Pittsburgh

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** Elizabeth Simcoe named the area now known as Mimico for the thousands of pigeons that blackened the sky at the western end of the settlement. Mimico was originally located at the confluence of Mimico Creek and Dundas Street. William Gamble, opened a sawmill and built a settlement for the workers nearby. Etobicoke's first church, Christ Church was opened on Church Street which became Royal York Road. Mimico is a walkable neighbourhood and a great place to stroll and discover our amazing history. The Lakeshore Hospital was built in 1888 as the Mimico Asylum, its doors opened on January 21, 1889. The original idea for the hospital was a series of cottages designed by Doctor Joseph Workman who wanted a resort type feel to the hospital. The architect was Kivas Tully, who worked with gardener Samuel Matheson. Most of the buildings were built by the patients themselves, and helped with laundry duties, and tended to the vast gardens. But a different story emerged that most Canadians had no idea about. And that was the story of Camp M - Mimico. In 1887, the Victoria Industrial School for Boys opened on old Horner Avenue in Mimico, just blocks from the site of the new Mimico Hospital for the Insane (Humber College.) The school, which was a juvenile reformatory, hoped to break the bad boys through moral and academic education and old fashioned hard work. I hope there was a positive outcome. In 1927, the school changed its name to the Mimico Reform School. But it was the war years 1939-1945 that really surprised me as a Torontonian. It was known as Camp M or Internment Camp 22, the largest camp for POWs in the centre of a large Canadian city. Most camps were constructed in rural areas, and the camp provided space for more than 520 German nationals. The history of this camp is fascinating and had links to the Toronto Central Prison on Strachan Avenue and the Mimico Hospital directly to the south on lakeshore where we begin this tour. This walking tour is for all levels and walkers. The tour begins at the New Toronto Public Library Branch at 110 Eleventh Street just south of Lakeshore. We end this tour at Kipling and Horner Avenue, just a few blocks to the north of the old hospital! This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

I picked a new location for this very exciting series between Montreal and Carolina. It should be very tight and entertaining

Get ready for an electrifying lineup of live tribute concerts at **Rama Gaming House Scarborough**. The **RGH Powerplay Series** brings legendary rock, pop, and soul to the stage with some of the most authentic tribute artists and bands in Canada. If you love classic hits, high-energy live performances, and unforgettable nights out in Scarborough, this series is for you. 🎶 **April 25 – Philcos** **25 Years of Live Music Excellence** Kick off the series with the seasoned sounds of Philcos. With over two decades of stage mastery, this band delivers a high-caliber performance covering a massive range of hits. Experience the precision, soul, and infectious energy that has made them a staple of the live music scene for 25 years. *Perfect for fans of premium live music and dance hits in Scarborough.* 🎤 **May 16 – The Beatle Band** **Relive The Beatles Live** Step back into the 1960s with the ultimate tribute to the Fab Four. The Beatle Band captures the look, the sound, and the magic of the British Invasion. From "She Loves You" to "Hey Jude," enjoy a nostalgic journey through the greatest discography in rock history. *A must-see Beatles tribute concert in Scarborough.* 👑 **June 06 – Memories of the King** **A World-Class Elvis Tribute Starring Bruno Nesci** Experience the charisma and vocal power of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Starring the internationally acclaimed **Bruno Nesci**, this world-class tribute brings the 70s Vegas era to life with iconic costumes and show-stopping hits like "Suspicious Minds" and "Can't Help Falling in Love." *The premier Elvis Presley tribute experience in Scarborough.* 🎟 **Why Attend the RGH Powerplay Series?** * **Only $20 per ticket** (Limited Early Bird tickets with 25% off) * **Top-tier live concerts** in the heart of Scarborough * **Doors open at 7PM** – arrive early for the best spots * **High-energy performances** from world-class tribute acts * **Perfect night out** for music lovers and friends * Enjoy Pizza, Chicken Wings or Burger for just **$9.99** * **3 RGH Beers for only $10** Whether you are a fan of 60s nostalgia, classic rock, or the golden era of Vegas, the **RGH Powerplay Series** offers something for every music lover. Don't forget to sign up for **House Rewards** on-site to claim your **RGH Passport to Excitement!** 🎫 **Buy your tickets now and secure your spot.** These shows will sell fast. Visit **[ramagaming.com/events](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://ramagaming.com/events&authuser=2 "https://www.google.com/search?q=https://ramagaming.com/events&authuser=2")** or purchase in-house at 991 Kennedy Rd.

