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Want to improve your speaking skills? Rock future presentations? Boost your feedback skills? If your answer is "YES!"... Be our guest (for free) and join Berlin's oldest public speaking club, First Berlin Toastmasters. We meet **every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 6:30 pm** and start sharp at 6:45 p.m. CET. **Where?** St. Lukas-Kirche (near Anhalter Bahnhof) Bernburger Straße 4-5, 10963 in Berlin [https://goo.gl/maps/AhDfDmVndqbC9A1C9](https://goo.gl/maps/AhDfDmVndqbC9A1C9) You'll find us in the Gemeindesaal – on the first floor of the building to the right of the church. Get ready for speeches, fun games, feedback, a welcoming atmosphere, lots of fun, inspiration, and many learnings that will help you to become a stronger communicator and happier human being ;) Come at 6:30 CET and get a personal introduction to the Toastmaster's program here at First Berlin. We're looking forward to welcoming you! Best wishes, Yevgen Schweden - VP Public Relations of First Berlin Toastmasters

**An evening where confidence grows, stories shine, and voices find their power.** We’re kicking off a new chapter. 📍 **New Location:** **Potsdamer Platz, The Center, Berlin – Historic Imperial Breakfast Hall** The Center is a space that celebrates **community, creativity, and transformation**, and we’re proud to be hosting our events in this inspiring new location at the heart of Berlin. **🕢 Time:** Doors open at 7:15 PM Meeting starts promptly at 7:30 PM *** **[What to Expect:](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)** ✨ A supportive space to speak, grow, and connect 🎤 Prepared speeches, impromptu challenges, and real feedback 🌍 A multicultural community of friendly, experienced members 👥 Around 25-30 attendees each week *** **🤙 [Hear it from our members:](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eRtvR9DRNqU9WZQn7)** *“You can sharpen your public speaking skills and gain tons of confidence, while having fun and making new friends. Mercury is well-structured, fun, and affordable.”* — *Therese Pitt* *“Mercury gave me a safe place to speak, create, and grow. I love the multicultural vibe and supportive community. It’s the best place to learn and have fun.”* — *Krisztina Linka* *** **[Did You Know?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Toastmasters is where people go to get better at speaking—and grow into confident communicators and leaders. Today [Toastmasters ](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)has 350,000+ members across 16,000 clubs in 143 countries. And [Mercury ](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)is one of the best places to experience it. So bring your curiosity, your energy—and just be yourself. Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, there’s a place for you here. *** **[See you Wednesday night!](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)**[ 🎉](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)

