Modern Day Slavery

"In those exploratory early years, cultural organisations of all kinds were formed, merged, re-named, and dissolved. Artistic and literary groups were set up in factories, schools, military units, and rural bases. Street poetry groups were established, with one collective’s manifesto stating, ‘do not let a single wall in the countryside or a single rock by the side of the road lie free and empty… Write… Sing – for the resistance, for the nation, for the masses’. Theatre troupes, which emerged earlier in the 1930s as a powerful force in the resistance to Japanese imperialism, were particularly well received by a largely illiterate rural population. They were able to orally and accessibly communicate the most urgent problems of the day, explain the communist programme, serve as counter-propaganda, and, most importantly, win the confidence of the people." Welcome back readers! This time we're in for double trouble with two fairly short readings taken together. In this special LMRG meeting, we're asking ourselves some important, occasionally uncomfortable questions about aesthetics and politics - a combo which, if you ask certain Marxists like Walter Benjamin, could equal fascism. That's right, we're talking about art, culture, and the strange power of myth, symbolism, imagery and the imagination. Wait! Stop! Isn't this anti-materialist? Don't fundamental economic forces shape everything, and shouldn't our political activity focus on educating workers as to that fact? Aren't we getting dangerously close to [Sorelianism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorelianism#Individualism_and_myth) and idealism with all this? Isn't it a slippery slope to ["God-building"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God-Building)? In asking these questions I'm obviously putting words in the mouth of a rather unfair caricature of a fusty old-minded Marxist. As we'll see with our two readings, politics and cultural practice go together hand-in-glove, at least philosophically. Gramsci's thought on these subjects is well-known, and has been adapted far and wide, [including on the extreme right.](https://jacobin.com/2025/03/right-gramsci-de-benoist-trump) Even the Fabian Society, founders of Labourism, got their start with a little outfit called the [Leeds Arts Club.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leeds_Arts_Club) Our two pieces demonstrate this from two very opposed ends of the left spectrum, from the strident Marxism-Leninism of the Tricontinental Institue with their dossier on the Ya'nan Soviet's 1942 [Forum on Literature and Art](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yan%27an_Forum) (chaired by Mao Z) on the one hand and the late, great anarchist anthropologist David Graeber's *On the Phenomenology of Giant Puppets* on the other. Find them here: https://files.libcom.org/files/puppets.pdf https://thetricontinental.org/dossier-yanan-forum/ Both essays detail the concrete practices and theoretical underpinnings of two distinct movements: education, propaganda and mass mobilisation during China's Civil War and Anti-Japanese War, and the street theatre tactics of the 2000s-era alter-globalisation movement, respectively. Graeber's essay details the now only partly-remembered practices of building and fielding "giant puppets" - floats, papier-mache beasts, large-scale imaginative constructions, etc - and asks the question of why they seemed to have such a hold on the minds of the police from Seattle to Milan. Forget homo sapiens - [homo ludens](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_Ludens#) needs to play to learn. Both will be starting-points for what will no doubt be a wide-ranging discussion on the topic of how art, culture and symbolism fit into anti-capitalist political practice. We'll ask where we stand today on the left in the Englishs-speaking world with regards to these matters, what we can learn from the past, and what we might do going forward. Take care and happy reading!

Make sure to **Pre-book** your ticket through [our website](www.ontherocksbarcrawl.com/london/book-now) We're rated number 1 for nightlife on TripAdvisor in Brighton and Barcelona, and 12th in London so you know you'll have a great time ◡̈ People come from LOTS of other channels so please ignore the meetup RSVP number ◡̈ Whether you're new to London or just expanding your social circle, bar crawling is a fantastic way to meet people! Every day our crawl is full of lively people who are just there to meet new friends and have a good time. Guides will take you to at least 5 great bars and clubs in the centre of London. The guides make sure to make everyone feel included, encourage mixing within the group and introduce everyone. This makes it a great activity whether you come alone or with friends. We hope to meet you soon :) INFO: exact meeting point shared once you purchase a ticket (prices vary depending on when you book but start at £19.50) Included is : \- Entry to four bars and a club \- A free shot at each bar \- exclusive reduced drink deals at every venue \- access to the photos that we take with our big fancy camera BRING ID! 18+ years old only (Sorry, it's the law :/ ) Make sure to bring a valid Driving Licence or Passport, other forms of ID (including photocopies of the above) are unlikely to be accepted by the venues that we visit. Make sure to bring ID no matter your age. \*\*\*Please note: Due to previous bad experiences, we are unfortunately no longer able to accept stag/hen dos (or same-sex groups of more than 9) on our main crawl. To book a private crawl with us, please contact london@ontherocksbarcrawl.com\*\*\* Ts&Cs apply: [https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/](https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/)

