Archaeology

🍻Come to the language exchange in Melbourne! 🌍Practice your preferred language while making new friends and getting to know more about new cultures. THURSDAYS 👉🏻Where? DIESEL BAR, 202 Little Lonsdale St. ⏰What time? From 18:00 to 22:45 👨🏻‍🎓🍻The first 50 international students who register at the QR CODE entrance will get a free drink. 🤩5$ ENTRY + 1 free drink for non-students.

**🙋‍♀️**Welcome to our THURSDAY Social + language ​exchange meetup. Meet people from many countries and make new friends. 👉We always have between 250 - 350 people attending our THURSDAY event since this event is listed in 3 different meetup groups. 👉This is a great opportunity to learn to speak English with native and non-native speakers. Many English speakers, Europeans, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and other Asians attend our fun and friendly party. 👉It is suitable for international students, working holiday people, professional ex-pats, and local Australians. 🍺: Discounted 15% house beers and wines 🍸: Extra cost for cocktails and spirit 🍲: Food available is to purchase at the bar with 15% discount on menu. 👉**Fee** of **$4.50** to be paid at the entrance OR you can buy anything from the bar. No Limited numbers but RSVP is a must. 🆔 Please carry a Photo ID as you may be asked at the entrance. 👉**Location**: Diesel bar & Eatery. we book the whole Second floor, Capacity of 500 people. and the welcoming table is at the door entrance. No entry from Melbourne Central. only from 202 Little Lonsdale St.

Excited to announce our new ADVANCED openplay session during the week at KCARC! Welcome to Melbourne Volleyball Academy. 🤗 **[[WHAT]]** This session is specifically for games only (no training). There will be a cap of 18 players, allowing for 3 teams of 6. Games will be played to 15 points, with a cap at 18 points. These games are intended to be played at a high-intermediate(BB)/advanced(A) level. Please see an explanation of skill levels on our website here: [https://melbournevolleyballacademy.com.au/skill-levels-explained](https://melbournevolleyballacademy.com.au/skill-levels-explained) **[[WHO]]** The session is intended for Intermediate players. Players should be able to: * Have strong fundamentals for all volleyball techniques * Serve receive a majority of serves well & serve over the net consistently * Basic understanding of 5-1, and 6-2 systems (we do not play a pass middle 4-2 system in this session) * Have an understanding of base defense * Know all/most volleyball rules Players that are not of the intermediate(BB)/advanced(A) level will be asked to leave as we want to ensure that all players have an enjoyable time playing. **[[HOW MUCH $$]]** $21 card payment will be processed on the day via square reader (EFTPOS). **[[WHEN]]** The stadium is booked from 6:30 PM-9:30 PM weekly, every Thursday. However, feel free to come early and stretch as the Community Centre is open earlier. Last minute dropouts and no shows will have a zero-tolerance policy going forward. All players are expected to update their RSVP at least 24 hours in advanced if they are unable to attend. This applies to players on the going list and the waitlist. **[[OTHER DETAILS]]** Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play. If you are on the waitlist, or not registered at all, you will not be permitted into the gymnasium.

Get ready for a night full of rhythm, passion, and Latin vibes at Pachanga Bar Melbourne! 💃🕺 Join us every Thursday for our Bachata & Salsa Social Night — the perfect midweek escape to dance, learn, and connect with amazing people. ✨ What to expect: * 🕣 8:30 PM – Free Bachata Class (Perfect for beginners and anyone who wants to improve their moves) * 💃 9:30 PM till Midnight – Social Dance Party with the best Bachata, Salsa & Latin hits * 🍸 Free Entry * 📍 Pachanga Bar – 95 Queen Street, Melbourne CBD No partner or experience needed — just bring your best energy and a big smile! Enjoy delicious cocktails, meet friendly people, and let the Latin beats take over the dance floor.

