Community Update June 12, 2009

"The free expression of the hopes and aspirations of a people is the greatest and only safety in a sane society." ~  Emma Goldman

Sat. June 13  First Annual South Side Settlement House Walk-A-Thon  9:15 - 9:45 a.m. Registration; 10 a.m. Start
        Help us raise money to send children to Triple S Camp! Come walk with us and ask your friends to support you! Those who raise and bring at least $20 to the walk-a-thon will get a raffle ticket for prizes/gift cards in the $25 - $50 range. 3 mile walk/1 mile walk - Lunch will follow.  Location and Starting point: South Side Settlement House, 310 Innis Ave.  Call: 444-9868 (or call Simply Living member Kathleen Gmeiner at 443-2845) for more information.

Sat. June 13  Gallery Talk at Jung Haus: Kundalini & the Dreaming Mind  10 a.m. - 12 noon
        Lynda is a local musician, choir director and lifelong student of yoga.  She has studied with Goswami
Kriyananda of the Kriya Yoga Temple of Chicago for many years, and has traveled extensively throughout India with a group of Shaivite Hindu monks.  Her gallery talk will include tales of personal travels and experiences, as well as some traditional yogic advice on how to recognize and cultivate significant dreams while jettisoning the psychic junk. Location: Jung Haus, 59 W. Third Ave., 43201. If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Lynda, please call 614-294-6948 or e-mail her at: mirananda52@yahoo.com

Sat. June 13  Kid's Nature Club at Stratford Ecological Center  10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
        Once a month a group of 15 children will discover their place amid the forest and fields of Stratford. For children ages 8 and up. $40 for the year. Location: 3083 Liberty Rd. outside Delaware.  Register with April at 740-363-2548 or  ECEarthShare@aol.com.

Sat. June 13  Farm Tour - Learning Resilient Living with Tom and Mary Lou Shaw   11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.     
        Tom and Mary Lou Shaw have been second-career homesteaders for about six years.  They now eat almost exclusively from their 13-acre farm's garden and orchard, with additional help from heritage breed cows and chickens.  Join them to explore the synergy between the farm animals, compost, garden, bees and wildlife. Share their ideas for sustainability through seed-saving, food preservation and methods of growing plants and living with animals. Explore the importance of their 40 acre wetlands/grasslands and their hopes for energy independence. We'll carpool, leaving at 11AM from the north end of the Giant Eagle parking lot next to Simply Living's office. Their farm is a 45-min. drive, located northeast of Washington Courthouse. Bring your lunch and enjoy their well water and fresh milk. Please register by sending an e-mail to register@simplyliving.org.

Sat. June 13  Meditation Class at Glen Echo Presbyterian Church  3 p.m.
        Cost: 1 hour class is $15; 1 ½ hour class is $18. Monthly discount. Location: Glen Echo Presbyterian Church, 220 Cliff Side Dr. Columbus, OH 43202 in Clintonville. Call 614-451-6252.

Sat. June 13  Free Press Second Saturday Salon to Feature Bob Studzinski's Photo Presentation on Bolivia   7  p.m.
        World traveler, activist and avid photographer Bob Studzinski will show photos of his recent trip to Bolivia. Also, art, videos, music, refreshments, and socializing with progressive friends. Come socialize or network for your causes.  Sponsored by the Free Press and the Central Ohio Green Education Fund.  Location: 1021 E. Broad St., parking in front or rear, come to the side door.  Info: 253-2571, truth@freepress.

Sun. June 14   Free Laughter Yoga Club Gathering at Sharon Woods  10 - 11 a.m.
        Join us for FREE Laughter Yoga Sunday mornings from June-October Sharon Woods Metro Park.  Guaranteed fun or your money back! Rain or shine. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel. No yoga experience needed. Schrock Rd. at Cleveland Ave., 43081.  Contact megscott35@yahoo.com or 614-216-9371.  Location: Sharon Woods Metro Park, 6911 S Cleveland Ave Westerville, OH 43081

Sun. June 14  Shape Note Singing at St. James Episcopal Church in Clintonville  4 - 6 p.m.
        Shape note singing  is intense, religious folk music sung in four-part harmony without instruments.                     No musical training is required, and beginners are welcome.  Singings are held the  second Sunday of the month from 4-6 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, 3400 Calumet St.  Contact Eric Conrad at (614) 481-7637 or econrad@math.ohio-state.edu for more information or visit http://www.math.ohio-state.edu/~econrad/fasola2.html.

