Paleontology

Join us at **Emergency Exits: The Fight for Independence in Malaya, Kenya and Cyprus at the Imperial War Museum, London.** ***(Fancy the museum, but not this exhibition? Feel free to sign up and just visit the museum sections you want to see.)*** *Emergency Exits* focuses on three wars in the 1950s: in Malaya (now Malaysia), Kenya and Cyprus. It explores the motivations of key figures, the responses of the British colonial authorities and how these conflicts affected ordinary people. You’ll hear stories from people on different sides as they share their thoughts on the wars that shaped their lives. The exhibition also explores the British Government’s attempts to prevent documents relating to the conflicts from being published. In 2011, following a long battle by campaigners, the Government revealed that thousands of these files were still held in a secure archive. *Emergency Exits* helps unpick the path towards recognition in the UK. Please note: *Sections of this exhibition contain themes including racism, sexual violence and torture.* Read more: [https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/emergency-exits-the-fight-for-independence-in-malaya-kenya-and-cyprus](https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/emergency-exits-the-fight-for-independence-in-malaya-kenya-and-cyprus) **MEET DETAILS:** **From 2:15pm: MEET IN CAFE (optional)** Meet in the Imperial War Museum's [cafe](www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london/eat-drink). **3.00pm: ENTER THE EXHIBITION** [Imperial War Museum](https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london), Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ **4:45pm: PUB SOCIAL (optional)** We'll have a table booked in a nearby pub. Please see event comments for the location and address. **TICKETS:** **Free to enter** \- no need to book a ticket\. **GETTING THERE:** TUBE: Lambeth North (7 minutes' walk), Elephant & Castle (10 minutes) TRAIN: Waterloo (14 minutes' walk) [Find more info here](https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london/getting-here) **WHATSAPP GROUP FOR PRE-VISIT CHAT & LIVE LOCATION ON THE DAY:** **If you are on the 'Going' list only,** please join the event WhatsApp group to help you find the group on the day. **The link can be found in the Event Comments below.** *Joining this WhatsApp group will make your phone number visible to other members in the group.* **PLEASE NOTE:** * LoMAZ events are run by volunteers. We have an attendee limit to help the host manage the event. We prefer a smaller, friendlier group. * Once all the spaces are taken, Meetup adds you to the Waitlist. If someone drops out, waitlisted attendees are automatically moved to the 'Going' list by Meetup in order of priority. * **If you can no longer attend, please change your RSVP to 'Not Going' as soon as possible.** Then someone on the waitlist can take your place. **We remove members from the LoMAZ Meetup group who:** * **RSVP as ‘Going' but then do not show up three times in a row.** * **RSVP as ‘Going' but then change their RSVP to 'No' five times in a row.** * **Are on the Waitlist or who have not RSVPd, but turn up anyway.** **Thank you! — The LoMAZ Admin Team** Image credit: Imperial War Museum by Peter Trimming, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Hi everyone! Booking is now open for our next badminton session, 11am-1pm on Sunday at Ark All Saints Camberwell 140 Wyndham Road SE5 0UB. The cost is only £10 per person plus £1.62 Meetup booking fee, paid in advance before the start of the session. Bring your racket or lease one for the session for a nominal £2.00, shuttlecocks is provided. The lease rackets are available at the venue, so just make your way down. Please note we don't have enough for everybody just a few. If you damage your racket during the session you get one to use for free. So if you wish to play and don’t yet have a racket make your way down, try and have a couple of nuggets (£2.00) handy because the racket lease fee is not included with the session booking fee. Payment is by PayPal, Debit card, Credit card, Bank transfer, and Cash. Contact the host if you encounter any problem with making payment or wish to pay by other method (Payment by Bank transfer & Cash is £10.00) Direction: The badminton hall is situated at the rear of the school, read on for direction on how to locate the hall. The main entrance to the school is located on Wyndham road, on Wyndham road look for Toulon Street it is on the same side as the school. If you stand facing the school Toulon Street should be to your right. Toulon street lead on to Pitman Street which is where the entrance is located. Use the pedestrian gate to let yourself in, if it is locked use the intercom and somebody should let you in. Immediately inside the school premises the entrance to the badminton venue is the building to your immediate right. For more info, contact the host Look forward to seeing you! Many thanks Afam

