IoTAAS: IoT As A Service

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'I'd Rather Not' by Robert Skinner. The blurb: 'From one of Australia’s most wryly funny writers comes an original and utterly hilarious memoir of reaching for the stars while lying in a ditch *I was sleeping in what might reasonably be described as a ditch, though I tried not to think of it in those terms for morale reasons . . .* Robert Skinner arrives in the city, searching for a richer life. Things begin badly and then, surprisingly, get slightly worse. Pretty soon he's sleeping rough and trying to run a literary magazine out of a dog park. His quest for meaning keeps being thwarted, by endless jobs, beagles, house parties, ill-advised love affairs, camel trips and bureaucratic entanglements. Sometimes a book catches the spirit of the times. *I'd Rather Not* is about work, escape and that something more we all need. 'I was told this man came from the Adelaide Plains and so commenced to read his work. By the time I realised I'd been viciously misled and he actually grew up in Magill, it was too late. I was already completely in love with the book. It's an absolute bag of lollies.' —Annabel Crabb 'Robert Skinner writes with humour, intelligence and heart. Pick up this book and you may never put it down.' —Tony Birch 'This book is like a big, properly made gin and tonic drunk outside in a garden on a perfect Saturday afternoon.' —Cate Kennedy '…no other book brought me as much joy as this hilarious and deceptively artful collection, and in these uncertain times that is worth plenty.' —Michael Winkler 'No one writes better when the stakes are lower.' —Sam Vincent 'My heart leaps whenever I see Robert Skinner's by-line; I know I am in for a hilarious literary treat complete with wry pearlers, gallows truths and wicked timing. People will say he is Australia's Sedaris, but he's not. He's Robert Skinner and he's a bloody marvel.' —Anna Krien 'Brevity may be the soul of wit, but the nimble economy of this slim volume will make readers pine for more. A decidedly skewed, hilarious collection of life reflections and colorful storytelling.' —*Kirkus* 'Seriously the funniest book I've read all year. I can't stop thinking about Robert Skinner's forays into the most mundane and frustrating aspects of life - Centrelink, being a tour guide, applying for arts funding - and the shameless truths he not only reveals about himself but about us as a society. Read this book with a bottle of wine, and be alarmed and enlightened!' —Alice Pung 'If only all books were as funny, human and true as *I'd Rather Not*. I raced through it, marvelling and envious all the way.' —Michelle de Kretser 'Skinner has been compared to Oscar Wilde, but his book is as self-effacing as it is quip-witted.' —Beejay Silcox, *The Guardian* 'The best Australian books of 2023' 'Skinner has been called the Australian David Sedaris and it's easy to see why. Both have the same droll, self-deprecating humour and both mine their own lives for maximum mirth-making potential. [...] a book with a several-laughs-a-page quotient.' –Thuy On, *Arts Hub* 'The funniest book I have read for a long time' —Andy Griffiths, author of *The Treehouse* series" Goodreads rating: 3.71 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

**"TechWalking" - Networking + Walking** Are you a tech professional looking to network beyond the screen? Look no further than my upcoming #TechWalking event! ‍♀️ Join us for a refreshing walk around the scenic Albert Park Lake. It’s the perfect chance to connect with industry peers while getting in some steps! I know many of you have been tuning in to my online events, but we've never had the opportunity to meet in person. Let's change that! Check out the video from the last event: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JOva9E3XYhE We'll kick things off at **10 am sharp** at the Albert Park Fitness Station. Please, don't be late! We're hitting the trail around the lake as soon as we gather. And trust me, you won't want to miss it – unless you're up for a bit of a sprint to catch up! (we're going anti-clockwise) This event is pet and kid-friendly, as long as your little ones and furry friends can manage a 5 km walk, they're more than welcome to join. Looking forward to meeting you all in real life! Join the TechWalking group on LinkedIn! [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/) \*\*\* Follow me on LinkedIn for more information: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/) Just moved to Australia? Grab your FREE guide to land your tech job! [https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/](https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/) Subscribe to YouTube Channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia](https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia)