Sun. June 14  Living the Big Picture Discussion Group Led by Chuck Lynd  4 - 5:30 p.m.
        This month we will discuss "Alchemical Divination," a process developed by Ralph Metzner over the past 40 years.  Divination is practiced in many traditions and is generally recognized as a process of obtaining intuitive spiritual insight. It involves a structured inquiry into questions of the past (for healing and resolving problems) or the future (for visioning and obtaining guidance). Alchemy is the ancient art and science of elemental transformation, which in modern times was re-interpreted by C.G. Jung and his followers as psychospiritual transformation using symbolic or imaginal processes. See his website: http://metzneralchemicaldivination.org/. I recently attended Metzner's workshop in California and will share an excerpt from his talk, sample books, and examples of how to prepare for the process of alchemical divination. It sounds esoteric, but is actually a practical strategy that can be practiced by anyone. Free. Location: 1386 Bryson Rd, Columbus 43224. RSVP to Chuck Lynd <clynd@cavenet.org> or call 614-268-5580 for more information or directions.

Mon.-Fri. June 15-19  Farm Camp for 3-5 year olds (and a parent) at Stratford Ecological Center  10 a.m. - Noon  OR 2-4 p.m.
        Parent and child will experience the farm together through simple and playful activities.  Children will care for the farm animals, spend daily time in the forest, and will discover the joys of planting and tasting things straight from the Earth.  Parents will be encouraged to rediscover their sense of wonder as they walk side-by-side with their little explorer .Together, a love of wild and cultivated nature will grow in the hearts and bodies of parent and child.  Treat you and your little one to a week together on the farm.  $75 ($25 deposit required to register). Location: 3083 Liberty Rd. outside Delaware.  Contact April at 740-363-2548 or SECEarthShare@aol.com  See also June 22-26.

Mon. June 15  Social Dance at UU Church  7 p.m. Beginner Lesson; 8-10 p.m. Social Dancing
        Please join us on our beautiful air-conditioned wood dance floor for a light mix of swing, Latin, ballroom and line dancing. All ages and skill levels of dancers welcomed. Gender neutral lead/follow. Snacks provided. $5 for entire evening.  Meets every Monday Evening (including holidays).  Location: First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus 43214.

Mon. June 15  Afro-Cuban Dance Class with Live Drumming at Wiseways in Grandview  7:30 - 8:45 p.m.
        Mondays.  Cost $12. Location: WiseWays Movement Arts and Education, 1520 W. First Ave. Cols/Grandview Heights Ohio 43212. Register with Rita Carnevale: 614-432-4681. See website for more info: www.spiritmovesilluminated.com

Tues. June 16  Herb Study Group at Stratford Ecological Center 1:30-3: 30 p.m.
        This month the focus is Elder and Agrimony  Come together in a sharing circle to explore the many uses of wild and cultivated plants.  Each month the group examines a different herbal topic and works together in the herb garden, tending, harvesting, and learning from the plants.  In 2009 we'll look in-depth at the wild weeds that are beneficial to our lives.  This is a hands-on group and a wonderful way to get more comfortable using herbs.  Herbal Study Group meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 1:30-3:30pm. All skill levels welcome!  $10/year.  (Your first time is free.) Location: 3083 Liberty Rd. outside Delaware.  Contact Christa at 740-363-2548 or treebeing@aol.com

Tues. June 16  Simply Living Board Meeting  7 - 9 p.m.
        Meets at the Simply Living offices, 2929 N. High St. 43202.  All members are welcome; please confirm your attendance at 447-0296.

Tues. June 16  Blue Heron Sangha Meditation Group 7:15 - 8:45 p.m.
         The group meets for meditation and dharma activities every Tuesday at the Martin de Porres Center near Ohio Dominican University, 2320 Airport Drive, Columbus, OH 43219.  Directions:  http://www.columbusdominicans.org/whoweare/ourhome/map.htm or more info from Sandy Coen<scoen@columbus.rr.com>.

Weds. June 17  Yoga for Every Body at Sunbury Community Library  5:30 - 6:50 p.m.
        Bring a yoga mat, towel or blanket and dress in layers. (Room is warm.) This is an open class with focus on meditation, relaxation and stretching. Poses are modified as needed for students' abilities. $7 per class.  Led by  Victoria Frisch <vfrisch@tmail.com>  Location:  44 Burrer Dr, Sunbury, Ohio 43074.

Weds. June 17  Columbus Raw! Potluck  6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
        Join us monthly for an organic, vegan, rawluck, a great introduction to the living foods lifestyle.  Sample simple and gourmet dishes, bring your favorite organic-raw-vegan creation, and connect to loving community!  Location: Simply Living, 2929 N. High St.  Contact: Allison <livinginharmony@aol.com> or rawfood.meetup.com/446.

