70’s Rock/Pop Band “FIZZ” @ Fager’s Island**
**(Group Photo)**
**After Midnight (2–4 AM) – Night Owls Hangout**
**Hyatt Lobby – Card/Board Games (BYO snacks & drinks)**
**🌅 SUNDAY – MAY 31**
**8:00 – 9:00 AM – Morning Walk( meet in lobby of the Hyatt )**
**9:00 AM – Breakfast@Hyatt**
**Before 11:00 AM – Group Photo & Check-Out**
**Early Afternoon (TBD) – Optional Group Lunch (on the way home)**
**🎒 QUICK PACKING REMINDERS**
* **Beachwear & themed outfits (Tropical + White)**
* **Sunscreen & bug spray**
* **Comfortable walking shoes**
* **Towel (especially for boat cruise)**
* **Portable charger**
* **Snacks & drinks for late-night hangouts**
**📱 COMMUNICATION**
* **WhatsApp group will be used for updates and changes.**
* **Please check regularly during the trip.**
**Let’s have an amazing, safe, and unforgettable Ocean City getaway! 🌊**
Mindful Movement and Flow
Mindful movement and flow: This class is a slower moving, strengthening and balance building practice based on mindfulness. We will bring our intentions to the awareness of our bodies and our breath in movement or in longer held poses. We will explore different breathing techniques that help clear out physical, emotional or mental energies allowing a sense of peace within.
The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.**
The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314.
Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.
Volunteer Night @ The Warehouse
Come volunteer with us refurbishing donated bicycles so that they can be used again by the community! This event is open to new volunteers and existing volunteers. No mechanical experience is necessary.
Note: The warehouse location is in the alley behind 1502 Mt Vernon Ave. Enter through the gray door next to a roll-down garage door. If you drive to the location, be sure to park in the street, not in the alleys or parking lots surrounding the warehouse. And wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with bicycle grease!
Volunteers under 18 need a parent or guardian to accompany them to their first volunteer experience and sign a liability waiver. Volunteers under 16 need a parent or guardian to accompany them at all times while volunteering with Vélocity.
Indianapolis Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Quantum Leap- DMV's premiere 80's band🤙 🎶 🎵
Let GRASP take you back in time to the 80's on Friday. May 29 start at 10pm and ends at 1am .Join us at Clydes of Chevy Chase with the totally awesome, gnarly tunes by Quantum Leap.
Quantum Leap is a unique 80's Tribute band that will keep you dancing all night long! Quantum Leap is taking the DC area by storm! Performing to packed clubs and quickly gathering a loyal following around the beltway.
Let them take you back to greatest music era in history by enjoying such 80's artists as Billy Idol, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi, The Go Go's, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Salt n Pepa, Flock of Seagulls, The Police, Journey, Prince, Joan Jett, ZZ Top, J. Geils Band, Simple Minds and many many more!
Quantum Leap brings an unmatched versatility so everyone's either singing along to their favorite hits or just plain dancing their 80's butts off!
**How to find us**
Go downstairs and you'll find Edward with his name tag and "GRASP" at the booths on the right side towards the back wall.
[Clyde's of Chevy Chase](https://www.clydes.com/location/chevy-chase/?y_source=1_MzcwMDQ4MjMtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D)
Play monopoly
Let's play monopoly in the open area called "The Landing" at the Crystal City Shops. The Landing is right at the Crystal City metro stop and, if you're driving, there is free parking [on weekdays after 4pm and weekends] in the garage. See below for more details. With many tables for games and nearby eateries in the mall, it is a fantastic location for playing board games.
We'll be starting at 3:00 pm, but feel free to wander in whenever you'd like.Please RSVP to play. If you'd like to start earlier, feel free to mention that in the comment section. If everyone is already in the middle of games when you arrive, please don't hesitate to pull up a chair and watch a game in progress. We will play a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 6 people at each table. This is a friendly group of competitive and non competitive players and our different backgrounds and different experiences of Monopoly make for interesting conversation during the games.
If you're taking the metro, exit at Crystal City and you can walk to The Landing without having to go outside. When you come up the first set of escalators, turn right to enter the underground shops and then turn right at Rite Aide. Continue straight and The Landing will be the large open seating area on your right, next to San Antonio Bar & Grill and Subway.
