First Time Authors

**DUE TO LIMITED SEATING PLEASE ONLY RSVP IF ATTENDING. IF NO LONGER ATTENDING PLEASE UPDATE YOUR RSVP.** Join us in the upstairs room of the Grafton Pub in Camden for another writing-focused session. Bring whatever you’re working on, whether you’re outlining a new idea or deep into your current WIP. This is a space for writers to connect, share ideas, and find inspiration. Whether you’re looking for feedback, want to brainstorm with others, or simply need a quiet place to write, our goal is to build a supportive and collaborative community for sci-fi and fantasy authors at all stages of their journey. Writing will start at 6:30, but feel free arrive and leave at your own convenience! We will end at 8:30pm, but the pub is open till 11pm so after it ends people can mingle or go home as they please. **While we encourage collaboration and occasional chat we ask everyone be mindful of those focused on writing until 8pm.** **Also please support the venue by buying food or drink from the pub!**

Writers, learn more about writing fiction well through our constructive feedback, comradery and lively discussion. You'll be amazed at what you can learn by listening, and sharing your own words once you feel ready. No pressure. In our regular feedback workshops, we have three writers sharing a sample of their writing for immediate feedback, advice and encouragement. Critique is led and moderated by your host Lisa Goll. Listening to the writing of others and the feedback their piece receives on the night is how we learn. We've been running these sessions since 2010 and there's a reason they fill up so fast! Usually, our workshops are limited to a group of 15 writers in total. Three reading; the rest listening, commenting and giving feedback. For people reading, pieces must be **3,500 words or less** as you'll have about 45mins for reading and discussion on your excerpt from around the table. Most people bring 3,500 words from their novel or a short story of all genres and styles. If you'd like to read, please **post a comment below**. ***You must have booked your place before making a request to read.*** If you are reading, **please bring enough printed copies (at least 10)** of your pages so members can make additional feedback/editing notes for you during the reading. All copies will be returned to you after the feedback has concluded. New members are always welcome in these groups. Most people come along to a few sessions before offering feedback, commenting or requesting to read but it's up to you. If you want to read right away, great, but if you want to come along and see how we roll first, that makes sense too. Again, you'll be surprised by how much you can learn from others by listening to the pieces and their feedback. After the workshop, most of us head to the bar for a social drink or two and extended conversation about the highs and woes of writing. **TICKETS:** £18.00 and please follow the steps to pay via PayPal when you RSVP. Ticket price pays for workshop fees, planning, hosting and organising which involve time and effort. A community of 4,500+ writers takes time to manage. PLEASE NOTE: Refunds or credits will only be provided if the workshop is cancelled by us. We cannot offer refunds or credit for another session if you decide not to attend on the day. **Please change your RSVP if you no longer plan to attend.** We often have people on the waiting list and we'd hate for others to miss out. Location: **The Sutton Arms EC1,** 6 Carthusian St, Barbican, London EC1M 6EB. Closest stations are Barbican, Farringdon and Moorgate. Use the official Meetup app to update your RSVPs, check what's on and last-minute notifications about our events as they happen to your phone. [Download it now](https://www.meetup.com/apps/). These workshops are hosted by me - Lisa Goll, Boss Lady at London Writers' Cafe - I'm a publishing professional with more than twenty years of working within the publishing industry. Added to that, I've been leading LWC workshops for writers since 2010 too. See more about [me on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagoll/) or Insta me @LisasShare @LondonWritersCafe Question? Post a comment below.

***The Fitzroy Tavern Edition*** ALTERNATIVE PLATFORM FOR BOOKINGS: **EVENTBRITE** (link below) Start your public speaking journey with us. Like a lot of people, we’ve had our own battles with public speaking. That’s exactly why this group exists. It’s for anyone who wants a place to start, people who want to keep practising, and those who just need a friendly audience to try things out. We grow at our own pace and build confidence in a relaxed, safe and supportive space. You’ll meet like-minded people, make new connections, and steadily get more comfortable speaking in front of others. There’s no judgement here. It’s just space for people to be themselves. We know there’s no single “right” way to speak in public. Whether you’re prepping for presentations, interviews, a best man speech, handling social situations, or simply getting more comfortable saying what you think, you’re welcome to explore your own style and find what feels natural to you here. PS Free event. Groups are kept small so everyone gets plenty of stage time, usually no more than 10–15 people. The pub kindly lets us use their space, so if you fancy it, feel free to grab a drink (or just a soft drink 😊) while you’re here. It’s a nice way to say thanks and helps us keep the space for future sessions. Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/public-speaking-with-authenticity-reps-not-rules-tickets-1980278600602?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=44d6d68e9a6562610839867fc9177e5b1d319685453f7cbd5502deb615049586b7e092be26e1ecfe0679502e35d905a0559ee449358ed8b5a17242d1abf6a83846e04015227bdfed111e8f519a62