**Register here: [https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728](https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728)** Ready to strengthen your presence and sharpen your communication impact? Speechcraft is a program designed specifically for people who want to refine their speaking skills, enhance communication, and deliver clear, persuasive messages with confidence. Hosted by Alex Stemate and other experienced speakers from Southbank Toastmasters, this focused workshop series provides structured, practical training in speech organisation, delivery techniques, and persuasive strategy, all in a supportive, feedback-rich environment. Who is this for? * Professionals seeking stronger presentation, leadership, and stakeholder communication skills * Job seekers who want to improve their interviewing skills * Toastmasters members working toward Pathways goals or aiming to elevate their speaking impact * Leaders, managers, and business owners who want to communicate with clarity and authority **Program Sessions** April 19, 10 am to 1 pm Organising Your Speech , Vocal Variety & Body Language Learn how to structure compelling speeches and enhance delivery through vocal control and confident body language. April 26, 10 am to 1 pm Speaking with Purpose , Giving & Receiving Feedback Develop intentional messaging and master the art of constructive, growth-focused feedback. May 3, 10 am to 12 pm Persuasive Speech & Motivational Strategies Craft influential speeches that inspire action and apply proven motivational techniques to engage any audience. This series is practical, interactive, and results-focused, equipping you with tools you can immediately apply in professional settings, presentations, and Toastmasters meetings. **Pricing:** $297 for the entire program Are you a Toastmasters member? Reach out to Alex at [education@d73toastmasters.org](mailto:education@d73toastmasters.org) for a **generous** discount Location: Boyd Library, 207 City Road, Southbank Register here: [https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728](https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728)

**🌿 First Meetup: Gentle Picnic at Malvern Gardens** Join us for our very first gathering—a relaxed, low-key picnic where you can connect, share, or simply be in good company. This is a safe, non-judgmental space for anyone living with chronic pain or invisible illness. **Agenda:** * Arrive, settle in, and get comfortable * Introductions (optional—just say hello if you prefer!) * Light conversation, sharing experiences, or quiet companionship * Optional gentle activities like short walks around the gardens **What to Bring:** * Something comfortable to sit on (blanket, mat, or chair) * Any snacks or drinks you’d like to share or enjoy * Layers/clothing for the weather * Yourself, exactly as you are—no need to bring anything else. Participate and much as you feel like on the day. * Board games or books, writing or drawing materials if you fancy. No pressure! **Finding the Group:** * Look for a small circle of blankets near the central lawn area * If you arrive early or have trouble finding us, call or text [organiser’s phone/email] * I'll be wearing a snow leopard print scarf..; ) Come as you are and enjoy a calm, supportive space where you can exhale, be seen, and connect with others who understand. ***

**What's going to happen?** There are 4 activities to choose from: **Connection Carousel** (structured conversations), a **Board Game Table**, a **Choose Your Own Adventure** hangout area, and a **Quiet Retreat Space**. Refer to the [detailed plan here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Where is it?** It's in the Sandringham Library event space, a short walk from Sandringham railway station. Refer to the [visual directions here to find it](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Who's it for?** Whether you have Adult ADD/ADHD, ADHD, Autism, or identify with any other neurodivergent traits, this event is a safe space for open discussions and support. Connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and learn from each other's unique perspectives on living with neurodivergence. Our goal is to foster a community where everyone feels accepted, understood, and empowered. Come spice up your neurodivergent journey with us!

💃 Unique Events Singles Soirée Forget the apps, swipes, ghosting, and dead-end chats… it’s time to get back to real-life flirty fun! 🎉 Join us for an afternoon of laughter, cheeky banter, and 🍸 – where singles connect IRL and sparks fly in Casino RoyaleVibe, so dress to Impress✨ 🎶 Chat in this relaxed lounge area with a cocktail in hand and see if any sparks ignite, if not a match meet some great friends along the way! 💥 Event Highlights *Ice breakergames *Prizes for Best dressed *Photo booth *smoking area upstairs *happy hour 4pm til 6pm Mens Tickets 🎟 https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/mens-42-58yo-singles-soiree-casino-royale-vibes-tickets-1984762068776 Date: Sun, 19 Apr, Time: 4:00 pm Place: LALA LAND CITY lvl 1/125 Hardware Street. Melbourne (includes a complimentary glass of bubbles ,wine on arrival DRESS TO IMPRESS Casino royale theme Ladies 🎟 https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ladies-singles-soiree-casino-royale-vibe-42-58yo-ticketed-event-tickets-1984760760864 🍹 Happy Hour: , 4pm – 6 pm $15 Signature Cocktails Link for tickets: Don’t miss out on the ultimate singles soirée – where the music’s hot, the vibes are flirty, and the fun is non-stop! 💃✨ ---

Ready to add some rhythm to your week? Join us for a **FREE Salsa class** right in the heart of Melbourne! No partner or experience needed — just bring your energy, and we’ll handle the rest. You’ll learn the basic steps, meet amazing people, and have a ton of fun while moving to Latin beats. ✨ **What to expect:** * Easy, step-by-step instruction — perfect for first-timers * A fun and welcoming community * Great music, great vibes, and maybe a new obsession! 📍 **Location:** 600 Little Collins St, Melbourne CBD (The Salsa Foundation Studio) 🕕 **When:** Multiple sessions weekly — book your spot now! 🎟️ **Cost:** 100% Free — bookings are essential due to limited space

