Penn State
Meet other local people interested in Penn State: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Penn State group.
0
members
0
groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out penn state events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the penn state events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find penn state events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Penn State Events Today
Join in-person Penn State events happening right now
[Arnhem] English subs: It Was Just an Accident (2025)
#This meetup is around a third-party organizer (Focus Filmtheater): you can either purchase your ticket online or right before the session#
**Title**: It Was Just an Accident
**Language**: Farsi
**Subtitles**: English
**Length**: 103 min
**Director**: Jafar Panahi
**More info**: https://www.focusarnhem.nl/agenda/english-subs-it-was-just-an-accident/
**Ticket link**: https://www.focusarnhem.nl/tickets/140393/
**Synopsis**:
Vahid (Vahid Mobasseri) is working in his garage when a customer comes in with car trouble. Vahid is shocked when he thinks he recognizes Eghbal, the officer who tortured him in prison. He smells revenge, but doubt starts to creep in. Together with a group of former inmates, he desperately tries to discover the truth. This leads them into situations that range from risky to downright absurd. How can they be sure that they’ve got the right guy?
Director Jafar Panahi was sentenced to six years in prison himself and was banned from working. He drew on his own experiences for *It Was Just an Accident*, which he filmed after his release without permission from the Iranian regime. His film has been unanimously acclaimed abroad.
**How it works**:
I will be at Focus around 18:30, where we can meet before the movie starts. You can message me to find us. Screening starts at 19:00. After the movie, we can have a drink together.
Hope to see you soon!
LCU Meeting #789
Hi all! 🙂
On Wednesdays we welcome you to practice languages!
If you want to practice a specific (uncommon) language, please send us a message so we can find some conversation partners for you on our mailing list!
We hope to see you in Café Marktzicht!
In the last year we had tables for the following languages:
* Dutch
* English
* French
* Italian
* Spanish
* Turkish\*
* German\*
* Portuguese\*
* Danish\*
* Norwegian\*
* Russian\*
* Arabic\*
* Chinese\*\*
* Japanese\*\*
* Indonesian\*\*
*
* Most likely, but not every week present.
\*\* - Rather rare ;-)
If your language is not in this list, please let us know! We have a large database of Language Cafe visitors speaking 56 different languages! We might be able to connect you with a person that does speak the language you want to practice.
In case you are not in our database yet, please use this form: http://goo.gl/forms/oSCn9Dn8m8
Wednesday Night Drinks 🍻🏳️🌈
Hello again lovely people, on Wednesday we will be meeting at the colorful and friendly Cafe Kalff 🏳️🌈
Come join us for some drinks, meet new people, chat and socialise to your hearts content! We will be there from at least 20:00-22:00 and will possibly stay later if the group does. We may also head across the canal to Bodytalk later in the evening to dance 💃🏻
This meetup is for people to make new friends in our beautiful community, so don’t be afraid to join if you don’t know anyone. We are a friendly bunch!
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @utrechtlgbt
Looking forward to seeing you all you soon!
*****IMPORTANT CORONA INFORMATION*****
* Do not come to this event if you have Coronavirus symptoms, even if you you are fully vaccinated!
* Please be mindful and respectful of other peoples boundaries.
* The most important thing is that we keep each other safe!
************************************
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🤎🖤
Utrecht Board Game Design Session
> The location is Biercafe Oproer, Utrecht
Want to expand on a game design idea? Talk about a game feature that isn't just ready yet? Are you looking for playtesters or do you want to brainstorm on a new board game design with others and get their feedback? Find out what goes into making board games or just meet like-minded board game enthusiasts?
Then the Amsterdam Board Game Design session is for you!
Join us on [Discord](https://discord.gg/eDfmkyCyVX) for more information about what we do and upcoming events!
🍷 Chat & Craft - Weekday Edition 🪡
Join in for a some drinks (and food, if you want) after work at **The 5th \| Utrecht**. Bring your own project and payment for drinks.
