Cypherpunk

Join us for our in-person Saturday critique session! We'll be meeting in the basement of **The Blake House**, which is located near Wellesley and Jarvis, about a 10-minute walk from Wellesley Station or Sherbourne Station. **In respect to the Blake House for hosting us, we humbly request that attendees purchase a meal, dessert, or drink if you are able to do so.** Feel free to bring in a piece of writing up to **2000 words** for reading and critique. Please bring paper copies so that listeners can easily follow and make notes. Dedicated listeners are equally welcome. In larger groups, please be mindful of giving everyone a fair chance to speak. Our group values and meeting structure can be found here: [https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines](https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines) We ask that writers provide content warnings when necessary. To limit the spread of diseases, we kindly ask that you stay home if you're feeling sick. We will be here every week! **\*\*We support the hard work and effort that goes into writing fiction, and do not condone the use of AI to replace the creative process.\*\*** And, that's everything! See you there!

SPACE IS LIMITED! This is a much smaller class than our 7:30 pm event and we can only accept a limited number of students. Key areas of focus: Practicing oral communication (speaking languages), for conversations, presentations, interviews and job skills Schedule: 1. 6:30- 7:15 pm : 45 -minute language conversation class with certified award-winning language teacher John Dias. 2. Language exchange social (7:30-11 pm): includes Free access to the Toronto's BIGGEST Language Party and Social Party also in the Madison Pub led by teacher John Dias (same location) **Cost: just $ 5 while we have this promo.** **PROMO (Limited Time): $5 fee will give you access to both events (usual rate: $15 total)** Feel free to message us if you have any questions!

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

Let’s do some coding together at a cafe! No more working alone in the weekend. Here, we write code together. And I mean together together. Not occupying-the-same-space-but-separate together. Here’s how it works: Jennifer brings her mobile app project, tells everyone that it is like Pinterest for recipes and she’d like to work on the nav bar. Paul and Chloe think Jennifer's project is fascinating, and they join the group. They gather around Jennifer’s laptop and work on the nav bar for 2 hours. Jennifer is the one typing out the code while Paul and Chloe research, brainstorm, and offer suggestions. If you’re feeling stuck on your own project or need a motivation boost, bring it to mob programming! Want to learn by watching how others code and solve problems? Join someone else’s project at this event! Oh and we love your half-done projects that you are a bit embarrassed to share. Absolutely bring those to the event! **Discord**: We use Discord to share screen & code snippets during the event. Also feel free to share your projects here before the event! https://discord.gg/Da9fZFxPfs **Event policy**: * We have 0 tolerance for harassment. * We don’t allow the projects that are not meant to be shared in public such as school assignments, interview tasks, or trade secrets. * The goal is to write code. We discourage you from pitching business ideas here, doing code reviews, or spending the whole event on planning what to do. * Please buy a drink, and tip the barista well.

