Anti-Globalization

Hello, Jakarta Creative! **Are you a member of [Jakarta Friends](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/) yet?** Want to see **pictures** of past events? **[Take a look here!](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/photos/)** And feel free to upload a few pictures you will take at the event 😊 JakCre and JakFri is **the** biggest, oldest, most active, and most inclusive MeetUp community in Jakarta… and we invite you to join us for this **WRITERS' CLUB: GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writing!** Everyone is always welcome to join our events. Our community is all about creating authentic in-person connections in this urban jungle. Come as you are... it’s the best version of yourself. **ABOUT THE EVENT** What's one of the most difficult part in writing? Getting high-quality feedback! This event addresses exactly this! Plus, writers will have the chance to be part of a friendly community and a support system for fellow creatives. **We want to help and elevate each other!** This is what we will do: We will meet at the indicated time (please don't be late) and everyone who wishes to can drop their name on a box for a lucky draw. One person is selected by chance and will need to have a text **of any kind** (poetry/fiction/non-fiction/essay/article/script/blog/music lyrics/whatever!) ready to share with everyone on a Google drive folder. Then everyone will take their time and read the piece(s) on their own. We allocate **about 60-90 minutes quiet reading time**. Readers will take notes on what they wish to give feedback to. The author is also welcome to brief readers on what they should pay attention to or give feedback on. People who wishes to be there as readers only (that is, without putting their name in the lucky draw box), are most welcome to! The crucial part is that everyone needs to be respectful of each other's craft and give **polite, constructive feedback**! After reading time, there is the feedback time! **For about 90 minutes, we will discuss what we have read, and give feedback to the author.** Sounds easy, fun, and productive? It is. Everyone will have the chance to learn something new! This event doesn't require any preparation! We will read and give feedback on the spot. This will be a unique occasion to receive a feedback on your writings (of any kind) and to practice your ability to give and receive feedbacks on texts! Just be ready to share (not mandatory) **a piece of your writing of about 2,000 words** (1,000 to 10,000 words is OK, too, but be aware that a shorter piece is more likely to receive plenty of feedback) as a Google Drive link and grant people access to read. Be sure you will join with a device where it's possible to join a video conference (Zoom/GoogleMeet/tbd). **We have done this event before! Take a look here:** * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (Jan 2026)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/312723598/) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (Dec 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/312032052) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (hybrid) (Nov 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/311725541/) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (hybrid) (Aug 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/310122815/) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (online) (Aug 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/how-to-become-a-writer/events/308662343/) * [WRITERS' CLUB (May 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/307536966/) **ABOUT THE VENUE** **Mad for Coffee** is a lovely coffeeshop with great coffe and some nice food on the menu. The owners are so kind to have a room or the upstairs terrace for us! At Mad for Coffee they also have regular comedy shows, including one just after our event at 4 PM which we can attend together! Link to be shared soon -- tke a look here at a past free comedy event we attended together: https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/312964219/ (walk-ins at the comedy event are usually possible, too) * Let's meet directly there! There will be tables prepared for us * At the venue, ask for Corrado or MeetUp at the staff. There will be a MeetUp sign on our table to find us * Here is a link to the venue for more information: [https://www.instagram.com/madforcoffeeid/](https://www.instagram.com/madforcoffeeid/) * We encourage you to reach the event by public transportation MRT Cipete Raya is just 15 minutes walk! **ABOUT THE HOST** Corrado Nai has a Ph.D. in microbiology and writes mostly about science. His feature articles has been published in Smithsonian Magazine, New Scientist, Asimov Press, and many more. Currently he's writing [a graphic novel about agar-agar's surprising role in science](https://fanny-hesse-graphic-novel.site/), called "The Dessert That Changed the World" which can be followed and supported through Patreon ([www.patreon.com/corradonai](https://www.patreon.com/corradonai)) **HOW TO REGISTER TO THE EVENT?