Join Lawrence, your top hatted host, for our Saturday Doors Open Toronto Walk. At 10 am, our adventure begins at the Spadina House and Gardens, location #33. This heritage home demonstrates domestic life in the 1920s & '30s, plus a Victorian-Edwardian garden. https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-culture/museums/spadina-museum/?WT.rd_id=%2Fspadina At 11 am, we will head towards the Baldwin Steps, to get a view of our city. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baldwin_Steps Then we will head down the steps to Toronto City Archives, location #22 Canada's largest municipal archives, to tour the Spadina Records Centre, the secure, climate-controlled facility where 130,000 boxes of one-of-a-kind Toronto history are stored. https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/accountability-operations-customer-service/access-city-information-or-records/city-of-toronto-archives/ At Noon, we head south on Spadina to the Pierre Léon Gallery at Alliance Francais Toronto, location #19. **WE SKY WATER LAND** **Will always belong to the change** *An exhibition in Toronto by French photographer Oliver Marchesi.* https://www.alliance-francaise.ca/en/art/cultural-season/exhibitions/292-photo-art-residency-by-olivier-marchesi At 12:30, we will cross the street to the Madison Avenue Pub for a meal and a pint of the good stuff. I will make a reservation for the number of TorontoBeerLovers. http://www.madisonavenuepub.com/ At 1:30 pmish, we will leave the Maddy and head to Estonian Museum Canada/VEMU, location #24. We will see the exhibit Unissued Diplomas. Never Graduated, Eternally Honoured Last year they had a marketplace, with snacks, drinks, and cultural items to purchase. https://www.vemu.ca/exhibition/unissued-diplomas-never-graduated-eternally-honoured/ https://www.vemu.ca/ At 2:30 pm, we will head east on Bloor to Muslims in Canada Archives, location #30 on the 5th floor of the Jackman Humanities Building. I really love the Art Deco lobby of the Jackman building. We will be experiencing a site tour at 3pm https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/doors-open-toronto/doors-open-buildings-sites/building-or-site-details/?id=a0jMm000007MnKbIAK&title=Muslims-in-Canada-Archives At 3:30 pm, we will head to our last stop, the Women's Art Association of Canada, location #37. Located in Toronto's Annex neighbourhood, the heart of the Women's Art Association of Canada (celebrating its 138th anniversary this year) is a charming 19th-century house that backs onto a lovely formal garden. https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/doors-open-toronto/doors-open-buildings-sites/building-or-site-details/?id=a0jMm000007Iio9IAC&title=Women%27s-Art-Association-of-Canada This concludes our Doors Open Toronto Saturday portion of our event. I hope you will continue your adventure with me on Sunday at 10 am, starting at Toronto City Hall, location #119, where we travel to the 27th Floor Observation Deck Nearby there are other locations you can visit such as... The Bata Shoe Museum, location #79 The Royal Ontario Museum First People's Gallery, location #85

Grab the mic and bring your crew. Karaoke Fridays at Ace of Spades Lounge is the spot to sing, dance, and let loose in the heart of Little Italy. Huge song catalogue, great sound system, full bar, and a crowd that’s there to have fun. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or stepping up for the first time, you’ll feel right at home. Cocktails, beer, wine, and snacks available all night. When: Every Friday, 8pm Where: Ace of Spades Lounge, 536 Manning Ave., Toronto Cost: Free entry Come solo, bring friends, make new ones. See you on the mic.