Wednesdays June 17-24 July 1-8-15 Voluntary Simplicity Discussion Course at UU Church
        When do material possessions add meaning to our lives and when do they detract? Join us for this 5-week, life-changing discussion course, beginning June 17th, offering inspiring conversation on the meaning of simplicity. Course book cost $25. For more information call 433-0363.  Hosted by/at the First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd.

Weds. June 17  Humanist Forum: "Pastors for Peace Challenge Current American Cuban Policies"  7 p.m.   
        The Humanist Forum will have Reverend Edson (Bill) Lewis, a 30-year chaplin on the OSU Campus, speak on the topic, "Pastors for Peace Challenge Current American Cuban Policies." The Pastors for Peace Organization insists that America policies related to Cuba today, and for the last fifty (50) years for that matter, violate policies of basic fairness and justice, as the United Nations Organization has consistently adjudged and proclaimed over all of these prior 50 years. Lewis will argue that the Obama administration, with the help of the American people, should reverse these policies. Free and open to the public.  Location: First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 West Weisheimer Rd  43214-2544.  Contact: Earl Wurdlow <earlword@yahoo.com>, Community Leaders Forum: (614) 296-6304. 

Weds. June 17 Simply Living's Intentional Community Group 7:30 p.m.
        Open to all who are interested in being part of an urban community. Meets in participant's homes on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.   Location: Paula Jones's home, 76 E Lakeview Ave. For more information e-mail PJones008@columbus.rr.com.

"Imagine no possessions, I wonder if you can"  ~ John Lennon

Weds.  June 17  Writers' Block Poetry Night at Kafe Kerouac  8 p.m.
        Open mic and poetry slams on Wednesdays. Come get inspired. Columbus's most diverse, irreverant and nationally lauded nights of poetry! Host and MC Scott Woods <sewoods1@yahoo.com>. $5. Location: Kafe Kerouac, 2250 N. High St. (north of Lane / south of Hudson).

Thurs. June 18  Cocktails@The Conservatory June Theme: Marigolds and Mai Tais   5:30 - 10 p.m.
        Looking for a  Thursday night alternative? Meet friends and colleagues at Franklin Park Conservatory's Palm House, an umatched setting for a casual evening. Enjoy the botanically-themed monthly featured cocktail or a full bar selection along with small plate hors d-oeuvres. DJs from Encore Entertainment create the musical ambience beginning at 5:30 p.m. At dusk, the Palm House glows with James Turrell's LED installation, Light Raiment II. No cover. Free parking.  21 and o ver. Location: Franklin Park Conservatory & Chihuly Collection, 1777 E. Broad St. Columbus 43203; 645-8733. Visit: http://www.fpconservatory.org/cocktails.htm  In May, the party moves out of doors to the Conservatory's rooftop gardens.

Fri. June 19  Kirtan Evening of Music, Chanting at First Unitarian-Universalist Church  7:30 p.m.
        Bring a friend and chant your hearts open at this fun and enlightening community event!  $10 suggested donation for adults, $5 for college students and teens and free for children under 12.   Location: 93 W. Weisheimer Rd,  Columbus 43214.  The UU Church has lots of free parking, a great room for childcare, an amazing worship center and comfortable chair and floor seating. If you prefer to sit on the floor, bring your own cushions, backjacks, etc.  Contact Mike <mcohen1966@gmail.com> or Tel: 614.260.9711. Future dates: July 18, Aug. 21, Sept. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 20, Dec. 18.

"If the aborigine drafted an IQ test, all of Western civilization would presumably flunk it." ~ Stanley Garn

Sat. June 20  Friends of Alum Creek & Tributaries (FACT) Canoe Float  9 a.m.
        Bring you own boat  - canoe or kayak. We'll clean up debris on our leisurely tour of a few river miles to Academy Park. A limited number of craft are available by contacting FACT at 614-409-0511 or kwilliams@friendsofalumcreek.org. Depart at 9 a.m. from St. Mary of the Springs' lower parking lot, 2320 Airport Dr.

Sat. June 20  Summer Solstice Mound Tour Led by Megan Mast  9 a.m. til Dark
        We will visit 3 sites south of Newark: the Dawes Arboretum Mound, Fairmount Mound and a hilltop enclosure made of stone on private property.  As usual we will be doing ceremony at the sites, so bring a drum or rattle and anything else you may need.  Please wear sturdy shoes (no flip flops or sandals) as the one site is undeveloped. Bring a sack lunch as we will eat at one of the sites. Cost of the trip is $20.  We will be carpooling for the trip. To make reservations, please call Megan Mast at 614-761-9374 or email meganmast@hotmail.com at that time she will let you know where the meeting place will be.