**KAP × Halotherapy at the Salt Palace** A deeply nourishing experience where **[Kundalini Activation Process® (KAP)](https://www.kapacademy.com/)** meets the gentle, purifying medicine of **halotherapy**. Held within the serene, salt-infused sanctuary of the Salt Palace, this offering invites you into a state of deep regulation, presence, and inner remembrance. The combination of energetic activation and salt therapy creates a uniquely supportive field—one that allows the body to soften, the nervous system to unwind, and the soul to reconnect with its natural rhythm. Past gatherings in this space have been described as grounding, expansive, and profoundly restorative. Many participants leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more connected—to themselves, their breath, and their inner truth. ***This is not something you “do.”*** ***It is something you allow.*** During the session, you will lie down comfortably while I facilitate the Kundalini Activation Process®. The salt-rich air gently supports respiratory health and cellular cleansing, while the energetic transmission supports the body’s innate intelligence to move, release, and recalibrate in its own way. ### **This experience may support:** * Energetic activation and awakening * Nervous system regulation and emotional release * Deep states of presence, stillness, and self-awareness * Respiratory nourishment and cellular cleansing through halotherapy No prior experience with KAP or energy work is required. Each session unfolds uniquely, guided by your body and nervous system. If you feel a quiet resonance with this offering, trust it. That subtle pull is often the beginning of remembrance. Spaces are intentionally limited to preserve the integrity of the energetic container. ♾️♾️ **Halotherapy with Heart and Healing** Imagine stepping into a serene sanctuary, where the air feels alive with healing energy. Here, your breath deepens, your thoughts quiet, and your spirit feels held. This is the gift of **halotherapy**—a gentle, natural practice that nurtures you from the inside out. Our KAP session takes this powerful experience further by guiding you into *inner awareness* within the unique environment of a salt room. It’s a union of energies you may not have encountered before, as I’ve yet to find another KAP session facilitated in such a nourishing space. The salt room becomes both grounding and expansive—a place where physical healing and spiritual connection intertwine. It’s not just ***[Kundalini Activation Process](https://www.kapacademy.com/)***[®](https://www.kapacademy.com/) ***[(KAP)](https://www.kapacademy.com/)***; it’s ***KAP elevated***, supported by the ancient wisdom of salt therapy. **Halotherapy, a gentle, healing practice held in serene salt rooms, offers countless ways to nourish you from within. Here are 10 powerful benefits of spending time in a salt room and allowing yourself to connect with its cleansing and calming energy:** **1️⃣** Easier Breathing **– Relish the pure, cleansing essence of salt, with its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, working to clear your airways and enhance each breath.** **2️⃣** Boosted Immunity **– Regular sessions subtly strengthen your immune system, fortifying your body and helping it stay resilient and well.** **3️⃣** Radiant Skin **– Whether it’s soothing eczema, calming psoriasis, or aiding acne healing, halotherapy revitalizes your skin, leaving it fresh and glowing.** **4️⃣** Deep Relaxation **– The salt room’s tranquil ambiance melts away stress and hushes the noise of anxious thoughts, wrapping you in soothing calm.** **5️⃣** Lung Support **– Feel the salt work to expel mucus and impurities, rejuvenating your lung health and making every breath a refreshing gift.** **6️⃣** Deeper Sleep **– Leave the salt room recharged yet serene, making restful, replenishing sleep come effortlessly.** **7️⃣** Relief From Allergies **– Notice your nasal passages relax as salt whisks away irritation and offers relief to allergy sufferers.** **8️⃣** Natural Energy **– Open airways, reduced inflammation, and a sense of lightness renew your energy and invigorate your spirit.** **9️⃣** Sinus Health **– Bid farewell to congestion as salt’s natural anti-inflammatory properties work wonders, restoring easy, open breathing.** **🔟** Faster Recovery **– Whether you’re an athlete or simply active, halotherapy nurtures your body with reduced inflammation and better oxygen flow, speeding up recovery.** **Breathe deeply, breathe fully, and feel salt’s quiet, powerful healing touch. 🧘‍♀️ Halotherapy invites you to combine relaxation, wellness, and self-love in a natural, serene way.** **Salt Palace: A Sacred Space of Connection** At **[Salt Palace](https://saltpalace.ca/)**, you’re welcomed into a unique 450 sq. ft. salt room, lovingly crafted from over 10 tons of pure pink Himalayan salt. This exquisite salt, sourced from the ancient Punjab region of Pakistan, has a story as timeless as the earth itself. Formed from a primordial sea over 250 million years ago, the dense salt deposits born from that landlocked sea are infused with the natural pink hue of ancient microorganisms. Himalayan salt, untouched and 100% natural, is rich in over 84 precious minerals, including iodine, magnesium, and potassium—elements that nurture and replenish the body. **[Salt Palace](https://saltpalace.ca/)** is designed to mirror the natural microclimate of mountain salt caves. Thanks to our state-of-the-art halo generator, the healing potential is amplified through a delicate aerosol of dry salt, allowing you to fully absorb its benefits. The microscopic salt particles