Simply Living Calendar of Events
April 2009
Our Vision: Creating a compassionate and sustainable world through personal, community and cultural transformation.
We extend a warm invitation for your participation in the following offerings. Please share your interests and energy.
Please see listings by date below the special announcements!
SPECIAL EVENTS
SPECIAL PRESENTATION - AMY GOODMAN ON STANDING UP TO THE MADNESS: ORDINARY HEROES IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES
Fri. April 10, Noon- 1:00 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd.
Join us in welcoming Amy Goodman, internationally acclaimed journalist and host of the daily grassroots global news hour, Democracy Now!, airing on WCRS & more than 700 radio & TV stations around the world. Amy, a fierce advocate for community radio, will be sharing stories from her new book. Suggested donation: $10. For more information contact Jayme at 614-447-0296 or jayme@simplyliving.org. We thank the Social Justice Committee of the First UU Church for hosting this event.
12 Months of Green Living Workshop
Sat. April 4, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
2929 N. High St.
Eating, drinking, breathing and living green.…If you're reading this you are probably already talking and attempting to walk a greener more sustainable life. Spend a day with Annie Warmke of Blue Rock Station, exploring Green at Home, Green at Work, Green Family, Personal Green and more! Cost: Simply Living member: $49; non-member -$59. Contact Ben at 447-0296 or ben@simplyliving.org to register.
Beyond Stress Management to Awareness
Wed. April 8, 15, 22 and 29, 7-8:30pm
2929 N. High St.
Learn basic knowledge of the mind/body/spirit variables involved in holistic health. Participants will learn instruments for identifying stress symptoms, stress triggers and coping mechanisms; plus subjective experiences of self-regulation using biofeedback, relaxation exercises, imagery, awareness practices, Divine guidance, and methods of dealing with self-anger and anger in others. Led by Mary Struble who has 30 years' experience in this field. (Read her interview in Apr/May Simply News.) Cost: $25 for 4 weeks. Contact Ben at 447-0296 or ben@simplyliving.org to register.
Backyard Gardening and Composting Tips
Thu. April 9, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St.
Informal open house in the Palm House; 7-8PM - Meet in lower level community room for a talk with Kim Brown, Education Mgr. for the Franklin Park Conservatory, who will share suggestions on composting and backyard gardening and answer your questions. Kim has an academic background in carbon sequestration and forest management and oversees the Conservatory's educational programming. This is the monthly meeting of the Peak Oil/Global Warming Learning Group; all are welcome!
Meet Simply Living
Wed. April 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
2929 N. High St..
A one-hour introduction to Simply Living, sharing our history, vision and programs. Come and learn more about how you might participate. Refreshments provided. Please RSVP to Ben, 447-0296 or ben@simplyliving.org.
Friday Night Film: A Delicate Balance
Fri. April 17, 7:00 pm
Simply Living office, 2929 N. High St.
Hosted by Eriyah Flynn of Mercy for Animals, A Delicate Balance covers the comprehensive and seldom made connection between our diet and its negative impacts on public health and a sustainable environment, including water quality and scarcity issues. An empowering film toward more healthy and sustainable living, starting with our next meal. Bring snacks to share; donations welcome.
Picture This: Earth Day 2009
Sat.-Sun., April 18-19
Planning is underway for a two-day event: A work day on Sat. 4/18 and celebration at Goodale Park on Sun. 4/19 from noon to 7 p.m. Do you have a work project to benefit our community for which you'd like some help? Sign up at picturethis09.org to volunteer at a specific project site on Sat. 4/18 and celebrate at Goodale Park on Sun. 4/19 from noon to 7 p.m. Would you like to help at the Simply Living booth on 4/19? Please contact Ben to share your energy and ideas: 447-0296; ben@simplyliving.org. Sponsored by Green Columbus.
Friday Night Film: Establishing a Food Forest the Permaculture Way
Fri. April 24, 7:30 pm
Simply Living office, 2929 N. High St.
This film, despite a rather imposing title, will inspire you to see new possibilities in how we garden, even in urban areas. Geoff Lawton shares a holistic vision of a food production system that builds and protects soils, feeds people, locks up carbon and increases our biodiversity. Josh Beniston hosts. Bring snacks to share; donations welcome.
Permaculture Weekend Training
Sat.-Sun., April 25-26
Simply Living office, 2929 N. High St.
Join us to learn the basics of permaculture and explore some examples of permaculture that will work well here in Ohio. This workshop, introducing the concept and principles of permaculture, the design process, urban permaculture strategies, and permaculture forest gardens will be led by experienced permaculturalist Josh Beniston. Workshop cost is $70 for the weekend. Sliding scale and scholarships are available. Please call or e-mail Ben at Simply Living, 447-0296, ben@simplyliving.org if interested.
EARTH INSTITUTE DISCUSSION COURSES
The richness of these courses lies in the experiences and wisdom of participants. Meaningful conversation, respectful listening, and acceptance and common recognition of our foibles contribute to a memorable experience. Attend an introductory overview of a specific discussion course or call the Simply Living office, 614/447-0296, to register or for more information.