Meeting at The Monument- the tall unmissable tower : A most wonderful walk of just over 7 miles in length that mostly follows the Thames on the south side. The walk shall commence at 11am and then shall cross over the Thames on our route to Greenwich which we should arrive at by around 1.45pm having passed Tower Bridge along the way. We shall stop off for a quick drink at the famous Mayflower pub enroute. Meetup fee £5 payable in cash. Please bring water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/ trainers. Some of us may decide to have lunch in Greenwich Market and then after a wander around this most famous place that houses the Cutty Sark we may decide to meet up at 3pm and take the riverbus back to Embankment. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no is 07714250849.

Hoping to continue the weekly lunches but I've moved this one to Thursday as a few people have problems with a wednesday. Megan's is a modern bistro styled restaurant and dies accept reservation mid week

Have you ever wanted to gather together and talk about insightful topics which broadens your thinking and knowledge? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to the ‘Deep conversations’ event where you get the opportunity to share your views based on the topics that we may cover. With this particular event, the topics we’ll discuss are: * Wealth vs freedom * Chinese zodiac and symbolism * The power of reminiscence and memory * Eastern tradition vs western tradition * Education vs the system * Was there someone special in your life whom you miss and if so, why? We get so preoccupied with daily life that we hardly have a chance to sit back and think as well as discuss many topics in such depth. When was the last time you sat back and thought about anything in depth which opened your eyes to so many possibilities and broadened your thinking? Now is your chance to share your views and learn from one another. By participating in this, you could broaden your ways of thinking, learn new lessons or even heal if you have your hidden struggles. You don’t have to but if you enjoyed the event and if you want, I’m more than happy to accept optional donations. Even if you donate £1, it helps not only myself but you guys too by unlocking pathways for even more potential events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy WHAT - Deep conversations
WHERE - Coffee island https://maps.app.goo.gl/XiVFwhjuqDH7oSadA?g_st=ipc
WHEN - 6:30pm - 8pm
MEETING POINT - Inside Coffee Island
NEAREST STATION - Leicester Square & Covent Garden stations
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour and respect on one’s opinions. PRECAUTIONS - This event is capped so if you do RSVP but can’t make it, please change it to ‘not going’ so it enable others willing to attend to be marked as ‘going’. If you do mark yourselves as going, don’t change your RSVP and don’t attend, the next time another event such as this takes place and you rsvp, you will be marked as ‘not going’ as it’s possible you may make commit the same action. Please be mindful about the opportunities for others who are willing to attend. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