penetrate deeply into your lungs and skin, delivering therapeutic effects where they are most needed. This gentle, spiritual process aligns with your body’s natural rhythms, creating a space where true transformation can take place. Join us at the **[Salt Palace](https://saltpalace.ca/)** for a transformative KAP experience designed to awaken your energy, deepen your breath, or simply nourish your soul, embrace a journey of profound renewal and gentle healing as the sacred essence of Himalayan salt to bring light, love, and balance into your life. ♾️♾️ **[Kundalini Activation Process® (KAP)](https://www.kapacademy.com/)** is a powerful and life-changing experience that helps you unlock your true potential. Imagine going on a deep adventure within yourself, finding hidden treasures of your personality and abilities that you didn't know existed. With KAP, you learn to light up the energy inside you and connect with the life force present in all living things. This process guides you to break free from old habits and beliefs that have been holding you back, allowing you to live in new and fulfilling ways. KAP is the ***path of surrender***, it's about letting go rather than trying harder, different from practices like kundalini yoga, tantra, or chi gong. Energy moves from the top of your head down to your base, clearing blockages and healing old wounds on its way. In this session, you'll receive a "***double transmission***" - a powerful mix of Kundalini energy and non-dual consciousness. This fusion will enliven your life force energy, revitalizing your body, mind, and energy flow. Simultaneously, your awareness will expand into the realm of non-duality, enriching your perception of the unity of all beings. **HOW IS THE SESSION?** I invite you to find a cozy spot to lie down on a yoga mat, where you can fully sink into this experience. Once you're settled, I'll start playing some specially chosen music that helps your brain relax more deeply. During our time together, I'll focus on your energy centers, also known as chakras, and specific meridian points on your body. My goal is to use gentle touch and light pressure to help clear any energy blocks and support your overall well-being. Rest assured, the pressure will always be soft and comfortable to ensure you feel safe and at ease throughout our session. **WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT DURING A SESSION?** Walking into a KAP session, you leave the outside world behind. What happens next is nothing short of amazing. **Energetic Vibes**: While you're lying down, you might start feeling a powerful energy moving through you. It's like an electric wave that fills you up, making every part of you come alive. **Visual Adventures**: Your inner sight, or "third eye," wakes up, and suddenly, you're seeing vivid images, colors, and maybe even going on visual journeys to places beyond your wildest dreams. **A Rollercoaster of Emotions**: It's normal to feel a whole spectrum of emotions during the session. You might feel anger, sadness, fear, happiness, or even burst into laughter. The magic happens when you allow yourself to fully experience these emotions without holding back. **Unexpected Movements**: You might find your body moving in ways you didn't plan, like stretching, shaking, or even striking a yoga pose. Listen to what your body wants to do without overthinking it. You may feel tension build up and then release, leaving you in a state of deep relaxation. **Blissful Moments**: There's a chance you'll reach a bliss state, where you're completely in the moment, feeling a deep sense of joy and satisfaction. It's tough to put this feeling into words, but it's unforgettable once you've felt it. **DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF KAP** * **Freedom from Emotional Baggage**: Wave goodbye to those heavy emotions that drag you down. * **Broadened Consciousness**: Find yourself thinking and understanding beyond your usual limits. * **Intuition Amplified**: Your gut feelings get louder and clearer. * **Stress and Anxiety Reduction**: Watch your worries and tensions melt away. * **Boosted Confidence**: Feel more sure of yourself and your value. * **Wiser Decisions**: Navigate life with a sharper compass. * **Pure Bliss**: Experience moments of unadulterated joy. * **Stronger Boundaries**: Learn to say no with confidence. * **Shedding Limitations**: Free yourself from thoughts and patterns that hold you back. * **Breaking Old Habits**: Step out of cycles that no longer serve you. * **Increased Resilience**: Find strength to change what doesn't work in your life. * **Deeper Compassion**: Understand and connect with others on a new level. * **Clear Mind**: Enjoy the tranquility of a calm and focused brain. * **Creative and Spiritual Growth**: Explore new ideas and feel more connected to the world. * **Purpose and Direction**: Find your path and walk it with confidence. * **Healthier Relationships**: Connect with others in more meaningful ways. * **Unity and Gratitude**: Feel part of something bigger and appreciate the small things. * **Enhanced Intuitive Skills**: Tap into your inner psychic. * **Empowerment**: Take control of your life and happiness. ***Got questions?*** Connect with me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/traceyamoura) or shoot an email to [kapbytracey@gmail.com](kapbytracey@gmail.com). Catch up on my *previous* sessions on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@kapbytracey). Want to know more about the event? Find all the details [here.](https://essencerising.com/event/kap-mississauga-salt-palace-1pm-to-3pm-kap-x-halotherapy-february-21)