**\*RSVP** then use this **Collctiv Payment Link>** **[https://pay.collctiv.com/tuesday-badminton-37370](https://pay.collctiv.com/tuesday-badminton-37370) (**full details below) This session is suitable for **Lower Intermediate and above players!**! **SESSION DETAILS** * 4 court venue\*\*. 26 players max. * Feather Shuttles Provided. Bring your own racket * **Time** \- 8\.00pm till 10\.00pm * **Cost** \- from £10 per person \(book early to avoid a booking fee\) * Strict Cancellation, No-Show & Refund Policy! (see below) * **Updates & Notifications -** Make sure to have your meetup notifications on, **Booking & Payment Details (updated 12/01/26)** * **First RSVP,** then **use this [COLLCTIV](https://pay.collctiv.com/tuesday-badminton-37370)\* payment link** **until 2pm Mon** * \*Contributions toward the Collctiv App is optional, untick it! * **[Click Here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pMsg6dATGes2pM59YuuzQBXabl882VvvXeDby0Y2usc/edit?usp=sharing)** to see full details regarding Collctiv * * **After 2pm (AutoPay) payments made via Meetup/PayPal** (fees inc), and any unpaid bookings will be withdrawn, but can rebook if a space is available **TERMS & CONDITIONS** * **You must RSVP on MEETUP, and pay as instructed!** * If you plans change and you cannot attend, update your RSVP immediately! * **[Click Here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/12WmILk6X9dwgf_W0Cm6kgswKeW4ovHDTN8TBvN4Gq10/edit?usp=sharing)** to view details for Full Details By RSVPing for this event you confirm you have read and agree to our T&C's **\*\*Venue Details:** * Haberdashers' Askes Hatcham College, Brockley, London, SE4 2ED * Sports Hall is in the playing fields * **Car Park** (when open) - opposite no 33 St Asaph Road. Otherwise, park in the street. * **Pedestrian Entrance -** the gate is opposite no 39 St Asaph Road **Dress Code, Well Being, Conduct & Equal Opportunity:** * Wear suitable clothing and footwear for indoor sporting activity. * Ensure than your jewellery is also kept to a minimal, and avoid wearing large ear rings, chains or bracelets/bangles. * If the above is not suitable, you might not be able to participate within the session. No refund, exchange or credit will be given! * If needed please seek advice from your doctor before playing any sports. * You are responsible for warming up/cooling down stretches to reduce the risk of strains/ injuries. * Play at your own risk as Crossfire Badminton Club will not be held responsible for any injuries incurred. * We welcome players of all backgrounds, and treat everyone equally with respect. This is also expected from our participants. If you fail to do this, you may be asked to leave the session, or even banned from future sessions

18:00 - 18:30: Grab a drink and introductions 18:30 - 19:30: Shut Up and Write (timer starts and ends) 19:30 - 20:00: Chat and reflect Come along for a fun and productive hour of solid writing without any pressure to share what you are doing. If you're writing a screen play, script, novel, poem, etc, or just journaling or catching up with some work... you are welcome. See you there!!! ✍ Bring headphones as sometimes it can be a little loud due to the central location. 🎶 Contact Joe & Héléna for details: joewhitehead03@gmail.com helenabloch2@gmail.com

**This event is completely free for first-timers 🤍** **What to expect:** A 45-minute mat Pilates class focused on mobility, posture, and relaxation. The class includes a gentle warm-up, full-body Pilates work, a short stretch at the end, and good music to help you relax and enjoy the session. **What to bring:** ***Comfortable clothing you can move in and your own mat.*** **Finding the group:** When you arrive, please go to reception and let them know you’re there for the Pilates class. The receptionist will show you where the studio is. I’ll be there to welcome you and help you get set up. Please reserve your class here: www.thepilatesmethodbydani.com Use the code **FIRST-FREE** at checkout. **Please note:** This class is not currently suitable for those who are pregnant.