Join us for an evening of Japanese Riichi Mahjong at **Marché Boardgame Cafe**! Players of all skill levels are welcome, and no experience is needed! If you want to learn how to play, we can teach you, and if you already know how, then join our shuffle and monthly leaderboard! This event has a $10 fee which you can pay on the night. This money is used to pay for our use of the store space, maintaining equipment and other meetup services, and organising larger events open to everyone! Members get a special discount - ask the organisers for more details. Marché provides food and drink for purchase to consume at the table. Check out their menu here: [https://mbgcafe.com.au/menu.pdf](https://mbgcafe.com.au/menu.pdf) Tables are shuffled at around 7:00 pm and again at 8:30 pm. If you're looking to learn, please aim to arrive at 5:30 pm, otherwise there might not be an open seat - you're more than welcome to stay, watch, and ask lots of questions! Be sure as well to check your RSVPs leading up to the event as attendances and wait listed attendees may change. We take photos and videos at our meetups for posting on social media, you may potentially appear in these. Hope to see you all then! *** Scores tracking: [https://scores.vicriichi.org/](https://scores.vicriichi.org/) The mahjong ruleset we play with: [https://www.vicriichi.org/mahjong-meetups#meetup-rules](https://www.vicriichi.org/mahjong-meetups#meetup-rules) Join us on Discord and connect with other jongers! [https://vicriichi.org/discord](https://vicriichi.org/discord)

📢 **New Member?** ❤️ *Click ‘**Read Description**’* 📢 LINK: [https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/) ***\*\*If you want a resolution to your queries, message on the group chat.*** ***Direct message will not be entertained.\*\**** 🎾 **Paddle & Ball Provided** 🎾 💲 **Payment Link**: Posted in the comment section 1-3 days before each session 💲 Join group chat for update. ### ✅ **Who Can Join** ✅ * This event is open to RMIT students and the Public * To play in this event, you need to be an RMIT Pickleball Club member 2026 - [https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball](https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball) * RMIT students can sign up using an RMIT account to get student benefits; for benefits, check our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/). * This event is open for all ages, genders, and skill levels * First-timers, beginners, intermediate, and advanced players up to DUPR 5.0 are usually expected. * Minors under 18 (if not RMIT Students) are required to be accompanied by a guardian. \#\#\# ✅ **How to Join the Session** ✅ 1. Sign up to the waitlist. Everyone is on the waitlist until the event is finalised. 2. Wait for us to change your RSVP to "Going". 3. Wait for the payment link to appear in the comments below. We usually post it 1-3 days before the session. 4. When your RSVP status has changed to "Going", you can pay for the ticket. **⚠️Any tickets you purchased while on the waitlist are not valid. Invalid tickets are ineligible for refunds or transfer.** \#\#\# ✅ **Priority on Waitlist** ✅ 1. Meetup profile with first and last names. 2. Meetup profile with a clear, recognizable photo with 50-70% of the area covered by face. e.g., LinkedIn/passport photo. 3. RMIT Student Priority—message in group chat. 4. Players with a DUPR rating of 3.0+ who have been and will be playing round-robin with us. 5. Regular players who attend multiple times each week and focus on improving their skills will receive priority. \#\#\# ✅ **What to Bring** ✅ * Paddles & Balls will be provided 🏓🎾 * Wear comfortable sports/running shoes. 👟 * Outdoor Tennis shoes are perfect. 👟 * Bring your own water/energy drink & towel 💧🧴 * No onsite toilet or water fountain is available. * The nearest public toilet (Melbourne Central) and water fountain (IGA/RMIT Tram Stop) are 3-5 minutes from the court. 🚗 **Parking**: Paid parking is available 3-5 walk from court. Check IGA @ 58 Franklin St, [Kim Lim Parking](https://www.parkopedia.com.au/parking/kim_lim_parking/) @ Abeckett St, or [Parkopedia](http://parkopedia.com.au/) for more options. \#\#\# ✅ **On the Day** ✅ * New players should introduce themselves to the host. * **New players who want to learn the rules** come early. When the event starts and politely ask the hosts to join an introductory quick course. * Hosts will check tickets on the day. Please have tickets ready * Social play is for everyone—please assist the host with setting up and closing the session. 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 \#\#\# 📢 **FAQ** 📢 * We do not use Meetup messages for communication. * Payments are processed via the provided link (no cash, Pay ID, or bank transfers). * Initially, everyone is on the **waitlist** until the event is finalised. * Pay only when you are marked as **going** on Meetup; otherwise, payment is invalid. * The payment gateway and **paid status** on Meetup are not connected. Everyone shows unpaid. * RSVP does not confirm your spot until payment is made. * If you can’t attend, please update your RSVP as ‘**Not Going**’ to free up a spot for someone else. * Failure to update your RSVP results in a "**No Show**," which affects your future participation priority. * Payments should be made at least **24 hours before** the event. * If you can’t find the payment link, contact us via **Facebook chat** * Sometimes, payments are on hold due to uncertainties such as court availability or rain. You don't need to find the old payment link and make a payment; ask us on Facebook chat. \#\#\# ✅ **Cancellations & Refunds** ✅ * Full refunds can only be arranged due to event cancellations, including poor weather conditions or court availability. * Credits for future events are available with mutual agreement only in case of event cancellation; you purchase any ticket after we ask you to make payment. * No refunds for changes of mind, inability to attend, or no-shows. * Please buy tickets only when the payment link is shared. Any payments made before this are at your own risk. * There are no refunds if you make a payment out of violation using the old link while we are holding the payment link as the court is not available due to rain or some other reason. Pay only when we share links; if you have any queries, ask in Facebook chat. \#\#\# 📢 **Game Rules** 📢 * Serve always starts from the right side. * The serving team swaps positions after earning points. * Points are only earned when serving. * Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2, and capped at 15 points. * More detailed rules available on YouTube/Google. \#\#\# 📢 **Disclaimer** 📢 Participation in Melbourne Social Pickleball involves inherent risks, including personal injury, disability, or other harm. By attending, you accept all risks, and Melbourne Social Pickleball and its affiliates are not liable for any claims.