**Click here to register:** **[https://energeticmagic.thrivecart.com/foundation-courses/](https://energeticmagic.thrivecart.com/foundation-courses/)** Yes, there is real magic out there and you are immersed in it. Some call it universal or source energy. Some call it God or divine energy. Some call it magic. It’s been talked about and worked with for thousands of years and now science has gotten to the point, through quantum physics, where tests are confirming what many have been saying: We are all connected by this energy and we all affect it. Tapping into that energy allows me to perform what I call Energetic Magic, and now I have made this method of actually editing your reality available to you. You will learn: – How spiritual energy works and affects us every day – The “must do”s for growth and potency – To use intuition for guidance and to detect truths – To get in touch with Pure Source/Universal/Quantum/God energy (however your philosophy describes it) – To create and manipulate simple energetic constructs – To react and respond to other people’s energy – To play harmoniously with another’s energy – To perceive energy in other people for information or clearing – To integrate the techniques you learn with other modalities and your daily life Are you ready? It’s intense. And it will change your life. Every person who has attended this class has had big realizations and multiple shifts in their beliefs during the class. While learning, you release old belief patterns and come out of the class a different person. I look forward to sharing this powerful technique with you and watching your transformation. Got a friend? You can refer a friend and get a 20% referral fee. Contact transform@energeticmagic.com to find out how.