** To register, just click “Attend”! There are a few simple rules * We kindly ask attendees who cannot manage to join to **update RSVP at least 24 h before the event** as a courtesy to other attendees and event organisers. * **Be on time! Don’t be early!** * Come alone or with a friend, family, or your better half * People in the waitlist cannot attend, and are encouraged to check a few hours before the event if they got a spot * Repeated no-show (3X) without updating RSVP will be removed from the group. * Cancellation at the last minute is unfriendly for other attendees, organisers, and venue. Please cancel whitin 2 hours for exceptional circumstances **only**. Otherwise it will count as no-show! * Attendees who bring a +1 are responsible to make sure that the guest understands and agrees to our rules of respect and inclusivity. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation! **WE HAVE A MEMBERSHIP FEE. HOW DOES IT WORK?** As this group is slowly unrolling into a Writers' Group, it will be soon possible to join through Patreon, too: https://www.patreon.com/corradonai Monthly membership through Patreon will grant access to **all** events of Jakarta Cretives/Writers (this group) **and** of [Jakarta Friends](www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends). Our community has a **monthly membership fee** that can be paid through the app (**2 USD/month or about 33k IDR/month**). Membership can also be paid as a **yearly membership of 320k IDR** valid for 365 days after payment. Membership fee is offered with a **promo discount to first-timers**, who can become members for **240k IDR/year**. First-timers can decide to join with a **sneek peak price of 50k IDR & pay the remaining 270k IDR at the next event** they attend. Registered +1 can attend for free. Renewals (after 365 days) and upgrades (to join JakFri) are offered at a special rate. All this is aimed at encouraging people to sign up, and then to attend as many events as they like! Yearly membership can be paid at an event (cash/bank transfer/Gopay) or beforehand (bank transfer/Gopay). Text Corrado (+62 8211 489 3580) if you have any questions about membership. Membership to **both** Jakarta Friends and Jakarta Creatives is offered for **only** 390k IDR/year. Membership gives **access to all events** plus exclusive perks available only to paying members, like for example our [Give Away Birthday Celebrations with lucky draw](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/300470498) (Sept 2024) or [FREE pasta cooking (and eating 😉) workshop](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/304253623/) (Nov 2024) or [Museum visits with FREE GUIDED TOURS](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/301738408/) (Sept 2024). To most events, attendees can **bring a +1 for free**, and we have some events open to all (paid and unpaid) members. To all members we **guarantee** to keep organizing plenty of events. You will receive a **full refund** if the group closes down, or if there’s no event happening in three months. In the past 3 years we have organised up to 2-3 events per week (browse past event [of JakFri here](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/?type=past) and [of JakCre here](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/?type=past)). That is, with your membership you can attend up to 5-10 events! We **guarantee** to keep organising plenty of events. You will receive a **full refund** if the group closes down, or if there’s no event happening in three months. **THE RULES OF OUR COMMUNITY** Our communities are: * **Jakarta Friends**: [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends) * **Jakarta Creatives**: [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/) Members often participate in events of both groups. Over the past two years, we held over 250 events with over 2,000 attendees. Attendees rate our events **very positively** and give wonderful feedback, with an average of **4.8**⭐ (out of 5⭐) afrom over 500 reviews ([take a look at our reviews here!](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/feedback-overview/)) We value diversity, inclusivity, respect, and authenticity. We **do not tolerate** harassment or discrimination of any kinds. * You are invited to join our WhatsApp group where we announce our events regularly: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx) * Feel free to tag us on Instagram, and we will repost! [www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives](http://www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives) * For questions about the event, please post a comment on the event page, or DM the event organisers