Weather looks reasonable good on Sunday. Participants are invited to join us for a walk and talk about science, philosophy and technology. We will also have time for coffee & a bite to eat afterwards at The Abbotsford Convent. ## Details **Schedule** **10 am** – Meet at or near the Rotunda at the [Studley Park Boathouse Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Studley+Park+Boathouse+and+Picnic+Area/@-37.8010746,145.0099524,19.5z/data=!3m1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m22!1m16!4m15!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad64390ba3131a7:0xf0456760531db00!2sFairfield+Park+Boathouse+%26+Tea+Gardens,+Fairfield+Park+Dr,+Fairfield+VIC+3078!2m2!1d145.0137071!2d-37.78518!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!2sAbbotsford+Convent,+1+St+Heliers+St,+Abbotsford+VIC+3067!2m2!1d145.0028144!2d-37.80269!3e2!3m4!1s0x0:0xc5b4e7f2ffed7da1!8m2!3d-37.8007946!4d145.0093501) near the boathouse **10.30 am –** Saunter across [Kanes Bridge](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kanes+Bridge/@-37.8001395,145.0095086,19.5z/data=!3m1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m22!1m16!4m15!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad64390ba3131a7:0xf0456760531db00!2sFairfield+Park+Boathouse+%26+Tea+Gardens,+Fairfield+Park+Dr,+Fairfield+VIC+3078!2m2!1d145.0137071!2d-37.78518!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!2sAbbotsford+Convent,+1+St+Heliers+St,+Abbotsford+VIC+3067!2m2!1d145.0028144!2d-37.80269!3e2!3m4!1s0x6ad643a61948cd11:0xa29da82fe9e81dcb!8m2!3d-37.8000822!4d145.0096953) towards [the convent](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Abbotsford+Convent/@-37.8026857,145.0006257,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!8m2!3d-37.80269!4d145.0028144) via [Dights Falls loop trail](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Dights+Falls+Loop+Trail/@-37.8002318,145.0089975,18.17z/data=!3m1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m22!1m16!4m15!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad64390ba3131a7:0xf0456760531db00!2sFairfield+Park+Boathouse+%26+Tea+Gardens,+Fairfield+Park+Dr,+Fairfield+VIC+3078!2m2!1d145.0137071!2d-37.78518!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!2sAbbotsford+Convent,+1+St+Heliers+St,+Abbotsford+VIC+3067!2m2!1d145.0028144!2d-37.80269!3e2!3m4!1s0x6ad643b6fb99244d:0x4653bb18d09f4f95!8m2!3d-37.7984944!4d145.0074445), observing stunning views of Yarra river (including Dights Falls, urban graffiti, inner suburb farms and more) **12.30** – Hang out at the convent for coffee and a bite to eat. **Topics can include:** – How epistemics (inc science) makes progress – Health, wellness and how to live a good life – Metaethics / ethics – Moral progress and indirect normativity – Latest trends in AI – Economic impacts of AGI, automation, unbounded inequality – UBI - Basic income and universal wealth redistribution – Likelihood of future doom or utopia – Human augmentation, hacking human potential – AI interpretability – ChatGPT, Gemini, ClaudeAI – Automated persuasion, AI dark arts – Future directions in AI – Plato’s cave – Fun theory, value theory Nietzsche: "**All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.** From the process of creative self-discovery one emerges an artist. More often than not, our internal spiritual restoration is accompanied by a physical transformation." Plenty of parking. [Here is an example of how to get there via public transport](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Flinders+Street+Railway+Station,+Flinders+Street,+Melbourne+VIC/1+Boathouse+Rd,+Kew+VIC+3101/@-37.8078241,144.9758788,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m19!4m18!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad642b6af832249:0xe39e415e49a7c44e!2m2!1d144.9670618!2d-37.8182711!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad643a898057765:0xc5b4e7f2ffed7da1!2m2!1d145.0093501!2d-37.8007946!2m3!6e1!7e2!8j1676109600!3e3!5i1). Sometimes philosophy discussions feel quite sedentary – hence our experiment to cross pollinate exercise and engaging discussions on philosophy. Exertion of both the mind and body at the same time may lead to a fascinating dynamic. A sedentary lifestyle (and by association, philosophy) has been linked to mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Ease the anxieties of the armchair philosopher engaging in mental gymnastics with minimal muscle movement – join our raggle-taggle crew of aspiring philosophers walking the talk! Healthy body, healthy mind! Note, bring elemental protection (umbrellas, sunscreen etc)

