American History

Timothée Chalamet! Tickets are only £5 on Mondays. This film is set in 1952 so it's supposed to look a little weird. The critics are enthusiastically praising the performances. > > Book your ticket (£5.75 without the optional "flexi" fee): > > https://www.forestcinema.co.uk/event/101728 Please select 29 December 19:40. "Marty Supreme isn’t actually a ‘ping-pong movie’. Josh Safdie’s acclaimed new film is really about ambition, sex, money, fame, greed, risk, destiny, desire" "Marty Mauser, an aspiring table tennis champion who navigates a chaotic journey filled with scams and ambition in pursuit of greatness. The film explores his struggles and relationships" "Nobody was expecting the Marty Supreme world premiere at October’s New York Film Festival, but the response from critics in attendance is glowing." The attendance fee is £3 for this, hope you can join me.

Welcome to the Christmas special edition of Philosophy Cafe . All the goodness as usual plus festivities . Topics might reflect the mood . Try to come in your Christmas jumper and all the cheer . There will some special goodies for the occasion . We have reserved the Chicester Room in ther pub for us . Please ask for Philosophy cafe at the door and they will direct you . We like to break into small groups and have a healthy discussion about life , philosophy and ideas . We break out into groups of 6 to discuss three questions over 45min to 1 hour; and then spend another 45min feeding back into the main group. The three topics are chosen on the day by vote, and largely derived from suggestions on the day. We welcome new ideas , so please come up with suggestions or topics that you want to talk about . There is no specific topic list and you do not need to read or know anything particular about philosophy . The official time is 7-9: 30 pm , but we usually go into a pub mode after 9:30 pm and continue our discusssions.

**Venue:** Wetherspoon Crosse Keys. 9 Gracechurch Street, EC3V 0DR Nearest station. Monument. Welcome to our 50-50 Trivia Quiz and afternoon social get-together. **Bring a pen please.** Thirty interesting tricky questions, each with two answers to choose from. (No sport or maths). Is the answer obvious or not? I set the quiz so expect surprises. Check photos below or previous events for similar question sheets. When you go on walks, you see and learn things. With this Trivia Quiz, you'll definitely be learning a bit more! Four players max per team, but the lower number teams get a point per player start from the biggest team. For example, four teams of one, two, three and four. Four player team, no advantage, (the biggest and theoretically the more knowledge between them, except it doesn't always work like that). Three player team. one point start. Two player team. two point start. One player team. three point start. Scores are always close and around the 23-25 points mark. How many players do you want in your team? There's a dilemma! Prizes of interesting flavour chocolate and one for the funniest team name. Every three weeks on a Monday at various central london Wetherspoons or function rooms. Event time is from 2-4pm, which allows plenty of time to get away for transport. Twenty five minutes for the quiz, five for marking up, and socialising time for the remainder period. There is a small charge of £4 card/cash to cover prize and Meetup costs. This is a great way to make new friends or catch up with old ones. See you there! **Contact number on the day is 07422334411 if your transport is delayed.** **Don’t forget to cancel via the “Edit RSVP” button if you can’t make a walk. Please do this well in advance when you know, so it allows good notice for someone else to take your place. Your consideration is greatly appreciated.**

**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.

🌌Ever look up like I do and marvel with insatiable curiosity at both the beauty and wonder of the **universe?** That wild sobering thought that somewhere in the chaos of creation - the emergence of life - the universe became **conscious** enough to look back and ask the big questions; How it all started, our evolution and place in it, and where else in the cosmos other complex life might exist (almost every star you see at night has planets orbiting with up to **20 billion habitable exoplanets** easily in our galaxy alone!)? 🪐🌟🌟🌟 🌍Then RSVP to view the potential life harbouring moons of **Jupiter**, the 3I Atlas **interstella** **Comet** ☄️(estimated to be 8+ billion years old), the famous **Orion Nebula** where stars like our sun were born, the majestic rings of **Saturn**, the international space station, the Tau Ceti star system with **2 Earth like planets** orbiting in the habitable zone, remnants of **supernova** witnessed by our early ancestors plus a range of other fascinating celestial wonderments (comets, star systems, galaxies) over drinks and engaging chats and banter this Dec fully hosted by me - a passionate amateur astronomer and former global Journalist covering big picture stories including cutting edge science related ones. 🚀In between observing - we'll have **drinks and engaging chats** on all astronomy related topics for those inclined (Astrobiology, SETI/Femi Paradox, cosmology, space exploration, exoplanetology, astrophysics, paleontology etc) as well as non space chatter and banter too. No doubt I'll hear the usual jokes we've all heard hundreds of times before! If those don't make you laugh, then my impersonation of Los Angeles ET will! 👽 **====Joining Astronomers Group & Telescopes =====** I'm able to take a limited number of people (please only RSVP if you can make it) to join my friendly informal relaxed London amateur astronomers' club that have been for over a decade with their regulars made up of up to about 150 people. As there will be people attending from this private Astronomers group as well as others from one of my other groups - the total attendees will be far higher than rsvps here and the public liability insurance only covers a max number of people - hence I need to impose strict limits on attendance. Over the years we have enjoyed numerous social evenings of stargazing and thought provoking chatter with people of all ages and varying levels of astronomy knowledge - so complete beginners that are genuinely curious about the universe are very welcome. If you are just looking to meet generic randoms then there are others groups that will better cater for that. The world renowed **BBC Television Sky at Night** also attended our events pre covid and interviewed some of us for it's show that aired on BBC1 in Feb 2019. BBC **Radio London** (94.9 FM / digital) were there Aug 2023 to cover our meteor shower event broadcasting live to millions of Londoners for 3 hours You don't need a telescope as you will be able to view through scopes belonging to me and other club members (as long as you behave responsibly and don't temper with expensive equipment). If you have your own telescope/binoculars feel free to bring along and I can help you setting it up if you're a newbie **=== Food & Drinks With Seating From Warm Indoor Cafe===** Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, cider only), hot drinks and food/snacks will be available to purchase from an indoor cafe at the observation point which Regent's park keep open exclusively for the astronomers group so please don't bring your own drinks **====ITINERARY=====** We will meet outside Camden Station. After a short wait for anyone delayed, I will escort everyone to our observation point in the local park 15 minutes walk away and brief you in terms of what to expect, observing etiquette, tips, equipment handling and take any questions you have - weather general or astronomy/cosmology related. **After Drinks:** Unless I have a very important 9AM Thursday deadline for a client presentation or something that I'm still gonna be writing 2 mins before start - most of us usually head our way back to Camden for another drink. If so - I will annouce the pub when we leave the park **===What Can You Expect To See (this time of year)? ====** * Orion Nebula * Jupiter and 4 moons * Meteors * Andromedia Galaxy * Saturn, rings & moon * Star clusters such as the Pleiades & Owl Cluster etc * International Space station fly by * Venus & Mercury * Binary & tripple star systems (think planet *Tatooine in* Starwars!), * Neptune * Uranuus * Mars * Our moon * A look towards the galactic centre where that supermassive £22b Labour black hole sits (Sagittarius A) More here from Jodrell Bank Observatory/Astrophysics Centre: [http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/](http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/) Guide to viewing the cosmos for beginners: [https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp](https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp) **===Weather Dependent=====** The event is subject to clear skies forecasts on the night so if on the actual afternoon of the event the weather forecasts looks unsuitable beyond doubt then I will postpone so please check the event status on the day of the event . If this event is still listed here at 5PM on the day, it will be going ahead at the designated day and time! Happy Stargazing Lucas Skywalker - The Singin, Dancin, DJin Astronomer