As evenings tend to be a bit busier, we'll reserve a table.
This means: **Only sign up if you are sure you will come!** And if there's no space left on the event, please don't join spontaneously.
\-\-\-\-\-
As always, we talk about our projects, exchange tipps, but also just get to know each other and enjoy a drink after a long day in good company. Whether it's knitting, crocheting, stitching, origami, or something more unique, we're looking forward to seeing you!
Additional Swimming Classes for Adult Beginners in Utrecht De Kwakel
***Are you an adult looking to learn how to swim or improve your basic swimming skills?***
Dive into a fun water workout session designed specifically for adults in ***Utrecht De Kwakel!***
Whether you are a beginner looking to improve your swimming skills or a fitness enthusiast wanting to engage in recreational water sports, this event is perfect for you. Join us for an exciting session filled with swimming lessons, exercises, and social interactions.
Meet like-minded individuals who share a passion for fitness, exercise, and water activities. Our experienced instructors will guide and support you, ensuring you have a great time in a safe and friendly environment. Don't miss this opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and have a blast in the water. Sign up now for a refreshing experience and fun times with our Swimming Lessons for Adults group!
***Please RSVP to secure your spot as spaces are limited. We look forward to helping you gain confidence and skills in the water!***
Penn State Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
❄️🔥 20 km Winter Forest Hike: Wodan’s Trail & Castle Doorwerth 🏰🌲
From the first steps, we enter what is truly my favourite forest in the Netherlands, located on the southern edge of the Veluwe.
Unlike most Dutch landscapes, this area has real steep hills, rolling terrain, and a distinctly un-Dutch feeling, even though you are right in the heart of the country. In winter, quiet paths and pale light filtering through tall woodland along the Italian Road make the scenery especially striking.
Halfway through the hike, we slow down for a cosy break at Castle Doorwerth. It is the perfect place to warm up with bites and drinks, enjoy the historic surroundings, and take a relaxed pause before continuing our walk.
The route also passes the iconic Wodan Oaks. These ancient trees, estimated to be 400 to 600 years old, add a quiet sense of history and continuity to the landscape, which feels particularly powerful in winter when the forest is still, open, and calm.
**📍When and where to meet?**
We’ll meet at 10:50 at Wolfheze train station.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/73ZsY4tHrmhBjF8HA
⏰ We **start walking a few minutes after meeting up** — we don’t wait for latecomers, as the forest calls and daylight is short this time of year.
**🚗 Coming by car?**
There is plenty and free parking next to the station. https://maps.app.goo.gl/6yR1resGumn1j4jq5
**⏸️ Planned Breaks**
After 12 km: Lunch break at Castle Doorwerth https://maps.app.goo.gl/qLe6DfxL8C6mKrmZA
**💸 Payment**
Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space.
🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5.
The Tikkie link has been removed as the event is now fully booked. If a spot becomes available due to a cancellation and you would like to take it, you can message me directly and I will share the Tikkie link with you.
**👟 Good to know**
* Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 9 January at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable.
* Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits.
* If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably.
* At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities.
* Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily.
* Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay.
* What to bring: Snacks, lunch, and water/ or hot thee/ coffee (depending on the hike distance).
* Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike.
* T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.
Open meditatie avond bij Jewel Heart
*Since this evening will be in Dutch, this description is too.*
Wil je je drukke week afsluiten en ontspannen aan het weekend beginnen? Dan ben je geheel vrijblijvend welkom bij de vrijdagavond meditatie van [Jewel Heart](https://www.jewelheart.nl/). Deze meditatieavond heeft een licht en open karakter.
De meditaties bestaan uit drie delen. We beginnen met het gewaarworden van je lichamelijke sensaties. In een korter deel twee doen we een loopmeditatie en in deel drie is er een eenvoudige, geleide visualisatie meditatie. Het geheel wordt afgesloten met een gesprek onder het genot van een kop thee, voor wie daar zin in heeft.