Let's get mad with laughter at this special comedy event in English! Join other Jakarta Creatives to attend this fun afternoon, make new friends, and avoid being roasted alone in the audience! 😄 Everyone is welcome to join! **This event is FREE to attend!** The event is organised to support our friends "Mad for Laughs". Please take a look at their page too and consider joining their group to support local creatives, artists, and comedians in the city! https://www.meetup.com/english-open-mic-stand-up-comedy/ **ABOUT THE EVENT** 🎤 Expect anything from bold new comics to people just testing the waters. No script, no filter, just raw, unpolished fun. 📍Doors open at 3:30PM \| Show starts at 4:00PM 🎟 Free entry\. Bring your friends\, your date\, or just yourself just make sure to RSVP the total pax\, because we have limited seats\! Interested in performing? Sign up [here](https://forms.gle/x1YsKfoNBSsFXsd29)! **With Jakarta Writers (former Jakarta Creatives) we have organised many comedy events before! Take a look here:** * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Jan 2026)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-writers/events/312964219/) * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Nov 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/311725577/) * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Sept 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/311180281/) * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Aug 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/310350396/) * [Comedy night (December 2023)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/297393682/) * [Comedy night open mic (July 2023)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/294474235/?eventOrigin=your_events) * [Comedy night (July 2023)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/294901153/) **ABOUT THE VENUE** **Mad for Coffee Cipete** is a cozy café with a dedicated area for the show! I guess they have coffee, as well 😉 **HOW TO REGISTER TO THE EVENT?** To register, just click “Attend”! There are a few simple rules * We kindly ask attendees who cannot manage to join to **update RSVP at least 24 h before the event** as a courtesy to other attendees and event organisers. * Attendees who bring a +1 need to make sure that the guest abide to our rules our respect and inclusivity Thank you for your understanding and cooperation! **THE RULES OF OUR COMMUNITY** Our communities are: * **Jakarta Friends**: [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends) * **Jakarta Writers** (former Jakarta Creatives): [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-writers/](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/) Members often participate in events of both groups. Over the past two years, we held over 250 events with over 2,000 attendees. Attendees rate our events **very positively** and give wonderful feedback, with an average of **4.8**⭐ (out of 5⭐) afrom over 300 reviews ([take a look at our reviews here!](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/feedback-overview/)) We value diversity, inclusivity, respect, and authenticity. We **do not tolerate** harassment or discrimination of any kinds. * You are invited to join our WhatsApp group where we announce our events regularly: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx) * Feel free to tag us on Instagram, and we will repost! [www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives](http://www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives) * For questions about the event, please post a comment on the event page, or DM the event organisers

Hello, Jakarta Creative! **Are you a member of [Jakarta Friends](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/) yet?** Want to see **pictures** of past events? **[Take a look here!](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/photos/)** And feel free to upload a few pictures you will take at the event 😊 JakCre and JakFri is **the** biggest, oldest, most active, and most inclusive MeetUp community in Jakarta… and we invite you to join us for this **WRITERS' CLUB: GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writing!** Everyone is always welcome to join our events. Our community is all about creating authentic in-person connections in this urban jungle. Come as you are... it’s the best version of yourself. **ABOUT THE EVENT** What's one of the most difficult part in writing? Getting high-quality feedback! This event addresses exactly this! Plus, writers will have the chance to be part of a friendly community and a support system for fellow creatives. **We want to help and elevate each other!** This is what we will do: We will meet at the indicated time (please don't be late) and everyone who wishes to can drop their name on a box for a lucky draw. One person is selected by chance and will need to have a text **of any kind** (poetry/fiction/non-fiction/essay/article/script/blog/music lyrics/whatever!) ready to share with everyone on a Google drive folder. Then everyone will take their time and read the piece(s) on their own. We allocate **about 60-90 minutes quiet reading time**. Readers will take notes on what they wish to give feedback to. The author is also welcome to brief readers on what they should pay attention to or give feedback on. People who wishes to be there as readers only (that is, without putting their name in the lucky draw box), are most welcome to! The crucial part is that everyone needs to be respectful of each other's craft and give **polite, constructive feedback**! After reading time, there is the feedback time! **For about 90 minutes, we will discuss what we have read, and give feedback to the author.