EcoVillages

***They*** *say there's no such thing as a free lunch, but they're wrong!* **[FoodCycle](https://foodcycle.org.uk/who-we-are/)**'s lovely volunteers use [unwanted food](https://cityharvest.org.uk/about-city-harvest) to produce three course, [meat-free recipe](https://foodcycle.org.uk/recipes/) (tell them you're vegan) **[community meals](https://foodcycle.org.uk/community-meals/)** across [England](https://foodcycle.org.uk/find-a-meal/), that are free to all. [FoodCycle Woolwich](https://foodcycle.org.uk/location/foodcycle-woolwich/) ([map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/XVEi9poq68YRxQX86)\|[video](https://youtu.be/5VEIsN1aCk4)) is every Friday (with rare exception; I'm notified by text), at **[Woolwich Common Community Centre](https://www.wccc.org.uk/)**'s accessible [main hall](https://www.wccc.org.uk/gallery?pgid=l3le3lp7-1daa7232-8086-4a0d-82cb-1c2a7887d105). I sometimes help the Hosting team, and have met a few other vegan [volunteers](https://volunteer.foodcycle.org.uk/opportunity/a1dQs000000fmvPIAQ), inc. chef and fellow [SE18 Vegans](https://www.facebook.com/groups/SE18Vegans) member John, who has a vegan daughter like me :-) P.S. You can bring food containers, in case of leftovers.

Join me for relaxing Art Workshops at London parks and pubs! THIS WEEK; We'll gather at the back of the pub, near the beer garden windows, between 3.45 & 4pm, & then pick a table to set up at \~ latecomers, look for art stuff on the table 🎨 ( nearest tube to pub; Holborn ) 👣😊🍻 Explore your creativity no matter what your skill \~ we'll take inspiration from our surroundings, each other, I'll provide tips, advice, and a few arty magazines and more, from my own collection 😊 Just £5 suggested donation, or whatever you can afford ; I provide all the Art materials, just bring your imagination 😊 \~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Details \~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Each week, the workshops will be at different locations, a park in warm weather, a pub in cold/rainy weather 😊 Generally they'll be in the late afternoon into the evening, occasionally from around lunch time 😊 See you soon 😊

**🎭 Friendly Group Improv in Clerkenwell, London 🎭** Come and join a relaxed, playful **group improvisation session** in the heart of London! We’ll dive into **theatre games**, **acting warm-ups**, and **icebreakers**, followed by short, light-hearted scenes — spontaneous fun! 💥 🎯 **Our aims**: * Build **self-confidence** in social settings * Make **new connections** 👋 * Push your **comfort zone** 💪 * Explore **self-expression** 🎨 * Release **social inhibitions** * Sharpen **communication skills** 🗣️ ...all through **fun, interactive, and communal play!** 🧩 Whether you're looking to **laugh**, **connect**, or **unleash your creativity & inner child**, you’re welcome here! 😄✨ 🍽️ **Stick around after?** Feel free to join us for a **drink or dinner** afterwards — we do this occasionally depending on end time and interest 🥂🍕 *** 📍 **Location:** Peel Institute Three Corners Centre, Northampton Rd EC1R www.thepeel.org \* This venue is wheelchair accessible 🚇 **Tube:** Farringdon or Angel *** 💷 **Payment:** **£10.50 with this link + RSVP:** [Early bird £10.50](https://checkout.revolut.com/pay/1af83d0c-12b3-4eb6-a09b-a4e187d0f828) (within 1 week in advance) **£12.65 pay when you arrive and RSVP now.** Pay by **Card**, **Cash**, or **Contactless** on arrival. 📞 If you get lost, call **07841 456974** – but note: my phone will be **off once the session starts**, so try to arrive **on time or a little early!** ✅ **Please RSVP** — or you may be refused entry, thanks! 👕 **What to wear:** Anything you like! There’ll be some movement, so **looser/comfy clothing** is ideal — but there’s **no dress code**. *** 🕗 **Schedule (approx.):** 🕣 19:00 – 19:15 \| Arrivals & Payments 🔥 19:15 – 20:00 \| Warm\-ups & Games 🧘 20:00 – 20:05 \| Short Comfort Break \(if needed\) 🎬 20:05 – 21:00 \| Scene Games\! I’ll arrive after **18:40** – please aim to be on time for **19:00**, thank you! *** 📢 This group is also listed on **Eventbrite** – so we’ll have friendly faces from there too! 😊