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

**Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/exclusive-london-business-networking-director-connector-at-iod-champagne-tickets-1972405825921?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/exclusive-london-business-networking-director-connector-at-iod-champagne-tickets-1972405825921?aff=meetup)** Network with like minded company directors, founders and entrepreneurs in a reserved area at the Institute of Directors Join **entrepreneurs, directors, investors, and professionals** at the prestigious Institute of Directors in London for high-level connections, strategic partnerships, and premium networking opportunities. Looking to make powerful business connections in London? Join **London Connector®** at the **exclusive Champagne Bar, Institute of Directors (IoD), 116 Pall Mall**, for a premium networking evening in one of the city’s most prestigious venues. This is not your average networking night. Hosted in the historic IoD building, usually reserved for members only, this event gives you a **rare opportunity** to step inside a venue that symbolizes professional prestige and British business excellence. Surrounded by refined interiors and an elegant atmosphere, you’ll be part of an evening designed to help you build **meaningful relationships, discover new opportunities, and grow your network** at the highest level. ## **Who You’ll Meet** Our events are carefully curated to ensure quality conversations and valuable connections. Expect to meet: * **Entrepreneurs & Startup Founders** – looking for investors, collaborators, and strategic partners * **Company Directors, CEOs & Executives** – seeking growth opportunities and alliances * **Investors & Advisors** – scouting new ventures and partnerships * **Professionals across industries** – including tech, finance, law, media, sustainability, marketing, and healthcare * **Business Owners & Consultants** – expanding their client base and building trusted connections Every London Connector® event brings together **forward-thinking, opportunity-driven professionals** who believe in collaboration and supporting one another’s growth. ## **Why Attend?** ✅ **Prestigious Venue Access** – Network at the Champagne Bar inside the Institute of Directors, a landmark in London’s business world that is rarely open to non-members. ✅ **High-Caliber Networking** – Connect with entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and innovators who are shaping the future of business. ✅ **Pre-Event WhatsApp Group** – Start networking before the event with fellow attendees in our private group. ✅ **A Hosted, Structured Evening** – With facilitated introductions and a relaxed yet professional setting, everyone feels included. ✅ **Premium Experience** – Limited capacity (60 guests) ensures quality interactions instead of crowded, impersonal networking. ⚠️ This event has **sold out more than once in the past**. Early booking is strongly advised as tickets are limited and non-refundable. ## **Who Should Attend?** This event is perfect if you are: * An entrepreneur or startup founder seeking investors or collaborators * A director, CEO, or executive looking for new partnerships and opportunities * An investor, consultant, or advisor scouting fresh talent and ideas * A professional in tech, finance, law, sustainability, or marketing expanding your network * A business owner looking to meet like-minded achievers in an elegant setting ## **What Makes London Connector® Events Unique?** Unlike traditional networking events that feel rushed or overcrowded, **London Connector®** creates experiences where genuine conversations and valuable relationships flourish. We focus on **quality over quantity**, ensuring each attendee gets the chance to build connections that matter. Our track record speaks for itself: * Consistently **sold-out events** at prestigious venues * A curated guest list of **decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and investors** * A welcoming atmosphere where introductions are facilitated, and no one feels left out * Post-event connections supported through our curated WhatsApp groups 📸 **Photography & Video Disclaimer** Please note that photos and videos may be taken during the event to capture the energy of the evening. These may be used on our website, social media, and future promotional materials. If you prefer not to appear in any content, simply inform one of our event hosts upon arrival and we will ensure your preference is respected. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events/) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events/) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london/) * [London Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking/) * [London Business Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking/) * [#networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23networking/) * [#startup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup/) * [#investors](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23investors/) * [#entrepreneur](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23entrepreneur/) * [#london](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23london/) * [#director](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23director/) * [#october](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23october/) * [#businessnetworking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23businessnetworking/) * [#business_growth](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_growth/) * [#business_professional](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_professional/)

The **Free Cities Meetup London** is back, and we’re kicking off 2026 with a very special event **hosted by Próspera** — perhaps the world’s best-known Free City. With its flagship site located on the tropical island of Roatán, Honduras, Próspera is a special jurisdiction with unusually high levels of legal, regulatory, and economic freedom, allowing it to design its own laws, regulations, and tax system. At its core, Próspera represents an attempt to build a new system of governance from scratch — one that treats governance as a service rather than a monopoly. Joining us on the night will be **Lonis**, *Próspera resident and Head of Growth*, and **Andrea**, *Head of Experience at Próspera*, who will give an overview presentation and take questions from the audience. Our regular meetup host **Peter Young**, *Managing Director of the Free Cities Foundation*, will also join to share the Foundation’s exciting plans to host a **major conference in Próspera this September**. **We’ll cover:** * What Próspera is, how it works, and how it differs from traditional states * Recent developments on the ground and plans for the future * Why for-profit and competitive governance might outperform political monopoly * What Próspera's US Founders got right — and what they got wrong * The role of insurance companies as market regulators * How to get involved with Próspera itself, both in Roatán and across the wider Free Cities movement There will be **wraps and drinks available**, and plenty of time for discussion and informal conversation. **Important registration note** To attend this event, **click "attend" on meetup.com** and also **provide your details by clicking the “request to join” button via the link below**: 👉 https://luma.com/w2jap3yu Meetup RSVPs alone are not sufficient.

[Follow 👉this link👈 for more info, tickets are optional](https://thephotographersgallery.org.uk/whats-on) Join us for this free late opening: Michael Kenna: Shin Shin しんしん (...) long-exposure analogue landscapes Boris Mikhailov: Ukrainian Diary A major retrospective of work Zofia Rydet: Sociological Record (...) portraits of Polish domestic life Followed by social nearby: upstairs at The King's Arms in Poland Street. See comments below for updates.

