Landmark Education

**The 2025 CHRISTMAS LECTURES®** BBC, iPlayer and the Ri YouTube channel Dame Maggie's 200th anniversary series of the **Royal Institution CHRISTMAS LECTURES®** will be **broadcast on BBC Four and iPlayer on Sunday 28, Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December, at 7pm.** But if you can't wait, and want to settle down to watch the full series in one sitting, then all three Lectures will be **available on iPlayer from early on Sunday 28 December.** And if you live outside the UK, then you won't miss out! This fascinating exploration of one of humanity's most enduring questions - 'Is there life beyond Earth?' - will be available on the Ri YouTube channel for international audiences following the first broadcast in the UK, **also on Sunday 28th.** **SUMMARY** On the 200-year anniversary of the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, the 2025 Lectures will see leading space scientist Dame Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock take audiences on an epic voyage through time and space. Joined by a host of very special guests - from astronauts to history-making astronomers - Maggie will explore the extraordinary breakthroughs that have revolutionised our understanding of the universe, enabling us to see ever further into space, and ever further back in time. Maggie helped develop the James Webb Telescope, the most powerful space telescope ever created – which launched on Christmas day 2021 before travelling a million miles to begin its orbit of the sun. Unpacking James Webb’s latest breathtaking images, Maggie will reveal how this “time-travelling” telescope is now rewriting the story of the Big Bang and allowing us to witness the birth of the first stars and galaxies that followed. As NASA prepares to return humans to the moon for the first time since 1972, Maggie will investigate how manned spaceflight has transformed our relationship with our nearest neighbour – and with our home planet. And, delving further back in time, she’ll explore how the night sky has always held a fascination for humanity - investigating what the moon and stars meant to ancient societies across the world. Maggie will also explain how the latest space technologies – from probes and orbiters to the most recent Mars rovers - are shedding astonishing new light on the planets in our solar system. And we’ll discover why in 2025 we’re on the cusp of even more remarkable discoveries about our universe. She will reveal just how far our understanding of space has come in the two centuries the Ri CHRISTMAS LECTURES have been around – looking back on previous Lectures on astronomy – from the first of these in 1826 to the 1977 lectures hosted by famed astronomer Carl Sagan, when the only known planets at that time were the eight in our solar system (thought to be nine at the time). Maggie will also scour the Royal Institution archives to uncover some of the original props from these historic lectures, plus she’ll recreate - and supersize - some the most memorable demos from space lectures past. In this iconic anniversary year these lectures will be a true celebration – of our universe and of the astounding human endeavours that are allowing us to solve its mysteries.

Bring your little ones (and not so little) for a couple of hours of supervision, giving you a chance to focus on work or enjoy a moment of rest. **What is offered:** * A table for work, ( four power sockets available, or bring your own battery or power bank) * Free play on trampolines and games with adult supervision, * Soft play for little ones (supervision is in place, but maybe we can arrange a childminder to help?) * Café with drinks and food, * Wi-Fi internet (8MB Down, 7MB upload) * If we book as a group in the future, discounts are available!!! \*\*\* The cost of the jump time is extra, buy your kids jump or soft play time here: [https://oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/activity-parks/the-o2/openplay/](https://oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/activity-parks/the-o2/openplay/) , £29.50 for two hours of jumping per child for open active play, this includes the cost of the needed socks. \*\*\* **Action Steps Needed:** **1,** RSVP to show your interest. **2,** Fill in our basic info form at [https://form.typeform.com/to/z37tCjtL](https://form.typeform.com/to/z37tCjtL). **3,** Comment in the conversation to let the others know how many you are! **Age:** 4 years and older **Childminder Cost:** Older kids included, younger to be advised. **Location:** Oxygen Active Play at The O2, [More pictures here](https://www.meetup.com/london-home-education/photos/35712844/) **Time:** Monday at 12:30 am (bring lunch) **Important Note:** This "Childminder and Work Time" event is currently providing a Childminder via the venue staff. If you wish to put our own Home Education child minder in place, please ask. **Possible Alternative Childminder and Work Ideas are:** Adventure Playgrounds, free play, Soft play, garden time, task-based play, Wall or rock climbing, Natural trust-based transition from parent to child playing with a childminder, parent drop off, Parent present at play group, splash pad, forest play time, River Picnic... What would work well for you?