**No pressure, no plan—just new friends** ✨ Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for the first time, recently relocated, or simply love connecting with curious people, this weekly meetup is the perfect way to share stories, make friends, and go explore, as a group, the magic that Melbourne has to offer 🇦🇺 **What to expect?** • **Casual & hostless**: no formal host, no schedule: just show up, be yourself, meet fellow solo travellers & expats and decide as a group where you feel like going • **Central meeting point**: it is surrounded by cultural landmarks, cafes, and restaurants, making it a convenient and safe starting point. • **Open to everyone**: whether you are a local, an expat or just passing through for a few days, you are welcome to join. (English is the primary language, but feel free to switch of course) **How to talk with strangers?** (and create meaningful connections) To help you get started, I curated a little game of **[ridiculously good questions](https://www.pierrebonvalot.com/theblog?p=285a9711d7df80d5ac25dd4ef8fe5394&pm=c)** you can ask to break the ice, shift the conversation from dull to intriguing and fun, and eventually create meaningful connection quickly. I hope this helps! **The only things you need to do are…** • Leave a message in the comment section to let the others know that you will actually be there (I don’t want you to end up alone there :) • If you can’t make it anymore, no problem! But please update your RSVP to let the others know • Please be gentle and patient with each other. We all want to make good friends here. **Why join?** • Meet open-minded travellers and locals who are keen to connect, learn and have fun together. • Experience Melbourne... as a group. • Be part of a global community that celebrates solo travelling and meaningful connections between foreign and locals. **How does it works?** 1\. Arrive at the meeting spot at the scheduled time\. 2\. Look for other joiners—friendly faces and curious explorers\. 3\. Introduce yourself\, connect with others\, and decide as a group where to go\. **When & where?** • Day: every Sunday • Time: 4:00 PM (meetup sometimes displays a different time zone: but it’s always 4pm local time) • Location: in front of the Dolphin Fountain (inside Fitzroy Gardens) **Hostless**: I am setting up the event for you all to meet, but I won't be there myself this time :) **Hi my names is Pierre** I created this Meetup group because I want to see more human connection happen in the real world. I feel many of us want this, but don't exactly know how to go about it. I hope this helps a little bit. I also work as a transformational coach: I help people who feel stuck in their life to reconnect with themselves, create real change and ultimately live more fulfilling lives. 🔗 bento.me/pierrebonvalot

