Community Update December 11, 2009

Community Update

>>>Natural Foods, Simple Living, Good People, Building Community<<<

Friday, December 11, 2009

       Enjoy the holidays and count on a blue moon on New Year's eve.  Until then, there are holiday concerts (Magpie Consort events this weekend), the Free Press Holiday Salon Saturday evening, and Simply Living will host a holiday open house at the Global Gallery Coffee House in Clintonville on Sunday evening - I hope to see you there!  Don't forget the holiday trees from Raven Rocks are now available at the Community Market.  And if your mailbox is full of opportunities for holiday giving before the end of the year, remember that your membership in Simply Living is tax deductible and your membership in the co-op is an investment in our community (priceless! ok, 20 bucks) and WCRS, Local Matters, the CRC, and other local assets need your donations.  Buy local, give local, and love your neighbors!

Better WCRS Reception on 98.3 FM!
        We reported this last week, but here is the official announcement from Marilyn Welker, Exec. Director of Simply Living...
        If you haven't been able to listen to Simply Living's community radio station, WCRS, on air, try again! WCRS' translator station, 98.3 FM, recently raised its antenna height, and the signal is now significantly clearer and stronger in many areas of Franklin County. The antenna was raised 42' and repositioned, and some corroded connectors were replaced, all of which are contributing to much better reception for many listeners. Many thanks to the Columbus Institute of Contemporary Journalism, who owns the translator, and WCRS volunteers Eugene Beer, Evan Davis, Joe Atzberger, and Josh Tulecke-Paulson for their hours of hard work to make this possible! 
        Visit www.wcrsfm.org to view the current schedule and to listen via streaming and podcasts. Big changes are also in the works for our station at 102.1, as we plan to purchase and install a much better antenna soon.

 *** And WCRS needs your support - please DONATE or consider underwriting one of our fine programs.  Call Jayme at 447-0296. ***

Simply Living 2nd Annual Holiday Potluck at Global Gallery Coffee House Sun. Dec. 13 from 5 - 9 pm
        All are welcome--bring family and friends and let's celebrate! Bring finger foods, desserts, a happy voice for singing and an appetite for good food and conversation. Drinks for purchase provided by Global Gallery, which helps support their service work. To sweeten the evening we will have the wonderful, talented Molly Winters leading us in holiday singing with her guitar accompaniment, beginning at 5 pm. Location: 3535 N. High St. 43214.

Simply Living Makin' Plans to Move Into New Digs - Search Committee Seeks Help from Local Realtor(s)
        Simply Living is going to be looking for new office space over the coming months.  We are in the very early stages of the search process and we’re wondering if we have any realtor friends out there who might be interested in sitting on a “Search Committee” to help direct us as we look for new digs!  We’re not ready to start collecting locations, as we haven’t defined our parameters, so just know that right now we’re simply looking for a professional or two to add to our team.  (i.e. hold all those great ideas until we send out further requests … Thanks for thinking of us though!)

Newly Formed Noble Creek Meditation Group Meets Weekly at Unity Church on Maize Rd - Thursdays  from 11:30 am - 1 pm
        Based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, this new group is suitable for those new to or experienced in meditation. Location:  Unity Church, 4211 Maize Rd, Columbus 43224. For information contact Art Yoho <art@lovebarbecue.com>.

Holiday Issue of Naked Sunfish on Virtual Newsstands Everywhere!
       Discover lots of local poetry, essays, photos, art, reviews and more.  Edited by Rick Brown, who reviews Leonard Cohen's recent performance at the Palace Theater.  (See the quote below)  Check out Pattrick O'Malley's "Photographic Fruitcake" ... Poetry by cyndi o'leary, Dennis Toth and Dr, John Bennett... the musings of Ted Kane, Shawn Gaines, Elisa Phillips and Alexi... Visit the Dale Chihuly exhibit in Trave... and there is a great holiday Chocolate Mousse recipe by Jim Eaton... Artwork by Morris Jackson and C. Mehrl Bennett... Comics by Ray Tomczak and Sue Lense.  Find it all at  http://www.nakedsunfish.com/