As part of [Veganuary](https://veganuary.com/special-offers), **[Soul Bowl](https://www.happycow.net/reviews/soul-bowl-bistro-london-487469)** in Leyton ([map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/zQQMmSq4x8qmMuM86)) are celebrating with weekly offers (see [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/soul_bowl_leyton)) and a [vegan high tea](https://www.meetup.com/lhcveg/photos/35772560/532121128) — savoury bites, sweet indulgence, and endless tea — available Friday 9th to Sunday 11th, and Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th. **High tea's a minimum of 2 people at £25 per set (was £36), 3 for £35, to guarantee your table and discount please book on 0735 373 5179.**

🏓 ***Dream Big, Play Bold: Chasing Greatness One Ping-Pong Match at a Time*** **Hello friends,** Join me for a Friday evening of casual drinks and a sports comedy-drama. *Marty Supreme* is a film produced and directed by **Josh Safdie**, loosely inspired by the life of **Marty Reisman**. It stars **Timothée Chalamet**, who also co-produced the project. The film has received critical acclaim, with praise for its direction and the compelling underdog story of **Marty Mauser**, a young man whose dream nobody takes seriously until he fights his way to greatness. We’ll meet first for drinks at the **Victory House White Wine Bar** before heading to **Cineworld's intimate Screen 2**. It’s a small yet classy auditorium with a big screen. ***Spaces are limited, so please book early.*** Then we’ll briefly reconvene after the film to score and review it for our **[Letterboxd Page](https://letterboxd.com/movieroadhouse)**. **Looking forward to catching up with you all there!** **Chris** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 👉 **HEADS UP** * If you ***sign up*** but later can’t make it, please 🙏 **just drop us a quick message** (or change your RSVP) — it really helps with planning. And follow our club **[@movieroadhouseuk](https://www.instagram.com/movieroadhouseuk/)** on **Instagram** — for fun updates! **🗓️ SCHEDULE BREAKDOWN** * **6:30 PM:** Drinks (Victory House White Wine Bar) * **7:40 PM:** Cineworld Leicester Square (Screen 2) * **10:30 PM:** Letterboxd Review 📱**STAY CONNECTED** * Join our WhatsApp or Telegram groups (available by request), or hop onto our **[WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaMVu2Z1NCrYkXpqOd1X)** or **[Telegram Channel](https://t.me/movieroadhouse)**[ ](https://t.me/movieroadhouse)for quiet updates without the chat. Whatever you prefer! 🎬 **PLOT DETAILS** * An intimate exploration of family, memories, and the reconciliatory power of art. [Trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKbcKQN5Yrw) 🎟️ **TICKET INFO & PRICES** * **Price:** From £16:00 * **Members Price:** From £0.00 * **Tickets**: [Cineworld Leicester Square](https://experience.cineworld.co.uk/select-tickets?sitecode=103&site=098&id=110565&lang=en) 📍**VENUE ADDRESS** * **Victory House Wine Bar:** 14 Leicester Pl, London WC2H 7BZ * **Cineworld Leicester Square:** 5-6 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7NA 🔊 **HOW WE ROLL** * Have fun, be respectful, and no abuse of any kind * Three-time no-show limit (applies after your first attended event), please update your RSVP if your plans change * This group is for over-18s only 🌐 **FOLLOW US ONLINE** * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/movieroadhouseuk/) * [Letterboxd](https://letterboxd.com/movieroadhouse) * [WhatsApp News Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaDvGuK0AgW8KPxOnG2V) * [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/thehideoutuk) * [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@movieroadhouse) * [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/MovieRoadhouse) * [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/movieroadhouselondon) * [Threads](https://www.threads.com/@jonnyhideout) * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jonnyhideout/) (Jonny) * [Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/the_motion_picture_blogger?igsh=a3FjeWllbWZib3Jq&utm_source=qr)(Tom) 🫂**RELATED HANGOUTS** * [The Hideout: Film Club London](https://www.meetup.com/thehideoutlondon/) * [Music Roadhouse London](https://www.meetup.com/billpophot100/)