Get ready for an electrifying lineup of live tribute concerts at **Rama Gaming House Mississauga**. The RGH Powerplay Series brings legendary rock, soul, funk, and metal to the stage with some of the most authentic tribute bands in Canada. If you love classic rock concerts, high-energy live performances, and unforgettable nights out in Mississauga, this series is for you. ## 🎤 April 11 – Only Journey **The Ultimate Journey Tribute Experience** Relive the arena rock glory of Journey with soaring vocals and powerful renditions of classics like *Don’t Stop Believin’* and *Separate Ways*. Only Journey delivers an immersive, high-energy performance that transports fans back to the golden era of rock. Perfect for fans of classic rock concerts in Mississauga. ## 👑 April 18 – Queen’s Court **A Royal Tribute to Queen** Experience the theatrical brilliance and musical mastery of Queen. Queen’s Court recreates the iconic sound, harmonies, and stage presence that made Queen one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Expect powerful vocals, epic anthems, and a crowd-engaging live show. A must-see Queen tribute concert in Mississauga. ## 💜 May 2 – Soul Beautiful **A Celebration of Soul, Funk & R&B Classics** An electrifying tribute to Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Prince, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Deep grooves, smooth vocals, and vibrant live energy make this the ultimate soul and funk party night. If you love R&B live music in Mississauga, this is your night. ## 🦅 May 9 – Motel California **The Eagles Tribute Experience** From *Hotel California* to *Life in the Fast Lane*, Motel California recreates the rich harmonies and signature dual-guitar sound of The Eagles. A polished and authentic concert experience celebrating one of the most influential bands in rock history. A classic rock tribute you do not want to miss. ## ⚡ May 23 – Hell’s Highway **The Ultimate AC/DC Tribute Experience** High voltage energy. Thunderous riffs. Nonstop rock and roll. Hell’s Highway delivers the raw power and explosive stage presence of AC/DC with crowd-shaking performances of *Highway to Hell* and *Back in Black*. For fans of hard rock concerts in Mississauga. ## 🎵 May 30 – Solitary Man **A Tribute to Neil Diamond** Experience the timeless hits of Neil Diamond performed with precision, charisma, and audience interaction. From *Sweet Caroline* to *Forever in Blue Jeans*, this show captures the magic of Diamond’s legendary 70s concert era. Sing along and relive the classics. ## 🔥 June 13 – Sandman **The Officially Licensed Metallica Tribute** Since 1994, Sandman has delivered crushing, note-for-note Metallica performances. Officially recognized and endorsed, this is the closest you will get to the real thing. Expect thunderous sound, explosive energy, and a true heavy metal experience. For fans searching for a Metallica tribute in Mississauga. 🎟 Why Attend the RGH Powerplay Series? * **Only $20 per ticket** (Limited Early Bird tickets with 25% off) * **Top-tier live concerts** in the heart of Mississauga * **Enjoy Pizza, Chicken Wings or Burger for just $9.99** * **3 RGH Beers for just $10** * **Doors open at 7PM** – arrive early for the best spots * **High-energy performances** from world-class tribute acts * **Perfect night out** for music lovers and friends Whether you are a fan of classic rock, soul, funk, or metal, the RGH Powerplay Series offers something for every music lover. 🎫 **Early Bird Tickets available for limited time. Buy your tickets now and secure your spot. These shows will sell fast.** Purchase tickets in-house or visit ramagaming.com/events

**🎤 Friday Night Karaoke Meetup – Hot Dogs & Harmonies! 🌭🎶** Ready to kick off your weekend with music, laughs, and maybe a surprise showstopper performance? Join us for a fun and low-pressure **Karaoke Night Meetup** on **Friday, May 22!** **📍 Event Details** Karaoke starts at **8:00 PM** Nick will be there a bit earlier to grab a spot and welcome everyone **🎟️ Event Link:** [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/free-event-hot-dogs-harmonies-tickets-1985944730148?](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/free-event-hot-dogs-harmonies-tickets-1985944730148?aff=ebemoffollowpublishemail&ref=eemail&utm_campaign=following_published_event&utm_content=follow_notification&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eventbrite) **🎶 What to Expect:** * A relaxed, welcoming vibe—no pressure to sing unless you want to * Great performances (from polished to gloriously off-key) * A fun crowd that appreciates both talent and enthusiasm * Hot dogs and good times included Whether you’re ready to belt out your favorite anthem or just want to enjoy the show, this is a perfect casual night out. **👍 Good to Know:** * Feel free to **just show up**, even if your schedule is up in the air * Come solo or bring a friend—everyone’s welcome Grab the mic… or grab a seat and cheer others on. Either way, it’s going to be a great night 🎤

**MeetUp Point: Entrance is off Leslie Street. Turn left on Leslie to the parking lot 2 in Wilkett Creek Park.** (Don't follow the pin) Join us for a 12 km urban hike that is challenging. Starting past Wilcot Parking lot 2, we will be passing through sunnybrook Park and Edwards Gardens. For lunch we can atop at the TBG Bloom Cafe or bring a lunch, lots of water. Please ensure arms and legs are covered as there are plenty of ticks out there.