## **Kein Mappenstress – Mappenkurs Grafikdesign** Der *Mappenkurs Grafikdesign* richtet sich an alle, die eine Designausbildung anstreben, sowie an Interessierte, die den kreativ-bildnerischen Teil des Berufsfeldes Grafikdesign kennenlernen möchten. In entspannter und produktiver Atmosphäre lernst Du, Deine gestalterischen Fähigkeiten zu erweitern und Deine Ideen überzeugend umzusetzen. Im Kurs werden die Grundlagen verschiedener Techniken der bildnerischen Gestaltung vermittelt. Du zeichnest, malst, collagierst und arbeitest sowohl analog als auch digital. Dabei tauscht Du Dich aktiv mit den Dozenten Paul und Christoph sowie mit den anderen Teilnehmenden aus. Sie unterstützen Dich individuell, um Deine Stärken zu erkennen und gezielt auszubauen. Ziel des *Mappenkurs Grafikdesign* ist es, Deine grafischen Fähigkeiten zu fördern, Deinen Blick für räumliche und figürliche Darstellung zu schärfen. Es kommen unterschiedliche Materialien und Techniken zum Einsatz: Farbig mit Pinsel, schwarz-weiß mit Grafit, sowie die grafische Wirkung von Buchstaben wird erprobt. Außerdem lernst Du, diverse Formate gestalterisch zu definieren und Deine Arbeiten professionell zu präsentieren. Der Kurs bietet Dir die Möglichkeit, eine aussagekräftige Bewerbungsmappe zu erstellen. Gleichzeitig kannst Du Dein kreatives Potenzial entdecken und gezielt weiterentwickeln. Die Dozenten geben Dir wertvolles Feedback, vermitteln Dir praxisnahe Methoden und statten Dich mit dem nötigen Handwerkszeug aus. So kannst Du Deine Ideen Schritt für Schritt gezielt umsetzen. **Bitte beachte:** Eine Teilnahme an den Mappenvorbereitungskursen der Lette-Akademie ist keine Voraussetzung für die Teilnahme an den Aufnahmeprüfungen der Design-Abteilungen des Lette-Vereins und garantiert auch nicht automatisch das Bestehen. Informationen zur Ausbildung Grafikdesign am Lette Verein findet ihr [hier](https://www.letteverein.berlin/grafikdesign-3/). Kursinformation Anmeldung: https://lette-akademie.de/kurse/mappenkurs-grafikdesign/ Termine: Mi., 07. Jan. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 14. Jan. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 21. Jan. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 28. Jan. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 11. Feb. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 18. Feb. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 25. Feb. 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 04. März 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 11. März 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 18. März 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mo., 23. März 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Mi., 25. März 26, 17:00 – 20:00 Gebühr: 360 € / 48 Unterrichtsstunden Zusätzliche Kosten: anfallende Materialkosten tragen die Teilnehmer\*innen Veranstaltungsort: Lette-Akademie Berlin gGmbH c/o Lette-Verein Viktoria-Luise-Platz 6 10777 Berlin Fragen zum Kurs? info@lette-akademie.de

Hast du Angst vor Publikum zu sprechen? Verlangt dein Beruf, dass du Vorträge hältst? Macht dich das nervös? Hast du Schwierigkeiten beim Aufbau deiner Reden oder Vorträge? Driften deine Zuhörer ab und scheinen dir nicht mehr zuzuhören? Nimmt deine Nervosität überhand? Vergisst du im entscheidenden Moment was du sagen wolltest? Bei Toastmasters bekommst du auf all diese Fragen nicht nur eine Antwort, sondern kannst im sicheren Umfeld lernen und trainieren deine Redekunst zu verbessern und zum charismatischen Redner zu werden. Komm einfach zum nächsten Clubtreffen.

**Neukölln's cult Scottish pub + Berlin's funniest international comedians! Every Wednesday at 8 PM!** Missed this show?! After a month's hiatus, BEER 'N MIC is back at a new, even more spacious venue!!! It's a match! Fresh craft beer and English comedy in one of Neukölln's coolest and most established pubs, Das Gift. Every Wednesday, come to see 8 performers from different countries, in a curated Open Mic show: some are industry veterans, some have only just begun their journey in comedy. But as we know in Germany, beer makes everyone equal. Drink, laugh, love, and well... get home safe. It's still a Wednesday, even in Neukölln. Google rating: 5.0 / 5.0 ★★★★★ “Laughed a lot, will come again for sure” Oliver, UK ★★★★★ “A cozy place with high quality live comedy!” Joanna, Hong Kong ★★★★★ “Great comedy show, talented comics and very nice atmosphere” Mariia, Ukraine ★★★★★ “Comedians were good, beer was good, ambiance was super nice!” Gaelle, Lebanon ★★★★★ “The humour hit us right on the spot!” Eve, China ★★★★★ “Perfect evening of laughter” Igor, Croatia ★★★★★ “Cozy stand-up venue with hilarious international artists and audience!” Elvira, Russia ★★★★★ “Great new shows at one of Berlin’s coolest venues!” James, USA Show will consist of 2 halves with an interval. Doors: 7:30 PM Show: 8:00 PM Entry: Pay What You Want\* (seat reservation required): you reserve your seat for free, and Pay What You Want at the end of the show, depending on how much you think the show is worth (recommended fee: €10-15). Reservations expire 10 minutes before the start of the show. \*It is not within our principles to promote a show as "Free Entry" and ask for a "not-so-voluntary" donation at the end. This show is paid - we just let you decide the price ;)