🌌Ever look up like I do and marvel with insatiable curiosity at both the beauty and wonder of the **universe?** That wild sobering thought that somewhere in the chaos of creation - the emergence of life - the universe became **conscious** enough to look back and ask the big questions; How it all started, our evolution and place in it, and where else in the cosmos other complex life might exist (almost every star you see at night has planets orbiting with up to **20 billion habitable exoplanets** easily in our galaxy alone!)? 🪐🌟🌟🌟 🌍Then RSVP to view the potential life harbouring moons of **Jupiter**, the 3I Atlas **interstella** **Comet** ☄️(estimated to be 8+ billion years old), the famous **Orion Nebula** where stars like our sun were born, the majestic rings of **Saturn**, the international space station, the Tau Ceti star system with **2 Earth like planets** orbiting in the habitable zone, remnants of **supernova** witnessed by our early ancestors plus a range of other fascinating celestial wonderments (comets, star systems, galaxies) over drinks and engaging chats and banter this Dec fully hosted by me - a passionate amateur astronomer and former global Journalist covering big picture stories including cutting edge science related ones. 🚀In between observing - we'll have **drinks and engaging chats** on all astronomy related topics for those inclined (Astrobiology, SETI/Femi Paradox, cosmology, space exploration, exoplanetology, astrophysics, paleontology etc) as well as non space chatter and banter too. No doubt I'll hear the usual jokes we've all heard hundreds of times before! If those don't make you laugh, then my impersonation of Los Angeles ET will! 👽 **====Joining Astronomers Group & Telescopes =====** I'm able to take a limited number of people (please only RSVP if you can make it) to join my friendly informal relaxed London amateur astronomers' club that have been for over a decade with their regulars made up of up to about 150 people. As there will be people attending from this private Astronomers group as well as others from one of my other groups - the total attendees will be far higher than rsvps here and the public liability insurance only covers a max number of people - hence I need to impose strict limits on attendance. Over the years we have enjoyed numerous social evenings of stargazing and thought provoking chatter with people of all ages and varying levels of astronomy knowledge - so complete beginners that are genuinely curious about the universe are very welcome. If you are just looking to meet generic randoms then there are others groups that will better cater for that. The world renowed **BBC Television Sky at Night** also attended our events pre covid and interviewed some of us for it's show that aired on BBC1 in Feb 2019. BBC **Radio London** (94.9 FM / digital) were there Aug 2023 to cover our meteor shower event broadcasting live to millions of Londoners for 3 hours You don't need a telescope as you will be able to view through scopes belonging to me and other club members (as long as you behave responsibly and don't temper with expensive equipment). If you have your own telescope/binoculars feel free to bring along and I can help you setting it up if you're a newbie **=== Food & Drinks With Seating From Warm Indoor Cafe===** Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, cider only), hot drinks and food/snacks will be available to purchase from an indoor cafe at the observation point which Regent's park keep open exclusively for the astronomers group so please don't bring your own drinks **====ITINERARY=====** We will meet outside Camden Station. After a short wait for anyone delayed, I will escort everyone to our observation point in the local park 15 minutes walk away and brief you in terms of what to expect, observing etiquette, tips, equipment handling and take any questions you have - weather general or astronomy/cosmology related. **After Drinks:** Unless I have a very important 9AM Thursday deadline for a client presentation or something that I'm still gonna be writing 2 mins before start - most of us usually head our way back to Camden for another drink. If so - I will annouce the pub when we leave the park **===What Can You Expect To See (this time of year)? ====** * Orion Nebula * Jupiter and 4 moons * Meteors * Andromedia Galaxy * Saturn, rings & moon * Star clusters such as the Pleiades & Owl Cluster etc * International Space station fly by * Venus & Mercury * Binary & tripple star systems (think planet *Tatooine in* Starwars!), * Neptune * Uranuus * Mars * Our moon * A look towards the galactic centre where that supermassive £22b Labour black hole sits (Sagittarius A) More here from Jodrell Bank Observatory/Astrophysics Centre: [http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/](http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/) Guide to viewing the cosmos for beginners: [https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp](https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp) **===Weather Dependent=====** The event is subject to clear skies forecasts on the night so if on the actual afternoon of the event the weather forecasts looks unsuitable beyond doubt then I will postpone so please check the event status on the day of the event . If this event is still listed here at 5PM on the day, it will be going ahead at the designated day and time! Happy Stargazing Lucas Skywalker - The Singin, Dancin, DJin Astronomer