**Get ready for a heart-warming afternoon of readings in a cool, historic cellar - and guess what? It will cost you less than a cup of coffee (well, almost!)** NOTE: THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT Cost: $25, strictly limited to 25 seats Your ticket includes a $20 food and drinks credit voucher ($5 goes to the venue to support costs). [CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SEAT](https://MelbournePoets.eventbrite.com.au) Budding poets, writers and lyricists join Melbourne Poets for our monthly Poetry & Prose Meetup! This is a true open mic event (usually without the need for a microphone). There'll be an opportunity to read your work (if you're brave enough) and listen to others over a drink or two. You don't need to be published; you just need to be passionate about your craft. So grab a support buddy and come along to our luxe loungeroom hidden away in the 170-year-old bluestone cellars in East Melbourne's Tribeca precinct. We've got great cocktails, back-vintage wines, craft brews, amazing food, and good vibes in a chilled and supportive safe space. RULES: This is a ticketed event due to limited seating capacity. $20 of your ticket price is offset against any bar drinks and food ordered through the venue on the day. Please ensure each piece is less than 5 minutes for those wanting to read. Depending on attendance and number of readers, there may be multiple opportunities to read. Please no "clicking" or trauma porn, and no self-promotion allowed during the readings but networking after the event is absolutely OK. GETTING THERE: We recommend you use public transport or rideshare. We are on the 12/109 tram line (stop 16, Wellington St), several Bus Routes (302, 303, 304, 305, 309, 318, 350, 905, 906, 907, 908) or a 5-10 minute walk from Jolimont and North Richmond train stations. If you decide to drive and/or have a designated driver, 2-hour paid parking is available around Powlett Reserve, Darling Square, and the Fitzroy Gardens. Extended paid parking is available at Care Park at 162 Albert Street, East Melbourne or the Epworth Freemasons Car Park in Gotch Lane off Grey Street. UNABLE TO ATTEND? Cancellations and Refunds are generally not possible. However, for sudden illness, COVID, or other special circumstances, we may agree to reschedule your session to another day or provide a gift certificate for part or all of your ticket price. Please SMS your request to 0466 045 473. #poetry #readings #poets #writers #prose #lyricists #melbournepoets #melbournepoet #melbournepoetry #melbournewriter #melbournewriters #melbournetodo #poetryandprose #poetrylovers #openmic

We are heading to Dandenong Ranges to take in the stunning Autumn Colours in Dandenong Ranges - Alfred Nicholas, Tindale & Gardens. Please carry takeaway lunch and water. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP (click going) to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXQ](https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXQ) This includes 10% GST and Parks VIC fee of $2.40 per person. Trybooking Tickets will be scanned at the meeting point. The tickets are non refundable and there is no option to transfer the ticket to a different event. The ticket will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved. **Meeting Point**: Let's meet infront of the black directions sign at Federation Square at 10:00 AM. Meeting Point Photo: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/16_TULglixHSnN4N9OBXos6rCuCVuICGe/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/16_TULglixHSnN4N9OBXos6rCuCVuICGe/view?usp=sharing) Everywhere in the Dandenong Ranges will be awash with bright autumn colours and fallen leaves in late April/May. We will be visiting Alfred Nicholas, George Tindale and Dandenong Botanic Gardens. **George Tindale Gardens** \- One of the more beautiful gardens in the Dandenong Ranges\. This picturesque gardens boasts enviable collection of rare and exotic plants and flowers\, set under the shelter of the massive Mountain Ash Trees\. **Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens** \- The gardens are known for their picturesque waterfalls\, water features and its iconic ornamental lake and boathouse\. **Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden** \- 36\-hectare garden with extensive paths past diverse plants\, trees & water features\, plus a cafe\. Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an "Unpaid" status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 Public transport is free this weekend. Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia. We have eight simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ Not a dating group! – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 No phone numbers, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 Please do not advertise other events or groups. 😅 Don’t be a social octopus! – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We don't allow carpooling due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 No sales pitches! – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. 📸 Cameras welcome, but… – please refrain from taking photos of our members for privacy reasons. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