If you're driving, parking is free in the garage. Enter the garage for 1750 Crystal Drive on 18th Street and take a ticket. (You'll need this to exit, but there's no charge). Take the elevators up to Level S. The Landing is the large open seating area next to San Antonio Bar & Grill and Subway.
If that parking garage is full, exit the garage and turn left on 18th and left again on Crystal Drive. A second parking garage is located on Crystal Drive between 18th Street and 15th Street.
This is a link to a map of the Crystal City Shops: http://www.thecrystalcityshops.com/ The Landing is in the yellow section on the map near the San Antonio Bar & Grill and Subway.
Quantum Leap - Amazing 80's music band Clyde’s- Chevy Chase
All:
Kent will be hosting this event and will post where she is sitting. I will be in Ocean City with some of the group. There is another band playing before Quantum Leap, they will start playing at 10:00 in the downstairs bar area.
Address for Clyde's is: 5441 Wisconsin ave Chevy Chase
Quantum Leap is the name of a professional 80s-tribute band from the Washington, D.C. area that performs dance, pop, rock, and R&B hits from that decade. The band is known for its high-energy performances and aims to keep crowds dancing all night by playing hits from artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, Bon Jovi, and others from the 70's and 80's.
The Ultimate Amapiano Rooftop Party In Silver Spring
**DMV Amapiano Day Fest Is Back**
**[Click Here To Get tickets now](https://AmapianoFestDMV.eventbrite.com/?aff=MU)**
**The Clash of South and West African Cultures**
Join us **Saturday, May 30th** at **Citizens & Culture Rooftop** for the 2026 premiere of the popular Amapiano Day Fest event - This spring’s most electrifying cultural day party —
**The ultimate clash of Africa’s biggest genres** going down at one of DMV’s most iconic rooftops
Prepare for an electrifying fusion as Africa's two monumental music genres take center stage at the chic and captivating Citizens & Culture rooftop in the heart of Silver Spring. Immerse yourself in mesmerizing moments that blend West and South African cultural into an electrifying & festive rooftop vibe filled with rhythm, fashion, and flavor
**Event Highlights:**
• An unbeatable day party with an incredible lineup of 2 top Afrobeats DJs
• Captivating dance performances that embody the spirit of both regions.
• An exclusive Popup shop experience spotlighting a curated selection of retail vendors.
• Make an entrance with our exclusive red carpet experience.
Experience the heart and soul of Amapiano & Afrobeats culture as every beat, note, and melody tells a story. Whether you're a seasoned Amapiano enthusiast or just beginning to explore its rhythmic depths, the DMV Amapiano Day Fest promises an unforgettable journey. Join us, lose yourself in the collective euphoria, connect with an amazing community of enthusiasts, and etch this day into your memories forever. 🎉🌍🎶
**Secure your spot now before its too late**
**$15 Early Bird Tickets \| $30 Advance Online Tickets**
Introductory Clinic
As a reminder, since Freedom Plaza is under construction, we will meet at the plaza in front of The International Trade Center near the National Children's Museum (on Pennsylvania Ave).
We'll begin with going over a few drills (varies week to week). The skills we drill will be for the first 30 minutes.
For the second half, we will casually skate down the bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue from the plaza to the U.S.Capitol and stop at 3rd St. and then skate back the same route.
This route is about 2 miles in total and is perfect for those who are new to skating in the city but feel comfortable on skates in a parking lot or roller rink. This is also great if you wish to start with shorter routes to increase your physical fitness or stamina for some of the other routes. This is an excellent opportunity to prepare to skate with others on the road. You will also get to meet skaters who will arrive for the Intermediate and Advanced skate routes following the introductory skate.
This is great training to feel prepared for the Tuesday Night and Friday Night Skate!
Route:
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7653831
Inline skates (rollerblades), roller skates (quads), bicycles, unicycles, skateboards, longboards and other similar modes of transportation are welcome to join.
Helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads are required. Skate at your own risk.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the session.