📍[Jewel Heart, Hatertseveldweg 284, Nijmegen](https://maps.app.goo.gl/D4FzqLbkaqs2JNDG8). Loop de oprit op en dan is de ingang aan je rechterzijde
🕒Zaal open vanaf 19.30 uur, meditatie van 20.00 tot 21.00
Je bent van harte welkom!
Aan deze activiteit kun je per keer meedoen. Er zijn geen verplichtingen. Op vrijwillige basis kun je op de avond zelf een donatie doen.
Kijk ook naar onze
-[Open activiteiten](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/open-activiteiten/)
-[Cursussen](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/cursussen-overzicht/)
ManKracht Avond (Amersfoort)
Ha mannen!
Weer een reguliere ManKracht meetup op de vrijdagavond in Amersfoort! Zoals altijd is de intentie voor onze meetups op locatie om een gemakkelijke, veilige en open atmosfeer te ervaren waarin we allemaal kunnen delen of inbrengen wat ons bezig houdt als man.
Uiteraard zijn tijdens de ManKracht Avond nieuwe deelnemers welkom, we streven zoals altijd naar een groepsgrootte aan van 6 tot maximaal 10 man.
Hier kort wat belangrijke info op een rijtje:
* De offline meetup begint stipt om 20:00, vanaf dat moment zijn de 'deuren' gesloten. We vragen je dus om uiterlijk 5 minuten van te voren aan te komen. Je bent vanaf 19:30 welkom.
* De avond duurt tot ongeveer 21:30. Voel je vrij om daarna het gesprek met andere deelnemers voort te zetten op een andere locatie (café/bar/kroeg).
* Graag op tijd de RSVP in te vullen i.v.m. beperkte plaatsen. Mocht je op tijd weten dat je verhinderd bent, graag je RSVP aanpassen zodat mannen op de wachtlijst op tijd weten dat ze toch kunnen deelnemen.
* Voel je vrij om een vriend mee te nemen, geef dit in dat geval ook even aan in de RSVP.
Hopelijk zien we elkaar weer en mocht je nog vragen hebben dan hoor ik het graag natuurlijk.
P.S. voorlopige locatie is thuis bij Daniel, kan evt nog veranderen,
Voorouderrituelen – Systemic Ritual
Zaterdag, 17 januari 2026 – 10.00 – 17.00 uur
AMSTERDAM
Kosten: € 130,–, inclusief btw en lunch
Facilitator: [Susanne Hazen](https://susannehazen.com/over/)
Assistentie: Iris Pinkepank
Taal: Nederlands
We gaan deze dag werken met ons voorouderveld. We gaan healing **vragen** EN we gaan op zoek naar en ons verbinden met voorouders die ons kracht kunnen geven en ondersteuning kunnen bieden met de strubbelingen die we op ons levenspad tegenkomen.
Aanmelden via:
https://susannehazen.com/voorouderrituelen/
AI Essentials for professionals
We zien dat AI inmiddels door veel mensen en organisaties wordt gebruikt, vooral voor tekst, plannen en ideeën. Tegelijkertijd merken we dat dit gebruik vaak onzeker en oppervlakkig blijft. Mensen experimenteren, maar twijfelen:
* Klopt dit wel?
* Gebruik ik AI “goed”?
* Haal ik er echt voordeel uit, of kost het vooral tijd?
De kern van het probleem is niet een gebrek aan tools of kennis, maar een gebrek aan grip, overzicht en vertrouwen in het eigen oordeel bij het werken met AI.
**Wat houdt deze workshop in?**
We willen een kleinschalige pilot-workshop (halve dag) organiseren waarin we professionals helpen om:
* AI anders te leren zien (als denkpartner, niet als antwoordmachine)
* Bewuster vragen te stellen en context te geven
* AI‑output te beoordelen in plaats van blind te volgen
Het is nadrukkelijk geen technische training en geen overzicht van tools.
Het is een leerervaring die zich richt op denken, beoordelen en professioneel gebruik.
