trees and gardens

Join us for lunch at True Food Kitchen in Easton as we celebrate the New Year and our friendships!

Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap January 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Join Wild Ones Columbus for their annual native seeds swap. If you have native seeds to share, please label them with the Latin name and common name. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but remove as much stem as possible. Bringing seeds is not required. Bring bags or envelopes to store seeds. Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Phone (614)895-6216 This event will be held in the Greenhouse/Multipurpose Building located near the east end of the parking lot. Click here to see the Inniswood map. If you have native seeds to share, label each species with this information: * Botanical Name * Common Name Species we will accept: * Species native to our ecoregion (8.2.4) - Best * Species native to Ohio and surrounding states - Good * Straight species only - no cultivars. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but don’t leave much stem on the seed heads. Please email the list of species to Mary May so we can prepare information for attendees. You can bring the seeds on the day of the swap, or we can arrange to have them picked up beforehand - just let her know in the email. If you don’t have any seeds to bring, no worries. If you are new to native plants or didn't have time to collect seeds, there are ALWAYS plenty from those that do bring them! We love to see "newbies" at our seed exchange! Also, remember to bring something to put seeds in such as envelopes, paper bags or containers.

💥 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚 💥 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: 💥 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝: 𝐀𝐥 𝐒𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐥 𝐈𝐲𝐚! . 💥 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲, **January 10** 💥 𝟖 𝐩𝐦 – 𝟏 𝐚𝐦 . 🟣 Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue 🟣 Dancing All Night Long! . 👉 𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐚𝐭: LincolnStreetSalsa.com . Lincoln Street Salsa 1717 Brice Rd Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068 . 🟣 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 8:00 pm – 8:30 pm . 🟣 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧! 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm . 🟣 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝! 9:30 pm – 1:00 am . ✅ Cover Includes Dance Lesson and/or Party! . 👉 𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐚𝐭: https://columbussalsadancing.com/live-salsa-band-tickets-early/ . 👉 $𝟐𝟓 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 (𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐬 1/10 @ 5 𝐩𝐦) . 👉 $𝟑𝟎 𝐀𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐨𝐫 . ✅ 𝐍𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲! ✅ 𝐍𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝! ✅ Always Other People to Dance With! . ✅ Singles, Couples, Beginners, and Pros Welcome! . ✅ BYOB ✅ 18+ . ✅ 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬? 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭: LincolnStreetSalsa.com 𝐎𝐫 𝐓𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐝: 𝟔𝟏𝟒-𝟕𝟕𝟒-𝟖𝟏𝟒𝟔 . 👉 𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐚𝐭: https://columbussalsadancing.com/live-salsa-band-tickets-early/

The emotional pain from past bad experiences easily lingers in the present, making it hard to enjoy life and create your future. Even when you think you've moved on, the negative emotions can be triggered, sending you back into the pain of that experience. And we are talking about pain; emotions such as grief, depression, anxiety, fear (or terror), boiling anger, simmering resentment, feelings of shame, blaming and regret can leave you incapacitated to a greater or lesser degree. In this local event we will be discussing the reasons why these past bad experiences have the power to affect you long after they occurred. We'll go over why the emotional pain can be so strong. We'll also discuss some simple solutions to overcome your emotional pain and be free to fully enjoy your life again. Examples of painful experiences include: * A broken relationship or divorce. * Death or loss of a loved one. * Death of a pet. * A sudden shock or bad news. * A betrayal. * Being part of an abusive relationship. * A bad injustice. * Loss of a job, position or business. * A grave illness or injury. The negative emotions from these experiences don't just go away on their own. But the good news is there is a way to clear them out of your way. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening evening of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will choose from the menu and pay individually)

LICKING COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER FOR 60+ ADULTS Winter Seed Sowing Workshop Wednesday, January 14, 2026 1:15 - 3 p.m. Bryn Du | 537 Jones Road | Granville Growing native plants from seed is relatively straightforward, but the timing and techniques are different than those used for tender annuals and vegetable garden plants like cucumbers or tomatoes. Learn a simple method to germinate and grow native Ohio plants from seed–no greenhouse, grow lights or other fancy equipment required! $10/person | [Registration managed by LCCC](https://www.lickingcountycc.org/)

**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.

Botanical Beer Friday, January 16 6 - 7 pm $20/Members | $25/Non-Members Join Bruce Vivian, co-owner and brewer from Nocterra Brewing Co. for a botanical beer tasting while learning more about how these beers are made. This tasting will feature 4 different beers, including Tree Well – an IPA that was made using white pine needles harvested from The Dawes Arboretum! This program is for those ages 21+. [Register and pay at Dawes (click here)](https://53050.blackbaudhosting.com/53050/Botanical-Beer-16Jan2026?_gl=1*18p929h*_gcl_au*NzM3MjYwNTYuMTc1OTQxNjc4OQ..*_ga*MTk2NDQxMTYwMy4xNzQzNzAwMDQz*_ga_P64H7CWHPD*czE3NjQ3ODc3MDUkbzY3JGcxJHQxNzY0Nzg3NzM0JGozMSRsMCRoMA..) Program Audience: Ages 21+ Location: Visitors Center Accessibility Info: This program will consist of an indoor presentation while attendees are seated. Recommended Supplies/Attire: None.

CHANGED to WEDNESDAYS COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).