"Like a bird on the wire, Like a drunk in a midnight choir I have tried in my way to be free..." ~ Leonard Cohen

Website of the Week:  Breast Cancer Action  www.bcaction.org  and  www.thinkbeforeyoupink.org
       Breast Cancer Action started in San Francisco and is now national education and activist organization that challenges assumptions and inspires change to end the breast cancer epidemic. BCA does not have local chapters, but they offer a newsletter and monthly e-alert.  The BCA and its "Think Before You Pink" project address the connection between industry and the false promotion of "cures" rather than looking at prevention. They use the term "Pinkwasher" to describe a company that purports to care about breast cancer by promoting a pink-ribboned product, but manufactures products that are linked to the disease. For instance, Eli Lilly makes breast cancer "prevention" and treatment drugs but also makes rBGH which is linked to breast cancer.  They recently launched a new campaign to eradicate rBGH from our food supply. Thanks to Pat Marida for recommending this site!

Simply Living Healthy: For current information about meetings and activities,
contact Kris Keller: k_keller@wowway.com or 885-2964.

Cool Reads at the Simply Living Bookstore!
        Wise Co-op shoppers know that stopping in the bookstore can solve many stumpers on your Holiday gift list...  you probably know we have hundreds of cool books ranging from ecology and green alternatives in housing, transportation, energy, etc. to personal growth, wisdom traditions, poetry, and health and wellness (including cookbooks!) - but, did you know we also have DVDs tucked away on the book shelves, and we have children's books by Shel Silverstein (The Giving Tree, e.g.) and Dr. Seuss (The Lorax, e.g.) and Jennifer Morgan's beautifully illustrated paperbacks telling the Universe Story (only $9.95 each).  And our beautiful and often topical calendars and date books make fine gifts as well (We Moon, Peace Calendar, Sark, e.g.).  And remember Gift Cards of any amount can be purchased at the Market and they can be used to buy books or just introduce friends to the co-op.  As always, thank you for shopping at the Co-op and the bookstore!

Simply Living's Vision:

Creating a compassionate and sustainable world through personal, community and cultural transformation

Calendar of Community Events

"Education + Responsibility + Action = Change" ~ Antioch Radicals T-shirt

Fri. Dec. 11 Eileen Motok Clary at Global Gallery Coffee House  7 pm
        Have a cup of coffee and let Eileen sing to you. She'll be playing guitar and singing her original songs.  Location: Gallery Coffee House, 3535 North High St. 43214. More info: http://www.globalgalleryonline.org or visit Eileen on myspace: http://www.myspace.com/eileenmotok

Fri. Dec. 11  Magpie Consort Present "With Sweet Rejoicing" at St. James Episcopal Church  8 pm
        The Magpie Consort (www.magpieconsort.org), 20 voices directed by Sheena Phillips, presents With Sweet Rejoicing.  The program includes traditional Celtic and Latvian carols, Estonian lullabies by Veljo Tormis, seasonal renaissance music by Monteverdi, Praetorius, and Dufay, a Nigerian song about Bethlehem, and much more.  Admission to all concerts is free, with a suggested donation of $10. Location: St James' Episcopal Church, 3400 Calumet Street, Clintonville.  The Magpie Consort was founded in 1998 as a madrigal group of four singers (now at 20), and has earned a reputation for diverse and delightful repertoire, performed to a high standard. Their new CD, Celtic Voyages, a feast of 22 songs from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Appalachia, will be available to help you with your Christmas shopping!  It can also be ordered online at www.magpieconsort.org (suggested donation $20).  More info call 614.268.6295.

Sat. Dec. 12  Yoga Well-Being Class at Glen Echo Presbyterian Church  9 - 10:30 a.m.
              Yoga Well-Being is Hatha Yoga with smooth flowing movements (Vinyasa) that calms the nerves, and raises the spirit. The stretches are therapeutic and designed to release tension, create energy and relieve aches and pains in the body. The deep stretches relieve insomnia, headaches, back-pain and depression. Cost is $18. Location: Glen Echo Presbyterian Church, 220 Cliff Side Dr., Columbus 43202.  Call Sipra Pimputkar at 614-266-1096 before showing up, just in case.

