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Early Summer Forage
Set out on a gentle early-summer forage at Hickory Hill Park and discover edible greens, delicate blossoms, and maybe even a berry or two. Through playful, hands-on activities, participants learn how to identify seasonal wild foods, explore practical uses, and gather a small selection to bring home. Conversation centers on ethical foraging, the principles of the Honorable Harvest, and ways this practice can nurture a deeper relationship with the land and with oneself. The pace encourages slowing down and being fully present in the woods. Meet at the shelter near the park’s south entrance. For comfort and safety, wear closed-toe shoes, high socks, and jeans, add sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and bring water. A basket or bag for your finds is recommended, and a notebook with a pen or pencil is optional for sketches and notes. If mobility accommodations are needed, please get in touch beforehand. The registration fee is offered on a sliding scale from $5 to $25, based on access to resources, and the class requires at least 10 participants to run. Questions can be directed to 319-325-6810. Instruction is led by Emmie Klever, who holds a Wild-harvested Mushrooms Certification from Iowa State University and studies Anthropology and Sustainability at the University of Iowa, with several years of local foraging experience. This program was created with support from community partners and sponsors including Hills Bank, the Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department, 100 Grannies, Master Gardeners of Johnson County, and New Pioneer Food Co-op.
Hickory Hill ParkSolstice Floral Forest Gathering
Mark the summer solstice with an unhurried experience of connection with the natural world. The afternoon centers on crafting floral crowns and practicing forest bathing while reflecting on the solstice as part of the earth’s seasonal cycle and considering how those patterns may echo in everyday life. Participants will learn about the background and purpose of flower headdresses, receive step-by-step, hands-on instruction to make one, and get tips for preserving the finished crown as a decorative piece or for personal ritual. With creations in hand, the group will enter the woods for experiential nature and forest therapy that encourages attentive presence to self and the wider living world. This gathering offers a gentle reset to support balance within your inner ecosystem. Please dress for the weather, and consider bringing a notebook with a pen or pencil for writing or sketching. Guidance is provided by Emelia Sautter, founder of Good Earth Medicine and a certified forest bathing guide focused on deepening relationships with land and self, and by Annie Ventullo, a folk crafter and mushroom forager who also works as an ecotherapist, death doula, research therapist, and educator and advocates for regular time outdoors.
Harvest PreserveMahjong Meetup
Mahjong is enjoying a resurgence, and Diversions Tabletop Game Lounge is hosting a new monthly meetup that welcomes curious beginners and seasoned players alike. The gathering focuses on learning the basics, building confidence, and connecting players to fill out tables. Tables will be ready, some mahjong sets will be available, and free popcorn will be on hand. No ticket is required. Participants are encouraged to claim a seat for the game on Aftergame. Most tables have been playing the Japanese/Richii style so far, though other variants are welcome.
Diversions Tabletop Game LoungeReading Queer Stories by Queer Authors Book Club | Small Joys by Elvin James Mensah
A new monthly gathering, Reading Queer Stories by Queer Authors, hosted by Patty, spotlights literature by queer writers. This session focuses on Small Joys by Elvin James Mensah. The book follows Harley, a young queer Black man in 1990s Britain who has left college and returned home feeling adrift. At a breaking point in the woods, he meets Muddy, an upbeat bird-watcher, rugby devotee, and Oasis fan whose easy warmth grows into a steadfast friendship. Their bond helps Harley find reasons to carry on, while Muddy begins to confront parts of himself that do not fit the expectations of his rugby circle. When people from Harley’s past resurface, the support they share and the small joys they create together become vital.
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