Join me for relaxing Art Workshops at London parks and pubs! THIS WEEK; We'll be gathering at the back of Penderals Oak pub, near the beer garden windows, between 3.45 & 4pm. Explore your creativity no matter what your skill \~ we'll take inspiration from our surroundings, each other, I'll provide tips, advice, and a few arty leaflets and postcards from my own collection 😊 Just £5 suggested donation, or whatever you can afford ; I provide all the Art materials, just bring your imagination 😊 \~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Details \~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Each week, the workshops will be at different locations, a park in warm weather, a pub in cold/rainy weather 😊 Generally they'll be in the late afternoon into the evening, occasionally from around lunch time 😊 See you soon 😊

Hello and welcome! 🙂 Join us for a relaxed, social walk through **Crossness Nature Reserve**, a hidden stretch of wetlands and open space along the Thames. With big skies, birdlife, and far-reaching views, it’s an ideal place to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others at an easy, unhurried pace. **🌟 What to Expect** * A gentle group walk through nature * An easy way to meet new people with friendly conversations in a low-pressure setting * Learn to spot birds, trees, and seasonal changes you might normally miss * Discover how noticing more in nature can make everyday walks more calming * Leave feeling refreshed — with new connections to both people and nature Even if you’ve never thought of yourself as a “nature person,” this is a welcoming, easy way to get started — and see just how good it can feel. **Agenda** * Meet at 11am at the footpath off Norman Road leading to Crossness Nature Reserve. The footpath is Opposite Morgan Pub, Belvedere, DA17, 6BG * Begin walk at 11:10am * Walk will end around 13:00pm back at the Footpath off Norman Road, opposite Morgan Pub To help encourage people to sign up early there are usually some free spaces. After that the usual price will apply. Charging means I can keep devoting time to organising more events. Thank you for your support! **👋 About Your Host – Matt** I work as a doctor in A&E and I’ve always found that time spent outdoors helps me recharge, especially with the pressures of city life and work. I grew up in rural Devon and have spent thousands of hours immersed in nature — and I love showing others how even a short walk in the city can shift your mindset, boost your mood, and help you feel more present. No need to be a wildlife expert — I’ll point out birds and other wildlife along the way, and you’ll leave with a few simple tips to help you enjoy your own walks even more in future. This is a welcoming group — whether you come solo or with a friend — and a great way to combine light exercise, real conversation, and a bit of calm in your week. Hope to see you there! – Matt

If you already know the basics of Sevillanas and you’d love to feel more confident, expressive and fluid when dancing, this course is for you! Join a warm, supportive group and continue your Sevillanas journey with rhythm, joy and authentic Spanish flair. Over this course we will: ✨ Refine coordination and technique ✨ Improve styling and posture ✨ Build musicality and confidence ✨ Work on smoother transitions and partner awareness ✨ Dance with alegría, expression and connection This is ideal for dancers who: ✔️ Have previously learned Sevillanas basics ✔️ Want to polish, strengthen and feel more natural dancing ✔️ Enjoy Spanish culture, music and community spirit ✔️ Love learning in a friendly and uplifting atmosphere 📅 **Sundays – 11 January to 15 February** ⏰ **13:00 – 14:00** 📍 **Danceworks London** 🎟️ **Limited spaces – booking essential** https://www.danceworks.com/sevillanascourse/ Whether you want to dance socially at ferias, cultural events or simply enjoy dancing for yourself, this course will help you dance with greater elegance, confidence and joy. Come dance with us and feel the spirit of Spain in London! 🌺 If you have any questions, feel free to message

Join me for relaxing Art Workshops at London parks and pubs! THIS WEEK; We'll gather at the back of the pub, near the beer garden windows, between 12.45 & 1pm, & then pick a table to set up at \~ latecomers, look for art stuff on the table 🎨 ( nearest tube to pub; Holborn ) 👣😊🍻 Explore your creativity no matter what your skill \~ we'll take inspiration from our surroundings, each other, I'll provide tips, advice, and a few arty magazines and more, from my own collection 😊 Just £5 suggested donation, or whatever you can afford ; I provide all the Art materials, just bring your imagination 😊 \~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Details \~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Each week, the workshops will be at different locations, a park in warm weather, a pub in cold/rainy weather 😊 Generally they'll be in the late afternoon into the evening, occasionally from around lunch time 😊 See you soon 😊