Fancy a fun social **archaeological** adventure into the **Egyptian** temple? An expedition venturing into history, myth, and discovery at the Museum’s Egyptian galleries. We'll step into a world of monumental statues, hieroglyphs, and sarcophagi so **extraordinary** that even the most famous archaeologist of them all **-** Indiana Jones himself - might hesitate to enter! But no need for Indi - we'll become direct **raiders of knowledge**, uncovering the secrets of Egypt’s most extraordinary artifacts — no Lucas props, just authentic treasures that have captivated explorers, scholars, and adventurers for centuries. Yep - for thousands of years, Ancient Egypt bestowed extraordinary knowledge and innovation on the world - easily giving the big greek philosophers a run for their money! From **mathematics** to building those monumental structures and advanced **astronomy** to create calendars, they practiced **medicine** and mummification with remarkable skill. Their wisdom, traditions and emphasis on cosmic order influenced civilizations far beyond the Nile, leaving a legacy that still shapes how we understand science, culture, and history today We'll step into the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery and encounter monumental statues of pharaohs, sarcophagi, and hieroglyph‑covered stelae. Texts will help guide us through their hidden stories — from the Rosetta Stone to colossal busts of Ramesses II — revealing the real history behind treasures that could easily rival Dr Jones’s greatest finds. 🗝️ Lost Treasures Trail Following a themed trail through the galleries, we'll piece together clues among mummies, tomb goods, and temple carvings. Inspired by Indy’s relic hunts, this puzzle challenge is grounded in authentic archaeology, encouraging you to see the magnificent collections with your own eyes 🎩 Explorer’s Flair And to infuse some lighthearted fun into the journey - *Indiana Jones* style fedora hats and satchels are welcome! Feel free to strike a pose beside towering statues or ancient sarcophagi for **photo opportunities** blending cinematic fun with the awe of Egyptian relics. Impersonations of Indy welcome too - if yours is better than mine I buy you a drink! ☕🥂🍻 After we survive the ancient curses and colossal statues with our discoveries intact, we’ll continue the expedition at a nearby pub — a chance to debrief like real archaeologists, swap theories, compare clues, and enjoy a well‑earned drink getting to know your fellow explorers Lucas Stone Unmummified

Every Sunday we host a weekly D&D Night, it's a West Marches style game, so you can drop in without having played before. If you've played D&D for decades or never touched dice, you're welcome to come and play. The game is at 6:30 pm on Sunday. To book, please follow this link and book a ticket on our website for the 'pub game', it's £4 a ticket. As with our monthly event, you get a 15% discount on food and drinks. https://drink.brewdog.com/uk/tower-bridge#book-now Additional details: we are running D&D5e using the 2024 rules and the party is level 6. If you want to make a character ahead of time you're welcome to but don't worry if not as we can guide you through character creation.

