Alchemy

You are warmly invited to join us for our Summer Solstice Gathering - MEDICINA: Dancing with Trees + Conscious Connection + Ecstatic Dance & Cacao! **✨ MEDICINA: A Summer Solstice Portal ✨** Open Air Ecstatic Dance Gathering *"And forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair" - Kahlil Gibran* Join us for a magical Summer Solstice celebration of movement, music, ritual, cacao, breath, connection and community. **📍 Central London Park** (full location given 24 hours before the event begins) **🗓️ Saturday, June 20th** \- 11:45am\-8:30pm Come for the whole day, or drop into individual sessions. **All are welcome.** No experience needed. **More info & booking:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1990374855773?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1990374855773?aff=oddtdtcreator) **🌞 MEDICINA: A Summer Solstice Portal** The Summer Solstice is the sacred turning of the wheel… the moment when the light reaches its peak, the Earth pulses with life, and something ancient within us is invited to awaken. **MEDICINA** is a full-day alchemical journey of dance, breath, meditation and embodied celebration… a space to ground, release, open, activate and remember the medicine of our own body, heart and spirit. Through bioenergetics, chi gong, conscious connection, cacao, ecstatic dance, medicine music and a nourishing fruit social, we gather to honour the Sun, the Earth, and the wild aliveness within. **🌿 SCHEDULE** **🌍 11:45am–1:45pm** **DANCING WITH TREES:** Bioenergetics, Chi-gong & Ecotherapy A transformational Nature-Connection workshop blending Bioenergetics, Chi Gong & Eco-Therapy Our video: https://youtu.be/kmshJsWxb9U?si=8pJ7KQMfm6SQaiJn **🧘 2:30pm–4:30pm** **CONSCIOUS CONNECTIONS: Boundaries, Platonic Healing Touch & the MUSH** A heart-opening session of relational practices, conscious connection and ritual space to deepen presence, trust and authentic expression. **✨ 6:00pm–8:30pm** **MEDICINA: Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony** An open-air Summer Solstice ecstatic dance journey with cacao ceremony, Global Bass, Folktronica, Shamanic Soundscapes, Medicine Music and community celebration. **🍉 8:30pm onwards** **Fruit Social** Ground, nourish, connect and integrate with fresh fruit and community vibes after the dance. **🜂 🜄 🜁 🜃 THE MEDICINA JOURNEY** **🜂 Ground** into the Body **🜄 Release** through the Earth **🜁 Activate** Imagination **🜃 Reclaim** yourself through wild, embodied, free-form movement and sound **🍓 Integrate** it all with a nourishing fruit social This is more than another dance event. It’s our Summer Solstice portal. A ritual of light. A celebration of life. A remembering of the medicine within. **✨ THE EVENING EXPERIENCE** Our all-day Summer Solstice event culminates in an open-air Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony featuring: 🌿 Ceremonial-grade cacao 🎧 Deep ecstatic dance journey 🌍 Global Bass/ Folktronica/Shamanic Soundscapes/Medicine Music 🍉 Fruit social & community connection Come dance on the Earth, beneath the Summer sky, and celebrate the longest day of the year in movement, music, ritual and joy. **PLEASE NOTE:** All sessions are weather permitting. In case of the rain forecast being 45% or more, we will cancel the dance at least 4h prior to the start, email all attendees and issue a full refund.

**Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned master, join Our Chess Enthusiast Group for Social Fun and Friendly Matches** **This is the perfect opportunity to socialise, make new friends, and engage in the intellectually stimulating and entertaining world of chess.** **Our chess group is a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels. We believe that chess is a game that transcends age and gender, uniting people in the pursuit of strategic brilliance and camaraderie. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the ropes or a grandmaster seeking challenging opponents, our group is the ideal place for you.** **When and Where We Meet** **We gather every Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at a convenient and accessible location:** **Venue: 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW** **Our chosen venue is not only a clean and safe space but also secure, ensuring that your chess sessions are enjoyable and worry-free.** **Additionally, there is an indoor cafe on-site, so you can relax with a refreshing beverage and delicious snacks between matches.** **What to Expect** **When you join our chess enthusiast group, you can look forward to a variety of chess-related activities:** 1. **Engage in chess matches with players of varying skill levels, providing a perfect opportunity to improve your game or showcase your expertise.** 2. **Connect with fellow chess enthusiasts who share your passion, fostering new friendships and a sense of community.** 3. **If you're a beginner, our more experienced members are always willing to offer guidance and tips to help you grow as a chess player.** 4. **We occasionally organise chess tournaments and special events, allowing you to challenge yourself and compete for prizes.** **Reserve Your Space** **Due to space limitations, we kindly request that you reserve your spot before attending our chess gatherings. This ensures that we can accommodate everyone and maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all participants. To reserve your space or inquire about the group, please reach out to us via email magdyelalfy@gmail.com** **While we do provide chess sets at our venue, we encourage members to bring their own if they have one. Personalising your chess experience with your preferred set can add a unique touch to your games.** **Join us at 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW, and be a part of a vibrant and engaging chess community. Whether you're in it for the love of the game, the social interactions, or both, our chess enthusiast group offers a fantastic platform to indulge your passion for chess and make new friends along the way. We look forward to welcoming you into our fold and sharing the joy of chess with you.** **For reservations, Click attend on the meetup App.** **Come and make your next move with us – both on the chessboard and in your social circle!**

**This is a paid event, tickets available [here via eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workshop-the-sacred-geometry-of-sound-tickets-1990188956744?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*6our0c*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTIzNzU4NTQxLjE3Nzk0ODUzNTk.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3Nzk0ODUzNTgkbzEkZzEkdDE3Nzk0ODYxMjUkajQxJGwwJGgw&keep_tld=true).** **3-hour workshop will explore how the harmonious intervals of music serve as a model for universal structural principles.** There is a long history of connection between music, mathematics, science and philosophy. From the ancient idea of the *music of the spheres* to the cosmological reflections of Kepler, Leibniz, Fludd, Newton and later thinkers such as Hans Kayser, sound and harmony have been understood not only as a musical phenomenon, but as a geometrical pattern inherent in nature. Myths across many cultures also express the concept that the universe was created by sound, and according to modern quantum field theory matter and energy fundamentally behave like vibrating waves. The aim of this workshop is to share these ideas with a wider audience and popularize the interdisciplinary field called *harmonic research* or *harmonics*, in which the harmonious intervals of music serve as a model for universal structural principles. **Content:** * Fundamental harmonic principles in music and mathematics, including practical demonstrations on the monochord * Harmonic proportions in nature and architecture * The concept of harmony as a universal organizing principle and how we can apply this to our individual and collective lives * The workshop leader, Sabine Leitner, has an MA in music and completed the 2-year course 'Fundamental Research into Harmonics' at the Hans Kayser Institute at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna (1990-1992). She also has an MA in Philosophy and an MA in Leadership Coaching. She is the director of the New Acropolis School of Philosophy in London. This workshop has been organized to celebrate the International Day of Music and to promote the theme of 'Philosophy and Science'. **Admission:** £50 (concessions £30) There will be 2 breaks of 15 minutes (refreshments included in the price)

The session is aimed at beginners and intermediate level players who have either never played tennis previously or would like to improve on their game. Join our 2 hours session which will consist of warm up followed by drills focusing on technical skill coaching and will include Forehand / Backhand / Volley and Serve. Finally you get to play each other refining your skills and techniques and ultimately having fun. Rackets can be borrowed please let me know if you need a racket in advance. You need to make a payment 48 hours before the session. If you cannot attend the session please provide 48 hours notice. Should you wish to cancel. This will allow other players on the waiting list the chance to attend the session. If severe weather conditions prevent the session you will have credit for your next session. If there is less than 6 players unfortunately the session will not go ahead. If you have any questions contact me by either through this email. hmasoudi@email.com or call/text me on 07901662457 £ 30 per player per session. H. Masoudi Sort code 40-03-33 Account number 31344609 The session is with less than 12 players is run by one main qualified coach.