**Venue change: Please note that we are meeting at Royal Festival Hall this time! Please use event comments if you're lost.** Flags on lamp-posts, crosses on roundabouts, small boats, red hats, great replacement theory! It seems like we are surrounded more and more everyday by people who are overtly concerned with the integrity of their nation state. No doubt you, dear reader, have your own definition as to what nationalism is and who espouses it most on the modern political stage. But what actually is nationalism? What are its core characteristics? It is easy to see nationalism in the political workings of 1930s Germany, or even the modern day USA, but what if we were to extend the concept beyond allegiance to simple nations, and included allegiance to other organizations, identities, or even ideas? This is the question George Orwell poses in his 1945 essay Notes on Nationalism (linked in the reading section). Within this essay, he argues that similar patterns of thought, feeling and action exist in the nationalist bases of Germany and Japan as exists within movements for Zionism, Communism, or Political Catholicism. I would extend that further in our modern arena both to far-right movements like MAGA, and the modern progressive separatist movements. Orwell goes to extend the concept of nationalism in the following way: *“A nationalist is one who thinks solely, or mainly, in terms of competitive prestige. He may be a positive or a negative nationalist – that is, he may use his mental energy either in boosting or in denigrating – but at any rate his thoughts always turn on victories, defeats, triumphs and humiliations.”* **A few starter questions** for 10: 1. How would you define nationalism? How does this fit into an expanded definition? 2. Does the rise of identity‑based or separatist movements today reflect a shift in how people define “nation”? 3. Does Orwell’s definition risk being too broad? **Readings:** [George Orwell - Notes on Nationalism](https://www.orwellfoundation.com/the-orwell-foundation/orwell/essays-and-other-works/notes-on-nationalism/); [Wayne Price - National Self-Determination, Internationalism, and Libertarian Socialism](https://theanarchistlibrary.org/library/wayne-price-national-self-determination-internationalism-and-libertarian-socialism); The Identity Trap - Yascha Mounk (2023, Penguin Press)

Make sure to **Pre-book** your ticket through [our website](www.ontherocksbarcrawl.com/london/book-now) We're rated number 1 for nightlife on TripAdvisor in Brighton and Barcelona, and 12th in London so you know you'll have a great time ◡̈ People come from LOTS of other channels so please ignore the meetup RSVP number ◡̈ Whether you're new to London or just expanding your social circle, bar crawling is a fantastic way to meet people! Every day our crawl is full of lively people who are just there to meet new friends and have a good time. Guides will take you to at least 5 great bars and clubs in the centre of London. The guides make sure to make everyone feel included, encourage mixing within the group and introduce everyone. This makes it a great activity whether you come alone or with friends. We hope to meet you soon :) INFO: exact meeting point shared once you purchase a ticket (prices vary depending on when you book but start at £19.50) Included is : \- Entry to four bars and a club \- A free shot at each bar \- exclusive reduced drink deals at every venue \- access to the photos that we take with our big fancy camera BRING ID! 18+ years old only (Sorry, it's the law :/ ) Make sure to bring a valid Driving Licence or Passport, other forms of ID (including photocopies of the above) are unlikely to be accepted by the venues that we visit. Make sure to bring ID no matter your age. \*\*\*Please note: Due to previous bad experiences, we are unfortunately no longer able to accept stag/hen dos (or same-sex groups of more than 9) on our main crawl. To book a private crawl with us, please contact london@ontherocksbarcrawl.com\*\*\* Ts&Cs apply: [https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/](https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/)