**The 2025 CHRISTMAS LECTURES®** BBC, iPlayer and the Ri YouTube channel Dame Maggie's 200th anniversary series of the **Royal Institution CHRISTMAS LECTURES®** will be **broadcast on BBC Four and iPlayer on Sunday 28, Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December, at 7pm.** But if you can't wait, and want to settle down to watch the full series in one sitting, then all three Lectures will be **available on iPlayer from early on Sunday 28 December.** And if you live outside the UK, then you won't miss out! This fascinating exploration of one of humanity's most enduring questions - 'Is there life beyond Earth?' - will be available on the Ri YouTube channel for international audiences following the first broadcast in the UK, **also on Sunday 28th.** **SUMMARY** On the 200-year anniversary of the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, the 2025 Lectures will see leading space scientist Dame Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock take audiences on an epic voyage through time and space. Joined by a host of very special guests - from astronauts to history-making astronomers - Maggie will explore the extraordinary breakthroughs that have revolutionised our understanding of the universe, enabling us to see ever further into space, and ever further back in time. Maggie helped develop the James Webb Telescope, the most powerful space telescope ever created – which launched on Christmas day 2021 before travelling a million miles to begin its orbit of the sun. Unpacking James Webb’s latest breathtaking images, Maggie will reveal how this “time-travelling” telescope is now rewriting the story of the Big Bang and allowing us to witness the birth of the first stars and galaxies that followed. As NASA prepares to return humans to the moon for the first time since 1972, Maggie will investigate how manned spaceflight has transformed our relationship with our nearest neighbour – and with our home planet. And, delving further back in time, she’ll explore how the night sky has always held a fascination for humanity - investigating what the moon and stars meant to ancient societies across the world. Maggie will also explain how the latest space technologies – from probes and orbiters to the most recent Mars rovers - are shedding astonishing new light on the planets in our solar system. And we’ll discover why in 2025 we’re on the cusp of even more remarkable discoveries about our universe. She will reveal just how far our understanding of space has come in the two centuries the Ri CHRISTMAS LECTURES have been around – looking back on previous Lectures on astronomy – from the first of these in 1826 to the 1977 lectures hosted by famed astronomer Carl Sagan, when the only known planets at that time were the eight in our solar system (thought to be nine at the time). Maggie will also scour the Royal Institution archives to uncover some of the original props from these historic lectures, plus she’ll recreate - and supersize - some the most memorable demos from space lectures past. In this iconic anniversary year these lectures will be a true celebration – of our universe and of the astounding human endeavours that are allowing us to solve its mysteries.

Moderate 10 Miles/ 16.1km Ascent 660ft/201.2m circular. Starting from Oakfield Park and heading out through Wilmington, Puddledock Lane and Birchwood Park Golf course to Swanley Park for a picnic lunch. Refreshments may be available at the cafe. Returning through Swanley Village and Hawley. Subject to walk leaders approval we do allow well behaved dogs under full control of their owner. If you wish to bring your dog on the walk, please check with the walk leader before arriving for the walk. Please note that **there is a £2 payment required for non-Ramblers members** to help cover our Meetup costs. **Please help the walk leader by bringing the exact change.** Members of the Ramblers Association are welcome on any of our walks, but we would still encourage you to RSVP on Meetup. This will give our volunteer walk leaders an idea of how many are attending, and also to keep the numbers manageable. If, on the day of the walk, you are still on the waiting list and a Ramblers member, you can attend just let the walk leader know you are coming by adding a comment 'Coming as a Rambler'. You will find the start location via our website Our Walks ([westkentwalkinggroup.org.uk](http://westkentwalkinggroup.org.uk/)).