An afternoon spent playing Loral Langemeier's Millionaire Maker board game. Please pay early to get the reduced attendance fee!! :) Also, consider **Firing your Boss by Taking Action and Making it Happen** in the real world! We are making real money and using it to fire your Boss! RSVP to an event here: [https://www.meetup.com/TakingAction/](https://www.meetup.com/TakingAction/) As the group grows we will break up into different group skill levels to play the game. We are hoping to have 4 games of Millionaire Maker going at a time. 1 for beginners, 1 for intermediate, 1 for advanced and 1 expert. From the outset, we hope to have two games running. Schedule: [12:30 am]() \- Drinks and Social\, \(Admittance is only allowed before [1 pm]()) [1 pm]() \- Games commence\! [3 to 3:15 pm]() \- Game Review [3:15 pm to 3:30 pm]() \- Group opportunities found and if time allows recent successes The Game is another way for us all to improve our communication skills, sales abilities and leadership qualities. Cost: is £20, or £15 if paid online and early payment is made. Please RSVP No if you are not able to attend to free up your seat :) Thank you :) please also register your details at: [http://www.MillionaireMaker.London](http://www.MillionaireMaker.London) Meeting Rules: • If you arrive after [1 PM]() you will not be admitted because we will have to re-explain the game and you would have lost connection with the others on the table, and you will lose any prepayment so please arrive on time, • No spectators are allowed because it creates a disturbance and hinders the purpose and function of the games. FAQ's Q, Why are you discounting the ticket prices? A, We discount our tickets to reward our regular players when payment is made early and online. Q, How do I make sure I Pay a discounted attendance amount? A, By booking early and online. Q, Can I buy a ticket on the door? A, Yes, You can buy tickets at the door IF there are any tickets left, BUT PLEASE NOTE door tickets costs MORE at the door. For this event, door tickets are only £15, which is cheaper than going to the movies. Q, I don't have a PayPal account.. is there another way to pay? A, Yes, you don't need a PayPal account to use PayPal. After clicking "Pay Now" choose the option "Pay with a debit or credit card" and PayPal will take your payment using your debit or credit card. Q, I have something valuable to share with our members... A, If our assessment of your content will benefit our members, we would be happy to promote for you. Please get in touch to discuss your options. Please note: For the purpose of social interaction and sharing the atmosphere of the group, by attending you consent to allow pictures and video to be taken and shared publicly.