I am a native, qualified teacher of English and this is a one-to-one lesson designed to suit your specific requirements, whether they be exams, grammar, business or general conversation. If you prefer a different time and/or location, then please send me a message and we can arrange something which is convenient for you. Many thanks, Keith

This week we'll look at the first chapter of [Science and Human Values](https://sciencepolicy.colorado.edu/students/envs_5110/bronowski_1956.pdf), by Jacob Bronowski. In this work Bronowski contends that science is not merely a technical method, but instead is grounded in the same philosophical principles which characterise an open society. These values include honesty, freedom, and tolerance of uncertainty and, he argues, abandoning them leads to intellectual and moral disaster. Please read the chapter before attending.

Come and join in the fun with talented guest Drum Masters Always suitable for beginners! All ages above 8. We are a 'Social Enterprise' so your attendance & support really helps us to survive. Drum hire included in price as well as community vibe! Learning traditional African rhythms through chant and song . Djembes and dun duns. Learning the rich cultural oral history behind the rhythms and how generationally passed down.

Closes mid January: "Top secret. Redacted. Falsified. Forgotten. Unlock the secrets of history’s most mysterious maps." Tickets for this exhibition cost £20, and £10 with an Art Fund pass. £3 Universal/Pension Credit (ID required). Please book your own ticket: [https://events.bl.uk/exhibitions/secretmaps](https://events.bl.uk/exhibitions/secretmaps) I haven't used my Art Fund pass often enough yet to make it worthwhile, so I need to catch up. This exhibition sounds really interesting, come and join me! Where to meet: In the entrance hall to the right of the "open book" bench.

Step into a Hidden Chapter of Global Maritime History Join our brand-new guided walking tour and uncover powerful, little-known stories that shaped the world’s seas: 🇹🇷An authentic Ottoman cannon from Prince’s Island, Turkey 🏰 The dramatic Siege of Malta (1565) led by Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent 👑 Free entry to the historic Queen’s House 🌍 Explore the world-renowned National Maritime Museum 🚢 See the legendary SS Rawalpindi up close 🌊 Discover the extraordinary voyages of Muslim Admiral Zheng He 💎 Reveal the story of a stolen National Muslim Treasure …and much more as history comes alive through expert storytelling. ✨ Optional Bonus Experience Enhance your visit with access to the Major Pirates Exhibition featuring a dedicated Muslim part l 📅 Exhibition closes Sunday, 4 January 2026 💷 Additional charge applies Perfect for history lovers, families, students, and curious explorers—don’t miss this unique journey through untold maritime stories. Adults: £13.50 Book online: www.halaltourismbritain.com/greenwich-muslim-tour Note: A RSVP on here is only an expression of interest and not a booking.

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

The topic for January is "Chemistry" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 7:00 pm, show starts at 7:30 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).

######## NEW LOCATION ####### We are going to be at The Forge on Bethel Rd this week and until further notice! The Forge does have a full bar and kitchen. There is no cover charge but they do request all attendees to purchase a minimum of ~$20 per person. Soft drink refills are $1 each. Please support our hosts so we can continue to provide great events for the group! The Forge has a large library of games available for us to enjoy. Hosts and regulars will also provide numerous popular games but please bring any games you would like to teach and/or play. Doors open at 6, and we expect gaming to be rolling by around 630. Please promptly end your games and clear out the space at 10pm when the bar closes. We encourage socializing but do not permit disruptive behavior of any kind. Thank you for your continued commitment to providing a fun and welcoming space to veteran, newbie, and rookie gamers in the Columbus area! Parking can be challenging. There is a parking lot behind the building that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."