**Venue:** Wetherspoon Crosse Keys (far back downstairs room). 9 Gracechurch Street, EC3V 0DR Nearest station. Monument. Welcome to our 50-50 Trivia Quiz and afternoon social get-together. **Bring a pen please.** Thirty interesting tricky questions, each with two answers to choose from. (No sport or maths). Is the answer obvious or not? I set the quiz so expect surprises. Check photos below or previous events for similar question sheets. When you go on walks, you see and learn things. With this Trivia Quiz, you'll definitely be learning a bit more! Four players max per team, but the lower number teams get a point per player start from the biggest team. For example, four teams of one, two, three and four. Four player team, no advantage, (the biggest and theoretically the more knowledge between them, except it doesn't always work like that). Three player team. one point start. Two player team. two point start. One player team. three point start. Scores are always close and around the 23-25 points mark. How many players do you want in your team? There's a dilemma! Prizes of interesting flavour chocolate and one for the funniest team name. Every three weeks on a Monday at various central london Wetherspoons or function rooms. Event time is from 2-4pm, which allows plenty of time to get away for transport. Twenty five minutes for the quiz, five for marking up, and socialising time for the remainder period. There is a small charge of £4 card/cash to cover prize and Meetup costs. This is a great way to make new friends or catch up with old ones. See you there! **Contact number on the day is 07422334411 if your transport is delayed.** **Don’t forget to cancel via the “Edit RSVP” button if you can’t make an event. Please do this well in advance when you know, so it allows good notice for someone else to take your place. Your consideration is greatly appreciated.**

Woodland End of Year Cacao - with LBRP, Angelic calling and intention setting for a glorious and fulfilling new year 2026. Join us for the End of Year 2025 Cacao in the woods- where we clear space with Highmagical practice of LBRP , then call Archangel guardians for the is ritual. While Cacao is heated up in the cooking pan, there will be some chants & drumming to raise energy as you take turns to stirr the Cacao.. and charm it with intentions for the new year 2026, positive words and Angelic calls to the 4 Archangels Raphael, Michael, Gabriel & Uriel. After drinking cacao, we'll use Heart-frequency singing bowls, guide all in a pathworking as you lay down comfortably (bring blankets to cover up). There may be some additional healing & divination work - time permitting. *\*We are using Organic, Vegan, Ceremonial grade Cacao, grown by the Ashaninka Tribe in Peru\** * **Spaces strictly limited - please use our eventbrite link to book spaces. Thank you.** * https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/woodland-cacao-angelic-magic-for-new-beginnings-tickets-1968899573626 **A Note on Cacao drinking in a ritual circle.** It is an old tribal practice that works gently in heartcentre and energy openings in people. It takes time to work. It's effects are subtle, and can include a good feeling of wellness, connection, love, gratitude, mindfullness, positivity. So starting with groundedness, stillness, and balance is importrant in order to feel its effects. **Venue:** Queen's Wood (nearest Tube: High Gate). This ceremony is held in a public woods, in the evening, in natural weather conditions , *So please do come fully prepared as follows!-* **Meeting point (7pm):** * Gather at The entrance to Queen's Woods, Queen's wood Road, N6 5UU . * Google map ref: 51.580240, -0.142252 Mani (Facilittor) will meet & collect you, and lead all attendees into the woods, to a chosen ritual space, where the Cacao ceremony will commence. ***What to bring: Essential*** * Torch light for safe walking in woods at night. * Extra warm clothing, blanket to cover (for Journey time), * rain-coat, good outdoor shoes or boots, ankle covered socks! * Small ground sheet, cushion or blanket to sit/ lay on. * ***Optional-*** Drums, rattles, percursion musical instruments; Note books; Lanterns / candles; your own crystals & talismans to keep with you for journey; Your own Cup to drink Cacao from. (we provide reusuable cups). **\-\-\- OUR POLICY \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** * NO Drugs/ substances, NO Alcohol at this event. * Only Vegetarian/ vegan foods snacks, thanks. * For Ages 18+ and over only. * **Health & Safety:** If you feel unwell please stay at home. you can attend next time. * These woods are NOT suitable for anyone with mobility issues, wheel chairs. * Inclusivity: Please be kind, compassionate to one another throughout the whole gathering. We are inclusive of all race, genders, sexuality, LGBTQP+ We look forward to sharing our magic with you. Bright Blessings -Mani, Evanna, Sara \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **About the Organiser :** Mani is an author, teacher, initiated Witch & High Priest, with 30yrs of Wicca & magical experiences. Since 2004, he has been working more and more in Woods, with rituals, covens and workshop. Mani has a Physics B.Sc degree, training in Transpersonal Psychology & counselling, and blends some Hindu & Shamanic practices into pagan rituals. **Join Facebook grp** [www.facebook.com/groups/LondonWoodlandWitches](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/woodland-cacao-angelic-magic-for-new-beginnings-tickets-1968899573626?aff=oddtdtcreator) **Join Woodland Witches meetup** [www.meetup.com/LondonWoodlandWitches](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/woodland-cacao-angelic-magic-for-new-beginnings-tickets-1968899573626?aff=oddtdtcreator) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Chants used:** 1\. Lady spin your circle bright\. weave your web of dark & light Earth, Air, Fire an water Join us as one. 2\. River is flowing\, flowing and growing River is flowing, down to the sea. Mother Earth, carry me, your child I will alway be Mother Earth carry me, down to the Sea. 3\. We all come from the Goodess\, and to her we shall return Like a drop of rain, flowing to the Ocean. Hoof and horn, Hoof and Horn- All that dies shall be reborn. Corn and grain, Corn and grain - All that falls shall rise again.