Living On Video + DJ Lazarus presents Tickets ONLY $10: https://SpellboundFeb2026.eventbrite.ca **Sat Feb 21 - SPELLBOUND Video Dance Party. GOTH / DARKWAVE / POST-PUNK / INDUSTRIAL w/ BOY HARSHER Spotlight** SPELLBOUND is Canada's ONLY dark music video dance party. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Goth A.F. Contest $100 prize + custom trophy to the most gothed up patron. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Saturday February 21, 2026 SPELLBOUND: Goth Video Dance Party w/ BOY HARSHER Spotlight Ground Control - 1279 Queen St West - Toronto Lounge 9pm - Mainroom: 10pm - 19+ Event $10 advanced: https://SpellboundFeb2026.eventbrite.ca $15 at the door INVITE: www.facebook.com/events/2353845065129385/ (Please INVITE your friends) SPELLBOUND is a goth multimedia dance experience with classic and fresh dark music videos. SOCIAL: www.facebook.com/groundcontroltoronto www.facebook.com/livingonvideoclub www.facebook.com/djlazarusrocks www.twitch.tv/livingonvideoclub www.mixcloud.com/livingonvideo www.instagram.com/djlazarusrocks www.twitter.com/djlazarusrocks

Last month you little dancers came knocking on the dancefloor with a packed night so we're back Saturday, February 21st to do it again... Rebel Yell Retro 80's & 90's Dance Party! w/ DJs Dwight Hybrid + Thomas Hall Dovercourt House - 805 Dovercourt Road, Toronto A high energy night of all of our fave music mixed by longtime retro DJs Dwight Hybrid & Thomas Hall of Retro Mix Video Dance Party. It's a nice day to dance again so don't dance with yourself. See you all again Saturday, February 21st! $15 Cash-At-Door Cover Only Presented by: Hybrid Events fb: [https://www.facebook.com/HybridEventsToronto](https://www.facebook.com/HybridEventsToronto?__cft__[0]=AZapAnhGcDHvUSNOFvyUGd69n0XcCbyS_v10gUpg3sphAOynLumKyzqTDR_stZ6Pvu4jJ1qwKrZ1LqBXV5cCeQcDIqH-2nRcVpf7MnpcrUF7VbPTyDD6vFpaO5XgTogYMP5ZCKhvvZaSV4qRfRGqgwu6&__tn__=q) ig: [www.instagram.com/dwight.hybrid/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fdwight.hybrid%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSGd6NE5GTmpFSUZHdXB0anNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6JEHbDodBYfuABKUfZMQB_nNgFxb8zBXiXroIK8G3QdHmR8lWhdYwJ2fLTuA_aem_31mJWrkX0xuxEP2aDUrZvA&h=AT2udgR1XtrJoUM-RnzrIxavPmvKWtKrLNV2NU88cBzwMG1L2qTAryjEiGWNki30OP4Jcx3x1QnoVbeed0sJ4C6ETg2JEW5TEawwqAcdgrj_MeetrX9Q3dXn7XPqRJ__G4KajqdtrKZUIqM3sI4&__tn__=q&c[0]=AT2RKBK7r0b-0larOAAM5s5gW6r00pG-CP1vK9nOOmoXyAAG1no2yV03FdSj43qr-NyYxGE-fjLwx-qHa-RHg51h6TeuMl1D-EIhhpKs9M3o_TvUhpF0OibeP0lJgk74ho7dbsP9GMHtUZZCwKYinqssB2XO7AFXmYw) mixcloud: [https://www.mixcloud.com/dwighthybrid](https://www.mixcloud.com/dwighthybrid?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSGd6NE5GTmpFSUZHdXB0anNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4MorcOyzf9nLneEqS829w9KIPMnbY4X3DzMjtwlrhJVGA5CJV7PzTMMGjCaw_aem_t1FgncT3TCGzfWgNFb-rCg) youtube: [https://www.youtube.com/@DJDwightHybrid](https://www.youtube.com/@DJDwightHybrid?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSGd6NE5GTmpFSUZHdXB0anNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR48V__FWI7kw82T_YuBNcpOwEDK3t3iD_GtzDNiztQUyRfgh69PVDRPiJoIJw_aem__ptgzXs6SSpsWcvh9GTw1Q) Retromix Video Dance Party fb: [https://www.facebook.com/RetromixTO](https://www.facebook.com/RetromixTO?__cft__[0]=AZapAnhGcDHvUSNOFvyUGd69n0XcCbyS_v10gUpg3sphAOynLumKyzqTDR_stZ6Pvu4jJ1qwKrZ1LqBXV5cCeQcDIqH-2nRcVpf7MnpcrUF7VbPTyDD6vFpaO5XgTogYMP5ZCKhvvZaSV4qRfRGqgwu6&__tn__=q) ig: [https://www.instagram.com/retromixtoronto/](https://www.instagram.com/retromixtoronto/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSGd6NE5GTmpFSUZHdXB0anNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4Sy4_qm4zUnRGwWC6Nj4ltE7kKlfZA1ZxR96_EicxtZe5reb9F3Y9TvBgFTg_aem_C0lCgNaCMRUUyLkvtUCT5A) web: [retromix.ca](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fretromix.ca%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSGd6NE5GTmpFSUZHdXB0anNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR48V__FWI7kw82T_YuBNcpOwEDK3t3iD_GtzDNiztQUyRfgh69PVDRPiJoIJw_aem__ptgzXs6SSpsWcvh9GTw1Q&h=AT3tNH-T5MaNr24K-zBgSvgJi82Ek8zIx3ZuEojMHeIphxWSdW3SOrcCQR7jsiYvniNopQ8MTmri1vS0caZ2WygdgRFBJwT-YMHwkdtZxJnA75hSumRQvLfsyCxr4_KZFjfHfcjDBVD8u6A2Q1k&__tn__=q&c[0]=AT2RKBK7r0b-0larOAAM5s5gW6r00pG-CP1vK9nOOmoXyAAG1no2yV03FdSj43qr-NyYxGE-fjLwx-qHa-RHg51h6TeuMl1D-EIhhpKs9M3o_TvUhpF0OibeP0lJgk74ho7dbsP9GMHtUZZCwKYinqssB2XO7AFXmYw)