Sat. June 20  Third Saturday Farm Tour at Shepherd's Corner  2 p.m.
        Meet or renew your connection with the farm animals, help with chores, and see what seasonal surprises await you on the trails and in the gardens.  Space is available for those who would like to bring a picnic for before or after the tour. Facilitated by Eric Pawlowski, staff.
Suggested Donation: $5.  Register by June 17.  Location: Shepherd's Corner, 987 N. Waggoner Road, Blacklick, Ohio  43004. Call 866-4302 or email shepherdscorner@sbcglobal.net or visit www.shepherdscorner.org

Sat. June 20  Triumph of Light: Walk the Labyrinth at Shepherd's Corner at Summer Solstice  7 -  8:30 p.m.
        Celebrate the triumph of the light at Midsummer. Join us at the longest of summer days to walk the labyrinth and reflect on the summer solstice.Facilitated by Shawn Scott and Nancy Cameron, earth keepers.  Suggested Donation: $5 per session.  Register by June 17.  Location: Shepherd's Corner, 987 N. Waggoner Road, Blacklick, Ohio  43004. Call 866-4302 or email shepherdscorner@sbcglobal.net or visit www.shepherdscorner.org

Sun. June 21  Solstice Sing for Peace at Summit on 16th  8 p.m.
        During the summer solstice, there will be a 'Solstice Sing for Peace' at Summit on 16th (United Methodist Church) in the OSU campus area.  A community choir of singers from Summit and elsewhere in the Columbus area will be gathering to chant and sing on themes of peace, using the long, light evening to celebrate a vision of a world less torn by pain and conflict. Solstice Sing for Peace is an international initiative, founded by Rebekah Fraser, with the vision of creating a chain of song around the world at the time of the solstice.   For more information see http://solsticesingforpeace.com. Both inner peace, or stillness, and world peace, are the subjects of the songs, which include ancient Tibetan chants, songs from regions of conflict in the Middle East and Africa, peace movement songs and hymns from North America and Europe, and some simple classical music compositions.  The singers will be joined by Joann and Ben Nagel on Tibetan bowls and gong, organist Narmina Aliyeva, and by gentle drumming.  All are welcome, either to join in or simply to sit and listen.
Admission is free, and there will be a collection for the local Neighborhood Services Inc (a free food pantry and clothing store).  Location: Summit on 16th, 82 E 16th Ave, Columbus OH 43201.  Directions and further information at www.summiton16th.org.  Inquiries 614-268 6295 (Sheena Phillips)

"If I hadn't started painting, I would have raised chickens." ~ Grandma Moses

Mon.-Fri. June 22-26  Farm Camp for 3-5 year olds (and a parent) at Stratford Ecological Center  10 a.m. - Noon  OR 2-4 p.m.
        Parent and child will experience the farm together through simple and playful activities.  Children will care for the farm animals, spend daily time in the forest, and will discover the joys of planting and tasting things straight from the Earth.  Parents will be encouraged to rediscover their sense of wonder as they walk side-by-side with their little explorer .Together, a love of wild and cultivated nature will grow in the hearts and bodies of parent and child.  Treat you and your little one to a week together on the farm.  $75 ($25 deposit required to register). Location: 3083 Liberty Rd. outside Delaware.  Contact April at 740-363-2548 or SECEarthShare@aol.com

Mon. June 22  Columbus Community Leaders Address Health Care Legislation at Currents Forum  7 p.m.
        Is universal healthcare really coming to America?  Be informed on the prospects for pending legislation this summer from presentations by James Castle, President, Ohio Hospital Association; Bill Hayes, President, Health Policy Institute of Ohio; Cynthia Burnell, Executive Director, Ohio Healthcare Coverage and Quality Council, Ohio Department of Insurance; Marianne Steger, Director, Health Care and Public Policy, AFSCME Ohio Council 8; and Jeffrey Biehl, President, Health Care Access Columbus.  Free and open to the public.  Location: St. John's Church at 58 East Mound Street in downtown Columbus.  More info? Contact Earl Wurdlow, Community Leaders Forum, (614) 296-6304.

Tues. June 23  Clintonville Health Community (CHC) Plans Action in the Community  6 – 8 p.m.
        The group will prioritize activities for July though December.  In December we will assess progress and successes and decide if we think CHC has some “legs”. If you have a proposal for action that you are willing to help make happen, please share it on or by June 23. Location: Global Gallery Clintonville Coffee Shop, 3535 North High St. 43214. (They have food and great coffee but we have no obligation to purchase anything to use their community room.)  To obtain a list of possible actions developed at the May meeting, or for more info about CHC, contact Debbie Crawford at 263-7491 or email crawford@columbus.rr.com.