*** **🎨✨ \*\*Join Us for an Unforgettable Art Adventure at the Wallace Collection!\*\* 🖼️🎉** Get ready for a spectacular day filled with culture, connection, and pure excitement! We’re hosting a vibrant social gathering to explore the magnificent \*\*Wallace Collection\*\* in London, and we want YOU to be part of it! 🏛️😄 This isn’t just a museum visit—it’s a chance to dive into a world of art, history, and great company! 🌟 **\*\*About the Wallace Collection\*\*:** Nestled in the heart of London at Hertford House, Manchester Square, the Wallace Collection is a hidden gem that’s free to visit and bursting with treasures! 🏰💎 This world-class museum houses an extraordinary collection of fine and decorative arts, amassed by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace in the 18th and 19th centuries. From jaw-dropping paintings by masters like \*\*Rembrandt\*\*, \*\*Titian\*\*, and \*\*Fragonard\*\* (including the iconic \*The Swing\*) to exquisite French furniture, glittering porcelain, and a jaw-dropping armory of medieval and Renaissance weapons, there’s something to captivate everyone! 🗡️🖌️ The grand rooms of Hertford House itself are a masterpiece, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life with their opulent interiors. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just love a good story, the Wallace Collection’s intimate yet dazzling galleries will leave you inspired! **😍** **\- \*\*What’s Happening\*\*:** **\- 🕑 \*\*3:00 PM \- Meet & Mingle\*\*: see HOW TO FIND US\, we will gather there for a lively 15\-minute meet\-up\. Say hello\, make new friends\, and get pumped for the adventure ahead\! 🤝😊** **\- 🖌️ \*\*3:15 PM \- Explore the Collection\*\*: Wander through the museum’s stunning galleries at your own pace\. Marvel at sparkling chandeliers\, intricate Sèvres porcelain\, and paintings that tell tales of love\, war\, and beauty\. Don’t miss the Great Gallery or the quirky armory displays\! 🎨🔍** **\- 🕔 \*\*5:00 PM \- Reconvening\*\*: We’ll regroup outside the museum to share our favorite discoveries and soak up the post\-art buzz\. 🗣️✨** **\- 🚶‍♀️ \*\*5:15 PM \- Stroll to Soho\*\*: Together\, we’ll take a scenic walk to vibrant Soho\, heading to \*\*Waxy O’Connor’s\*\* \(14\-16 Rupert St\, London W1D 6DD\)\. This legendary Irish pub\, with its cozy nooks and lively atmosphere\, is the perfect spot for drinks\, laughs\, and more bonding\! 🍻🎶** **\*\*Why You’ll Love It\*\*:** Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of art and history, connect with fellow culture enthusiasts, and cap it off with a fun evening in one of London’s liveliest spots! Whether you’re geeking out over rococo furniture or just here for the vibes, this day will be packed with inspiration and joy. 😍🎈 **Bring your curiosity, your smile, and let’s make this a dazzling day of art, history, and new friendships! 🌟🎉 #WallaceCollectionAdventure #ArtAndSoul** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