Join us for a Toronto meetup of creative coders! Instead of our usual show-and-tell, this will be a **work session!** If you're looking for some motivation to tinker on a creative project, now's your chance! **What is creative code?** *Creative coding* refers to anything with an artistic component that uses code as a medium. We welcome artists who use code (for visuals, audio, poetry, or whatever else), designers, animators, toolmakers, researchers, or just enjoyers and people looking to learn more! **Location:** Impact Kitchen on Queens Quay (88 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 0B6) **Join our discord** if you want to talk to everyone before/after the event, or have any suggestions for things you'd like to see or do! [https://discord.gg/ux9txXPsdJ](https://discord.gg/ux9txXPsdJ)

For February, we'll read The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad 304 pages First published in 1907 About the book: Mr Verloc, the secret agent, keeps a shop in London's Soho where he lives with his wife Winnie, her infirm mother, and her idiot brother, Stevie. When Verloc is reluctantly involved in an anarchist plot to blow up the Greenwich Observatory things go disastrously wrong, and what appears to be "a simple tale" proves to involve politicians, policemen, foreign diplomats, and London's fashionable society in the darkest and most surprising interrelations.

Hello everyone, I'd like to invite you out to a fun-filled afternoon with this fantastic party social game called **MUSIC BINGO** Everyone can play (It's easy to learn and most of all it's a lot of fun) \*Joined by my other groups too so we can anticipate a fabulous day :) **Where to Meet us?** **Date: Sunday February 22nd** **Arrive between 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm** **Location:** La Carnita - Good Fortune Bar (Main Floor) **Address:** 130 Eglinton Ave. Toronto, ON M4P 2X9 Event Details Below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Music Bingo Host) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Details of Event:** **\*MUSIC BINGO\*** **(An Afternoon of Fun, Treats and Great Music!)** -Lots of laughs and thrills in store as we enjoy a terrific afternoon making new friends, singing along (optional) and playing **MUSIC BINGO;** hosted in a super fun designed format :) \*Treats handed out to the winning participants during each round we play \*Invite your friends or come on your own! **Event Fee:** 10 dollars at the door (cash only please) Includes: **Music Bingo,** treats, reserved room/seating, lots of laughs and plenty of fun people to play the game with) \*or e-transfer in advance to **steveflemming11@gmail.com** \-\-\-\-\-\- **Friendly Reminders:** -Please arrive between 2:00 pm and 2:30 pm \*Music Bingo will start shortly after that (Invite your friends out too if you like) **Parking Available:** \*Plenty of free street parking on Eglinton and (Residential area south/east of venue for free) **Close to Subway Station:** \*Also right beside the Yonge/Eglinton subway station