Tues. June 23  Greening Your Community (Go Green Program offered by the Worthington Libaries)  7 - 9 p.m.
        Chris Hermann, an architect with MSI Design in Columbus, will share cutting-edge ideas on how careful planning and design can make communities more walkable, livable, and greener! Location: Old Worthington Library, 820 High Street, in the meeting room. See also June 30 program.

Tues. June 23  Co-op Board Meeting at CRC  7 - 9 p.m.
      Meets 4th Tuesday of the month. All members are welcome to attend.  A portion of the meeting includes an Open Forum to ask questions or offer feedback on any issues of concern to members. Location:  Clintonville Resources Center (CRC), 14 W. Lakeview Ave. 43202.

Weds. June. 24  Earth Institute Steering Committee Meeting   7 -  8:30 p.m
        This group organizes and mentors the Earth Institute courses and invites your participation. Location:  Simply Living, 2929 N. High St. 43202.  Contact Ben Redman: ben@simplyliving.org; 447-0296 x100.

Weds. June 24  Living the Big Picture Discussion Group Led by Chuck Lynd at Simply Living  7 - 8:30 p.m.
        This month we will discuss "Alchemical Divination," a process developed by Ralph Metzner over the past 40 years.  Divination is practiced in many traditions and is generally recognized as a process of obtaining intuitive spiritual insight. It involves a structured inquiry into questions of the past (for healing and resolving problems) or the future (for visioning and obtaining guidance). Alchemy is the ancient art and science of elemental transformation, which in modern times was re-interpreted by C.G. Jung and his followers as psychospiritual transformation using symbolic or imaginal processes. See his website: http://metzneralchemicaldivination.org/. I recently attended Metzner's workshop in California and will share an excerpt from his talk, sample books, and examples of how to prepare for the process of alchemical divination. It sounds esoteric, but is actually a practical strategy that can be practiced by anyone. Free; donations to Simply Living for space accepted. Location: 2929 N. High St. Contact: Chuck Lynd <clynd@cavenet.org> or call 614-268-5580 for more information or directions.

Thurs. June 25  Practice Sessions Prepare Threshold Choir to Sing at Bedside of the Dying  7 - 8:30 p.m.
       Abbie Basile <abbiebasile@yahoo.com> directs this all-women choir that sings at the bedside of the dying.  The newly formed Columbus Threshold Choir is looking for members to join in the ancient tradition of singing at the bedsides of those who are sick or dying. If you are interested in learning more, visit  www.columbusthreshold.org.  The Choir meets twice each month on 2nd and 4th Thursdays.   Location: Columbus Mennonite Church, 35 Oakland Park Ave. Times, dates, and map to church are on the website: www.columbusthreshold.org.

"While I thought that I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die." ~ Leoardo da Vinci

Fri-Sun June 26-28  Comfest (Community Festival) 2009 in Goodale Park 
       Visit our Simply Living booth highlighting our Earth Institute courses and our community radio station, WCRS. Buy a raffle ticket to win a rain barrel, donated by Little Square Farm owners Chris and Diane Luers. Can you help staff our booth? Contact Sheila Fox, bethechange55@hotmail.com, to sign up for a two-hour shift from noon to 9 p.m. Fri. through Sun. and/or to work a 4-hour clean-up or safety shift for the Festival. (Volunteers doing 4-hr. Comfest shifts receive a Comfest t-shirt and tokens worth $16 for food and/or drink.) This annual festival celebrates community, music, and fun. Of special interest are children's activities, multiple music stages featuring eclectic genres, and a solar stage featuring speakers and topics related to sustainable living. For more info, visit comfest.com.

Fri. June 26  COSI Family Friday Nights  5 - 9 p.m.
        COSI stays open late for family-friendly fun the last Friday of every month! You can explore science, discover fun and stay late! Admission is only $7 per person after 5 p.m. and includes all of COSI plus an Extreme Screen movie.  Location: COSI, 333.W.Broad St., 43215; Tel: 1.888.819.COSI. For more info, see  http://www.cosi.org/visitors/family/ffn/

Fri. June 26  Beat of Life Drumming at the Shepherd's Corner Labyrinth  7 - 8:30 p.m.
        Join with others for drumming at the labyrinth; welcome the healing energies of music and the labyrinth while experiencing community. Feel free to bring your own percussion instruments or to use one of ours. Facilitated by Maureen Metcalf, university faculty and consultant.  Suggested Donation: $5  Register by May 27. Location: Shepherd's Corner, 987 N. Waggoner Road, Blacklick, Ohio  43004. Call 866-4302 or email shepherdscorner@sbcglobal.net or visit www.shepherdscorner.org