Time is precious. Here we value non-boring chats and interactions that are fully engaging, soulfully enriching, inspiring, and leave you a bit wiser than when you arrived. In that spirit (mind the pun!), today’s fully hosted laid back social coffee chat will offer a perfect haven for the inquisitive & curious - those drawn to the mysteries of the universe, life and everything in between. A tasty caffeine infused fun afternoon of thought-provoking causal chats exploring spirituality/consciousness and related interconnected topics spanning **philosophy,** **neuroscience**, **parapsychology,** **cosmology** and **noetic sciences** over a mug of sweet coffee. Hosted by me - a former Reuters journalist & published empirical researcher exploring spirituality topics in pursuant of the "truth" since a teenager, there'll be no strict structure - a relaxed friendly space to openly chat, exchange ideas & experiences without judgement, but I'll preside to promote inclusivity and zone in on specifics to avoid people digressing onto unrelated tangents to ensure like all of our events - particpants derive maximum utlity and insights from attending. We’ll touch on everything from the limits of scientific understanding to exploring the unexplained using practical fun exploratory divination practices drawing on elements of **psychology, metaphysics, epistemology** and **statistical** **probability** of rare events as we do so. Whether you're a practicing "spiritualist", a curious skeptic, or just someone who loves deep conversation on **life’s big questions**, you’ll hopefully walk away more enlightened with some practical tips you can start applying and inspired to explore more! **Sample of conversational threads** might include: Are we mere organisms pursuing biological survival or does consciousness exist beyond neurons firing in our brains? What explains peoples' paranormal experiences? What would reality look like If our brains were limitless? Declassified CIA files show that as as well as mind control experiments, the US govt employed mediums and remote viewers. If all mumbo jumbo then why? Is Nirvana just a fantasy of deluded people? Does everything happen for a reason? To clarify - we define spirituality here as an exploration of consciousness, Donald Rumsfeld's unknown unknowns and undiscovered aspects of reality, NOT religion. After all, as my philosophy professor once rightly postulated to me: "If God created Adam, who created God Lucas?" Yep - that inconvenient flaw **debunks every fairytale religion** out there including the oldest religion of them all - paganism - so why is witchcraft still practised outside of **Hogwarts** today? I may also share the latest peer reviewed empirical evidence surrounding **paranormal** and **consciousness** phenomena. As well as illuminating chats to guide self-reflection, there'll be FREE Tarot & I-Ching readings, demonstrations of meditation method to activate super powerful gamma brain waves, and pyschic tests for a bit of fun, laughter & intrigue! **=== POTENTIAL CONVERSATION STARTERS ===** 1. Does consciousness survive death or is Cambridge Astrophysics Professor Brian Cox right in asserting if **ghosts** existed then particle accelerators at CERN would have already detected ghost molecules making Ouija boards kids play? Are Poltergiests 100% hoax? Brain scans indicate thalamocortical circuits in our brain (pathways in the parietal cortex & central lateral thalamus) drive **consciousness -** so how can spirit/mind live on after **brain death**? 2. Is **synchronicity/coincidence** simply randomness disguised in the eye of the beholder or can what Einstein called “spooky action at a distance" (quantum entanglement) explain it? 3. Given **neuroscience**'s infancy with much yet undiscovered - could mediation help access functions outside of our BAU alpha & beta brain wave states? Can **Kundalini yoga** to boost natural **DMT** (dimethyltryptamine) vs drugs like ayahuasca, mushrooms, LSD etc and if so by what mechanism? Do the artifically created neural signatures using magnetic stimulation observed during mystical experiences debunk them? Is the Maharishi Effect real? 4. Are clairvoyants and mediums just good people readers or are they really able to access time and space in non-linear ways? Is Tyler Henry the real deal or just faking it? 5. The laws of statistical probability, Drake Equation & common sense tells us there is other non-microbial life out there. So what explains the Fermi Paradox? Was that 1976 WOW signal aliens? How about the recent strange bahaviour of Boyajian's star or Oumuamua/Atlas interstella object that has just entered our solar system? 6. Could metaverse explain deja vu & reincarnation vs theories from the **psychology** literature (Mandela Effect?) or do we just live in a **simulation** as **Elon Musk** proposes? 7. **Stephen Hawking** once said: "The past, like the future, is indefinite and exists only as a spectrum of possibilities" If matter only manifests when observed as the double slit experiments shows, does that mean everything is consciousness? Does the discovery of *quantum superposition /* disappearing neutrons imply **parallel universes**? 8. Do **NDEs** result from neurochemical changes in the brain close to death or something beyond physicality? 9. Can photons omitted by our bodies explain auras that people see? 10. Could limits in our understanding of quantum physics, space and time explain paranormal experiences? 11. What existed before the **big bang** \- how do you get something from "nothing"? I believe our reality is the product of a black hole\. What you reckon? ***So how do we get to the "truth"?*** Both in my journalism days and applying the most advanced empirical research techniques in my client consulting work - it becomes clear the truth is often elusive. No matter how much we triangulate evidence - we can only provide part answers. "All models are wrong, but some are useful" George Box What we think we know and reality diverge leading to that great **paradox of knowledge.** And as the boundary between knowns and unknown converge, we end up with cognitive dissonance and more questions. In that spirit - every credible philosopher & scientist acknowledges - we'll never get to the complete truth but could **experimental methods** get us closer to it? A balanced approach guided by Immanuel Kant's pragmatism and Aristotle's deductive reasoning seems the most rationale framework here but are there any other methodologies? How about the **"spirituality"** toolkit? **=== RENDEZVOUS POINT ===** We will meet in the Penderel's Oak. *283–288 High Holborn, Holborn WC1V 7HP* zone 1 central london so very easy to get to. I'll be wearing a **Starwars identifier** and will share mobile hotline just before event start and table number/location Lucas - The Unenlightened Desperately Seeking Answers