In this textile jewellery making workshop in London, you’ll make your own silk rose choker necklace using textile flower-making techniques. Learn how to shape treated silk organza into rose petals, assemble them into a textile flower, and turn the finished rose into a wearable choker with suede cord and metal fastening.This class is suitable even if you have no previous experience with textile flowers or jewellery making. You'll be guided. through the process step by step, from preparing the petals to finishing the choker. **What to expect:** * Work with treated silk organza to create natural-looking petals. * Shape and assemble a textile rose by hand. * Finish the piece with suede cord, toggle clasps, and jewellery hardware. By the end of the class, you’ll leave with a finished textile rose choker necklace and a practical understanding of how textile flowers can be used in contemporary accessories.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodturning-120/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodturning-120/) **⋆⋆⋆** If you have ever seen wood turned on a lathe and been intrigued by the bowls and forms made on it, this one-day workshop will demystify the technique and teach you basic techniques to make a simple bowl and a hardwood barreled pen. You will be led by expert, Nathan Cardwell who is a passionate woodworker and a patient tutor. When not with us, he teaches woodwork in a London boy’s school. Nathan will introduce the parts of the lathe and explain how to safely secure your work, the methods to use with each chisel and how to sand and finish your projects. During the day you will learn the ’Headstock method’ to make a small bowl in hardwood and ‘Spindle turning’ to make a wooden tube that fits into a metal pen mechanism. We will supply everything so come with curiosity and enthusiasm and leave with satisfaction, a bowl and a ready-to-use rollerball pen. We will also advise you on how to continue this fascinating hobby with guidance on buying your own lathe, tools and timber.

Join the London Women Chess Club (LWCC) for our weekly social chess session in a friendly, supportive and inclusive environment. Whether you are completely new to chess, returning after a break, or already playing competitively, you are very welcome. LWCC is an ECF award-winning community initiative dedicated to encouraging more women and girls to play chess, build confidence, and progress into competitive play if they wish. We are proud to see new members joining every month, with many progressing into league matches and tournaments. What to expect * Friendly social games * Opportunities to improve your chess * Informal group coaching and guidance to help members progress * Information about tournaments and league opportunities * A respectful and supportive environment * A growing community of women supporting each other through chess Who can join * Women and girls of all levels * Complete beginners are very welcome * Players returning after a break * Competitive players looking for a supportive community How to join LWCC To help us maintain a safe and well-organised community, we ask new members to complete our short membership form before joining our WhatsApp community. [Membership registration](https://form.jotform.com/241453653475359) [Group Coaching ](https://pci.jotform.com/form/241475449120353) Our WhatsApp group is shared with registered members so we can keep communication relevant and maintain a positive environment for everyone. About London Women Chess Club London Women Chess Club is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) focused on making chess more accessible to women and creating a positive pathway into competitive chess. We collaborate with libraries, chess organisations and the English Chess Federation to build a strong and sustainable women’s chess community in London. [Instagram!](https://www.instagram.com/londonwomenchessclub) \| [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-women-chess-club/)