Fri. June 26  Simplicity Circle at Stratford Ecological Center  7 - 9 p.m.
        This month we are going to feature a Mini Food Film Festival!  Spend an evening out engaged in intentional conversation around interesting and meaningful topics.  Each month we gather together to explore our own opinions, ideas, and understandings, set amongst current events, documentary discoveries, and topics that help us realize a simple and ecologically-minded life. $10/year. (Your first time is free.)  Location: 3083 Liberty Rd. outside Delaware.  The 4th Friday of the month. Contact Christa at 740-363-2548 or treebeing@aol.com

Sat. June 27  Farming with Shapes, Colors, and Numbers at Shepherd's Corner Scavenger Hunt  1-3 p.m.
        Experience "life on the farm" by participating in a guided scavenger hunt! Discover heart shaped leaves, triangular ears, and an oval watering tub. Enjoy a rainbow of colors by finding different crop flowers and meet our brightly colored rooster. Complete an animal "headcount" to make sure all are present, measure out animal feed, count eggs, create a noodle necklace, and much more!  All ages welcome. Children 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Facilitated by Eileen Ulry, staff  Fee: $6 per person, $5 per person for a group of 3 or more Register by June 22.

Sat. June 27  All Soles Contra Dance at Unitarian Universalist Church  7:30 p.m.
        Band and caller TBA. There will not be a teaching session before the dance.  All ages welcome; those too young to enjoy the dancing play in the supervised childcare room. Suggested donation is $7 ($4 for under age 25). Dress in lightweight, comfortable clothing and bring a refillable water bottle -- things will heat up! http://firstuucolumbus.org/AllSoles. Contact Kate Power, 789-0652 or Kate@powerkate.com.

Sun. June 28  Wild Ones Plant Sale and the Local National Wildlife Federation Garden Tour in Worthington  12 Noon - 6 p.m.
        Nationally certified gardens feature primarily native plants that nourish nature, create a peaceful sanctuary, save money, and attract butterflies and birds. The gardens include a wide range of landscaping designs, a rain garden with informational brochure and a compost demonstration. For site addresses, visit www.backyardhabitat.info.

Sun. June 28  Sitting With God Meditation at Global Gallery Coffee House  7 - 9 p.m.
       Beginning in June sessions will be held on the 4th Sunday of each month. The purpose of the Sitting With God Meditation Circle is to bring peace and joys of meditation from out of the Ashrams, Sanctuaries and private, quiet spaces into Real Life Situations. When you catch a meditation buzz with us, it's easier to maintain the experience, because you're already out there in a real world location. Special thanks to the Global Gallery folks who believed in us from the beginning.  For more information please call the Gallery at 262-5535 or Frank Tennyson <frank.tennyson@gmail.com> at 487-1111. Location: 3535 N. High St.  Plenty of free parking.

"Love is an endless mystery, for it has nothing else to explain it." ~ Rabindranath Tagore

Mon. June 29  Whites Taking Action Against Racism: A Practice Group  6:30 - 8 p.m.
        In each one of us lies the  seeds of action. In our communities we find support for those seeds to take root. Have you considered speaking up or taking action about racism but want information, support and community? Group facilitation will rotate among members and include time for information sharing, support and strategy building.This practice group meets the 4th Monday of each month.  Location: Simply Living, 2929 North High St. For more information contact Carol Z  a t (614) 447-2084, doro@copper.net.

Tues. June 30  Go Green While Getting Around Town (Program offered by the Worthington Libaries)  7 - 9 p.m.
        You can walk, bus and bike your way to a cleaner environment and a cheaper travel budget!  Speakers: Simply Living's Alternative Transportation Project (Lisa Staggenborg, Chris Luers and Eric Davies).  Location: Old Worthington Library, 820 High Street, in the meeting room.

Thurs. July 2  Clintonville Area Commission (CAC) Meeting  at Whetstone Library  7:30 p.m.
        Meets the first Thursday evening of each month at the Whetstone Library, 3909 N. High Street, in the Multi-Purpose Room at 7:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend to learn about projects affecting the neighborhood.  Individuals, neighborhood groups and contractors working in conjunction with the City of Columbus often present status reports regarding ongoing infrastructure improvements and current issues or concerns. More info online at  http://www.clintonvilleareacommission.org/ (see also oour Website of the Week)

Sat. July 4  Gallery Hop in the Short North

Sat-Sun July 4-5  The Independence Weekend 2009 Avatar ® ReSurfacing Playshop Led by Randall Loop  Sat-Sun 9am-7pm
       This 2-day exploration will give you information and insights into how your life works or why it doesn’t work.  Learn over 30 tools that you can take back into life to begin change in relationships, career, money, spirituality or any other area of life that you desire to re-create. ReSurfacing refers to disentangling yourself from old creations (ways of being) and rising into awareness of (who you are).  Led by E. Randall Loop., Avatar Master/Wizard.  Location: OASIS Center/YWCA, 65 S.4th. St. Columbus, OH. 43215.  Parking: $2 Next to YWCA.  The cost of the course is $295 payable in cash, check or money order. Reviewers of the 2-day course pay only $80. Contact Randall <erloop@yahoo.com> or call (614) 496-4595 to obtain information about preliminary reading, workbook materials, and registration process.  RSVP Due Date: June 19, 2009. 