Sat. Dec. 12  Nonviolence Training Retreat Filling Up Fast  9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
        The Columbus Catholic Worker in conjunction with the brand new local chapter of Pax Christi are pleased to host an all-day nonviolence training retreat!  Facilitators from the Michigan Peace Team will be coming down to lead us.  Their trainings cover a variety of topics, from helping groups gets ready for active civil disobedience actions or simply to help develop nonviolent communication styles.  Since our group is not preparing for any particular event or action, this training will be more general and applies to being nonviolent in all aspects of our lives, which should also help us decide an area of focus for the PC chapter.  This is a wonderful event and not something to be missed!  You are welcome to participate even if you are not a member of Pax Christi.   Cost - A donation of $20-$35 per individual is suggested depending on ability to pay (Sliding scale).  You cannot attend without an RSPV, so please sign up and let me know you want to attend.  To Register, Contact - Frank Lesko at 614-446-8714.  Location:  Columbus Catholic Worker; 1614 Oakland Park Ave.; Columbus, OH 43224.  Additional information on the training:  http://michiganpeaceteam.org/Training.htm or www.columbuscatholicworker.blogspot.com

Sat. Dec.12  Wild Ones Annual Potluck and Seed Exchange  10 a.m.
        Everyone welcome to join us!  You do not have to have seeds to donate to be part of the exchange. Wild Ones promotes biodiversity by landscaping with native plants.  Location: Innis House at Inniswood Metro Park, 940 S. Hempstead Rd. in Westerville 43081.

Sat. Dec. 12  Briar Rose Children's Center Open House  12 noon - 5 pm (Puppet Story 2pm)
        Wooden toys, ornaments, wool clothing, handmade soaps, and more! Puppet Story at 2 pm - The fairy tale of Briar Rose told with Silk Marionettes!  Pluse a bake sale, live classical music, children's activities, coffee and mulled cider!  Location: Briar Rose Children’s Center, 636 Chase Rd., Columbus, OH 43214 (a mile north of Morse Rd. on Indianola).  Visit www.BriarRoseCC.com or call 614-769-3563.

Sat. Dec. 12   New-Beginner Drop-In Yoga Class at Balanced Yoga  1:15 - 2:15 p.m.
         Please join us for a "Community Yoga Class" that is focused on yoga basics. The class is appropriate for both those new to Yoga and for experienced students looking to refine their poses. The class is taught every Saturday by Balanced Yoga's skilled, supervised teacher trainees. The drop-in rate is only $5, or free with any Balanced Yoga Membership or pass.  Studio Location: Clintonville, 3526 N. High St, 43214. More info 265-9642 or visit http://www.balancedyoga.net. Meets weekly but no class on Dec. 26.

Sat. Dec. 12  Ohio Online Visual Artist Registry Awards Reception at Main Library  2 - 3:30 p.m.
        The Ohio Online Visual Artist Registry Juried Show (through January 3rd) features all original works by Ohio artists.  Location: Main Library, 96 S. Grant Ave. Columbus, in the Arts and Media Division.

Sat. Dec. 12   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. Dec. 12 Free Press Second Saturday "Holiday" Salon  6:30 - Midnight
       Join local progressives to meet, network, and socialize, with music, art, food.  Refreshments.  Presentation on new Fitrakis Files book "Cops, Coverups and Corruption" and new Free Press 40th Anniversary 2010 calendars.  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 or email: truth@freepress.

Sat. Dec. 12 Free Press Second Saturday Salon  6:30 - Midnight
       Join local progressives to meet, network, and socialize, with music, art, food.  Refreshments.  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: 253-2295, truth@freepress.