**🎟️ Tickets available on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-cyanotype-workshop-with-nature-as-co-author-tickets-1990651946559?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-cyanotype-workshop-with-nature-as-co-author-tickets-1990651946559?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true) Discover cyanotype, a photographic printing process, in this hands-on workshop where Nature becomes your co-author Slow down, step outside, and perhaps take a walk through the local *Lee Valley* — exploring *Bow Creek Ecology Park*and *East India Dock Basin* between Canary Wharf and Trinity Buoy Wharf — for a little birdwatching and inspiration from the natural world. Breathe deeply, listen to the river, and enjoy the calm energy that comes from spending time outdoors. Walking in nature can help quiet the mind, restore focus, and reconnect us with the rhythms of the natural world. Notice the delicate shapes, textures, and shadows that Nature creates, and transform them into your own cyanotype prints. Then come to *BE Ka Art Studio*, Elena's riverside atelier in *Trinity Buoy Wharf*, for a relaxing cynotype session. In this hands-on workshop, you'll discover cyanotype. This photographic printing process uses sunlight, water, and natural materials to create stunning one-of-a-kind artworks in deep luminous blue. Using botanicals, shells, feathers, and found objects, you'll compose your own prints and watch them develop in real time. No cameras, screens, or prior experience needed. You'll leave with your own original cyanotype artworks. ## Nature & Back to Gaia These workshops are dedicated to Nature and *Back to Gaia – A Copyright for Nature* 👉 *[https://www.backtogaia.org](https://www.backtogaia.org)* The founder of the project will present during the events, sharing the vision behind the initiative and its work protecting the natural world. 10% of every ticket will be donated to the charity and invested in projects that support and protect Nature. ## What You’ll Do * Arrange botanicals and natural objects to compose your own cyanotype prints * Add a personal touch with wooden letters, drawings, or handwritten details * Expose your work in sunlight — or UV light if the weather is cloudy * Develop your prints in water and watch the images appear ## What’s Included Everything is provided, including: * A5 coated paper sheet in your choice of colour * Acrylic film * Botanicals, feathers, shells, and natural materials *(feel free to bring your own if you'd like)* * Small wooden craft letters * Trays and all cyanotype materials Just bring your curiosity. Additional paper in different colours and sizes will be available to purchase on the day, along with acetate sheets and markers to customise your creations even further. ## Good to Know * No prior experience necessary — suitable for complete beginners * Relaxed and creative atmosphere * Children must be accompanied by an adult * Step-free access available #### **Please Bring** #### **BYOB** – No drinks or food will be provided. You’re welcome to bring your own. The studio is close to local favourites such as *The Orchard Café* and *Layers Bakery***,** if you’d like to grab a drink or snack before or after (both open every day until 4 pm). ## **📍Location – Trinity Buoy Wharf, London** E14 0FP The workshop takes place at **Trinity Buoy Wharf**, a historic 19th-century site in London’s Docklands, now home to one of London’s most vibrant creative communities, a sculpture park, event venues, and the iconic Container City™ buildings. More info: [https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com](https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com/ "https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com/") ***The entry gate will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., so please don’t be late. If you arrive after that, unfortunately, we won’t be able to let you in.*** ## **Privacy & Consent** *By attending this event, you agree that photos and videos may be taken and used for promotional purposes, including on BE* *KA website and social media channels. If you'd prefer not to appear, simply let me know***,** *and I'll make sure to respect your wishes.*

Join our Woodland Midsummer Gathering. We'll create consecrated sacred space, invoke the elements and call on Solar deities. Our rituals are suitable for all new comers & experienced magical people. Ritual ***facilitated b***y Peter & Hazel (Initiated Witches & Wiccan ) with the help of our key ritual team. ***We have a Strict NO DRUGS or Substances policy!** **\-\- PRACTICAL DETAILS \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** **Venue**: Queen's Woods, High gate, London (N6 5UU). These events are held in a public Open woods, with rough terrain, and in natural weather conditions . **Meeting point: (please read this carefully)** *Pease Gather at ENTRANCE to the woods on \`QUEENS WOOD ROAD' / Capital Ring. Aim for postcode N6 5UU. - Google map ref: 51.580240, -0.142252 Ritual Team member will come meet you, collect cash fees, and lead all into the woods, to our ritual space. **Woodland safety --** *If you feel unwell (even if it's just cough/ cold) please stay at home. - The woodland terrain is unsuitable for those with heart, breathing or mobilitynissues. *Those attending with any mobility issues must being your own Carer/ support. - There are **no formal toilets** nearby or cafe etc. (all are about 15-20minute walk). **What to bring?** *Ritual items (optional): Moon crowns, flower crowns Ritual cloaks, capes, masks; lanterns, candles in jars.. - Torch light for safe walking at night. *Warm clothing & rain-coats/ outdoor shoes or boots (and ankle covered socks! ). - Small ground sheet to sit on for social. *Your own Cups/chalice to drink from. **Food & Drinks for Social after ritual ---** Please bring food & drinks to share (optional)... example: bread, butter, pitta bread, cheese, small picnic food, soft drinks, wine. If there are unopened food items at the end, we share them with you to all to take home. **Tidying up**: Help us keep woods tidy . Please take any rubbish out to bins on pavements. **\-\- POLICY / GUIDELINES \-\-\-\-\-\-** - The Woodland terrain is NOT suitable for those with mobility issues. *NO Drugs, NO filming or photos during ritual ! - No children allowed. *** Inclusivity**: We are inclusive of all race, pagan beliefs, genders, sexuality, LGBTQP+ *All attendees are responsible for their own well-being and Health & safety. **Contacting Organiser** We look forward to welcoming you & sharing our magic with you. Bright Blessings -Mani, Peter & Hazel & Woodland Witches . \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\-\-\- Our social media \-\-\-** **Facebook** [www.facebook.com/groups/LondonWoodlandWitches](http://www.facebook.com/groups/LondonWoodlandWitches) **Instagram** [https://www.instagram.com/Mani.WoodlandWitch/](https://www.instagram.com/Mani.WoodlandWitch/)