Feeling constantly busy, overwhelmed, or stuck in your own thoughts? **UNBREAKABLE** is a 4-week journey inspired by the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita to help you understand your mind, steady your emotions, and experience real inner calm without giving up your ambition. ### Perhaps You’ve Noticed... * Life looks successful on the outside… but inside you feel restless * You feel stressed, burned out, or pulled in too many directions * The mind jumps between anxiety, overthinking, and mental exhaustion * Meditation apps feel nice...but don’t create real change * You want inner calm without giving up ambition ### UNBREAKABLE Gives You The Tools To * Calm an overactive mind and regain inner stability * Understand why stress and anxiety keep repeating in life * See the deeper purpose behind your struggles * Develop practices that bring clarity and emotional strength ### Week 1 **The Identity Shift:** The Self Beyond Stress Step out of “performance = worth” and discover your true self. ### Week 2 Why You’re Not Always in Control: Forces That Shape Your Mind **Understand the invisible forces driving our mood, focus, and reactions.** ### Week 3 Why Your Mind Keeps Switching Gears: How to Steady It **Learn to move from chaos → clarity → calm, even under pressure.** ### Week 4 Break the Pressure Cycle: Build a Daily Practice That Grounds You **Turn insight into habit — build a practice that makes inner calm permanent.** Through interactive workshops, practical tools, kirtan, and meaningful community, you’ll learn how to move from overthinking and stress to clarity, balance, and grounded confidence in your everyday life. ## **How It Works** 🕓 **Workshop (4:00 PM – 5:30 PM)** 90-minute interactive session each week 🎶 **Kirtan + Dinner (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) (Optional)** Live mantra music, connection, and a relaxed shared dinner 💰 **Your Investment: $149 (Full 4 Weeks)** Less than $40/week for workshop, kirtan & dinner 📍 **Location:** 108–110 Park St, South Melbourne ## Your Facilitator: Dr. Gopa * PhD in Wireless Technology, University of Melbourne * 10+ years studying and teaching the Bhagavad Gita * Practitioner of the Bhakti Yoga tradition Born in India, he grew up hearing about the Bhagavad Gita, much like growing up in Melbourne with footy all around you. Yet with a strong scientific mindset, he never took the teachings very seriously and instead focused on his career, education, and travel. That journey brought him to the University of Melbourne, where he completed his Master’s and PhD in Wireless Technology. During his time there, the Bhagavad Gita re-entered his life at a time when deeper questions began to arise: What is the purpose of life? What is my role in this world? Reading Bhagavad Gita As It Is, he was surprised to discover how profoundly relevant its wisdom was, not only for personal challenges like stress and confusion, but also for understanding the social, political, and economic complexities of modern life. What he had once thought was a religious text revealed itself as a universal guide to understanding the self and navigating life with clarity. After completing his PhD, Dr Gopa began applying these teachings in his own life. More than ten years later, he credits the Bhagavad Gita with transforming his vision, helping him find inner stability, purpose, and peace. Today, he lives a monk lifestyle within the Bhakti Yoga tradition and dedicates his life to sharing the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita in a way that is practical, accessible, and deeply relevant to modern life.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

We will cover metadata-driven approach to building and operating data pipelines at scale on AWS. Discuss architecture, design trade-offs, and lessons learned from running a unified pipeline across multiple customers using configuration-driven workflows. **Presenter: Dilshad Nasirov** Seasoned Software Architect and cloud practitioner with 20+ years of experience building scalable systems and data platforms. Specializes in AWS, with deep expertise in data lakes, serverless architectures, and real-time data processing. Has led the design and delivery of enterprise-grade solutions across industries, helping organizations improve performance, reduce costs, and unlock data-driven insights. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dilshad-nasirov-4538431/ **CALL FOR SPEAKERS** Learn more: https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/ **THANK YOU** *Leading EDJE* for hosting our meetup! Leading EDJE specializes in helping organizations innovate and solve complex problems. EDJE does this with their "A" player team of professionals using agile methodologies and SCRUM management techniques to give organizations a competitive advantage that sets them apart. Learn more at https://www.leadingedje.com/ **THANK YOU** *Amazon Web Services* for sponsoring pizza! Learn more at https://aws.amazon.com/. **DIRECTIONS** 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 300 Dublin, OH 43017 (3rd floor) **FREE PARKING** at the Endres Garage across the street, 6540 Riverside Dr, Dublin, OH **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab for a future meetup?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** GitHub Copilot is powerful, but what if you could scale from a solo AI assistant to an entire team of specialized agents working in parallel? This session introduces Squad: an open-source framework for multi-agent orchestration that lets you define teams of AI agents with specific roles, responsibilities, and expertise. We'll progress from Copilot basics to the Copilot CLI, explore how Agents add autonomy, and see how Instructions and Skills let you customize agent behavior. Then, the climax: a live demo where a Squad team of 3 agents (Lead, Developer, Tester) stands up and builds a working application in real-time, showcasing true multi-agent collaboration. Whether you're new to AI or exploring how to scale your use of Copilot, this session will show you what's possible when agents work as a team. **YouTube Link** TBD

Want to be a speaker? submit your talk to our Call for Presenters!!! https://sessionize.com/cbus-hug-2026/

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. 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) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

**Caller: Richard Ades** **Band: The McKenzies** **Clinton Heights Lutheran Church** **15 Clinton Heights Ave, Columbus, OH 43202** 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.