George Washington & the American Revolution in Alexandria, VA!!
George Washington & in the American Revolution, Alexandria, VA!
As the 250th anniversary of the United States approaches, let's take a walk through historic Alexandria’s core, to examine the epochal life of "The Father of His Country."
Old Town Alexandria has an astonishing dense array of famous persons and noted events related to George Washington's life and times. Especially those involving the American Revolution, in what was George Washington's home away from home, just miles from Mt. Vernon.
Accompanied by a historian/author, immerse yourself in this special tour taking place in one of America’s most fascinating towns.
MEET outside The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar, 715 King St., Alexandria, Virginia.
About 2 hours in length.
Fee: Prices start at $22.
Pre-register and Pre-pay--
Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/george-washington-the-american-revolution-alexandria-virginia-tickets-1990520540520?aff=oddtdtcreator
Or:
PayPal, sending $23 to paypal.me/EMoser460
Or pay $22 at the start of the tour.
Our packed itinerary will select from:
• Lafayette's triumphant reunion tour to America, and his stay in Alexandria
• George Washington, teenaged Old Town surveyor
• The noted architects behind the city’s stunning architecture
• Martha Washington's school
• The Alexandria houses and taverns where GW stayed
• John Adams, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and other Founders in town
• Lafayette, first abolitionist
• The site of the first six Presidential inaugural balls
• The nation’s narrowest houses
• Where GW passed by on the way to the battle of Yorktown
• Where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were hatched
• What did the Founding Fathers do for fun? Violent horse races & crazed drinking bouts from back in the day.
• A World War Two munitions factory, and spy nest
• How GW started a world war
• The horrific attack on a Revolutionary War hero
• "Give me liberty or give me death!"
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--of the American Revolution
• The sea battle of Alexandria, 1776
• The real “Father” of his country
• GW's fistfight
And more!
Your guide is a former “Tonight Show” writer, an ex-Presidential speechwriter, & author of a crime thriller set in Alexandria that draws on its rich history:
https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG
His book on D.C.’s history, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: Crime, Scandal & Intrigue in the History of Lafayette Square:
[https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788)
And his latest, a spy thriller set in Georgetown:
https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0
Your host's tours are rated more highly than the Eiffel Tower or the Great Wall of China!:
[https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html)
MEET outside The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar, 715 King St., Alexandria, VA
You can take the free trolley from the King St. metro stop. Plenty of free parking 2-3 blocks on either side of King St.
Questions? Contact:
[191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me)
703 203 2670
Examine America's independence in Washington's home away from his Mt. Vernon home.
Indianapolis Events Near You
Connect with your local Indianapolis community
Franklin Park Conservatory / Columbus Brewing Company
**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.
Using AI To Be More Productive Every Day
**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!
Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
**History**
[Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places.
The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails.
Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century.
The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988.
In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous.
**Where We'll Meet**
Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike.
Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular.
I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager.
BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
Italian Conversation Hour
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.
Indiana D365 User Group June Meeting
You're invited to Indiana D365 User Group Meeting Wed Jun 10, 2026 2-4 PM
Agenda (sessions may change time slots before the meeting.)
2 Welcome
2:10 Stratgies for successful testing - Carla Teasdale from Wilmuth Solutions
2:50 Building Power Apps in an AI world using Claude Code demo - Natalie Roberts from Leaf Software Solutions
3:30 Everything you need to know about Quality in BC - Derek Bohman, BC Consultant
4:00 Closing Notes
4:10-5 Networking Social at Upland Brewing at Clay Terrace (walk over)
Link Information to join remotely below
[https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YWRkNmQ1NWMtN2E0Mi00ZDU4LThmNzMtMDdlODMwMDNkMGMz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b4c9f32e-da17-4ded-9c95-ce9da38f25d9%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2267db4a27-1865-4ea7-bb20-a28137a8aa56%22%7](https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YWRkNmQ1NWMtN2E0Mi00ZDU4LThmNzMtMDdlODMwMDNkMGMz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b4c9f32e-da17-4ded-9c95-ce9da38f25d9%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2267db4a27-1865-4ea7-bb20-a28137a8aa56%22%7d)
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