Attention is as curious as it is multifaceted. It has been called [a currency](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8I4WkhG_GRM&ab_channel=TEDxTalks "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8I4WkhG_GRM&ab_channel=TEDxTalks"), the lack of it has been [pathologized](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd "https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd"), and its span has [apparently been decreasing](https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/attention-spans "https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/attention-spans"). But what *is* attention, and what does it share with what are often understood as its synonyms, like ‘focus’, ‘concentration’, and ‘awareness’? What role does it play in our lives and why might we feel like its nature and extent have been changing with rapid technological innovation and the pace of modern life? The phrase ‘pay attention’ is perhaps more appropriate today than ever. Nowadays, if you watch a YouTube video, scroll through Instagram, or even walk down a busy street in your city, chances are you’ll see an ad. Our attention, however brief, is quite literally *paying* companies who sell our attention to marketing departments. Why is our attention so valuable? How much control do we have when it comes to the object(s) of our attention? How much responsibility do we have over what we pay attention to? Join us at our next Revisited Curiosity Cafe on Sunday, February 22nd, where we will engage in a collaborative exploration of the nature and extent of our attention and why attention is more valuable today than ever. **Space is limited!** **Please obtain a “Pay-What-You-Can” ticket from Curiosity Café at [this link (click here)](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/curiosity-cafe-revisited-paying-attention-tickets-1982649061715) to attend this event. You need a ticket to be admitted.** See the above link for more info about tickets and other options including a limited number of free tickets. Come and hang out with us, grab food, and read through our handout from 2-2:30pm. Our structured discussion will run from 2:30-4:30pm with a 10 minute break in the middle. Hope to see you there! ***___________________________________________________________________*** This event is brought to you by [Being and Becoming](https://beingnbecoming.org/), a Toronto based non-profit. We aim to create community around exploring everyday concepts and experiences so that we may live more intentional, thoughtful, and meaningful lives. We use philosophy as a tool with which we can come to a richer understanding of the world around us. By offering activities, spaces, and other opportunities for conversation and co-exploration, we hope to enable the meeting and fusion of individuals and their ideas. Everyone is welcome, regardless of background: indeed, we believe the journey is best undertaken alongside explorers from a variety of disciplines, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Find out more about Being and Becoming [here](https://beingnbecoming.org/). About the Curiosity Café Series: For those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to join us at our Curiosity Cafés and are wondering what they’re all about: every two weeks, we invite members of our community to come out to the Madison Avenue Pub to engage in a collaborative exploration of our chosen topic. Through these events, we aim to build our community of people who like to think deeply about life’s big questions, and provide each other with some philosophical tools to dig deeper into whatever it is we are most curious about.

Join the Columbus AI community for our quarterly gathering — a casual, community-focused evening where everyone has a chance to share, learn, and connect. These open mic–style events give anyone in the community up to **5 minutes** to present a project, share a tool, pose a question, or offer a perspective on the evolving AI space. No slides required — just a welcoming space to exchange ideas and keep the local AI conversation moving. If you’d like to take the stage, message **Chris (the organizer)** with a **title and short description** of what you’d like to share. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services)

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

Join us for The Fisherman by John Langan. In upstate New York, in the woods around Woodstock, Dutchman's Creek flows out of the Ashokan Reservoir. Steep-banked, fast-moving, it offers the promise of fine fishing, and of something more, a possibility too fantastic to be true. When Abe and Dan, two widowers who have found solace in each other's company and a shared passion for fishing, hear rumors of the Creek, and what might be found there, the remedy to both their losses, they dismiss it as just another fish story. Soon, though, the men find themselves drawn into a tale as deep and old as the Reservoir. It's a tale of dark pacts, of long-buried secrets, and of a mysterious figure known as Der Fisher: the Fisherman. It will bring Abe and Dan face to face with all that they have lost, and with the price they must pay to regain it.

**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!

Can two girls—one enchanted, one the enchantress—save their kingdom and each other? Two hundred years ago, a slighted deity stole the magic from Auréal and vanished without a trace. But seventeen-year-old Odile has a plan. All her life, her father, a vengeful sorcerer, has raised her for one singular task: infiltrate the royal palace and steal the king’s crown, an artefact with enough power to restore magic. But to enter the palace, she must assume the identity of a noblewoman. She chooses Marie d’Odette: famed for her beauty, a rumored candidate for future queen…and Odile’s childhood-friend-turned-sworn-enemy. With her father’s help, Odile transforms Marie into a swan and takes her place at court. But when the king is brutally murdered and her own brother is accused, her plans are thrown into chaos. Desperate to free her brother, Odile is forced to team up with none other than elegant, infuriating Marie, the girl she has cursed…and the girl she can’t seem to stop thinking about despite her best efforts. To make matters worse, there are whispers that the king’s murder was not at the hands of man, but beast. Torn between loyalty to her father and her growing feelings for Marie, Odile becomes tangled in a web of treachery and deceit. To save her kingdom, she must find the true path to magic…and find the real killer before they—or it—strikes again.

# **Band: Old Possum's Menagerie; Caller: Richard Ades** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** 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 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. 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. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.