Join us at the Northern Lights Speakers is a non-profit, volunteer run public speaking club. Whether you are a beginner or experienced speaker, our club will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to improve your impromptu and rehearsed speaking skills. Our experienced Toastmasters will guide you through various exercises and give you feedback to help you think on your feet and speak confidently in any situation. The club is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills, boost their confidence, and overcome the fear of speaking in public. Why not come and see how your speaking abilities can be improved and network with like-minded individuals in a supportive and friendly environment. Contact: nlspeakers@gmail.com

I am a native, qualified teacher of English and this is a session designed for you to go over any particular issues that you have in English - grammar, exam preparation, pronunciation, vocabulary and so on - as well as to practise your conversational skills discussing current topics. Just let me know if there is anything you would like me to cover during the session. The fee of £5 can be paid on the day in cash or in advance online. Thanks, Keith

Let's welcome the new year together!

\*\*\* This event is hosted by a third party. \*\*\* \*\*\* We are looking for event ambassadors for this event. Are you able to help? \*\*\* An event ambassador helps with passing on event notices like cancellations, time changes or special happenings regarding the event. The best people to be event ambassadors are parents and the real host or organiser of the event, but especially the parents who attend! **Event Description:** The Home Ed group is open to families during term time on Wednesdays 10.30-13.00. All ages of home-educated kids are welcome! 🥳 Generally, during school holidays, the group is exclusively open to HE families between 10-12, and the site is also open to all families from 12-2. Please get in touch to receive a Link to pay £3 per family. Cash or card payment on the door is also totally fine. All money goes direct to the organisers of the playground. **Place:** Shakespeare Walk Adventure Playground **Address:** 69 Shakespeare Walk, Stoke Newington, London, N16 8TB **Price:** £3 per family **Reminders!** The site is designed for children aged 6 and over. Younger children are welcome and need to be supervised by their adults. Due to food allergies, all food must be consumed outside - no food inside the hall. Children are not allowed in the kitchen and grown-ups can make their own cups of coffee or tea as long as they bring their own resources as the milk, sugar etc. We need to all work together to tidy the site at the end of the session to ensure it’s left as we found it. Tidy-up time is at 12:45PM and we must vacate the premises before 1 PM. Thanks! Please check the official links for more info: [https://www.swapa.org.uk/calendar](https://www.swapa.org.uk/calendar) [https://www.instagram.com/homeedswapa/](https://www.instagram.com/homeedswapa/) [https://www.facebook.com/HomeEdshakespearewalkadventureplayground/](https://www.facebook.com/HomeEdshakespearewalkadventureplayground/) \*\*\* This event is hosted by a third party, and we attend regularly. \*\*\*

Join us for a heartwarming family gathering where children of all ages, along with their furry dog friends and beloved grandparents, are warmly welcomed with open arms! **Place:** Republic.London Sandpit **Where:** Sandpit Outside East India DLR station, next to Tesco Express **Time:** 3 pm to 5 pm **Cost: £1** (Just pay for the adult, this decreases the chance of no shows) This special event invites parents to come together with their kids to have a fun play time in the sand pit! Let’s gather, unwind, and delight in watching our children play, laugh, and make memories together!