This is the second walk in a new series of small meetups in Toronto — feel free to join, whether this is your first time or you came to the previous one. **If you are on a Waitlist** Please feel free to still join. I have a free meet-up account, which limits me to 10 people sign up. **Meeting Plan** We’ll meet just outside the main entrance of Rosedale Subway Station at street level (I’ll be standing near the exit and easy to spot), and walk & chat through Rosedale onto the ravine trails toward Evergreen Brick Works, finishing with a coffee or a stroll through the farmer's market (happens every Saturday at Brick Works until 1pm). Having done the first event, I might bring a very light structure or conversation prompts for our walk & chat part. The main idea behind these mini-series of walks is to be outdoors, be active, meet new people, and start your weekend on a positive note. **At Brick Works** Once we get to the Brick Works, some people might want to sit down together for a coffee, while others want to stroll around the farmer's market and get some food, and some want to do their own thing. This is very flexible. You might want to bring your own tea/coffee/drink as there are plenty of spaces to sit, sip and enjoy the day. The farmer's market is very nice, but the queues were quite long, and the options are somewhat limited. I might bring my own tea in a thermos this time. **Timing** • Meet: 11:00–11:10am at Rosedale Station (we will start walking at 11.10am) • Walk: \~40 minutes at an easy pace • Coffee or farmer's market: around midday at Brick Works If it rains heavily, I might have to cancel the walk. We can bring umbrellas if it sprinkles lightly and still enjoy the outdoors. If it rains heavily, I will update the invite in the morning of the event. I’ll be there to welcome everyone. Looking forward to meeting you.

🏛️🚶 **DOORS OPEN TORONTO: HIDDEN BUILDINGS & CITY STORIES WALK** 🚶🏛️ Historic Spaces, Community Landmarks & A City Revealed Some buildings you walk past every day without thinking twice… until the doors open. Join us for a second day of Doors Open Toronto, where we’ll explore a mix of historic, cultural, and community spaces across the city — each with its own story, purpose, and evolution. This walk is about contrast. Old and new. Exclusive and inclusive. Grand and everyday. And how all of it shapes the city we live in. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social, story-driven walk — with moments to pause, look, and see familiar places differently. 👉 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll move through a curated route of Doors Open, stopping at a variety of buildings and institutions that reflect Toronto’s layered history and community life. Some of the locations we may visit include: * **Fire Station 315** – Opened in 1889, this historic fire hall is built of brick with stone detailing, reflecting early 20th-century civic architecture. * **The El Mocambo** – Opened in 1948, this iconic music venue is housed in a brick building with a classic mid-century commercial façade. * **Daniels Building (University of Toronto)** – Opened in 1875 (as Knox College), this Gothic Revival building is constructed of sandstone with intricate masonry detailing. * **U of T Bookstore (Koffler Student Centre)** – Opened in 1958, this modernist structure is built primarily of concrete and glass. * **Polish Combatants' Association Branch 20** – Opened in 1950, this community hall is a modest brick structure reflecting post-war institutional design. * **St. George’s Hall (Arts & Letters Club)** – Opened in 1891, this heritage building is constructed of brick and stone in a Victorian style. * **St. George Greek Orthodox Church** – Opened in 1897, this church is built of brick with classical detailing and later Byzantine-inspired elements. * **Street Health** – Established in 1986, the facility operates out of a practical brick building adapted for community healthcare use. * **Street Haven** – Founded in 1965, this women’s shelter is housed in a converted brick residential building typical of the area. * **Jarvis Street Baptist Church** – Opened in 1875, this Gothic Revival church is built of brick with stone accents. * **The 519** –This building actually dates back to 1858 — long before it became The 519 we know today — and started as a Georgian-style home before evolving into a community space. * **Foy-Smith House** – Built in 1891, this historic home is constructed of brick in the Queen Anne Revival style. * **St. Paul’s Bloor Street** – Opened in 1889, this Romanesque Revival church is built of stone with a commanding tower and detailed masonry. Some locations we’ll enter, others we’ll experience from the outside depending on timing and lineups. ⚠️ Please note: wait times are part of Doors Open. We’ll move as a group and make decisions along the way. \*\*\* 🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto? Doors Open Toronto is a free annual event where the city opens up buildings that are normally closed to the public — from historic homes and cultural institutions to places you’d never usually think to step inside. It’s one of the best ways to explore Toronto beyond the surface. \*\*\* 🌆 Vibe & Expectations This is a longer, more exploratory walk with: ✔️ Multiple stops ✔️ Some waiting in lines ✔️ A mix of indoor and outdoor spaces ✔️ Members can leave any time the like It’s not about rushing — it’s about discovering. Also — this is NOT a formal historical tour. I’ll share context and stories as we go, but the focus is on the experience and being social. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: **Fire Station 315** 🫎 I’ll be outside and I will be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: (Insert time) I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us along the route. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us. \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **[[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com)]([mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](http://mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com/))** Doors Open is free to attend. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Patience for lines ⏳ Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: snacks or money for food along the way \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com)]([mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](http://mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com/)) Come for the buildings. Stay for the stories. Leave seeing the city not just as it looks — but as it’s evolved. 🏛️✨