Mon. July 6  Holistic Moms Network – Columbus Chapter Parents Passionate about Holistic Health and Green Living  7 p.m.
        Meets on the first Monday of every month a t the Fire Station on the corner of Hard Road and Riverside Drive.  Each month we host a different topic and bring in local experts to present and lead the discussion.  Past topics have included homeopathy, Energy Flow Therapy, Yoga, cleaning your kitchen with a Pantry Purge, and understanding organic in personal care products.  For more information contact Stephanie Brua at 614.570.4266, or  sbrua@columbus.rr.com.

Mon.  July 6  Community Drum Circle at Columbus Pro Percussion  8 - 9:30 p.m.
        1st Monday of each month. Contact  Stephen Rupp <steve@columbuspercussion.com> or call 614.885.7372.  Location: Columbus Pro Percussion, N High St across from Graceland Shopping Center.

Tues. July 7   Shakespeare Reading Group Meets First Tuesdays at Wild Goose Creative  7 - 9:30 p.m.
        Did you really think Shakespeare's works survived for over 400 years merely because sadistic schoolmarms ever desired to inflict literary torture on unsuspecting children? Hogwash! Come join the Motleys to discover why them-as-knows say the Bard's words are truly immortal. Nervous? It's a non-judgmental environment where we're all acknowledged learners. We share what we know as we read through the plays, and we all stumble over the anachronisms and colloquialisms of Elizabethan speech. It's fun, it's funny, it's lively, and it's live! The Motleys read aloud, discuss and enjoy Shakespeare's plays in good company. We may supplement our readings with screenings of filmed productions, when available and time permitting. Who: Mature high school students on up.  Visit http://www.wildgoosecreative.com/Wild_Goose_Creative_|_Shakespeare_Group.html or contact Ben Gorman: shakespeare@wowway.com

Weds. July 8  Sierra Club Program: “The Role of Water in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict"  7 p.m.
        The July program expands our focus on water issues to the international arena:  Central Ohio Sierra Club Executive Committee member Doug Calem will speak about the role of water in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.  Doug lived in Israel for 17 years and spent three of those years as a community worker in Jewish-Arab relations.  The program will examine the water issue in Israel/Palestine from historical, meteorological, topological, and political perspectives.  NOTE: This program had originally been scheduled for June.  Unfortunately we lost the availability of the location and apologize for any inconvenience.  We are thrilled that we can again provide the opportunity to hear from Doug about this pertinent issue.  Location: Columbus Main Library Auditorium, 96 S. Grant Ave.

Thursdays July 9-16-23-30  Preschooler Yoga: 4 Classes at Sunbury Community Library  Starting Thursday July 9th
        Sign up now for Preschooler Yoga: 4 classes, 20 minutes long, $12 total! Thursdays in July, beginning July 9th. 4-6 year olds. Yoga made fun and playful: Led by Victoria Frisch.  She will teach 6-8 yoga poses per class (mostly animal poses: cat, cow, eagle, snake, etc.), and play a game if time allows. Supervised/assisted by a Librarian (parents drop off children, but they may observe through a door). No previous experience necessary. Registration a must: call Fonda Dawson at Sunbury Community Library, 740.965.3901.

"Love is not blind - it sees more, not less. But because it sees more, it is willing to see less." ~ Rabbi Julius Gordon

Sun-Fri July 12-17  Trees of the Eastern Temperate Forest Course Held at Arc of Appalachia Nature Sanctuary
        A tree recognition, forest succession & reading-the-forest course held at the Arc of Appalachia Preserve System in southern Ohio.  Information and registration: www.highlandssanctuary.org/WE/tree.course.htm.  More info contact: Nancy Stranahan, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7629 Cave Road, Bainbridge, OH 45612. 937-365-0101 or email director@highlandssanctuary.org.  Call soon as course will be filled soon.  See also Aug. 16-21 course on Living Rivers.

Mon. July 13  Shamanic Explorers' Group Meets Second Mondays  6 - 8 p.m.
        Discussion group and occasional speaker covering a variety of shamanic topics: meditation, trance phenomena, neurotheology, history, entheogens, and whatever else the group wants to discuss. Meets at the  Spore Infoshop, 172 E. 5th Ave. on the second Monday of the month. Check with Spore to confirm scheduling each month. Contact: Geoffrey Tolle <Gtolle0709@wowway.com>.

