Ancient Rome

£5 February Special This is part 2 of the walk of part 1 we did on Wednesday January 21st We will meet in The Lion & Unicorn {Wetherspoons} in the sidings in Waterloo Station at 11.00 am for a hot drink, after our hot drink at 11.30 am we will start our walk. We will walk to Paternoster Square and pass the Paternoster chop house where First Dates is filmed. We will then go to New Change and up to the roof garden {as image above.} Our walk will then take us towards St. Mary-le-bow church, and St Bride's Church. We will walk through the Inns of Court {Inner Temple and Middle Temple ending up Holborn Underground. This where we end our walk where there are many places to eat including Shakespeares Head {Wetherspoons}. There are many steps to climb on this walk so If you have a knee problem this walk is is not for you. If you need any more info call or text Paul on 07530 675739 {this is not a smart phone}. \*JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY \* <[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)\>\* ##

I don't know if this recurring event still happens. I suspect not, but I have never had any enquiry about it, or heard of anyone going on it. For details - contact Nick [dot] Davies [at] lbbd [dot] gov [dot] uk (Nick.Davies@lbbd.gov.uk). Map pin on Meetup does not show location of park.

*This is a group for deep conversation, making friends, discussing philosophy, (good) music, art, poetry, experiences, politics, and building a strong community in London. Bring a little artifact of your own or of others.* We are going to **meet** inside the **Barbican Centre** to split off into groups. Outside the concert hall at level -1 as seen in the picture. **18:30 - 20:30** is the club time, but people can and will **stay longer** for more chatting, and to talk about other groups for you to join. **For updates, conversation and our whereabouts on the day check the WhatsApp:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/LyRmJUaqN5zLJ2x21nIo04

Step away from the screen and join us for our **Offline Women Tea Time**. This is a cosy, phone-free gathering for genuine connection and thoughtful conversation over a cup of tea. It's a simple, mindful break to enjoy **a good chat, share stories, and build community in a relaxed setting.** Spots are limited to ensure the group remains small, intimate, and everyone has a great time connecting. **Meeting Point:** Inside the Café. Look for me with **an embroidered black tote bag.** My phone will be **offline**. If you have questions, please message me at least one hour before the starting time.

Bring your own lunch and enjoy mindful eating then time for discussion and connection. Led by Kate Dean and Tatiana Kassessinoff. The Heartspaces programme is a series of weekly spiritual gatherings led by Unitarian ministers and volunteers across London open to spiritual seekers, existing Unitarians and curious newcomers. Monthly Wednesday lunchtimes and every Thursday evening. Suggested donation: £5 Don't let this be a barrier - contact Kateboo if you can't afford to contribute in this way.

**🎤 Low Stakes Comedy – Midweek Laughs in Streatham Hill** 📍 *The Hamlet, 10 Streatham High Road, SW16 1DB* 🗓️ *Every Wednesday \| Doors 7:00pm\, Show 7:30–9:30pm* Low Stakes Comedy is a supportive, live-only comedy night where new and seasoned acts try out fresh material. It’s a great night for: ✅ Discovering new comedians ✅ Laughing with real people, not screens ✅ Meeting others and feeling part of something fun Whether you're just curious or thinking of trying stand-up yourself one day — this is the perfect place to start. 🎟️ *Seats are limited – book in advance to avoid disappointment.* 💸 *Donations welcome after the show.* **🍅 No pressure, no heckling – just a good night out.** Please note: booking here on Meetup is for the audience, and for people who’d like to see what it’s all about before booking a spot to perform. If you’d like to perform at a future show, you can email valerioussara@gmail.com to request a 5-minute spot.

A truly wonderful day out ! After meeting under the clock near platforms 11 and 12 at Waterloo everyone shall take the 10.36am train that arrives at Hampton Court at 11.13am using their oystercards or one day all zone travelcards. Walk will start at 11.30am. The walk shall be alongside the Thames until the Boaters Inn pub in Kingston besides which everyone will eat their lunch. Walk will resume along Thames Path to Richmond to a lovely pub. Total miles walked - around 8 miles. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Things to bring : packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes or trainers. Meetup fee : £5 payable in cash or by bank transfer. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no is 07714250849