** Sounds easy, fun, and productive? It is. Everyone will have the chance to learn something new! This event doesn't require any preparation! We will read and give feedback on the spot. This will be a unique occasion to receive a feedback on your writings (of any kind) and to practice your ability to give and receive feedbacks on texts! Just be ready to share (not mandatory) **a piece of your writing of about 2,000 words** (1,000 to 10,000 words is OK, too, but be aware that a shorter piece is more likely to receive plenty of feedback) as a Google Drive link and grant people access to read. Be sure you will join with a device where it's possible to join a video conference (Zoom/GoogleMeet/tbd). **We have done this event before! Take a look here:** * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (Jan 2026)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/312723598/) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (Dec 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/312032052) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (hybrid) (Nov 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/311725541/) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (hybrid) (Aug 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/310122815/) * [GIVE & RECEIVE FEEDBACK on your writings 🤓 (online) (Aug 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/how-to-become-a-writer/events/308662343/) * [WRITERS' CLUB (May 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/307536966/) **ABOUT THE VENUE** **Mad for Coffee** is a lovely coffeeshop with great coffe and some nice food on the menu. The owners are so kind to have a room or the upstairs terrace for us! At Mad for Coffee they also have regular comedy shows, including one just after our event at 4 PM which we can attend together! Link to be shared soon -- tke a look here at a past free comedy event we attended together: https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/312964219/ (walk-ins at the comedy event are usually possible, too) * Let's meet directly there! There will be tables prepared for us * At the venue, ask for Corrado or MeetUp at the staff. There will be a MeetUp sign on our table to find us * Here is a link to the venue for more information: [https://www.instagram.com/madforcoffeeid/](https://www.instagram.com/madforcoffeeid/) * We encourage you to reach the event by public transportation MRT Cipete Raya is just 15 minutes walk! **ABOUT THE HOST** Corrado Nai has a Ph.D. in microbiology and writes mostly about science. His feature articles has been published in Smithsonian Magazine, New Scientist, Asimov Press, and many more. Currently he's writing [a graphic novel about agar-agar's surprising role in science](https://fanny-hesse-graphic-novel.site/), called "The Dessert That Changed the World" which can be followed and supported through Patreon ([www.patreon.com/corradonai](https://www.patreon.com/corradonai)) **HOW TO REGISTER TO THE EVENT?** To register, just click “Attend”! There are a few simple rules * We kindly ask attendees who cannot manage to join to **update RSVP at least 24 h before the event** as a courtesy to other attendees and event organisers. * **Be on time! Don’t be early!** * Come alone or with a friend, family, or your better half * People in the waitlist cannot attend, and are encouraged to check a few hours before the event if they got a spot * Repeated no-show (3X) without updating RSVP will be removed from the group. * Cancellation at the last minute is unfriendly for other attendees, organisers, and venue. Please cancel whitin 2 hours for exceptional circumstances **only**. Otherwise it will count as no-show! * Attendees who bring a +1 are responsible to make sure that the guest understands and agrees to our rules of respect and inclusivity. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation! **WE HAVE A MEMBERSHIP FEE. HOW DOES IT WORK?** As this group is slowly unrolling into a Writers' Group, it will be soon possible to join through Patreon, too: https://www.patreon.com/corradonai Monthly membership through Patreon will grant access to **all** events of Jakarta Cretives/Writers (this group) **and** of [Jakarta Friends](www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends). Our community has a **monthly membership fee** that can be paid through the app (**2 USD/month or about 33k IDR/month**). Membership can also be paid as a **yearly membership of 320k IDR** valid for 365 days after payment. Membership fee is offered with a **promo discount to first-timers**, who can become members for **240k IDR/year**. First-timers can decide to join with a **sneek peak price of 50k IDR & pay the remaining 270k IDR at the next event** they attend. Registered +1 can attend for free. Renewals (after 365 days) and upgrades (to join JakFri) are offered at a special rate. All this is aimed at encouraging people to sign up, and then to attend as many events as they like! Yearly membership can be paid at an event (cash/bank transfer/Gopay) or beforehand (bank transfer/Gopay). Text Corrado (+62 8211 489 3580) if you have any questions about membership. Membership to **both** Jakarta Friends and Jakarta Creatives is offered for **only** 390k IDR/year. Membership