Soak in the atmosphere of community traditions, cultural diversity and vibrant festivities at the St Albans Lunar Festival, right in the heart of St Albans. This event has been attended in the past by around 90,000 people! Experience live performances, performances by roving entertainers, a children's carnival with rides and market stalls. Central to the festivities will be the amazing sights smells and tastes of traditional and street foods! This will be a great opportunity for festival style street photography with heaps to experience and photograph. For those wanting a theme, we will have 2 (1) Red and Gold -not necessarily together, red or gold is fine (2) Street Food As this will be a busy festival we won't be able to have a meal or snack together, but we have included a second meeting point so you can catch up with other members . Please note that it could be a hot day, hence the early start time. There will be toilets, drinking facilities available plus the library will be open to allow attendees to cool off and rest. The festival is easily accessible, 5 minutes walk from St Albans train station .Train travel on weekends should be free in January! Schedule: 11.00am Meeting Point 1 Outside St Albans Library 1 pm Meeting Point 2 Inside St Albans Library

Progressibu Japanese English exchange Saturday 4pm-6pm Progressi部 日英言語文化交流 - Saturday 4pm-6pm Share your English and Japanese language and culture at this informal weekly exchange. It's a great chance to improve your English/Japanese, make new friends, and have a coffee Due to meetup website monthly charges, there's a fee of $3 CASH for non Japanese citizens. Please check with the organizer before participating. Please arrive 10-15 min early, due to limited seat Join Progressibu in Facebook / twitter [www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu](https://www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZU9yB5_cPpRTKYc3XF8vD06VrLHEQq9YYp1j9Pipvbs2uKX3TXvzsyYNVxa9ZA9pqDHkbLv7yoB7kXwbh9s6e1FCg6-ycT8N1X9rgTgMcQZ6Q&__tn__=q) [twitter.com/progressibu](https://twitter.com/progressibu?fbclid=IwAR0-tRnPLLN7tM9T9RxLODXiRjb2uJecTzmz-3PWGKcaOQaZu_u8oI4kDIk) 本気で話せる、本気で学べる、 本気な人に出会える場を目指して。日本語の初心者でもネーティブスピーカーでも誰でも参加できます。 BYOPassion. メルボルン市内のカフェで日英言語文化交流会を主催しています Relaxed, easygoing environment for cultural, language exchange and make new friends Photos will be taken during the event **RULE: Any harassment will not be tolerate, ban permanently.** **Do not make the people you speak uncomfortable. Anyone from Progressibu Japanese English event is making you uncomfortable, please come and speak to the organiser Shin , David,** **Ray**

Hi there Join us for a lovely lunch at Trend Cafe in Southbank followed by a stroll through the botanic gardens in the city. There is also the possibility of not coming to lunch and just meeting us at the gardens directly. New members are more than welcome, we are a friendly bunch who are interested in friendship and exploring the realm of second wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! **12.30PM LUNCH AT TREND CAFE AND RESTAURANT, SOUTHBANK** [menu](https://trendcafeandrestaurant.com.au/menu/) **2.30PM STROLL THROUGH THE BOTANICAL GARDENS** After lunch we will go for a nice easy walk through the gardens. We will explore some of the 'Living Collections'. Check them out here and let us know what interests you: [botanic garden living collections](https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/discover-melbourne-gardens/melbourne-gardens-living-collections/.) IF YOU'RE UNABLE TO ATTEND LUNCH, JUST COME AND MEET US AT THE BOTANIC GARDEN. WE WILL BE AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS VISITOR CENTRE AT 2.30PM. LET US KNOW IN COMMENTS WHAT YOU ARE INTENDING TO DO. If you can contribute a $5 fee for running costs that would be greatly appreciated. We look forward to seeing you for a summer celebration. Claudia and Jenny

Where does your body end and your emotions begin? Are we ruled by our rational brains or our irrational emotions? Is it a bit of both, or something even more subtle? Affect theory explores human responses to life. * **[Introduction to Affect Theory: Brian Massumi & Eve Sedgwick (0-5.27 seconds)](youtube.com/watch?si=b0ekwCyHL23BmHEV&v=SeMS8QEYIQU&feature=youtu.be)** 1. What do you think “The affective turn” means ( mid-1990’s evolution of thought) 2. Do you think affect theory helps us understand the urges that humans have that they can’t explain? 3. Focussing on subjective feelings and responses is a contrast to trying to quantify and understand facts about events, how do you feel about that? 4. What do you think about the idea of your body being something that “moves” and “feels”? * **[Spinoza’s Affect and Emotion “affect is a non-conscious experience of intensity” (Shouse, 2005)](youtube.com/watch?si=VohTy1V6AvPLhdm0&v=5bX-H7dYoP0&feature=youtu.be)** 1\. What do you think about Spinoza’s thought? 2\. What do you think about understanding the world through “emotion” instead of with our intellectual analysis? 3\. What emotions/affects do you think are driving some of the big things in culture? 4\. Does the mind connect to the body? How does emotion affect the body? * **[The Rise and Fall of the Main Stream Media From 1:04:28 – 1:11 ish](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iwOTyv1gyY&list=PLl3m0F1lodbNKr-4yIGBBU-HmPdHJQ2QF)** 1\. How much do you think “affect” has a role in changing the way people engage with media? 2\. What other forces do you think are involved? 3\. Has the splintering of MSM and the proliferations of new voices and platforms triggered “affects” or the other way around? 4\. Is populism a type of affect? Is it still rising? In force\, or on the wane? **Affect Theory vs. Jordan Peterson’s Worldview** | **Aspect** | **Affect Theory** | **Jordan Peterson’s Worldview** | | ------ | ------------- | --------------------------- | | **Classification** | Post-structuralist; interdisciplinary (philosophy, cultural theory, anthropology) | Modernist; rooted in psychology, Judeo-Christian ethics, evolutionary principles | | **Core Idea** | Focus on pre-conscious intensities, bodily sensations, and affective forces shaping experience | Humans need order, responsibility, and meaning to thrive | | **Epistemology** | Relational; skeptical of universal truths; emphasizes flows and emergent phenomena | Values objective truth, universal principles, hierarchical structures | | **View of Order** | Non-hierarchical; dynamic networks of relations | Hierarchical order is natural and necessary for stability | | **Goal** | Understand how affects circulate in culture, shaping identity and politics | Help individuals orient morally and psychologically in a complex world | **Extra Reading:** Shouse, E. (2005). Feeling, Emotion, Affect. M/C Journal, 8(6). [https://doi.org/10.5204/mcj.2443](https://journal.media-culture.org.au/index.php/mcjournal/article/view/2443)

This will be an open forum discussion of the book "Native American History."

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

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!

**History** The Columbus Museum of Art traces its roots to 1878, when it was founded as the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, becoming the first art museum chartered in Ohio. A group of civic leaders established it to bring touring exhibitions and build a public collection. In 1887, it merged with the Columbus Art School (now CCAD) fostering a long partnership in arts education. Initially without a permanent home, the museum operated from temporary spaces until 1919, when art patron Francis C. Sessions deeded his Victorian mansion on East Broad Street to house the growing institution. As collections expanded in the early 20th century, the need for a dedicated building became clear. The Sessions mansion was demolished, and a new Italian Renaissance Revival structure was erected on the same site, opening to the public in 1931. This elegant building, with its grand steps and arches, remains the museum's core today and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. Key early acquisitions, like the Ferdinand Howald Collection of modernist works, helped establish its focus on American and European art. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the museum evolved significantly. It added the Ross Wing in 1974 for exhibitions and renamed itself the Columbus Museum of Art in 1978 during its centennial. A major renovation and expansion completed in 2015 introduced the Margaret M. Walter Wing and Center for Creativity, emphasizing interactive experiences. In 2018, the donation of the Pizzuti Collection and its Short North building expanded the museum's reach into contemporary art, solidifying its role as a dynamic cultural hub. The Columbus Museum of Art boasts a strong collection of late 19th- and early 20th-century European modern art, featuring well-known masters like Claude Monet, whose Impressionist landscapes capture light and atmosphere in ways familiar to many. Visitors can also encounter works by Henri Matisse, renowned for his bold use of color, and Edgar Degas, famous for his graceful depictions of ballerinas and everyday scenes. The museum's early Cubist holdings include pieces by Pablo Picasso, offering glimpses into his revolutionary fragmented style that reshaped modern art. On the American side, the collection highlights iconic figures such as Edward Hopper, whose evocative paintings of urban solitude and quiet American life are widely recognized, and Norman Rockwell, celebrated for his heartfelt illustrations of everyday Americana that have appeared on countless magazine covers. These accessible works by household-name artists provide an inviting entry point for those new to art museums, blending European innovation with distinctly American storytelling. **Summary** For this event, we will tour the [Columbus Museum of Art](https://www.columbusmuseum.org/), which is always free on Sundays. Afterward, we will head over to the nearby, highly-rated, and popular Gemüt Biergarten for drinks and food. Columbus's art museum is not large, and we won't need to rush through in order to see everything. However, it's a little windy (with a long "i") and maze-like in spots, and if you've never gone through it before, it can be a little confusing at first. **Tickets and Pricing** The Museum is free on Sundays. **Parking** The short answer here is that you can park for free (in the Safe Auto lot) when you visit the Museum on weekends. The longer answer is that the Museum has a dedicated parking lot, whose entrance and exit are on E Gay St, just north of Broad St. You can see this parking lot [here on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Columbus+Museum+Of+Art+Parking/@39.9648853,-82.9882364,18.67z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x883888d20177f111:0xbf595a71d9d8c8c5!2sColumbus+Museum+of+Art!8m2!3d39.9642074!4d-82.9878972!16zL20vMDM0Z3F6!3m5!1s0x883888d21f05e00f:0xb72a56e4ac2d4fba!8m2!3d39.9651763!4d-82.9881746!16s%2Fg%2F11f3pdx3tx?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). This parking has normally been $7, unless you buy something either in the Museum's gift shop or café, in which case it's $5 (you have to bring your receipt to the Museum's front desk to get this discount). However, the Museum is currently in the process of upgrading their parking lot's intercom (or some such), and until such time as this is completed, parking in this lot is free. Once this upgrade is complete, though, the charge is likely to increase from $7 to $10. This upgrade is supposed to be done by the time we run this event, but given how these things work, I wouldn't be totally surprised if it's not complete by then. You'll know the lot is free if the gate arms to both the entrance and exit are fixed in a raised position when you arrive. However, there's a large parking lot for Safe Auto on the other side of N Washington Ave, between Boone St and Hutton Pl. You can see this parking lot [here on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'54.4%22N+82%C2%B059'13.9%22W/@39.9651069,-82.9884087,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.965105!4d-82.987191?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). Visitors to the Museum may always park for free in this lot on weekends. **The End of History** After completing our dissertation in [Art Appreciation](https://www.facebook.com/groups/879880336006462/posts/1734229683904852/), we'll head over to the highly-rated [Gemüt Biergarten](https://www.gemutbiergarten.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.gemutbiergarten.com/#full-menu). The brewery is located in [Olde Towne East](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Olde+Towne+East,+Columbus,+OH/@39.9600896,-82.9935095,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883888c29b9d98cb:0x55fc96810facc832!8m2!3d39.9579938!4d-82.9761254!16s%2Fm%2F026vlz4?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D), and its actual address is [734 Oak St, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/734+Oak+St,+Columbus,+OH+43205/@39.9633755,-82.9808618,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883888c53426d289:0x4aec638d8a5195d4!8m2!3d39.9633755!4d-82.9808618!16s%2Fg%2F11c4wy250w?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). Gemüt Biergarten has a free parking lot that isn't small but also isn't huge. Street parking, however, is always free across Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf), so I think we'll be okay with parking. The bigger issue may be the weather. The brewery has a good-sized outdoor patio that is covered and heated in the winter. However, that doesn't mean this patio will be warm. The inside of the brewery is "okay-sized," but again, the brewery is popular and by the time we get there, we may have no choice but to sit outside. If it's cold, I can and will ask them to fire up some of their additional outdoor heaters, which I think should be enough, but please bring something to keep you warm just in case we end up outside. Finally, while food at the Biergarten can be a little overpriced, in my experience it is excellent, and you are likely to enjoy whatever you get. We should be there by 1:00 if you can't make the Museum and just want to meet us for drinks.

**⚔️ Introduction to Wargaming & Painting Miniature Soldiers at The Arcane Foundry ⚔️** Join me in **The War Room at [The Arcane Foundry](https://share.google/S5i6DYJnJteHWeKtd)** for a laid-back evening of hobby talk and tabletop fun! For just **$15**, you’ll get a **3D-printed regiment of 20 high quality resin models** of your choice to paint — a **$40 value!** Bring your creativity, relax, and let’s make something awesome together. **Choose one from Below:** * 20 Orc Warriors * 20 Empire Soldiers * 20 Dwarf Warriors * 20 Elf Spearmen Step into a world where strategy meets artistry — and where every painted figure tells a story of battle, honor, and imagination. Join **Daclaud** at **The Arcane Foundry** for an evening that introduces newcomers and enthusiasts alike to the timeless craft of **tabletop wargaming** and **miniature painting**. My own journey began with a fascination for fantasy — knights in armor, grim and hardened warriors, and monstrous creatures locked in epic battle. That passion led me to **Dungeons & Dragons**, where I painted my first **Basic Heroes set** and felt the spark that comes from bringing a character to life in miniature form. Not long after, I discovered **Warhammer Fantasy** and **Warhammer 40,000**, and I was hooked. The vision of vast armies clashing across the table — each unit meticulously painted, each story unfolding through dice and imagination — became my creative obsession. During this event, we’ll explore the **origins of wargaming**, from its early military simulations to the richly detailed worlds of modern tabletop battle systems. You’ll learn how to **build and customize your own armies**, paint your first figures, and experience the joy of turning strategy and storytelling into a hands-on art form. Whether you’re drawn by the lore, the hobby, or the thrill of commanding miniature legions, this introduction will open the gates to a world that has captivated hobbyists for generations. **🎨 RSVP today and join us at The Arcane Foundry — where every brushstroke and battle tells a story.**

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!