Come along on Sunday 8th February at 1:30pm for a guided walk along the old Roman Wall! **About the walk** We will be walking the route of the old Roman Wall, starting at Tower Hill Tube and finishing at Blackfriars Tube. The wall was built between 190AD and 225AD and defined the shape of the City of London. As the City expanded in the 18th and 19th centuries a lot of the wall was knocked down, although there is a bit left which we can see. We will be following the wall using a 'Braun & Hogenberg' map which was drawn in 1572, it shows the wall intact and was one of the first maps to be drawn of London. Using the map, we will be able to see not only what the Roman's built, but also how the wall was adapted and what was built around it in the 16th century when the map was drawn. We can then compare this by what exists on and around the wall today, some 1800 years after it was built. The walk will be led by myself. Maps will be provided of the route. We will walk about 2 miles and so it will take about 2 hours. **Cost** Full Members of the group will be free, everyone else the cost is £7 per person (payable by cash, PayPal, credit card or Bank Transfer on the day). **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](mailto:general@cultureseekers.org), using the ‘Friends & Family’ option **Afterwards** After, we will head to 'Starbucks Coffee Shop', 34 New Bridge St (near Blackfriars Tube Station). 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 (text only) ***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/)***

Hello, incredible Women, I’m deeply honoured to invite you into the sacred space of our \***Women’s Vision Boarding Circle - Reclaim your vision** [Please ensure to save your space here.](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/womens-visionboarding-circle-reclaim-your-vision-registration-1980491664883) Did you know there is a science behind vision boarding? And did you know that magic happens when women gather in Sisterhood? When practised intentionally, this combination supports deep-rooted alignment, focus, and positive change. In this circle, we’ll explore your unique vision through guided meditation, reflection, and a creative vision-boarding process. Together, we will feel and learn more about how and why this works wonders. This is a space for women to return to themselves - and to lead from there, together. You’ll leave feeling grounded, inspired, and more connected to what truly matters to you. **\*\*Suggested Contribution: £25; please give from your heart whatever suits your pocket.** Spaces are limited; advance booking recommended as I cannot guarantee walk-ins. **Whether you’re seeking clarity, realignment, or nourishing connection with like-minded women, this circle is for you.** 📅 **Saturday, 7 February 2026** ⏰ **2:30 – 5:00 PM (GMT)** 📍 **Time and Talents, Rotherhithe, SE London** **What to Expect** * Women’s circle connection and sharing * Heart-opening guided meditation * Visioning & intention setting * Creative vision board exercise (materials provided) **Practical Info** * Dress comfortably * Bring a blanket and pillow if you wish * Journals welcome *\*These Women’s Circle events are intentionally created for cisgender women. If you have any questions about the space, you’re very welcome to reach out.* *\*\*It is at the centre of my heart to make these spaces available to all women; hence, the event is donation-based, with a suggested contribution of £25 to help cover the costs. If you're able to contribute, please consider the suggested donation amount. However, please know your presence is most valuable. Additionally, if you're in a position to support another Sister's participation, I encourage you to pay it forward. Your kindness can make a meaningful difference in someone else's experience. Thank you for your support and generosity. Together, we can create a space where all sisters feel welcomed and supported.*