Get your kids book written! This is an un-hosted meetup for anyone who wants to come and write for a couple of hours in the company of other kids writers. It's a great way to move your project forward in a lovely arty atmosphere. The only rules are to say hello to other writers and leave them to work until 8:30 when you are free to have a chat. If you're by yourself, don't worry. You'll get two hours of writing closer to your goal. Enjoy and Write Write Write!

Join the Prime Time Over 50s Social Group for a chilled out evening Following the success of our previous events, like the lively gathering at Oxford Circus, we would like to invite you to an evening that is perfect for mingling with like-minded individuals and making new friends and social connections. As you are aware this is a wetherspoons, so prices will be very reasonable

Welcome to this incredible meetup at one of London's most historic and charming pubs near Oxford Circus! We are excited to invite you to join us at The Cock Tavern, on Saturday at 3 PM. This Free event, tailored for the over 50s, offers a perfect opportunity to connect and celebrate in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. #### Details at a Glance: * **Date:** On Saturday. * **Time:** 3 PM onwards * **Venue:** The Cock Tavern, 27 Great Portland Street, London W1W 8QE * **Nearest Station:** Oxford Circus #### **Convenient Location:** Located in the very heart of London, The Cock Tavern is just a short walk from Oxford Circus station. Its prime location makes it easily accessible, whether you're coming from home, a day out in the city, or a relaxing afternoon. **Engaging for the Over 50s:** This meetup is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for *members of our group*, particularly those over 50. Whether you're looking to make new friends, share stories, or simply enjoy the company of others in your age group, this event promises a comfortable and engaging environment. Although it may start quietly, it can become very busy as the afternoon progresses **Exciting Opportunity for Fun and Connection:** Join us for a delightful afternoon of meeting new people and engaging in fun conversations. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to our events, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for making connections and enjoying great company. We can't wait to see you there! **[Prime Time Group](https://www.primetimebase.com) \| [FAQ](https://www.primetimebase.com/bulletin/category/faq/)**

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 18:00 on Wednesday afternoons/evenings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 18:00 - Quick introductions 18:15 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 19:15 - The End: chat, take off, or keep writing OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 19:30. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you at the Peckham Pelican! What Should I Bring? Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the cafe’s overhead music or the occasional conversation by other patrons. **Other Important Details:** \- If you arrive and can't figure out who we are \(usually the table with a lot of laptops and notebooks\)\, feel free to ask the bar staff who will point you in the right direction\. \- Many of our participants found the event through other means\, so please don't be put off by a low attendance number on MeetUp\! \- The Pelican has some\, but not many\, charging points\, so make sure laptops are charged and perhaps bring a notebook just in case\. \- The WiFi is also very poor \(non\-existent\)\, but most have found that to be a good thing\. Make sure to download or turn on 'offline mode' if working on a computer\. \- Please thank our hosts by purchasing something \(The pizzas are fantastic\, and we write during happy hour \- two for one on cocktails\!\)

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

# **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.

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

**New Dojo Location!** **Draft Day Columbus** 1130 Dublin Road Columbus, OH 43215 We're going to try a new dojo location for a few weeks and see how it works Dojos are informal Python group study sessions where everyone interested in Python gathers to learn about Python, help others with Python, or just hang out. Everyone is welcome from Python beginners to experts. Bringing a laptop is encouraged (we'll have extension cords and power strips). If there's something you want to learn leave a comment on this invite so we can plan ahead. We're looking for topic suggestions and people interested in presenting at our monthly meetings. To this end we've set up a survey form at [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15eBKF1nQQ2XS5gzD4rvhVRHMBEj7lJtHuA9wXupS3Uc](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15eBKF1nQQ2XS5gzD4rvhVRHMBEj7lJtHuA9wXupS3Uc)

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Join us for a nice warm bonfire and hot drinks this February at Highbanks Metropark. Folks who'd like to can walk around the meadows. This gathering and area of the park is doggo and kiddo-friendly, and is accessible to mobility aids.

The topic for February is "Transitions" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!