**Note: This was previously sold out and I spoke to Doors Open and was fortunate to secure 5 additional tickets for members.** On **Saturday May 23rd**, **be part of Doors Open Toronto for a behind-the-scenes experience of public art sites at Biidaasige Park in the New Lassonde Art Trail, that will open this summer. This is such a wonderful opportunity that we rarely get a chance to experience, as we may see art installations being built.** Scheduled to launch in summer 2026, the Lassonde Art Trail (LAT) will be a free, open-air destination for outstanding contemporary art from around the world. For Doors Open, join the LAT team to discover the Art Trail sites, starting at Fire Hall 30 Plaza and continuing along the network of paths through Biidaasige Park. Tour guests may have the opportunity to see several artworks already in place as well as others partway through installation. This unique, behind-the-scenes experience introduces visitors to the complexities of creating and installing public art and integrating it into an urban park system. Learn about the hidden support structures that make up the engineering of the Art Trail, the themes and environmental concerns artists are responding to and the kinds of sculptures planned for the Art Trail’s launch season and beyond. This is an outdoor event, so if the forecast calls for rain, will make a call 3 hours prior to the event start time. **Prepare for the walk:** * Walking shoes * Hat * Sunglasses * Water The reminder will let you know the temperature and any other details ‐‐----‐----‐‐-------------‐----------- **COST:** Meetup Organizer Fee: $5 ‐‐----‐----‐‐-------------‐----------- **SIGNING-UP** * **RSVP Yes to confirm you will show up** * Your ticket will be provided at meetup time and location. * A reminder will be sent the day before with my cell and reminder details where to meet and when. * As these tickets were difficult to come by, please be sure about attending. * I can offer to drive 4 people from Coxwell subway at 1:15pm RSVPs close 1 day prior and cancellations may result in a No Show and impact future attendance. **MEETUP TIME** **Meet at: 1:40pm** **in front of and to the right side of Fire Hall 30 Plaza at 51 Commissioners St.** **1:50pm: we will join the rest of the tour group** **2pm**: Tour starts **Tour length: 1.5 hours** After: There is a BBQ restaurant down there, so hope we can grab some food or drinks Enjoy and please post your Comments in the event after

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **This tour has been revised and updated to reflect new scholarship on the history of the area.** John Lea Sr. was born in Lancashire England, and immigrated to York, in 1819, via Philadelphia. Mary Hutchison, his wife, and John had their first child on May 28, 1814 and named him William. Lot 13 in the third concession was purchased from Alexander McDonnell on January 23, 1820 and the new family, John Lea Sr, William, John Jr. and Mary settled the land. William Lea bought land to the south and began constructing a large, octagonal brick house, which he named Leaside. The house was completed in 1854. John Lea Sr. died soon after. The property became the possession of William's eldest son Joseph in 1893, and he lived in the house until 1903. In 1913 it was abandoned and demolished by Canadian Northern Railway. The company set fire to the historic landmark in order to clear the land for the townsite. A shame indeed! It seems that we have a **history** of eliminating our history piece by piece! Leaside was also, in addition to Liberty Village to the west, part of the great armament industry that contributed to the victory in world War 2. Leaside is one of Toronto's most historic neighbourhoods, with plenty to discover and explore. Make the most of winter and let's walk and learn about an area of Toronto that is not well known, and certainly not on the history walking tours agenda for most companies. This walking tour is for all levels and walkers. The tour begins and ends at the Leaside Branch of the Toronto Public Library at 165 McRae Drive, north of Millwood Road. We will return to this location after our walk! This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

An early winter walk in the many hidden Laneways of Kensington and Chinatown, where there is an amazing collection of old laneway houses, graffiti, and other oddities. The walk is slightly longer than what's linked below. After the walk is over, you can continue with me to Queen West for some graffiti. Meet at 10 am and leave 10 min later. Follow the map to find us. Maybe we will get lucky with snow. The date has been moved to next Saturday as the low temps won't make this walk pleasant. Route: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3176492?units=km

**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.

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**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.

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan