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Yes! Check out charleston events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the charleston events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Charleston Events Today
Join in-person Charleston events happening right now
Turning Rentals Into Income: How Investors Pay Off Properties Faster
#### Turning Rentals Into Income: How Investors Pay Off Properties Faster
#### **Featuring Guest Speaker: John Blackburn**
** Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)**
####
A lot of people get into real estate because they want freedom.
Then they buy a rental…and realize most of the rent goes straight to the bank.
They technically own property, but the mortgage controls the income. And waiting 30 years for properties to be paid off doesn’t feel realistic.
This meetup is about understanding a different way to think about rental properties… one that focuses on paying them off sooner so the income is actually usable.
**Featured Guest Speaker: John Blackburn**
We’re excited to welcome John Blackburn as our guest speaker for this event.
John has been actively investing in real estate since 2006 and has:
* Been involved in **5,000+ real estate transactions**
* Helped investors **acquire over $150 million in rental property**
* **Raised more than $100 million** in private capital
John didn’t start with family money or shortcuts. He built his portfolio by focusing on clear systems, real numbers, and long-term strategy.
For this meetup, John will walk through how investors shift their focus from simply owning rentals to building properties that eventually pay them…without a mortgage attached.
**What You’ll Learn**
John will break down, in simple terms:
* Why most rental properties don’t produce much usable income early on
* Why buying more rentals isn’t always the answer
* How investors structure their properties to pay off mortgages in a fraction of the time
* How properties can work together to eliminate debt faster
* What changes once rentals become free and clear
This approach is often referred to as an accelerated paydown strategy — using rental income intentionally to reduce debt sooner, rather than waiting decades for mortgages to run their course.
John will also share a simple calculator you can use to see how this works with real numbers and realistic scenarios.
**The Core Idea**
When a rental has a mortgage, the rent has one job: **pay the bank.**
When a rental is paid off, the rent has a different job: **pay you.**
Most people only see one timeline…30 years.
This session shows how investors shorten that timeline and gradually increase their income as properties become free and clear.
**Who This Event Is For**
This event is for people who want more than just “owning rentals” on paper.
* Rental owners who are tired of most of the rent going to the bank and want a clearer path to real, usable income
* New investors who want to understand how rental properties actually build wealth over time before jumping in
* People with capital who want to invest in real estate with intention and a long-term plan
* Anyone serious about freedom and curious how rental properties transition from debt-heavy assets into income-producing ones
**Event Details**
**Location:** Ohio Brewing Company - 421 E 2nd Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
**Date & Time:** January 25th, 6–8 PM (Doors open at 5:30)
**Cost:** Free (Seats are limited - RSVP required)
** Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)**
If you’ve ever wondered how rental properties actually turn into freedom —this is the room to be in.
Board games at The Forge
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 neighboring Mexican restaurant that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.
Shut Up & Write! Kingsdale Shopping Center
Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington.
The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo.
Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine.
We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you.
The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly.
Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome.
The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit.
Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times.
Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have.
Happy writing!
Charleston Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sunday Board Games at Land-Grant Brewing
We'll play board games at the [Land-Grant Brewing Company](https://landgrantbrewing.com/). The brewery has multiple [food trucks](https://landgrantbrewing.com/food/) on Sundays, including [Ray Ray's Hog Pit](https://rayrayshogpit.com/franklinton), [Buck City Sammies](https://www.buckcitysammies.com/menu), and [Hai Poké](https://www.haipokefoodtruck.com/).
The brewery also has (passable) drip coffee, free water, and Jeni's ice cream. You can also walk over to the [Land Grant Extension](https://callinyourbluffcoffee.com/) for "real" coffee. (You may have to stand in line, though. The Extension is popular.)
You can come late or leave early. Please just sign up so I know to expect you.
**Notes on Parking**
* You'll (probably) have to park on the street, but street parking is free on Sundays.
* There are [parking garages](https://landgrantbrewing.com/parking/) a little farther away if you want. These are obviously not free, though.
* There is a [lot next door](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.0%22N+83%C2%B000'40.9%22W/@39.957211,-83.0119921,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x88388f3efd89238b:0xc139207386232411!2sLand-Grant+Brewing+Company!8m2!3d39.9577613!4d-83.011426!16s%2Fg%2F1pzt7t9df!3m3!8m2!3d39.957211!4d-83.011347?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) to the brewery that you're allowed to park in, but it is not free. I've never parked there, so I don't know anything about rates. (I'm told though that if you eat at Milo's Deli next door to this lot that Milo's will stamp your parking so it's free.)
* You're going to see odd signs on [Lucas St](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.1%22N+83%C2%B000'40.3%22W/@39.957256,-83.0124134,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zMznCsDU3JzI4LjgiTiA4M8KwMDAnNDEuNSJX!8m2!3d39.957993!4d-83.011536!3m3!8m2!3d39.957256!4d-83.011197?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) (saying it's a "private street") that will lead you to believe you're not allowed to park there, but you actually are.
* Columbus parking cops literally do not work on Sundays. This means that, even if you're driving a non-EV, you can park in the EV spots near the brewery.
**Games**
I do bring many games, but please bring some of your own as well.
Fun Friday: EPiC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT at Lennox Phoenix Theater!
Join us for something different as we get together to see EPIC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT! While researching his 2022 film, director Bas Luhrmann came across and compiled rare and previously unseen interviews and videos of Elvis in concert to create “one of the most exciting concert films you’ve ever seen!” Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: Part documentary, part concert film, the latest from director Bas Luhrmann is a follow-up to his 2022 film starring Austin Butler. While researching the film, he came across 68 boxes of previously unseen interviews, concert performances and outtakes from previous films. A combination of offstage and onstage Elvis, comes a film that “befits the magnitude of Elvis as a performer but also offers deeper revelations of his humanity and inner life." It is written/directed by Baz Luhrmann (ELVIS, MOULIN ROUGE, THE GREAT GATSBY) and stars the legendary Elvis Presley!
TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmqWusmzp0k
BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: The film screened at the 2025 Toronto Film Festival where it was the runner up in the category People’s Choice Award for Documentaries. Next Best Picture says, “Certain to energize longtime fans and generate new ones for generations to come, EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert is a masterwork of montage.” And according to the NY Post, whether you have a room in the house devoted to Elvis or not, this truly “Epic” concert film is an energizing experience!”
PLAN: Details Confirmed! For the bite before the show, we'll meet in the Bar Area at BRAVO at 5pm.
For the MOVIE, please purchase your ticket for the 6:30pm showing and meet in the lobby area between 6:10 and 6:20pm. Advance ticket purchase advised. Once you have yours please list your seat number in the Comments below.
Should be a fun one! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Westerville Queer Coffee Meetup
WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.
Creativity Circle: Protest Sign Making
**In March we will be making protest signs form carboard, paper, thick markers, and more! All supplies are provided, seats are limited! Come As you are, when you can; hope to see you there!**
Sunday Morning Coffee at Stauf's Coffee Roasters (German Village)
Coffee and conversation at [Stauf's Coffee Roasters](https://www.staufs.com/) in German Village.
Street parking is free on Sundays.
Saturday Mornings @ East Market
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."
Charleston Events Near You
Connect with your local Charleston community
Contra dance with Big Scioty on March 7 - First Congregational Church
**Caller: Frank Buschelmann**
**Band: The Rosenthorns**
**Big Scioty Contra Dance**
**temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215**
WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing!
Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor.
Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner.
Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot.
For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/)
Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!
Investing & Personal Finance Meeting
If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you.
We are a local chapter of Bogleheads**®**, whose investment strategy can be found here:
https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy
Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here:
https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php
I look forward to seeing you there.
Mark Vonder Haar
Thursday Night Preview: THE BRIDE at the Gateway Film Center!
Join us as we get together to see the period drama / classic monster movie, THE BRIDE! The film is written/directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal and stars Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale in a new take on the classic tale, The Bride of Frankenstein. We'll be seeing this one on Thurs, 3/5 one day ahead of the film's opening on Friday. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: In 1930s Chicago, Frankenstein's creature asks Dr. Euphronius to create a companion for him. They give life to a murdered woman as "the Bride," sparking romance, police interest and radical social change. It is written, directed and co-produced by Maggie Gyllenhaal and stars Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, Peter Sarsgaard, Annette Bening, Jake Gyllenhaal and Penélope Cruz.
TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-qJkAXLfYM
PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night!
PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and we’ll meet inside the upstairs lobby between 6:40 and 6:50pm. Advance ticket purchase is advised (via Gateway website preferred). Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments below! Pre-show bite at Cazuela’s next door at 5:30pm. Please arrive by 5:30pm and ask for the Movie Group!
Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Morning people unite!! 🐤 ☕ + 💬 @ Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville
Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!
Happening Hour at Natalie's!
Come join us at [Natalies](https://nataliesgrandview.com/) in Grandview for a free Happy Hour show. **The doors open at 5:00 pm.** Tonight is Sirens, an all girl rock band. This club has a great vibe with drink and eats specials.
**The show runs from 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm.** There is no admission charge, but tips for the band are strongly encouraged.
***RESERVATIONS ARE FOR A 8-TOP; overflow can sit at the bar, lean in, or find available all season patio seating. MEMBERS ONLY, please. No guests.*** *(I have to pay for no shows. If you cancel late or no show, you may be temporarily removed from the group)*






