**Voor wie is dit bedoeld?**
De Training richt zich op:
* Niet-technische managers en professionals
* Die veel werken met tekst, plannen en besluitvorming
* Die AI al gebruiken (bijv. ChatGPT), maar daar nog te weinig zekerheid en rendement uit halen
**Wat maakt deze aanpak anders?**
* Interactief en herkenbaar: deelnemers werken met hun eigen praktijk en leren van elkaar
* Beperkt en scherp: geen overload, maar drie kerninzichten
* Veilig en menselijk: twijfel wordt genormaliseerd, niet weggepoetst
Deelnemers weten na afloop wat ze “maandag anders doen”
**Pilot**
Deze workshop is opgezet als pilot. We verwachten dan ook eerlijke feedback om deze workshop nog gerichter in te kunnen zetten om professionals meer bewust te maken van de mogelijkheden en onmogelijkheden van AI.
Deze workshop wordt verzorgd door Edgar Stormbroek en Ziryan Salayi
9:00 9:30 Inloop
9:30 - 12:00 AI in praktijk
12:00 - 13:00 Lunch
13:00 - 14:00 Vervolg AI in praktijk
14:00 - 14:30 Afronding en feedback
🧗♀️ Vertical Therapy – Midweek Bouldering Night (Arnhem)
Stuck behind a desk all week? Time to climb some walls instead! No skills needed, just good vibes.
Join us this evening at **RijnBoulder (Arnhem)** for a fun and relaxed bouldering session!
Whether you're a seasoned climber or wanna try it for the first time, everyone is welcome. We’ll meet outside at the entrance, warm up a bit, and then hit the walls. Afterward, there’s always the option to grab a drink and chat.
* **Where:** [Bouldercentrum RijnBoulder, Olympus 3, 6832 EL Arnhem](https://maps.app.goo.gl/fPR4qg7wdRTJHcYU6). We will be waiting inside, in/near the café.
* **Experience needed:** None! (Bring your own climbing shoes if you have them. Rentals are also available.)
* **Vibe:** Casual, fun, supportive
Let’s climb, laugh, and maybe even impress ourselves a little!
For more information on pricing of day passes and gear rentals, [check out this page](https://mountain-network.nl/klimcentra/locaties/bouldercentrum-arnhem/tarieven-rijnboulder-2025/) on the RijnBoulder website. First time? No problem! [Some information here](https://mountain-network.nl/klimcentra/sporter/eerste-keer-boulderen/). Their website is only in Dutch, but Google Translate to the rescue: [prices](https://mountain--network-nl.translate.goog/klimcentra/locaties/bouldercentrum-arnhem/tarieven-rijnboulder-2025/?_x_tr_sl=nl&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=nl&_x_tr_pto=wapp) and [instructions](https://mountain--network-nl.translate.goog/klimcentra/sporter/eerste-keer-boulderen/?_x_tr_sl=nl&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=nl&_x_tr_pto=wapp). And if you have any questions, just let us know.
⚠️ Disclaimer: Participants are responsible for their own safety.
Shut Up & Write!® in Doorn
Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area.
When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session.
Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries!
**A note about the format**
We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing.
For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com).
**Other Important Details:**
WiFi name/password: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS]
Travel / Parking info: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS]
Penn State Events Near You
Connect with your local Penn State community
Happy 8th Birthday, GOhio! @ Pins Mechanical!!! 🎂 🎈 🍨 🎁 💐 🧁 🎉 🥳 🍰 🪅 📅
*GOhio!* turns 8!! 🥳 Come celebrate with us at [Pins Mechanical](https://www.pinsbar.com/locations/easton)! 😄
**Summary**
Pins Mechanical Co. is a social entertainment venue that combines old-school games like duckpin bowling, pinball, and other classic arcade and table games with craft cocktails, local beers, and punch. The vintage-industrial atmosphere is designed for playful, face-to-face gatherings with friends, family, and colleagues, offering a casual and lively alternative to a typical bar.