**Flourishing Together: Creating a Life of Abundance in Life and in Community** **How do we create a life of abundance both in our daily lives and in community?** ***When we connect with like-minded people, know what we value most, and create life consciously -we flourish.*** Join us on this special Summer Solstice afternoon for an inspiring , thought provoking workshop, led by Maureen Simon. Together we will look closely at celebrating what you have already created as you move towards whole new next level intention. For many it is time for a reset. Transformation is in the air, and it is filled with hope and promise when we invite these qualities into our life. **Abundance and ease are available if you to invite them into your life now. Are you ready?** Join us, as we explore the opportunities and possibilities that are available to you now that you may not be seeing. We will also look at how to embrace change and new opportunities to enrich your life and to create a life that reflects what you most desire and value. **It takes a village. You are not alone. The days of flying solo are behind us. *The Living Well Workshop Series* is a safe place to get clear about your own next steps- in community.** **This workshop is the 2nd in a series of 3 on: Living Well in a Whole New World.** **Do join us for the next and final in the series on November 22nd - Living Well by Choice. Creating what's next using life's lessons and wisdom to guide you** **About the Workshop Leader-** Maureen Simon Maureen has supported 1000s in business internationally, both online and consulting side by side. Her focus has been *Aligned Business Development* as it lives alongside with-living one’s best holistic, conscious life. She has worked with people to help them to fully show up – as who they truly are, with their natural talents and gifts at the forefront of all they do. Her work is based in the metaphysical and mystical realm as they live side by side with grounded outcomes for today’s fast changing world." This is a donation based event. Suggested donation £10. Give what you can. We are a registered charity.

Meet up fee £7 to be paid at the beginning of the meet up. Card or cash payments. Meeting at Mikis Paradise Cafe. Please bring your favourite Tarot deck.

# ECSTATIC RAVE with Ecstatic Dance London No booze, No Shoes, No Chit Chat, Move However You Wish!! Please note: an RSVP here on meetup is not a ticket. To reserve your place, please book via eventbrite, thank you x **For booking and more info:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/120615336719](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/120615336719?aff=oddtdtcreator) ### If you would like to receive 15% discounted tickets, please sign up to our mailing list! **Mailing list sign up:** [https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london](https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london) **Saturday night ecstatic dance with awesome sound system, mesmerising visuals, raw vegan cacao, positive intention setting ceremony 7PM-9:45PM & complimentary fruit social 9:45PM-10:15PM** Best Saturday night out and no hangover! The Sober ReLOVEution! We are super excited to be offering Ecstatic Dances with Live Percussion & Cacao Ceremonies on Saturday nights! ***Ecstatic Dance London - Pioneers of Ecstatic Dance in the UK since 2009*** You are invited to join us for these freestyle, expressive dance & moving meditation sessions. An Evening of Ecstatic Dance with No Alcohol, No Drugs - Just Music, Amazing Rhythms and Cacao! This is a unique sober Saturday night dance in London! ### **WHAT TO EXPECT:** \- Next\-level\, conscious\, inspiring and diverse dance music journey with live percussion\! \- A unique conscious clubbing experience\! \- A beautiful\, sacred\, heartfelt\, fun & safe space for you to dance freely in\. \- Yummy\, velvety tasting raw vegan cacao drink and intention setting ritual\. \- Superb sound system\! \- Vibrant people who love to dance and love music\! \- Optional fruit social to nourish you after the dance\. Best Saturday night out and no hangover! No prior experience of dance necessary. All welcome. We also offer limited free crew space, scroll down to find more info and crew sign up form. ### 💜 **ALL UPCOMING WELLBEING EVENTS, MAILING LIST & CREWING.** **Website: [https://ecstaticdancelondon.com/events/](https://ecstaticdancelondon.com/events/)** **Linktree:** [https://linktr.ee/ecstaticdancelondon](https://linktr.ee/ecstaticdancelondon) **Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/ecstaticdance_london](https://www.instagram.com/ecstaticdance_london) **💛FREE CREW SPACES:** We'd be very happy to hear from you if you'd like to help us in exchange for a free ticket! Requirement - you need to have attended at least two indoor events before you can join the crew. [Please complete the sign up form ](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1S2I2tnQA0YOv_RmSbRYcLHW8fEUkTmUtQibWk8XX6zs "https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1S2I2tnQA0YOv_RmSbRYcLHW8fEUkTmUtQibWk8XX6zs")and we'll be in touch: [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1S2I2tnQA0YOv_RmSbRYcLHW8fEUkTmUtQibWk8XX6zs/edit](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1S2I2tnQA0YOv_RmSbRYcLHW8fEUkTmUtQibWk8XX6zs/edit) **If you have any questions, please send us an email to: [info@ecstaticdancelondon.com](mailto:info@ecstaticdancelondon.com "mailto:info@ecstaticdancelondon.com")**