gives **access to all events** plus exclusive perks available only to paying members, like for example our [Give Away Birthday Celebrations with lucky draw](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/300470498) (Sept 2024) or [FREE pasta cooking (and eating 😉) workshop](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/304253623/) (Nov 2024) or [Museum visits with FREE GUIDED TOURS](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/301738408/) (Sept 2024). To most events, attendees can **bring a +1 for free**, and we have some events open to all (paid and unpaid) members. To all members we **guarantee** to keep organizing plenty of events. You will receive a **full refund** if the group closes down, or if there’s no event happening in three months. In the past 3 years we have organised up to 2-3 events per week (browse past event [of JakFri here](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/?type=past) and [of JakCre here](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/?type=past)). That is, with your membership you can attend up to 5-10 events! We **guarantee** to keep organising plenty of events. You will receive a **full refund** if the group closes down, or if there’s no event happening in three months. **THE RULES OF OUR COMMUNITY** Our communities are: * **Jakarta Friends**: [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends) * **Jakarta Creatives**: [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/) Members often participate in events of both groups. Over the past two years, we held over 250 events with over 2,000 attendees. Attendees rate our events **very positively** and give wonderful feedback, with an average of **4.8**⭐ (out of 5⭐) afrom over 500 reviews ([take a look at our reviews here!](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/feedback-overview/)) We value diversity, inclusivity, respect, and authenticity. We **do not tolerate** harassment or discrimination of any kinds. * You are invited to join our WhatsApp group where we announce our events regularly: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx) * Feel free to tag us on Instagram, and we will repost! [www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives](http://www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives) * For questions about the event, please post a comment on the event page, or DM the event organisers

Let's get mad with laughter at this special comedy event in English! Join other Jakarta Creatives to attend this fun afternoon, make new friends, and avoid being roasted alone in the audience! 😄 Everyone is welcome to join! **This event is FREE to attend!** The event is organised to support our friends "Mad for Laughs". Please take a look at their page too and consider joining their group to support local creatives, artists, and comedians in the city! https://www.meetup.com/english-open-mic-stand-up-comedy/ **ABOUT THE EVENT** 🎤 Expect anything from bold new comics to people just testing the waters. No script, no filter, just raw, unpolished fun. 📍Doors open at 3:30PM \| Show starts at 4:00PM 🎟 Free entry\. Bring your friends\, your date\, or just yourself just make sure to RSVP the total pax\, because we have limited seats\! Interested in performing? Sign up [here](https://forms.gle/x1YsKfoNBSsFXsd29)! **With Jakarta Writers (former Jakarta Creatives) we have organised many comedy events before! Take a look here:** * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Jan 2026)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-writers/events/312964219/) * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Nov 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/311725577/) * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Sept 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/311180281/) * [ENGLISH COMEDY SHOW at Mad For Laugh (Aug 2025)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/310350396/) * [Comedy night (December 2023)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/events/297393682/) * [Comedy night open mic (July 2023)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/294474235/?eventOrigin=your_events) * [Comedy night (July 2023)](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends/events/294901153/) **ABOUT THE VENUE** **Mad for Coffee Cipete** is a cozy café with a dedicated area for the show! I guess they have coffee, as well 😉 **HOW TO REGISTER TO THE EVENT?