Sat. Dec. 12  Magpie Consort Present "With Sweet Rejoicing" at St. James Episcopal Church  7:30 pm
        The Magpie Consort (www.magpieconsort.org), 20 voices directed by Sheena Phillips, presents With Sweet Rejoicing.  The program includes traditional Celtic and Latvian carols, Estonian lullabies by Veljo Tormis, seasonal renaissance music by Monteverdi, Praetorius, and Dufay, a Nigerian song about Bethlehem, and much more.  Admission to all concerts is free, with a suggested donation of $10. Location: St John's Episcopal Church, 700 High Street, Worthington.  This performance includes a reception with mulled wine and refreshments. The Magpie Consort was founded in 1998 as a madrigal group of four singers (now at 20), and has earned a reputation for diverse and delightful repertoire, performed to a high standard. Their new CD, Celtic Voyages, a feast of 22 songs from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Appalachia, will be available to help you with your Christmas shopping!  It can also be ordered online at www.magpieconsort.org (suggested donation $20).  More info call 614.268.6295.

Sun. Dec. 13  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) 725-5186 or econrad@math.ohio-state.edu for more information or visit http://www.math.ohio-state.edu/~econrad/fasola2.html.

Sun. Dec. 13  Simply Living 2nd Annual Holiday Potluck at Global Gallery Coffee House  5 - 9 pm
        All are welcome--bring family and friends and let's celebrate! Bring finger foods, desserts, a happy voice for singing and an appetite for good food and conversation. Drinks for purchase provided by Global Gallery, which helps support their service work. To sweeten the evening we will have the wonderful, talented Molly Winters leading us in holiday singing with her guitar accompaniment, beginning at 5 pm. Location: 3535 N. High St. 43214.
 
Sun. Dec. 13  Magpie Consort Present "With Sweet Rejoicing" to Benefit Faith Mission  6 pm
        The Magpie Consort (www.magpieconsort.org), 20 voices directed by Sheena Phillips, presents With Sweet Rejoicing.  The program includes traditional Celtic and Latvian carols, Estonian lullabies by Veljo Tormis, seasonal renaissance music by Monteverdi, Praetorius, and Dufay, a Nigerian song about Bethlehem, and much more.  Admission to all concerts is free, with a suggested donation of $10. Location: St Francis of Assisi Church, 386 Buttles Ave, Columbus. The collection at this performance will benefit Faith Mission. The Magpie Consort was founded in 1998 as a madrigal group of four singers (now at 20), and has earned a reputation for diverse and delightful repertoire, performed to a high standard. Their new CD, Celtic Voyages, a feast of 22 songs from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Appalachia, will be available to help you with your Christmas shopping!  It can also be ordered online at www.magpieconsort.org (suggested donation $20).  More info call 614.268.6295.

"All you have shall some day be given; Therefore give now, that the season of giving may be yours and not your inheritors." ~ Kahlil Gibran

Mon. Dec. 14  Yoga Well-Being Class at Glen Echo Presbyterian Church  5:30 - 6:30 pm
       Yoga Well-Being is Hatha Yoga with smooth flowing movements (Vinyasa) that calms the nerves, and raises the spirit. The stretches are therapeutic and designed to release tension, create energy and relieve aches and pains in the body. The deep stretches relieve insomnia, headaches, back-pain and depression. Cost is $15.  Location: Glen Echo Presbyterian Church, 220 Cliff Side Dr., Columbus 43202.  Call Sipra Pimputkar at 614-266-1096 before showing up, just in case.

Mon. Dec. 14  Yoga Class Led by Kathleen Lewis at Unity Church  6 - 7:15 p.m.
       This popular, long running class led by Co-op and SL member Kathleen Lewis happens almost every Monday evening.  Come when you can, pay only when you do. $10.  Kathleen is a joyful, loving, and fun loving leader who is eclectic and pulls from many traditions to fashion a unique experience each week.  Location: Unity Church, 4211 Maize Rd, Columbus 43224.  Contact Kathleen for more info: <kslewisoh@aol.com> or call 614-294-3963. 

Mon. Dec. 14  Poetry Forum at the Rumba Cafe: Readings and Open Mic  7 p.m.
       The Rumba Cafe is known for its live music (Hoodoo Soul Band, Spikedrivers, et al) but Mondays are open for the poets and poetry lovers. Check it out.  Location: 2507 Summit St.  [The Poetry Forum was formerly held at Larry's bar on High St.]