Pins' Easton location spans over 38,000 square feet, making it the largest in the United States. This massive entertainment venue features two floors, a mezzanine level with stadium seating, and three full-service bars. It offers 16 duckpin bowling lanes, two indoor bocce courts, and more than 60 classic and modern pinball and arcade games. For additional fun, the location is known for its two outdoor patios, an indoor slide, and an expanded patio pong setup.
**Activities**
As noted below, some machines take actual quarters. Pins has two change machines (one downstairs and one upstairs) that accept ones, fives, or tens (only), and return quarters (only).
* *Duckpin Bowling*
[Like Bowling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duckpin_bowling) but with smaller balls, stubby pins, and no oil on the lanes. The cost is $9 per game per person.
* *Pinball*
[Who](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Who)'s a [wizard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinball_Wizard) on these [retro machines](https://pinballmap.com/map/?by_location_id=15311)? At $1 per play, everyone! Takes quarters.
* *Arcade*
Play classics like Gorf, Pac-Man, Gorf, Donkey Kong, Gorf, Galaga, and Gorf! The best part is, there's Gorf! And all the arcade games are free!
* *Patio Pong*
The classic college party staple but bigger. Instead of tossing a ping pong ball into cups, you use a regular ball and oversized buckets. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free!
* *Ping Pong*
The most popular sport in China! They have two ping pong tables downstairs and two more ping pong tables upstairs. For those of you who have studied topological spaces and set theory, you will know this means they have four total ping pong tables.
They have bubble gum dispensers with ping pong balls in them for 25¢ each. The dispensers take quarters. However, they also have racks where they store the ping pong paddles, and in these racks are slots for ping pong balls. It's not uncommon to see balls already here, so there's a chance you may be able to play ping pong for free if you want to.
* *Hookie*
You can't put your eye out! The safe alternative to darts: Hook thrown rings on a board. Outdoors on the upstairs patio, and free!
* *Bocce*
Like bowling, except there’s turf and a lot more balls. You can also knock your opponent’s balls out of the way. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free!
* *Foosball*
Everyone loves [foosball](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_football)! 50¢ a game. Takes quarters.
* *Giant Jenga*
Stack massive wooden blocks into a tower, then take turns pulling out one block at a time without collapsing the tower. There are four of these sprinkled throughout the venue (two downstairs and two upstairs, with one on each patio), and they're all free!
* *Skeeball*
There are three skeeball machines on the first floor (near the Gorf machine!), and they're all free!
* *Giant Connect Four*
On the outdoor patio upstairs, and free!
* *Bubble Hockey*
This is upstairs. Up to four people can play at once, and it costs $1. Takes quarters.
* *Cornhole*
There are two cornhole lanes upstairs, and they're both free!
* *Basketball*
There are two basketball machines downstairs. They're tucked behind the downstairs bar, so they're not always obvious unless you go look for them. They're $2 per play, and they take quarters.
* *NES and Sega Genesis video games*
These are collections, downstairs (near the Gorf machine!), of video games that you can play for free!
* *The Big Metal Indoor Slide*
This large two-story slide is for kids, and certainly no adults would ride this. After all, it's not like it's free or anything.
**Outdoor Patio**
Pins at Easton actually has two outdoor patios. But for our purposes, only the upstairs one matters. See, it will be winter and likely cold. But their upstairs patio has multiple ceiling heaters and two massive gas fire pits that put out a ton of heat. Sitting out here may be a real option.
As mentioned above, the upstairs outdoor patio has one of the venue's two Patio Pong setups, one of their multiple Giant Jengas, the Giant Connect Four, and Hookie.
**Food**
Pins doesn't serve food, but there's a [Mikey's Late Night Slice](https://www.latenightslice.com/) next door. This Mikey's is basically an extension of the Easton Pins; there's a large open doorway between both establishments. Mikey's has a fountain dispenser with Coke products.
You can also get Coke and Diet Coke (but not Coke Zero, like you can at Mikey's) at the bars in Pins, but I think the quality of the soda pop from Mikey's fountain is better than that from the bar hoses Pins uses to dispense soft drinks.