**This is 100% non-profit. The 15€ sign up fee for everyone is only to minimize last-minute cancellations. The total sum goes to a bar-tap that everyone can use to order drinks until the amount is used up. ‼️NO REFUNDS‼️** **‼️Please don't just show up without RSVPing here and paying the 15€. We have a separate room that has limited capacity and a specific drinks agreement with the bar - so splitting up the bill won't become a mess.‼️** **Small update on how your money get's used from May 2024 onwards:** As of this month, meetup.com has started charging me 34€ instead of 16€ per month. I've decided to distribute this fee evenly among all us participants every month. Example: In the last 12 meetups, the average number of attendees was 17. With 17 attendees I would effectively collect 230€ (after fees). I would now substract 34€ leaving us with 196€ that go to the bar. 15% get's tipped to the wait staff, in this case 30€, leaving us with 166€ effectively to order drinks. Hope everyone is cool with this system. :) Website: https://www.pberg-engineers.me WhatsApp groups: Please come and join us on WhatsApp! \- "PBerg Engineers \- NEWS" \- Only organizers can post announcements or polls \-\> https://chat\.whatsapp\.com/EqMJMmlCZO6LOOfAoG4yTj \- "PBerg Engineers \- DISCUSS" \- Everyone can post \-\> https://chat\.whatsapp\.com/LPuo76J83gF6IZMLUcM4u2 Please join those groups now if you're interested. :) All skill/education-levels welcome! :) Lightning Talks: \- TBD We'll also have a brief "Jobs: Lost & Found section". **Location:** From the street you will have to enter the right hand Cafe Chagall (yes, there are 2). Then, you go upstairs and our private room is in the far end corner of the building. We are a relaxed, non-formal meetup of like-minded software engineers who want to always keep learning and want to meet in physical reality over a drink or two. Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin is home to some of the most talented software engineers in the world, and every month, they come together for an exciting knowledge sharing meetup. This meetup is a chance for attendees to learn from each other, share their experiences, and gain new insights into the world of software engineering. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, and the discussions are always engaging and thought-provoking. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out in your career, you'll find something valuable at this meetup. Don't miss out on your chance to connect with like-minded professionals and advance your knowledge of software engineering. Sign up for the next event now! **Website:** https://www.pberg-engineers.me **WhatsApp groups:** Please come and join us on WhatsApp! \- "PBerg Engineers \- NEWS" \- Only organizers can post announcements or polls \-\> [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqMJMmlCZO6LOOfAoG4yTj](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqMJMmlCZO6LOOfAoG4yTj) \- "PBerg Engineers \- DISCUSS" \- Everyone can post \-\> [https://chat.whatsapp.com/LPuo76J83gF6IZMLUcM4u2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LPuo76J83gF6IZMLUcM4u2) Please join those groups now if you're interested. :)

-DROP IN - *(English below)* **Lindy Hop \| Swing Dance Unterricht** Klassen (fast) jeden Mittwoch Abend 18\.15 Uhr Lindy Hop \| Swing Dance \- Starter Bitte für weitere Informationen & Kosten hier schauen: [SWING PATROL ROLLBERG _ SCHILLERKIEZ - NEUKÖLLN](https://www.swingpatrolberlin.com/sp-rollberg.html) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- classes (almost) every Wednesday evening 18\.15 Uhr Lindy Hop \| Swing Dance \- Starter All information & costs here: [SWING PATROL ROLLBERG _ SCHILLERKIEZ - NEUKÖLLN](https://www.swingpatrolberlin.com/sp-rollberg.html)