Tues. Dec. 15  Herbal Study Group at Stratford Ecological Center  1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
        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.) Contact Christa at 740-363-2548 or treebeing@aol.com  Location: 3083 Liberty Rd. outside Delaware. More info and directions: www.stratfordecologicalcenter.org

Tues. Dec. 15  Clintonville Health Community Holiday Potluck  6 - 8 pm
        Debbie Crawford reports that the CHC is "making slow but steady progress in and outside of meetings on building better health for all in Clintonville!"  Come to the Holiday gathering [at Debbie and Mac's house, 33 Glencoe Road, 43214] for food, fun, celebration and gratitude. We’ll have soup, but please bring a side dish, dessert or appetizer to share. Hope you can make it! More info email Debbie Crawford <crawford@columbus.rr.com> or call 614-263-7491.

Tues. Dec. 15  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. Dec. 15  Screening of Call + Response Film 'Rockumentary' on Human Trafficking at Drexel  7 pm
        CALL+RESPONSE is a first of its kind feature documentary film that reveals the world’s 27 million dirtiest secrets: there are more slaves today than ever before in human history. CALL+RESPONSE goes deep undercover where slavery is thriving from the child brothels of Cambodia to the slave brick kilns of rural India to reveal that in 2007, Slave Traders made more money than Google, Nike and Starbucks combined. Luminaries on the issue such as Cornel West, Madeleine Albright, Daryl Hannah, Julia Ormond, Ashley Judd, Nicholas Kristof, and many others speak out.  Grammy-winning and critically acclaimed artists move this chilling information into inspiration for stopping it. Location:  Drexel Theatre, 2254 E. Main St., Columbus, Ohio 43214. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 General Admission/$6 Students at the door. Tickets are available online at www.drexel.net, at Drexel Theatre Box-Office or by calling Samantha Sudai at (614) 493-7930. NOTE: Samantha is a Bexley high school student on a mission to make more people aware of the world-wide problem of human trafficking.  To bring this global problem to the forefront, Sudai is presenting this 'rock-documentary.' She is funding this on her own and needs help to raise the approximately $800 it takes to present the film. If you can donate please contact her! 

Tues. Dec. 15  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. Dec. 16  Intentional Community Group - Newcomers Always Welcome  6:30 - 9 pm
        How can community happen in an urban setting?   This group meets bi-weekly for a vegetarian potluck and circle of conversation to explore community and personal development and living simply. Hosted this month by Jim & Jacinda Baker, 172 E. Maynard Avenue, 43202,  Information about the Intentional Community Group: Jacinda Baker <jacindaincolumbus@gmail.com> or call 614.397.3945. For background visit simplyliving.org/community.

Weds. Dec. 16  Columbus Rawluck!  Learn, Enjoy Living Foods Lifestyle  6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
        Join us every 3rd Wednesday at 6:30pm for an organic, vegan, rawluck. This is a great introduction to the living foods lifestyle. Sample simple and gourmet dishes. Bring your favorite organic, raw, vegan creation. And connect to conscious community! Held in the Simply Living Offices, 2929 N. High St. 2nd Floor. Contact Shawna at shawna@rawshawna.com

Weds. Dec. 16  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. Dec. 17  Noble Creek Meditation Group Meets Thursdays at Unity Church on Maize Rd  11:30 am - 1 pm
        Based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, this new group is suitable for those new to or experienced in meditation. Location:  Unity Church, 4211 Maize Rd, Columbus 43224. Meets weekly on Thursdays.  For information contact Art Yoho <art@lovebarbecue.com>.