A hero of free speech returns! Featuring never-before-seen footage and unprecedented access, the film unfolds like a real-life spy thriller, reminding us what is truly at stake when journalism becomes a crime. As you may well be aware, Julian Assange has filed a criminal complaint against the Nobel Foundation for facilitating war crimes by awarding the prize to María Corina Machado. ‘The Nobel Foundation has turned an instrument of peace into an instrument of war,’ Assange stated last Wednesday when submitting the criminal complaint in Stockholm. According to the organisation founded by WikiLeaks’ creator, around 30 individuals linked to the Nobel Foundation may have committed alleged offences of misappropriation of funds, as well as facilitating war crimes and crimes against humanity. This documentary is too important to be missed! I have seat E4 for the screening at 12pm. I’ll arrive 5 minutes earlier and be at the bar. We’ll meet at the bar again after the documentary to share impressions. You can buy your ticket here: [https://www.thegardencinema.co.uk/film/six-billion-dollar-man/](https://www.thegardencinema.co.uk/film/six-billion-dollar-man/) Spanish reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) French reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-livres)

**New Year’s Eve Walking Holiday – Northumberland** Join **Large Outdoors** for a five-night hotel-based New Year break exploring the quiet beauty of the Northumberland Coast. With guided walks along vast beaches and through castle-dotted landscapes, this is a longer escape designed for those who want extra time to relax and explore. ### **What to Expect:** 🚶 **Guided Walks** – Explore stretches of the Northumberland Coast Path with views of Bamburgh Castle, Holy Island and quiet coastal villages. 🌿 **Scenic Highlights** – Big skies, peaceful beaches, and a sense of space perfect for a reflective start to the new year. 🛌 **Accommodation Type** – Hotel stay with ensuite rooms and a warm welcome. ☕ **Relaxed & Sociable Atmosphere** – Enjoy a small group format, evening meals, and a New Year’s celebration without the crowds. 📅 **Dates:** Sunday 28 December 2025 – Friday 2 January 2026 📍 **Location:** Northumberland Coast 🔗 **Full details & booking:** [https://www.largeoutdoors.com/scenic-walking-holiday-northumberland](https://www.largeoutdoors.com/scenic-walking-holiday-northumberland)

ENJOY THIS UNIQUE WALK IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. Today we walk through the contrasting scenery of Crystal Palace Park, Biggin Woods, Norwood Grove and Streatham Common **WALK START:Crystal Palace Park Railway Station** (National Rail - Travel Zone 3/4) WALK ROUTE: From Crystal Palace Park Railway Station we walk across Crystal Palace Park and then enter Westow Park, Upper Norwood Recreation Ground, Biggin Woods, Norwood Grove and Streatham Common. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 6.5 miles. WALK FINISH: Streatham Station ( National Rail. STOPOUT POINT: Throughout the walk we will cross several London bus routes. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility.** **This walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. RISKS:Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, and tracks through woodland and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, trousers are recommended, and take care as surfaces may be uneven, and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists. Be wary of portruding tree roots and low overhanging branches. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station. WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD? - Light rain is not a problem, only very heavy rain will lead to a postponement.