** To register, just click “Attend”! There are a few simple rules * We kindly ask attendees who cannot manage to join to **update RSVP at least 24 h before the event** as a courtesy to other attendees and event organisers. * Attendees who bring a +1 need to make sure that the guest abide to our rules our respect and inclusivity Thank you for your understanding and cooperation! **THE RULES OF OUR COMMUNITY** Our communities are: * **Jakarta Friends**: [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-friends) * **Jakarta Writers** (former Jakarta Creatives): [https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-writers/](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/) Members often participate in events of both groups. Over the past two years, we held over 250 events with over 2,000 attendees. Attendees rate our events **very positively** and give wonderful feedback, with an average of **4.8**⭐ (out of 5⭐) afrom over 300 reviews ([take a look at our reviews here!](https://www.meetup.com/jakarta-creatives/feedback-overview/)) We value diversity, inclusivity, respect, and authenticity. We **do not tolerate** harassment or discrimination of any kinds. * You are invited to join our WhatsApp group where we announce our events regularly: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BR0sC0BrPbc9xTqvj1qLfx) * Feel free to tag us on Instagram, and we will repost! [www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives](http://www.intagram.com/jakarta.friends.creatives) * For questions about the event, please post a comment on the event page, or DM the event organisers

This meeting will be an open discussion about the book "an Immense World" by Ed Yong

Come join us for tea and brunch at ZenCha as we discuss our March read, "The Enchanted Greenhouse"! Book description: Terlu Perna broke the law because she was lonely. She cast a spell and created a magically sentient spider plant. As punishment, she was turned into a wooden statue and tucked away into an alcove in the North Reading Room of the Great Library of Alyssium. This should have been the end of her story . . . Yet one day, Terlu wakes in the cold of winter on a nearly-deserted island full of hundreds of magical greenhouses. She’s starving and freezing, and the only other human on the island is a grumpy gardener. To her surprise, he offers Terlu a place to sleep, clean clothes, and freshly baked honey cakes—at least until she’s ready to sail home. But Terlu can’t return home and doesn’t want to—the greenhouses are a dream come true, each more wondrous than the next. When she learns that the magic that sustains them is failing—causing the death of everything within them—Terlu knows she must help. Even if that means breaking the law again. This time, though, she isn’t alone. Assisted by the gardener and a sentient rose, Terlu must unravel the secrets of a long-dead sorcerer if she wants to save the island—and have a fresh chance at happiness and love.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Younkin Branch Library (Ashville) meeting space is now reserved for any and all interested in or enthused by playing a game of chess. The second Thursday of each month, 6:00pm to 7:50pm. First gathering is Thursday, May 11th. No fees. Chess sets provided; however, you may bring your own if you wish.

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

Save the Date 🌱 The Licking County Master Gardener Volunteers invite you to the annual gardening conference, open to everyone who enjoys growing plants. 📅 Saturday, March 14, 2026 📍 OSU Newark Campus - Reese center 🎟️ Tickets go on sale in January and this event fills fast, sells out every year 🌿 2026 Theme: Unusual Gardens in Your Backyard You will hear practical ideas that help you rethink small spaces and try new approaches at home. This conference also arrives at the perfect time of year. It helps soothe the urge to get outside while winter is still around. Central Ohio gardeners wait until late May to plant outdoors, so this day helps you plan and daydream about spring projects. Speakers • Joseph Tychonievich, author of Rock Gardening: Reimagining a Classic Style • Debra Knapke, The Garden Sage • Denise Schreiber, author of Eat Your Roses You will find vendors, a silent raffle, and friendly conversations with other gardeners. Registration • Register by January 31 to pay 50 dollars • Starting February 1, the fee is 60 dollars • Tickets at the door are 75 dollars • Boxed lunch, coffee and pastries are included MGV website: [https://fourseasonsofgardening.org/2026-spring-conference](https://fourseasonsofgardening.org/2026-spring-conference)

**Welcome to the inaugural meeting of the International Relations / Foreign Policy Group Columbus!** This group brings together students, professionals, academics, and anyone interested in global affairs, diplomacy, and geopolitics. Our first meetup will be an informal discussion focused on current international developments and global trends. This is a great opportunity to: • Meet others interested in international relations and foreign policy • Discuss current global events and geopolitical developments • Exchange perspectives and ideas in a respectful environment • Build a network of globally minded individuals in Central Ohio (Columbus and periphery) **Discussion topics may include:** * Strategic planning for the group and the way forward * US foreign policy priorities in 2026 * Major geopolitical developments (Europe, Asia, Middle East) * Global security and strategic competition * International economic and diplomatic trends No prior expertise is required—everyone is welcome, whether you're a student, professional, or simply interested in world affairs. **This will be a casual, friendly, and intellectually engaging conversation.** I look forward to meeting everyone and building a strong international relations / foreign policy community in Central Ohio.