Tues. July 14   Story Time on the Farm at Stratford Ecological Center   10 - 11 a.m.
       Stories are a wonderful way to teach, engaging the imagination and spirit of a child.   Set against the backdrop of a farm,  the stories hold real-life meaning.   Gather with your young ones to hear a monthly story and participate in a craft or activity. Story Time meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 10-11:00am - $5/family per time. Walk-ins welcome.  Contact Christa: 740-363-2548; treebeing@aol.com;  or visit www.StratfordEcologicalCenter.org. Location: Stratford Ecological Center, 3083 Liberty Rd., Delaware.

Fri. July 24  Intuitive Breathwork Session + Group & Private Sessions by Christopher and Paula Easton  6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
        The Eastons will be in Columbus July 23-26 and will offer group and private sessions. Join us for a dynamic evening on July 24 combining Active Breathwork, Intuitive Healing, Music & more at the Center for Wholness, 3408 Indianola Ave. 43214.  Cost $40. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring water, blanket, pillow, a journal and a pen. Private sessions are available for individuals/couples for $125 and group prices are offered on request. Location: 573 Ozem Gardner Way, Westerville, OH 43081 (near Polaris). PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED ~ Call Christopher Easton @ 207-329-7854. [Breathe Deeply.  Laugh Often.  Live simply.  Love generously.  Care deeply.  Speak kindly.]

Tues. July 28  Family Farm Chores at Stratford Ecological Center  9:30 a.m. -11 a.m.
        Each morning the farm family cares for the livestock, checking on their well-being, feeding grain and hay, filling waterers, gathering and washing eggs, and  milking the goats. Become a part of the family one morning a month as you take your turn helping with morning chores. Dress for dirt. Limit 6 families per month. Please register for each individual month by sending $10/family in advance.  Location: Stratford Ecological Center, 3083 Liberty Rd., Delaware. Contact Christa: 740-363-2548; treebeing@aol.com;  or visit www.StratfordEcologicalCenter.org.

"The truth knocks on the door and you say,"Go away, I'm looking for the truth," and so it goes away." ~ Robert M. Pirsig

Sat. Aug. 1  Light Upon Light Celebration of Food and Fellowship for Simply Living
        A summer celebration of fabulous food and fellowship at the off-the-grid home of Eric & Liz Hansen. Visit simplyliving.org for details and reserve your place by contacting ben@simplyliving.org.

Fri-Sun Aug. 14-16  Locavore Weekend Getaway near Athens Features Author Marilou Suszko, Workshops, Tours 
        Join Marilou Suszko author of Farms and Foods of Ohio: From Garden Gate to Dinner Plate for a weekend of exploring, preparing, eating, and celebrating local foods during the Locavore Weekend Getaway at the beautiful Carpenter Inn and Conference Center in Southeastern Ohio, August 14-16, 2009. The weekend will include a mozzarella making workshop, trip to the Athens Farmer’s Market with Suszko, cooking demonstration and class using Farmer’s Market finds, tour of Snowville Creamery, and delicious meals made with local ingredients, fresh from the farm. The Locavore Weekend Getaway is for all adventurers looking for something close to home this summer. For more information or to register contact Trillium Workshops at 740-591-8626 or visit www.trilliumohio.com/WRLocavore.html. 

Sun-Fri  Aug. 16-21  Living Rivers--Arteries of the Eastern Forest, A 5-Day Field Course at Nature Sanctuary
       This course will further participants' appreciation of the Eastern forest by studying its lifeblood -- its rivers and streams, and the myriads of life forms that watersheds support. Experts in the fields of botany, mussels, crayfish, fish and salamanders will be leading this course - giving participants a global, cross-disciplinary foundation of knowledge. America's Eastern Forest shares many tree and mammal genera with closely-related forest centers located in Europe and Eastern Asia. However, our native forest has one major feature that, when compared to its sister forests, distinguishes it globally. Quite simply, America's Eastern temperate forest claims the highest aquatic life diversity in the temperate world. Conservation challenges now make waterways one of the most imperiled of the forest's components throughout the temperate world, so it behooves Eastern US citizens to gain knowledge quickly in this important realm. This course is suitable for any person interested in living systems, regardless of formal educational background and vocation. Limited to 16 participants. For full information:  www.highlandssanctuary.org/WE/Waterways/waterways.htm

Notable and Quotable

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Columbus Progressive Newsletter  http://www.columbuspeacenetwork.org/
Metro Parks : http://reservations.metroparks.net/programs/