\*\*\* The more parents and kids, the cheaper it gets for all of us! \*\*\* \*\*\* Do you know a Location? \*\*\* **Action Steps Needed:** **1,** RSVP to the Waitlist to show your interest. **2,** Post your location idea in the discussion! **3,** Fill in our basic info form at https://form.typeform.com/to/z37tCjtL. **Interested in East London are:** Jonathan, Anna Butterworth, Victoria474389760, **Interested in North West London are:** Soba **Possible location Ideas are:** Your home, an Adventure Playground, free play coffee shop, Soft play location, your garden or summer house, task-based play like clay modelling, Wall or rock climbing, splash pad, forest play time with hut, River Picnic... What would work well for you?

\*\*\* First Child ONLY £5 pm! Next two will be £15p/m! - [https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-0R1788104G517544NNC6AXRI](https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-0R1788104G517544NNC6AXRI) \*\*\* There is a golden period each child or young adult has: between the ages of 8 and 25 (kids can start as early as six), while your child is still living at home. During this period, they have a wonderful opportunity to create a real income greater than their monthly expenses. This allows your child to achieve the power of multiple incomes safely while their expense needs are still low and their parents are present to support and provide help and perspective. **Steps:** **1,** Your User Name or User ID for the form are found here: [https://images.typeform.com/images/8bxrTGGWQC8C/image/default](https://images.typeform.com/images/8bxrTGGWQC8C/image/default) **2,** Go to [https://form.typeform.com/to/z37tCjtL](https://form.typeform.com/to/z37tCjtL.) **3,** Fill in the form. (it takes 60 seconds) **4,** RSVP to the event **OR** Subscribe with the discounted event fee **Potential opportunities could be:** (There are just so many!) 1, Run a lemonade stand, help your child manufacture lemonade and sell it at your nearest train station or pub. 2, Help other kids learn by making a short video. You'll earn money when people watch your video, and it will keep paying you every time someone watches it. 3, Advertise to find adults who have extra LAZY money, introduce them to The Financial Freedom Mastermind, and we will pay you a finder's fee (Or a Monthly Income, depending on the person and what they buy) when the adult spends money! ... there are so many ways to make money! Join us, and we will help you find your first income stream. **Passive Income is -** Getting money every month by doing some work at the start, and then not having to do much after that to keep getting paid. **Income safety** **is -** Having a few different people (customers or employers) who pay you for your work, so if one of them stops working with you (or you get fired), you still have money coming in from the other people. **Leverage -** Leverage is using a smart tool or idea to make your work easier and get bigger results with less effort. **What you will learn from the experience:** * That it can be fun earning money, * There is a process that needs to be followed to create content, * Digital content can be leveraged over time repetitively, * That great income generally requires an upfront effort, * The power of leverage, * The power of income safety, * The power of having 10+ employers, * The power of repetitive income, **Event Details:** * **Skills Needed:** None * **Resources Needed:** You and your kids time and energy to take action and make it happen. * **Date & Time:** First Sunday of each month @ 3:45 PM for 15 minutes * **Cost:** £35 at the door (or £5 pm subscription for the first person) [https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-0R1788104G517544NNC6AXR](https://www.paypal.com/webapps/billing/plans/subscribe?plan_id=P-0R1788104G517544NNC6AXRI) **Sponsorship opportunity:** Are you interested in supporting the entrepreneurial initiatives of your child or other children by funding their enterprise? We propose supporting our children's efforts, regardless of quality, to motivate them to continue creating, knowing that with practice, their skills will steadily improve and in most cases improve very quickly. \*\*\* This event is partnered with "Get Out of The Rat Race - In the real world" found at [https://www.meetup.com/takingaction/events/](https://www.meetup.com/takingaction/events/). This is a fun but serious event. \*\*\*