**👋🏽 Tschüss Tretmühle & einsame Vorsätze. Hallo Klarheit & echte Verbindung.** **🎯 In diesem Workshop setzt Du Dir Ziele für 2026 - gemeinsam mit Menschen, die sich ähnliche Fragen stellen.** **🌞 Ein Tag für Träume, klare Richtung & gute Verbindungen.** \-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💶 Teilnahmegebühr: 50 EUR vor Ort in bar oder PayPal.** Du kannst Dir auch ein **[Ticket auf Evenbrite sichern](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/deine-ziele-dein-leben-deine-ziele-fur-2026-tickets-1977712178364)**. Rechnung ist möglich. \-\-\-\-\-\-\- Gute Freunde & Freundinnen reden über ihre Ziele & Träume. Sie schauen zurück auf das vergangene Jahr und überlegen, wie das nächste werden soll. Genau das machen wir in diesem Workshop auch. **☕ In gemütlicher Atmosphäre widmen wir uns 4 Themen:** 🙏🏼 Wie war mein 2025. Was war großartig? Was war lappig? 🌴 Wie stelle ich mir mein Leben vor? 🌻 Wie soll mein 2026 werden? 🚂 Wie möchte ich die Ziele in 2026 umsetzen? Wir denken nach über das eigene Leben & das nächste Jahr - und sind gleichzeitig immer wieder im Austausch. **🌳 Gemeinsame Inspiration & Referenz** Deine Ziele für's nächste Jahr entstehen nicht im stillen Kämmerlein, sondern verbunden mit anderen. Dabei teilst Du, was Du teilen möchtest - was Du lieber für Dich behältst, bleibt Dein Geheimnis. Am Ende hast Du einen Plan für 2026. Du hast Dich mit anderen darüber ausgetauscht, Dich inspirieren lassen und vielleicht habt ihr ja sogar ähnliche Pläne? **Der Tag ist auch eine Referenz für:** Wie wäre es, wenn ich mit meinen Freunden gemeinsam einen solchen Tag gestalte? Die Unterlagen dafür hast Du ja im Anschluss und kannst gleich einen Termin mir Deinen Freunden vereinbaren. Ich freue mich auf jeden Fall auf gute Gesprächen & einen angenehmen Tag. **📝 Agenda:** * 8:45 Uhr: Ankommen, Tee & Schwatz * Kennenlernen & Rückblick 2025 * Lebensvision & Träume * 12:30 - 14:00 Uhr - Mittagspause * Deine Ziele für 2026 * Schärfung & Umsetzung * 18:00 Uhr - Ende . **🥗 Essen & Trinken** In der Mittagspause kannst Du Dich auf eigene Kosten in einem der zahlreichen, umliegenden Restaurants & Imbisse versorgen, sitzen & schwatzen. Bring Dir gern auch Snacks für den Tag und zwischendurch mit. Ich stelle **verschiedene Tees** **und Kaffee** zur Verfügung. . **🏡 Location** * Wir treffen uns bei mir am Wohnzimmertisch. * Für das Gefühl von chilliger Gemeinsamkeit ist gesorgt. . 🚫 **Was ist der Workshop nicht:** **Der Workshop ist kein Tschakka-Workshop.