**Update: full for all instruments and vocals** full list of scheduled sessions: https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/ **What is it** The novice rehearsal sessions provide an opportunity for people who are relatively new to jazz, to play in a friendly, low-pressure environment. With a short set list that attendees can prepare in advance, it becomes a little less daunting to play and get the most out of practising in a group. See below for this week's setlist. Please sign up before attending. Already full for your instrument? Please check back every other Wednesday, when new sessions go live. If you keep not being able to get a spot, please message the organiser (Xie). Location: Vortex upstairs **Who's it for** Anyone who has practised following the forms (chord progressions) of jazz tunes - maybe on their own at home - and would like to build up playing experience, expand repertoire and practice performing with other musicians. There are various introductions on how jazz jams work - see e.g. https://jazznightschool.org/pages/jam-session-basics You don't need to get all these details right for these novice practice sessions. The set list format should offer opportunities for those at different levels of developing their playing. While at the beginning one might struggle to follow/comp the chords or play through the melody, it gets easier over time and one can start to develop approaches to improvisation, harmonise lead lines, add intros/endings, work on communication between band members, and even listen to recordings together and pick up specific arrangements. Bass players are expected to be able to play a walking bass line on swing tunes, and simple bossa lines for bossa novas. Playing the melody, or "head" - the responbility is shared between horns players (e.g. sax, trumpet, violin), guitar and piano. Feel free to discuss among the group before each song - different parts of the head or the starting / ending heads can be played by different players. Some melodies will better suit several voices at the same time, whereas others are sensitive to variations in how they are played and may prefer a single instrument at a time. **What it's like** A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere - please put aside any worries of making mistakes if you’re thinking of joining us for the first time. To ensure the group is accessible for those at different levels, I ask that each novice session should work on only the below four songs of the set list, unless each and every attendee feels they prefer to move on. Each novice session is limited to up to: 1 drummer, 2 bass, 2 keys, 2 guitar, 3/4 lead instruments. Always use the top of the description to see if there is an available slot for your instrument - please do not try to work this out yourself by looking at the other attendees' instruments. **Tunes this week (Sat 10 Jan)** * Freddie freeloader in Bb (warm up) (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZcuSBouhVA * Song for my father in Fm (Horace Silver) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWeXOm49kE0 * Alone Together in Dm (Art Farmer) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTlzSA4ADMw * Bemsha Swing in C (Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBzh-8SKB2U Everyone is encouraged to listen to a variety of recordings for each song, but please ensure you are familiar with the recording provided as a primary reference. **Tune preview - next novice session (Sat 17 Jan)** * Mack the knife (Moritat) in Bb (warm up) (Sonny Rollins) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnISZLEPOYM * Recordame in Am (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIhCMLBbwqs * Star Eyes in Eb (Charlie Parker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CsKnTUbth0 * All of You in Eb (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di16W_std0c **Preparing for the session** The chordal form of each song follow the iReal Pro app as a common reference, or you can use sheet music from Real Books. Resource for sheet music: https://www.seventhstring.com/fbindex.html http://therealbook.info/ Try to immerse yourself in the songs by listening to recordings by different artists on youtube, spotify etc. Learn the head (main melody) of the song if you can. Don't hesitate to let the band know you can play it so you can start things off **Equipment** there is a piano, drum kit (no cymbals or high hat clutch), bass and guitar amps, stands, and microphones. Drummers: please bring cymbals (none available for rental) and hi hat clutch **Vocalists** Singers are welcome, however please note that the songs have fixed keys, and some of the repertoire are likely not in the right key for your range. If you are an experienced singer, it may be possible to arrange sessions with repertoire catered to you - to explore this, please first come to the "Afternoon Open Jams" so I can get a sense of your singing. **Observing** Would you like to attend a session without playing/singing, to get an idea of the format or to get a sense of what to practise first at home? You can sign up as usual to any novice session, and send me a message that you'd like only to watch the session. When you feel fready, the fee paid can be carried over toward any future session where you join to play or sing at the rehearsal. **Cancellation policy** Please try to make it to any session you sign up to, as the jams are organised around a particular mix of instruments. However, if things do come up and you can no longer make a session, please send a message to the organiser, Xie, as soon as possible. Places are non-refundable if your plans change, but if you provide over 1 week notice it may be possible to carry over the fee for a future session. \-\-\-\-\- any questions do get in touch!

🏞️ From the Hollingbourne village in Kent and via moated Leeds Castle built by a Norman knight in 1119. ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 🟠 **HIKE:** 📏22km (13.6 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 304m 💓 Av. Pace: 5.3 km/h ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).*. 📍 **London Victoria Rail Station** (opposite platform 12) 🔄 Start: **Hollingbourne Station** ⌚Meet from 8:31am, the train departs at **8:55am** [arrives 10:09 at Hollingbourne \ Return train aimed for 5:17pm] 🚉🚗 All regular walks/hikes are free and you are welcome to purchase your own ticket/make your way to the destination station. It is best to purchase tickets on the day as an open return ideally with a Network Rail card or with a group discount. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🎟️ **If you would like me to help purchase your group ticket** (3+ must travel together). **On the condition you aim to arrive before the platform is announced.** 💳 [**PayPal Here (£16.70)**](https://paypal.me/mubasher001/16.70) ⌛ Deadline: Friday 9:01pm *PLEASE MAKE SURE NO FEE IS CHARGED (Send as Friends & Family / otherwise ask for bank details).* **Confirm via below once you've made the payment with your Meetup Name:** 📱 [My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148). *ℹ️ I cannot issue refunds once I've purchased your ticket.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Departing Station / On-board train only 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/shoes, packed lunch, water bottle (1.5-2L) & snacks to keep you going. 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots (waterproof) recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter) 📱 Fully charged mobile + portable charger 🔔 Emergency Whistle 🗂️ **When there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/kumiko-coasters-52/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/kumiko-coasters-52/) **⋆⋆⋆** Kumiko Coasters Woodwork knowledge is endless. Here is an opportunity to experience the delicate side of Japanese woodwork in this one-day workshop. Kumiko is a delicate and sophisticated technique of assembling wooden pieces without the use of nails. Thinly slit wooden pieces are grooved, punched, and mortised, and then fitted individually using a plane, saw, chisel, and other tools to make fine adjustments. The technique was developed in Japan in the Asuka Era (600-700 AD), and has since been refined and passed down through generations of craftsmen who are passionate about the tradition of Kumiko. Traditionally, the technique has been used for room dividers and sliding doors but now designers are using the patterns to explore decoration in lights, lampshades, and other furniture. During the day you will have a chance to make two exquisite Kumiko tiles using lime wood or walnut. For extra rigidity, we have glued the tiles as they were made. It’s your choice! This workshop will be guided by Auram Desforges who teaches our longer Kumiko Lamp course. All materials and use of tools included. Suitable for absolute beginners.

Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap January 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Join Wild Ones Columbus for their annual native seeds swap. If you have native seeds to share, please label them with the Latin name and common name. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but remove as much stem as possible. Bringing seeds is not required. Bring bags or envelopes to store seeds. Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Phone (614)895-6216 This event will be held in the Greenhouse/Multipurpose Building located near the east end of the parking lot. Click here to see the Inniswood map. If you have native seeds to share, label each species with this information: * Botanical Name * Common Name Species we will accept: * Species native to our ecoregion (8.2.4) - Best * Species native to Ohio and surrounding states - Good * Straight species only - no cultivars. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but don’t leave much stem on the seed heads. Please email the list of species to Mary May so we can prepare information for attendees. You can bring the seeds on the day of the swap, or we can arrange to have them picked up beforehand - just let her know in the email. If you don’t have any seeds to bring, no worries. If you are new to native plants or didn't have time to collect seeds, there are ALWAYS plenty from those that do bring them! We love to see "newbies" at our seed exchange! Also, remember to bring something to put seeds in such as envelopes, paper bags or containers.

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

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.

Join us for a Classic Movie Monday event to see one of the greatest films of all time, ANNIE HALL! This Woody Allen classic stars Diane Keaton and follows a man who reflects on his relationship with an aspiring nightclub singer, which ended abruptly just like his previous marriages. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows Alvy Singer, a divorced Jewish comedian, reflects on his relationship with ex-lover Annie Hall, an aspiring nightclub singer, which ended abruptly just like his previous marriages. It is written/directed by Woody Allen and stars Diane Keaton (in a role written specifically for her), Woody Allen, Tony Roberts, Carol Kane, Paul Simon, Janet Margolin, Shelley Duvall, Christopher Walken and Colleen Dewhurst. Also keep an eye out for Beverly D’Angelo and Sigourney Weaver in her film debut! TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj4ZoeRMHwU](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj4ZoeRMHwU) 2010 CBS Sunday Morning Interview with Diane Keaton on Woody Allen, “Annie Hall,” and marriage: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4CpyJhbXaM](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4CpyJhbXaM) CELEBRATING DIANE KEATON: The film is part of the Drexel's “Starring Diane Keaton,” program, which celebrates the life of the legendary actress in January. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: ANNIE HALL was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning four: Best Picture, Best Director. Best Original Screenplay and Best Actress for Diane Keaton. It also won 4 BAFTAs (Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Actress) and a Golden Globes Best for Best Actress – Motion Picture Comedy or Musical for Diane Keaton. It is regarded as the greatest films ever made and ranks 31st on AFI's list of the 100 greatest films in American cinema, 4th on their list of the greatest comedy films and 28th on Bravo's "100 Funniest Movies." Film critic Roger Ebert called it "just about everyone's favorite Woody Allen movie.” PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet inside the theater lobby between 6:30 and 6:45pm! A full house is expected so early arrival is advised. We'll head into the theater by 6:50pm to get good seats. Be sure to mention you're with the Movie Group for admission and concession discounts. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**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.