Thurs. Dec. 17  Art of Hosting Conversations that Matter Address Inner Climate at Urban Arts Space  5 - 7 pm
        What's happening to the inner climate?  If you're like us, you've been keeping one eye on Copenhagen and wondering what its outcome might mean for the planet. Instead of waiting to hear the news, why not take action to help define the future?  In Copenhagen, Toke Moeller, Monica Nissen and other practitioners of the Art of Hosting Conversations that Matter will be holding a space alongside the official conference proceedings. They have issued a call to form "Inner Climate Learning Villages" across the world to further the ripple of awareness spreading out from COP15. What is a Learning Village? "A gathering, large or small, where people come together to engage in meaningful conversation around how our "inner climate" is affecting what we see happening in the outer world." Here is an opportunity to add your voice and wisdom to this crucial conversation at the Urban Arts Space around these questions: 1) What relation do you see between the inner climate and outer climate change? 2) What change in the inner climate would help us to imagine a sustainable future? 3)What story about sustainability are we learning to tell?  Location: Urban Arts Space, 50 W. Town St. in the Lazarus bldg downtown. Come beforehand for refreshments and to explore the current exhibits at the UAS; stay afterwards for the Marotta Hour, an evening of music hosted by Larry Marotta.  RSVP to Rick at livingston.28@gmail.com by Tuesday 12/15.

Thurs. Dec. 17  Cocktails@The Conservatory December Theme: Misletoe & Manhattans   5:30 - 10 p.m.
        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.  $10 cover gives you $10 in poker chips to be used on drink or food (1 hot, 3 cold plates).  Enjoy the "Blooms and Butterflies" exhibit as well as the Chihuly installation.  Free parking.  21 and over. Location: Franklin Park Conservatory & Chihuly Collection, 1777 E. Broad St. Columbus 43203; 645-8733. Visit: http://www.fpconservatory.org/cocktails.htm  Also Dec. 17, 31.

Thurs. Dec. 17  Bliss Run Mindfulness Community Meets Every Thursday  7 -  8:45 p.m.
        Based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, this group is suitable for those new to or experienced in meditation. We meet at the Brookwood Presbyterian Church, 2685 E. Livingston Ave. Columbus, OH 43209 For information contact Art Yoho <art@lovebarbecue.com>.

"When there is a river in your growing up, you probably always hear it." ~ Ann Zwinger

Fri. Dec. 18  Socrates Café Now Meeting at Panera Bread on Bethel Road  6 - 8 p.m.
        The Socrates Cafe in Columbus is affiliated with over 400 gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences in conversations that give everyone an opportunity to participate. Free and open to the public.  Meets the first Sunday at 5 p.m. and third Friday at 6 p.m. Topics are determined at each meeting by participants.  Location: Panera Bread, 875 Bethel Road, Columbus 43214, Phone 457-6800. Contact Carol Bradley <bradley_carol@hotmail.com> for more info.

Sat. Dec. 19  Audubon Bird Hike at Blendon Woods Metro Park  10 am
        Free.  Location: Blendon Woods, 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville (614) 508-8111.  Visit www.metroparks.net

Sun. Dec. 20  Birding the Urban Scioto River 9 am - 12 noon
        Free.  Location: Grange Insurance Audubon Center, 505 W. Whittier St.(614) 545-5475.  Visit grange.audubon.org.

Tues. Dec. 22  Informal Carol Singing at Neighborhood Services Food Pantry  10 - 11 am
        Sheena Phillips <sheena@columbus.rr.com>, music director at Summit on 16th is organizing two informal neighborhood carol singing events this Christmas. Well known tunes only. No rehearsal is planned at this time. Location: Neighborhood Services Inc, a food pantry and free clothing store at 1950 N. 4th St. NSI starts handing out holiday food packages that morning. More info about NSI at http://www.nsicolumbus.com/ NSI does fabulous work in the Weinland Park area of Columbus, getting free food and clothing to families who desperately need it, and they would love a burst of Christmas music to cheer them along. Let Sheena know if you can come - and whether you would attend a rehearsal at Summit onMonday Dec 21 @ 7 pm. Call 614-268-6295.

Weds. Dec. 23  Informal Carol Singing in Weinland Park Neighborhood  6 - 8 pm
        Sheena Phillips <sheena@columbus.rr.com>, music director at Summit on 16th is organizing two informal neighborhood carol singing events this Christmas. Well known tunes only. Location:  Weinland Park neighborhood (east of N 4th Street, roughly due east of OSU). A group will depart on foot from Summit on 16th (www.summiton16th.org) at 6 pm, walk over to the Weinland Park neighborhood, sing for an hour or so, and then share cookies & hot chocolate. An alternate meeting point is the OSU Schoenbaum Center (175 E 7th Ave, http://ehe.osu.edu/admin/schoenbaum/) at 6:30 pm. Children welcome. Instruments also welcome. Let Sheena know if you can come - and whether you would attend a rehearsal at Summit on Monday Dec 21 @ 7 pm. Call 614-268-6295.