Join us for some short stories from Jean- Marc, some astrological insight from Rebekah and a presentation which looks at the evolution of humankind’s space exploration. As it is midsummer we also thought that for those who want to join us we could all head across to st. James park, which is just a ten minute walk and have a shared picnic after the talks. Looking forward to seeing you, everyone is welcome 😊🌟. Please bring some food if you want to join in with the picnic.

Want to see your work shine and put your pride on display? Then come to July's Creativity Circle! We will be making simple Suncatchers with tissue paper! Seats and supplies limited! Come while you can for as long as you like! Westerville Public Library in Meeting Room D.

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

This is a time where players of all ages, and skill levels can gather and enjoy a nice Sunday full of Chess!

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) 15 for One Class 20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space. Viva Dance Columbus 2809 Festival Lane Dublin OH 43017

Welcome to Drunken Philosophy, a casual, curious, social discussion club. Come grab a drink and a seat at The Oracle. **Optional topic for this meetup: Where is everybody?** In 1950 the physicist Enrico Fermi was talking about aliens over lunch and asked a question that still has not gone away: if the universe is so vast and so old, and even a fraction of those billions of stars have planets, where is everyone? By the numbers the galaxy should be crowded with civilizations. Instead we look up and hear silence. That gap between "they should be everywhere" and "we see no one" is the Fermi Paradox. One of the most unsettling answers is the idea of a **Great Filter**: somewhere on the road from dead chemistry to a galaxy-spanning civilization, there is at least one step that is almost impossible to get past. Maybe the filter is behind us. Maybe life starting at all, or simple cells becoming complex, or intelligence ever evolving, is the freak accident, and we already cleared the hard part. Or maybe the filter is ahead of us, and advanced civilizations reliably wipe themselves out before they spread. Here is the part that messes with people. If we ever found life somewhere else, even pond scum on Mars, most people would call it the greatest discovery in history. But it might be the worst possible news. It would mean life is common, the early steps are easy, and the hard step is still in front of us. So the eerie silence overhead might actually be the best sign we could ask for. **Questions to wrestle with:** * Is it better to be alone? Would you rather we find alien life and learn we are not special, or find nothing and quietly improve our odds of surviving? * Where do you bet the filter sits, behind us or ahead of us, and why? * If it is ahead of us, what is it? Nuclear war, climate collapse, AI, something we cannot even picture yet? And can we do anything about a filter we cannot see coming? * Two principles pull opposite ways here. The principle of mediocrity (the Copernican principle, Sagan's "no privileged place in the universe") says we are ordinary, so what happened on Earth probably happened everywhere, which makes the silence scream louder. The anthropic principle says of course we find ourselves somewhere life was possible, since we could not observe anything else, so our being here may say almost nothing about how common life is. Which lens do you trust, and does the silence still demand an answer once you account for observer selection? * And if we did confirm life out there and had to accept we are not special, what would that do to belief in a higher power, and would shedding (or keeping) that belief help or hurt our odds of pulling together as one species? * Does any of this change how you live, or how humanity should be spending its time and money right now? As always the prompt is optional. Come for the conversation, stay for the drinks, and bring your own questions.