*** **🎨✨ \*\*Join Us for an Unforgettable Art Adventure at the Wallace Collection!\*\* 🖼️🎉** Get ready for a spectacular day filled with culture, connection, and pure excitement! We’re hosting a vibrant social gathering to explore the magnificent \*\*Wallace Collection\*\* in London, and we want YOU to be part of it! 🏛️😄 This isn’t just a museum visit—it’s a chance to dive into a world of art, history, and great company! 🌟 **\*\*About the Wallace Collection\*\*:** Nestled in the heart of London at Hertford House, Manchester Square, the Wallace Collection is a hidden gem that’s free to visit and bursting with treasures! 🏰💎 This world-class museum houses an extraordinary collection of fine and decorative arts, amassed by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace in the 18th and 19th centuries. From jaw-dropping paintings by masters like \*\*Rembrandt\*\*, \*\*Titian\*\*, and \*\*Fragonard\*\* (including the iconic \*The Swing\*) to exquisite French furniture, glittering porcelain, and a jaw-dropping armory of medieval and Renaissance weapons, there’s something to captivate everyone! 🗡️🖌️ The grand rooms of Hertford House itself are a masterpiece, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life with their opulent interiors. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just love a good story, the Wallace Collection’s intimate yet dazzling galleries will leave you inspired! **😍** **\- \*\*What’s Happening\*\*:** **\- 🕑 \*\*3:00 PM \- Meet & Mingle\*\*: see HOW TO FIND US\, we will gather there for a lively 15\-minute meet\-up\. Say hello\, make new friends\, and get pumped for the adventure ahead\! 🤝😊** **\- 🖌️ \*\*3:15 PM \- Explore the Collection\*\*: Wander through the museum’s stunning galleries at your own pace\. Marvel at sparkling chandeliers\, intricate Sèvres porcelain\, and paintings that tell tales of love\, war\, and beauty\. Don’t miss the Great Gallery or the quirky armory displays\! 🎨🔍** **\- 🕔 \*\*5:00 PM \- Reconvening\*\*: We’ll regroup outside the museum to share our favorite discoveries and soak up the post\-art buzz\. 🗣️✨** **\- 🚶‍♀️ \*\*5:15 PM \- Stroll to Soho\*\*: Together\, we’ll take a scenic walk to vibrant Soho\, heading to \*\*Waxy O’Connor’s\*\* \(14\-16 Rupert St\, London W1D 6DD\)\. This legendary Irish pub\, with its cozy nooks and lively atmosphere\, is the perfect spot for drinks\, laughs\, and more bonding\! 🍻🎶** **\*\*Why You’ll Love It\*\*:** Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of art and history, connect with fellow culture enthusiasts, and cap it off with a fun evening in one of London’s liveliest spots! Whether you’re geeking out over rococo furniture or just here for the vibes, this day will be packed with inspiration and joy. 😍🎈 **Bring your curiosity, your smile, and let’s make this a dazzling day of art, history, and new friendships! 🌟🎉 #WallaceCollectionAdventure #ArtAndSoul** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

We will be having an open discussion of the book "the Soul of an Octopus" by Sy Montgomery. [this is the amazon link for this book](https://a.co/d/1bRn8h4)

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

First attempt at this. If it's good, we'll do it again. If it sucks, we tried. (Event photo is from a recent trip to Flagstaff. Stock photos of fake people drinking coffee are the worst.) **Why I'm doing this:** You're the average of the people you spend the most time with. Running a business solo means I've been spending most of my time with myself. And AI tools, which are great for thinking through business problems, but terrible for actual human connection. I want to raise that average. Looking for people who want real conversations. Not networking, not pitches, just the kind of talk that makes you think differently about what you're building and why. If we all end up making a few friends along the way, even better. **What to expect:** Coffee. Conversation. No pitches, no elevator speeches, no going around the table introducing ourselves like it's a corporate icebreaker. Just show up and talk like a normal human. **Ground rules:** * No pitching your business * No recruiting * No MLM talk * No hustle porn **RSVP cap:** 6 people max so it doesn't turn into a crowd. **Location:** Transcend Coffee & Roastery in Grove City **Time:** Friday, January 16th at 11 AM. See you there!

Monday December 29th at 6PM we'll be meeting up dinner at the Pies & Pints at Easton. Feel free to bring guests. Sandwiches run about $15 and large pizzas run $20-30.