You are also quite allowed at Pins to either bring food in or order it in via your favorite delivery app.
**Parking**
I recommend parking in the [Worth Garage](https://eastontowncenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/parking-at-easton-updated-file-sept-25.pdf). It's literally right next door to Pins, and it's free as long as you park on Level 2 or above.
They recently started charging people to park on Level 1, and you pay for parking on this level the same way you pay for street parking in Columbus, with the [ParkColumbus](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.parkmobile.parkcolumbus&hl=en_US&pli=1) app.
I've seen them enforce this by ticketing people's cars, but I don't know how they actually compel payment. The garage is not a public street that actual cops can write you tickets for parking illegally on. If you have an actual ticket from a cop that you don't pay, they can go so far as to issue a warrant for your arrest. But all Easton has, seemingly, is, "[Please pay our ticket](https://eastonpreferredpark.com/)." Still, in my ongoing efforts to eliminate needless stress and aggravation from my life, I just park above the first Level.
The actual address of the garage is [4049 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4049+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388a86de3af559:0xc1dc8b4661fc834f!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11sgzjp4ml?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). However, your GPS is stupid. The actual entrances to the garage are on the cross steets Brighton Rose Way and Fenlon St, not Worth Ave. Just keep this in mind once you get to the garage.
**Where we'll meet**
I'll post in the comments where I am. People will obviously want to explore different areas of the venue over the course of the event (and there's a lot to explore), but please just let me know (as in, come find me) once you've arrived.
**Peroration**
Come on out and say hi! 😄
Fun & easy way to play more tennis (read event description)
We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches.
These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can for some tennis fun!
Also, if you’re looking to meet new practice partners or play some matches and you aren’t already in the PlayYourCourt Community, you can go here to see what we’re all about and sign up:
https://www.playyourcourt.com/tennis-community/columbus-oh/meetup/
If you love tennis, we’d love to have you! Be sure and watch the quick video that explains how everything works.
Happy hitting!
- Scott
Trails & Ales! Blacklick Woods Metro Park / Prost Beer & Wine Café
**History**
[Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system.
In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub.
The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups.
During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation.
In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do.
**Where We'll Meet**
Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms.
Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay.
**After the Hike**
After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.
Powell Gold Star Referral Club Meetup
We meet at lunch each week and each meeting follows a fairly organized agenda. First all participants pass their business cards around. Then each member and guest is invited to give a one-minute overview of their company and what is a perfect referral for the week. We always have a 10 minute presentation from one of the members about their business in more detail. And finally we pass referrals. You're welcome to visit. Nobody is ever put on the spot. Bring plenty of cards!
Lunch at Ampersand's! 😋
Let's have lunch at Uptown Westerville's newest restaurant. Ampersand is owned by the same couple who owns Asterisk. They are known for ramen, rice bowls, teriyaki and small plates.
COhPy Monthly Meeting
**NEW LOCATION: Improving Office in Franklinton**
Physical location:
Improving Office
330 Rush Alley Suite #150
Columbus, OH 43215
Schedule:
* 6:00 p.m.: Socialize, eat, and drink. Improving will be providing pizza and beverages.
* 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Main meeting and presentation(s).
For this first meeting of the year, we will be reviewing submissions for the
Your Program is Hideous and Obfuscated Challenge (YPHOC). Submissions for this challenge are due by January 12th, 2026. The details can be found here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13zbxwElpJqPMuAN4Ele2hUgsqtFKzH3OCTL5NEeiLKQ
or on our website
http://www.cohpy.org
We meet on the last Monday of each Month. Presentations are given by members and friends of this group. If you would like to do a presentation (small or large) on a python topic, please contact centralohpython@gmail.com

![[Arnhem] English subs: It Was Just an Accident (2025)](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/4/3/0/highres_532165648.webp?w=640)


