** Ich glaube, Du kannst (fast) alles erreichen, was Du willst. Doch ich glaube, die meisten Teilnehmenden werden eher solide Themen für 2026 haben. Dennoch bin ich offen für große Ziele - schließlich arbeite ich selbst an etwas Großem (Das Buch über Freundschaft). Für ein klein wenig Tschakka ist also auch Platz - nur eben keine Techno-Musik & blinkende Lichter. **👱🏽‍♂️ Über mich:** * Betreiber der Seite [www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de](www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de) * Ausgebildeter NLP-Trainer ([DVNLP](https://www.dvnlp.de/)) & Coach * Seit 15 Jahren setze ich mir selbst Ziele mit Freunden. * Jahrelang selbstständiger Unternehmensberater (u.a. über 5 Jahre Strategieberater für die Bundsbereitschaftsleitung des Deutschen Roten Kreuzes) * Eigene Vita: Von schüchternen Jungen zum fitten Mann * u.a. Weltreise: 1 Jahr allein eine Runde um den Globus. Das war fett! * Mehr über mich: [LinkedIn - Georg Preller](https://www.linkedin.com/in/georg-preller/) **😲 Ehemalige Teilnehmer/innen meiner Meeups:** "Was Georg kann: Tiefgang & Spaß zu gleichen Zeit. Ich bin immer wieder gern dabei!" . "Während des Workshops habe ich erkannt: In der Firma setzen wir uns jedes Jahr Ziele und reden mindestens ein Mal in der Woche darüber - nennt sich Meetings oder Jour Fixe bei uns. In meinem Privatleben lasse ich das schleifen und wundere mich, warum vieles nicht zu meiner Zufriedenheit läuft. Jetzt habe ich meine Ziele für 2024! Danke." . "Ziele alleine setzen ist ja nett, doch angenehmer finde ich den Austausch mit anderen. Ich mache mir das jetzt zur Gewohnheit. Interessant fand ich, welche Themen die anderen hatten. Wir sind doch alle gleich und doch verschiedenen." . "Georg bietet ein solides System, wie man sich seine Ziele setzt. Alles bedacht, und auswählen kann ich alleine. Man merkt, dass er eine gute Ausbildung hat. Gut finde ich, dass wir sowohl das gesamte Leben angesehen haben als auch das nächste Jahr." . "Sympatisch, übersichtlich, direkt. Dankeschön!" . **👋🏽 Get & stay in touch:** **✈ Telegram-Kanal: [t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft](http://t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft)** für Events, Workshops & Neuste Erkenntnisse aus der Freundschaftsforschung (nur Kurznews) **✉ Freundschafts-Newsletter:** [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) Alle 4 Wochen das Neuste aus der Freundschaftsforschung. Oft schreibe ich seltener, nämlich nur dann, wenn es wirklich etwas zu berichten gibt. **🔥 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften** Seit 2020 forsche ich, was großartige Freundschaften ausmacht. Das Ergebnis ist das 30seitige eBook: "Die 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften". Du erhältst das eBook zurzeit kostenlos bei der Anmeldung zum Newsletter: [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) **🎭 Meet-Up-Gruppe:** [https://www.meetup.com/g/abenteuer-freundschaft/](https://www.meetup.com/g/abenteuer-freundschaft/) Workshops, Spaziergänge, Wanderungen, Treffen, Eislaufen, Eisbaden, Männer-Abende, Freundinnen-Workshops, Workshops für Persönlichkeitsentwickklung & Kommunikation