**Hyde Park - royalty, artistry and "indescribable filth"** This walk is presented by Central London Humanists and led by Robert Hall. Humanists believe we have just one life to be lived rationally and well, with compassion for others. This event is a guided walk of +/- 2.25 hours pointing out places of interest. We will be walking 4.5 Km / 2.75 miles or if not staying for refreshments 3.5 Km / 2.1 miles. As befits a walk in winter there will be fewer stops than usual and will be walked at a moderate pace. Having been taken into ownership by King Henry VIII and modified by royalty since then we'll discover why Hyde Park has been regarded as such a special place. In addition there will be references to artists and sculptors and architects; not forgetting reformers and landscapers. We'll view the beauty of this large open space almost in the centre of London. **Date:** Saturday 10th January 2026 **Time:** 2 pm with a prompt departure at 2.15 pm **Place:** Meet adjacent to The Italian Gardens Cafe in Hyde Park. It is strongly suggested you find us using: https://what3words.com/tribal.plots.notion - or the What3Words app. Lancaster Gate station (Central Line) is just across the road. Paddington station is walkable. The nearest toilets are adjacent to the cafe. There will be a very brief toilet stop on the walk. **Finishes:** About 4.00 pm at Queen Victoria Gate (for Lancaster Gate station) or join us for refreshments at Brewdog, Paddington Basin W2 1JX The walk is led by Robert – 07981963681. He can be contacted for further information but please note he won’t be able to respond to messages or calls after the walk has started. **The formal bit:** These walks are not suitable for dogs, sorry. CLH events are 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. The maximum group size is 40 people. If you have signed up but find you can't attend, **please change your RSVP** on Meetup (it’s very easy to do) as soon as possible so others can join. You are responsible for your own actions and safety; there is no liability on the walk leader or CLH for anything that may happen on the walk. You must be able to keep up with the walk leader at 4 Km/h (2.5 mph) for 5 Km (3 miles). It is participants' responsibility to safely cross roads. Where appropriate, pedestrian controlled lights will be used and obeyed unless it is obvious that the whole group can cross safely. When the group stops at a point of interest, please be mindful not to block pavements so members of the public can pass by safely. Don’t forget this is the UK and it may rain at any time! The walk will go ahead whatever the weather unless conditions are dangerous so please bring clothing for all seasons. **A donation of £3 to Central London Humanists would be appreciated.** The majority of Central London Humanists events are free, but we welcome a £3 contribution per head. This helps towards the running and organising of events, as well as various admin expenses. If you can't attend and would still like to contribute, or would prefer to pay online, please **[click here](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML71XMH66FX5E/checkout/ALWCDLQ3S7AVPLFZ62PZGXLU)**. We encourage dialogue, debate, and sharing of information, but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any individual's views expressed (most definitely including the walk leader!) do not necessarily reflect the views of the group at large.

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 12 miles (20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 240m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6 hours • Cost: £33 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Waterloo station. Meet under the main central clock - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Waterloo.jpg) & [photo](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/WaterlooClock.jpg) of the clock • Time: Meet 8:30am, leave 8:50am for the 9:07am train • Return: 6:36pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore the romantic **ruins of Waverley Abbey** (founded in 1128) • Visit **Tilford village green** — a picture-postcard cricket green flanked by medieval bridges • See an **800-year-old oak tree** with an 8m girth • Step inside **Mother Ludlam’s Cave**, legendary home of the White Witch • Visit the **Bourne Woods filming location** used in Gladiator, Harry Potter, War Horse and 20+ other films • Follow woodland and riverside trails along the **River Wey** • Discover hidden gems near **Farnham**, a historic Georgian market town 🥾 **Hike Description** Our journey begins in the Georgian market town of **Farnham**, with its history spanning nearly 1,000 years. From here we follow woodland trails to **Mother Ludlam’s Cave**, once said to be the home of the White Witch of Waverley. Passing the grand **Moor Park House**, we reach the evocative ruins of **Waverley Abbey**, England’s first Cistercian monastery founded in 1128, and the nearby **Waverley Abbey House**, set beside a tranquil lake. The trail then brings us to **Tilford village**, a picture-perfect English setting with a cricket pitch, riverside pub, and two medieval stone bridges across the **River Wey**. Continuing on, we pass an **800-year-old oak tree** of remarkable size and a nearby farm where pigs — and often piglets — can be seen in the fields. Next we enter the **Bourne Woods**, an enchanting mix of heathland and coniferous forest. Here we actually pass through **specific filming locations** used in *Gladiator, Robin Hood, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, War Horse* and more than 20 other films. Walking these paths, you’ll stand where legendary battle scenes and cinematic moments were filmed. We return to **Farnham** to complete the circuit, finishing a hike rich in history, folklore and cinematic scenery — a trail through time that captures the very best of Surrey’s countryside. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/

**Come anytime during 4-8. Stay as long as you want. No set time*** It’s a chance to meet people in our age group regardless if you’re in your fifties, sixties or seventies! Retired or still working.

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

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

Join the [Columbus Vegan Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/columbusveganmeetup/) on **Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM** at **1043 W 3rd Avenue in Grandview**! Come hang out and enjoy delicious pastries from this **all-vegan, family-owned** local favorite. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just curious, it’s the perfect time to build your social circle and support a community business. See you there!

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

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