Come along on Saturday 3rd January to visit the amazing Cinema Museum! **About the museum** The museum opened in 1986 and is a collection of everything to do with cinema-going. The collection was started by cinema projectionist Ronald Grant (who co-runs the museum today) and the collection is what he has collected over the last 60 years to do with the cinema (when cinema's were independent). The collection grew far beyond its origins as an enthusiast's treasure trove to become an extensive archive of historical and social importance, and Ronald, along with Martin Humphries established the Cinema Museum to safeguard the collections future. The museum has posters, art deco cinema chairs, projectors, ushers' uniforms from the 1940's, tickets, ashtrays and popcorn cartons, as well as an archive boasting hundreds of books, photos and 17 million feet of film. The museum is housed in the admin block of the old Lambeth Workhouse (built in 1873 and one of the few remaining workhouses in London), which has it's own movie links. As a young boy, Charlie Chaplin along with his half brother Sydney and their mother spent one year living in the workhouse. **About the visit** Before we enter, I will give a 10 minute talk on the history of the Lambeth Workhouse. I will then show you a few things in the museum, before taking you upstairs to the former Workhouse chapel. Tea & coffee will then be available and Martin & Ronald will give a talk on the museum and show a short film. Feel free to ask them any questions. Then you will be able to look around the museum. The museum is only open for group visits. The visit should last about 1h 30mins. **Cost** Entry is £13 per person for Full Members and £14 for everyone else (payable on the day cash, credit card, PayPal or bank transfer). **If you wish to pay in advance:** \- Bank transfer: TSB Bank plc\, sort code: 77\-66\-65\, account no: 00030809\, Account name: Cultureseekers \- Credit card: \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO)) \- PayPal \- [https://www.paypal.com/uk/](https://www.paypal.com/uk/), ‘send a payment’ to general@cultureseekers.org and click on the ‘Goods & Services’ option and change it to ‘Friends & Family’, as this avoids a charge from PayPal. **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(\(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809, Account name: Cultureseekers)) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) **Afterwards** After we will head to the 'The Dog House pub' (upstairs) a short walk from the museum at 293 Kennington Road for a chat over a drink. If you can make it, please come to the pub afterwards, as its a great way to meet and get to know others after the visit. Please note, we only wait outside the station for 10 minutes after the advertised meeting time, so please be early or on time. If you can't see us outside the station, please text. Look out for the red and blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](general@cultureseekers.org) ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it.*** ***Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** *Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing -* ***[https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.

Start the New Year off right! Join us as we get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event to distribute food at the Champion Food Pantry! We’ve created a great little community of Movie Group friends! Rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve people in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: CHAMPION FOOD PANTRY: The Champion Food Pantry provides needed food to neighbors experiencing food insecurity. For this event, we’ll be volunteering to help with Food Distribution during client pick up times. Our group will receive on-the-spot training from some of their seasoned regular volunteers. PLAN FOR CHAMPION FOOD PANTRY: Please arrive by 2:45pm. Our volunteer time will be from 3:00 to 6:00pm. LOCATION & PARKING: The Champion Food Pantry is located at 1460 S. Champion Ave in Columbus. Parking is located in the lot on Frebis across from the pantry. Please enter through the door marked "Volunteers enter here” on Frebis Ave. A map has been uploaded to the photos. IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing the majority of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. No shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will mak you ineligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. LINKS & INFO: Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: • Champion Food Pantry Civil Rights Training: Attached file. • Champion Food Pantry Parking and Entrance: Attached file. • Champion Food Pantry Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0wI-AwOYLY • Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/foodpantrieschampion THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others in our community! But the benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering can provide a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Thanks for your help and look forward to seeing you there, Dan

The Columbus housing market is evolving, raising questions about next steps. This session will outline current trends in clear, practical terms. Seniors, caregivers, investors, and those preparing to buy or sell in 2026 will all benefit from the information provided. What You’ll Learn: • Key market trends and what’s driving them • How today’s conditions affect buying, selling, and investing • Guidance for seniors and caregivers navigating housing decisions • Strategies to make informed, confident choices All are welcome to attend. Please bring any questions you may have.

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).