Due to popularity our events often have a waitlist, but these new LoMAZ Unlimited events do not have a cap on numbers and are a social for everyone. **Join us on a visit to see fragments of the [Mausoleum of Halikarnassos](https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/galleries/mausoleum-halikarnassos) in room 21 in the British Museum.** **This was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.** Built in the 350s BCE to contain the burial of Mausolus, the word 'mausoleum' came to be used for many above ground burial places. We are going to have a shorter look around this one gallery to spend time focusing just on the objects in room. After the museum, we are going to walk to the large Wetherspoon's Penderel's Oak pub for a Sunday evening social afterwards. **MEET DETAILS:** **3:00pm: MEET IN COURT CAFES @ the British Museum** Meet us in the Court Cafés, which are located on the ground floor of the Museum's Great Court. Look for the LoMAZ sign and people wearing LoMAZ badges. **BETWEEN 3:30-3:45pm \~ GO TO ROOM 21 ON LEVEL 1, MAUSOLEUM OF HALIKARNASSOS** **4:30pm \~ PUB SOCIAL** We'll leave room 21 and the museum and walk to The Penderel's Oak for a social chit chat over drinks. Address: 283-288 High Holborn, London WC1V 7HP [https://maps.app.goo.gl/1PF1LDymBw8Jcabn9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/1PF1LDymBw8Jcabn9) **TICKETS:** Entrance to the British Museum is free. Booking a ticket at [https://www.britishmuseum.org/visit](https://www.britishmuseum.org/visit) is advisable to prevent queuing and ensuring entry. **GETTING THERE:** **Address:** British Museum, Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG **Tube:** The four tube stations closest to the Museum are: * Tottenham Court Road: 5-minute walk * Holborn: 7-minute walk * Russell Square: 7-minute walk * Goodge Street: 8-minute walk **Bus:** The following bus routes pass within walking distance of the Museum. * New Oxford Street: 1, 8, 19, 25, 38, 55, 98, 242 * Tottenham Court Road (northbound) / Gower Street (southbound): 14, 24, 29, 73, 134, 390 * Southampton Row: 59, 68, X68, 91, 168, 188 **EVENT WHATSAPP GROUP:** Please join the event WhatsApp group to help you find the group on the day. Please let a host know if your WhatsApp name is different from your Meetup name, otherwise we'll assume you're a spammer and not let you in! ***WhatsApp Link will be posted in the event comments 2-3 days before the event.*** _Joining this WhatsApp group will make your phone number visible to other members in the group._ **GROUP RULES, PLEASE NOTE:** LoMAZ events are run by volunteers. We usually limit event numbers as we prefer a smaller, friendlier group. This event however will not have a waitlist as afterwards we are going to a large pub for a Sunday summer evening social afterwards. If you can no longer attend, please change your RSVP as soon as possible. We remove members from the LoMAZ Meetup group who: * RSVP as ‘Going' but then do not show up (without changing their RSVP) three times in a row * RSVP as ‘Going' but then change their RSVP to 'No' five times in a row * Turn up at an event without being on the 'Going' list (i.e. members who have not signed up or are on the waitlist) **Thank you for your interest in the group & being part of LoMAZ.** Image credit: Eric Pouhier, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

*Disclaimer: All are welcome. Students, professionals, non professionals, business owners, curious cats. ---------------------------------------------------------- Come along to the Hercules Pillars located in Holborn in City centre of London, for a few hours to meet friendly faces, work on your personal projects, or just come and share what passion projects you are all working on. Feel free to bring your laptop, tablet, sketchbook, and notes on the day. Whether you work in Animation, Art, Design, Film, Games development, or storytelling, you are welcome to come along. We love being around diverse creatives who want an opportunity to showcase their talents. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to socialise with like-minded people and to get friendly feedback on their work. All backgrounds are welcome to join us, even if your just curious about Animation/Art/Storytelling \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* I Look forward to seeing you there.

Check out the latest addition to our Cafe events - Backgammon! Enjoy a few rounds of Backgammon with players of all skill levels at our Bermondsey Cafe from 5:30 on Thursdays. £5 entry includes a drink of your choice, with store credit prizing for the highest performing players each week. Buy your ticket to secure your place [here!](https://www.thebrotherhoodgames.co.uk/special-events) Check out what's happening every day through our website's [Event Calendar!](https://www.thebrotherhoodgames.co.uk/event-calendar#flPtAG) Whatever Tabletop game you're into, there's something for everyone at The Brotherhood Games. Share your passion for gaming, connect with like-minded individuals, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere perfect for cafe lovers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of deck building games and strategy - see you there!

Philosophy in the Park is a philosophical discussion group. Open to all. No previous philosophical experience necessary. We will meet in the Barbican Centre on Level Minus 1. Outside The Hall. Here's how it works: * At the start of each hour vote on which questions to discuss. You can vote for more than one question if you'd like. The questions with the most votes are the questions we discuss. * We then break up into groups and each group does a different question. The question is just a starting point and it's cool if you go on tangents and up end talking about different things. You're welcome to join in and participate or if you'd prefer you're welcome to sit back and enjoy the conversation. After an hour we all come back together, take a quick break and then repeat all over again. So in 3 hours we go around 3 times. The aim is to have fun, meet new people, generate interesting and thought-provoking conversations, have your horizons expanded, challenge your preconceptions and who knows - you might even learn something? In order to make the conversations as fun, interesting and productive for everyone as possible please follow these simple guidelines: 1. Keep it Philosophical (No Science, no History, no Evolutionary Psychology, no contestable facts, personal anecdotes etc). 2. Think for Yourself (No phones, no looking up definitions, no name dropping Philosophers / books you've read). 3. Tangents are Cool (Don't worry too much if the subject drifts and you don't answer the question). 4. Keep it Succinct (Like this). 5. Be Excellent to Each Other (But of course). Philosophy is about conceptual analysis. It's thinking about thinking. It's not about empiricism or the real world. It's about abstractions, concepts and ideas. To terms of the right attitude: It's not about debating and trying to win - it's about listening to people and working collaboratively to increase our collective understanding. No homework or prior knowledge or reading is necessary - simply come and enjoy the discussions. After the event finishes we have an area reserved in The Shakespeare pub which is just around the corner from the Barbican. You are very welcome to join us if you'd like. If you would like to submit a question please join the Whatsapp group. Question submissions take place on the Thursday before the meeting. We hope to see you there. Nice one. ... To join the Philosophy in the Park WhatsApp Group please click here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdFaxJHbeOw9UOfuk7spiK](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdFaxJHbeOw9UOfuk7spiK) (in order to stop spam bots this will take you to a Waiting Room. Once in please write your name and we will join you to the main chat). If the link doesn't work then please send me a message with your phone number and I can add you directly. Meetup charges subscription fees. If you would like to make a donation please click here: [https://paypal.me/philosophycollective](https://paypal.me/philosophycollective)

🌌Ever look up 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 fundamental questions; How it all started, our evolution and place in it, and where else in the cosmos other complex life might exist (we know almost every star you see 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**, comets, the famous **Orion Nebula** where stars like our sun were born, the majestic rings of **Saturn**, the international space station, well known star fields, remnants of **supernova** witnessed by our early ancestors, multi-star solar systems (think the double sun in Starwars), the Tau Ceti star with **2 Earth like planets** orbiting in the habitable zone, plus a range of other fascinating celestial wonderments (comets, galaxies) over drinks and engaging chats and banter this Jan fully hosted by 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 - space exploration, Fermi Paradox, Astrobiology, Cosmology, paleontology, SETI/Drake Equation (I have my own augmented version giving more realistic estimates of likely alien civilisations!), exoplanetology etc as well as non space chatter and banter too. No doubt we'll hear the usual jokes we've all heard before! If those don't make you laugh, my impersonation of Los Angeles ET will! 👽 And to help set the mood and make the night feel even extra galactic, I’ll put my DJ hat to play some space‑themed tunes and songs about the stars! **======= 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, DJ-in Astronomer

This is not just a money class. This is a restoration space. The I AM Worthy of Ownership™ Path is a 12-step, sister-centered journey for women who are ready to build financial stability without shame, fear, or pressure—and to do it in a way that honors both wisdom and the spirit. Many women don’t struggle with money because they lack discipline or intelligence. They struggle because of unhealed experiences, survival patterns, and the quiet belief that they are “behind” or “disqualified.” This series gently challenges those beliefs while offering practical tools for peace, clarity, and long-term planning. Together, we will talk honestly about: Releasing shame and money anxiety Building stability as a form of self-respect and spiritual discipline Understanding money as a tool, not a source of worth Managing debt with clarity instead of condemnation Preparing for life’s unexpected moments without fear Laying a calm foundation for future ownership and legacy Each session blends practical financial education with reflection, conversation, and encouragement. There is no pressure to share personal numbers or experiences. You are welcome to speak, journal quietly, or simply listen. This is not about hustle. This is not about perfection. This is about alignment, wisdom, and peace. Who this series is for: Women who are starting over or rebuilding Women who want stability without stress Women preparing for future ownership or housing decisions Women who want their financial lives to reflect wholeness, not fear No prior financial knowledge is required. Come as you are. Bring a notebook. Leave a little lighter than you arrived. Light refreshments will be served along with 30 minutes of networking.

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! 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

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening afternoon of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will individually choose from the buffet and pay for their own meal, by weight.)

Whether you've never done improv before, or you've done it for so long you knew Del Close on a personal level, or anywhere in between, come join us! Swing by *Gresso's* for the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup** for some fun and games! The idea behind improv is to create entire scenes from scratch based on a suggestion from the audience. This can be done in game form, like *Whose Line Is It Anyway*, *ComedySportz*, or *Wild 'n Out*; it could also be done to tell stories, like *Middleditch and Schwartz*. Our meetup, which is central Ohio's longest running (and free!) weekly comedy event, brings the games (and occasionally different forms) for you to play in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. Not only is it a lot of fun, but you get to work on thinking faster on your feet, plus it's an excellent way to meet new people and make friendships that'll last a lifetime! Ask yourself if you want to join the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**, and say "Yes, And" that you'll have fun!

**Caller: Dan Kappus** **Band: Trillium** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** 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. Snacks to share are always welcome!