Thurs. Dec. 24   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

Fri. Dec. 25  Christmas Day
       Clintonville Community Market will be closed.  Open the other 364 days.

Fri. Jan. 1  New Year's Day
        2010 begins.  We can start saying "twenty ten." 

Sat. Jan. 2  Gallery Hop in Short North Arts District  4 - 10 pm

Sun. Jan. 3  Socrates Café Now Meeting at Panera Bread on Bethel Road  5 - 7 p.m.
        The Socrates Cafe in Columbus is affiliated with over 400 gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences in conversations that give everyone an opportunity to participate. Free and open to the public.  Meets the first Sunday at 5 p.m. and third Friday at 6 p.m. Topics are determined at each meeting by participants.  Location: Panera Bread, 875 Bethel Road, Columbus 43214, Phone 457-6800. Contact Carol Bradley <bradley_carol@hotmail.com> for more info.

Mon. Jan. 4  Holistic Moms Network – Columbus Chapter Parents Passionate about Holistic Health and Green Living  7 p.m.
        Meets on the first Monday of every month at 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.  Jan. 4  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. Jan. 5  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. Jan. 6  Columbus Raw! Sharing Circle  7 - 8:30 p.m.
        This is a loving circle for sharing personal experience with eating vegan living foods and creating abundant health in all aspects of life.  Meets every 1st Wednesday of the month. Location: Simply Living Offices, 2929 N. High St. 2nd Floor; 43202. Email Shawna <shawna@rawshawna.com> or call 359.0997 for more info or visit ColumbusRaw.org.

Thurs. Jan. 7  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

Fri. Jan. 15  Socrates Café Now Meeting at Panera Bread on Bethel Road  6 - 8 p.m.
        The Socrates Cafe in Columbus is affiliated with over 400 gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences in conversations that give everyone an opportunity to participate. Free and open to the public.  Meets the first Sunday at 5 p.m. and third Friday at 6 p.m. Topics are determined at each meeting by participants.  Location: Panera Bread, 875 Bethel Road, Columbus 43214, Phone 457-6800. Contact Carol Bradley <bradley_carol@hotmail.com> for more info.

Sat. Jan. 30  Gipson & Fitz Trio with Rachel Frank at Folkside Coffeehouse  8pm Open Stage; 9pm Feature
        The Columbus Folk Music Society presents a special treat tonight! The Gipson & Fitz Trio entertains audiences with an original blend of Bluegrass, Americana, Folk, and Southern Rock. Brant Gipson lends his voice, acoustic guitar, and banjo to an inspiring body of sound consisting of striking lyrics, strong vocals, and bold melodies.  Mark Fitzharris adds his unique vocal ability and his exceptional guitar and mandolin playing to create the fully developed sound of Gipson & Fitz. Bassist, Billy Cory has now joined Gipson & Fitz on stage and audiences of all ages will be thrilled by the fantastic fiddling of Rachel Frank. They are no strangers to the stage, having appeared in various venues and shared the stage with legendary artists such as Phil Lesh & Friends, Bob Dylan, Rusted Root, B.B. King, Koko  Taylor, Bo Diddley Jr., and Buddy Guy.  Doors open at 7pm with the featured performance at 9pm.  Location: Areopagitica Bookstore, 3510 N. High St. 43214. Suggested Donation is $5, $4 for CFMS members, plus a can of food for the Mid-Ohio Fook Bank.

"Equal rights for the sexes will be achieved when mediocre women occupy high positions." ~ François Giroud

More Events Calendars...
WCBE   http://events.publicbroadcasting.net/wcbe/events.eventsmain
Free Press  http://www.freepress.org/calendar.php
Columbus Progressive Newsletter  http://www.columbuspeacenetwork.org/
Metro Parks : http://reservations.metroparks.net/programs/