Try Brompton is a Brompton experience ride for those considering purchasing a Brompton. The purpose of this ride is to deepen your understanding of Brompton bikes, ride courses designed to fully enjoy Bromptons, rediscover the city, experience new ways to enjoy it, and experience the lifestyle that comes with owning a Brompton. We guide participants through folding techniques and shifting the internal gear hub—a common source of confusion for first-time riders—while riding. By comparing different bikes, we help riders deeply understand each model's characteristics, supporting them in making an informed choice and purchase. https://www.komoot.com/tour/2544443144?share_token=aHITulkVldsQO8ZTduViGdGjVF2ZkFee5TKZ6D4484fY5EXfHK&ref=wtd

**QUIZ #70.1 @ Electric Social** GERMAN BELOW/DEUTSCH UNTENSTEHEND **Just what this city needed: another great trivia night!** *What makes this event truly unique?* Well, it's a bilingual **English-and-German-speaking** extravaganza that guarantees an unforgettable time for all participants. Whether you're a trivia enthusiast or just looking for a great night out, this is the place to be. Prepare to be challenged and entertained as we delve into a myriad of random topics that will tickle your brain cells and keep you on your toes. ***The quiz setup:*** * 📅 Date: Sunday, 11th of January (Doors Open 5:45 pm / Start 6:30pm) * 📍 **Location: Electric Social, near Alexanderplatz** * 💰 4 € per person * 👤 Solo registration or as a team (max. 6 👯👯👯) * ✍️ 3 rounds á 10 questions - various topics: music round, picture riddles, pop culture, etc. - in 🇩🇪 & 🇬🇧 * 🏆 Prices for the first 3 teams and the Lucky Loser Our enchanting venue for this exceptional event is none other than the **Electric Social**, nestled in the heart of Berlin (Grunerstraße 13, 10179 Berlin) Solo adventurers and dynamic duos, fret not! If you don't have a team, we've got you covered. We'll pair you up with a group that could use your unique skills and knowledge. After all, uniting trivia aficionados is what we do best. See you there! *** **Genau das, was diese Stadt brauchte: ein weiteree großartiger Quiz-Abend!** *Was macht diese Veranstaltung wirklich einzigartig?* Nun, es ist eine zweisprachige, deutsch- und englischsprachige Extravaganz, die allen Teilnehmern eine unvergessliche Zeit garantiert. Egal, ob Sie ein Trivia-Enthusiast oder einfach nur auf der Suche nach einem tollen Abend sind, hier sind Sie genau richtig. Bereiten Sie sich darauf vor, herausgefordert und unterhalten zu werden, während wir uns mit einer Vielzahl von zufälligen Themen beschäftigen, die Ihre Gehirnzellen kitzeln und Sie auf Trab halten werden. 💡 Wie läuft das Ganze ab?💡 * 📅 Sonntag, 11. Januar (Einlass 17:45 Uhr / Beginn 18:30 Uhr) * 📍**Electric Social, nahe Alexanderplatz** * 💰 4 € pro Person * 👤 Solo Anmeldung oder als Team (max. 6 Personen pro Team 👯👯👯) * ✍️ 3 oder 4 Runden á 10 Fragen - Themen querbeet - in 🇩🇪 & 🇬🇧 * 🏆 Preise für die ersten 3 Teams und den Lucky Loser Unser bezaubernder Veranstaltungsort für dieses außergewöhnliche Event ist das Electric Social im Herzen von **Berlin** (Grunerstraße 13, 10179 Berlin). Solo-Abenteurer und dynamische Duos, keine Sorge! Wenn ihr kein Team habt, dann seid ihr bei uns an der richtigen Adresse. Wir bringen euch mit einer Gruppe zusammen, die eure einzigartigen Fähigkeiten und Kenntnisse gebrauchen kann. Jeder Quiz-Topf findet bei uns einen passenden Deckel. Wir sehen uns dort!

Welcome to Sunday Tech Coffee. This is a **networking** event for those in the tech industry in Berlin. We are usually inside and to the right

Unser Verein berlinCreators e.V. trifft sich jeden Freitag ab 18 Uhr im Makerspace. Wir haben Gruppen rund um Elektronik, 3D-Druck, Nähen, Programmieren, Retro Computer. Egal ob Anfänger oder Profi – hier seid Ihr Willkommen. Ihr könnt mit anderen fachsimpeln, Euch inspirieren lassen oder auch mit unserer Hilfe Eure ersten Projekte starten. Wenn Ihr Euch bei uns wohlfühlt und Mitglieder bei den berlinCreators werden möchtest, freuen wir uns. Kommt vorbei, lernt den Space, uns und die Möglichkeiten kennen.

Welcome to **Electric Social** \- Berlin’s electrifying arcade bar where nostalgia meets nightlife\! Think neon lights\, beers\, retro games\, and the unbeatable Sip Happens vibe you know and love\. Join us for a night of laughter, friendly competition, and laid-back fun as we take over one of Berlin’s coolest new spots. Whether you’re a Mario Kart master, a pinball wizard, or just here for the vibes, there’s something for everyone. 🎮 **What to expect:** ✨ A full bar with great drinks and booths to hang out in 🕹️ Classic arcade & video games to battle your new friends 🥂 The friendliest crowd in Berlin (that’s you lot!) 💬 Chill areas to chat, connect and hang out between rounds This isn’t your average night out — it’s a chance to play, laugh, and meet new people in a place built for fun. So grab your tokens, bring your A-game, and get ready for another unforgettable Sip Happens night! 📍 **Electric Social, Berlin** 🗓️ **Doors open at 20:00** 🎟️ RSVP now to secure your spot – it’s going to be *next-level fun!*

**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.

*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! 😄

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.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

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