Earth Institute discussion courses provide an enjoyable, supportive setting in which to examine personal values and habits, engage in stimulating discussion, and make personal changes if desired. Since 1993, tens of thousands of individuals and hundreds of organizations nationally have been involved in these courses.
Gather with a group of 8-12 people and share your questions, experiences, joys and concerns on the following topics. The introduction offers an opportunity to learn more about the course to decide if you want to take it. For more information, contact 447-0296 or ben@simplyliving.org, or visit www.ehei.org. The only charge is the coursebook cost of $25.
Healthy Children/Healthy Planet
Introduction March 28th at 10am, to consider joining this 8-week, discussion course to discuss ways to create meaningful family times and healthful environments for children, to explore ways to develop a child's connection to nature, and to foster creativity. This is an inspiring and potentially family-changing course! For more information contact Wanda Hambrick at 433-0363. Hosted by the First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W Weisheimer Rd.Voluntary Simplicity
When do material possessions add meaning to our lives and when do they detract? Introduction April 4th at 10AM. Join us for this 8-week, life-changing discussion course, offering shared conversation on the meaning of simplicity. Course book cost $25. For more information call Wanda Hambrick at 433-0363. Hosted by the First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W Weisheimer Rd.
YOUR MONEY OR YOUR LIFE (YMOYL)
There's a big difference between "making a living" and making a life. Do you spend more than you earn? Does making a living feel more like making a dying? Do you dislike your job, but can't afford to leave it? Is money fragmenting your time, your relationships with family and friends? If so, this course is for you. There is simply no better, step-by-step program available than this.
Wed. April 1: YMOYL Learning Group, first session, 7-9 pm, The Oasis Center/YWCA 65 S 4th. Participants meet weekly for six consecutive classes, using the book plus a workbook ($6), then skip a month and conclude June 3rd. Facilitated by Randall Loop. For more information, contact Randall at 496-4595 or erloop@yahoo.com.
ADDITIONAL SIMPLY LIVING ACTIVITIES To schedule events at the SL office, call 447-0296.
Date and time Event Location Simply Living Healthy: For current information about meetings and activities, contact k_keller@wowway.com or 885-2964. Thursday afternoons Play Groups for families with young children: Call 262-5562 or email gary.allison@gmail.com for upcoming weekly play group dates. Call for location Wed. April 1, 7:00 - 8:30 pm Eastern Heartland Earth Institute Steering Committee Meeting. This group organizes and mentors the Earth Institute courses and invites your participation. Contact Ben at ben@simplyliving.org; 447-0296 x100. 2929 N. High St. Wed. April 1, 7:30 pm Intentional Community Group. For detailed directions call 268-7656. All are welcome! Call for location Tue April 14 & 28, 7:00 - 9:00 pm Downshifting Learning Group. Do you have time for the things that are really important, or are just plain tired of the "rat race"? Please join us for tea and sharing. Please contact Kirsten at 447-0169 or Jane at 670-4050 or adagioalpacas@wowway.com with any questions. Call for location Wed. April 15, 7:30 pm Intentional Community Group. For detailed directions call 268-7656. All are welcome! Call for location Tue. April 21, 7:00 - 9:00 pm Simply Living Board Meeting. All members are welcome; please confirm your attendance with Donna at 268-7656. 2929 N. High St.
COMMUNITY and REGIONAL ACTIVITIES For new class announcements at the Stratford Ecological Center in Delaware contact 740/363-2548 or treebeing@aol.com. For events at Shepherd's Corner, see the Shepherd's Corner calendar of events or call 614/866-4302. Managed by the Dominican Sisters, Shepherd's Corner combines ecologically sound principles of living, organic methods of gardening, and spiritually enhanced educational and contemplative experiences. Sustainable Clintonville: Contact 263-0942 or HBallard@otterbein.edu for information.
Sustainable Westerville: Contact 891-2823 or maeco@columbus.rr.com for information.
Sustainable Worthington: Visit www.sustainableworthington.org for information.
Persons interested in joining a practice group on Nonviolent Communication are invited to contact Andy, ccco112@sbcglobal.net or 614-558-1141.
Date and time Event Location Sat. Mar 28, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm 9th Annual Green Thumbs Gardeners' Fair, sponsored by the Delaware County Master Gardeners. The two keynote speakers this year are, Dr. Gary Gao (Edible Landscaping) and Marvin Duren (Unique Landscaping Ideas). Other experts will give informative presentations on Vegetables, Japanese Maples, Herbs, Annuals, Canning, Seed Starting, Brambles, Water Gardening, and Backyard Composting and Floral Design. Olentangy Liberty High School, 3584 Home Rd., Powell Sat. Mar 28, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Green Energy & Green Jobs Workshop at Columbus State Community College. Workshops include Ohio renewable energy and energy efficiency market transformation from the implementation of new energy laws, including available state and federal resources and incentives, to an overview of state-of-the-art solar, wind, biomass and green building applications, green job training opportunities and more. From 10 am-5 pm., cost is $25, student $15. Put on by Green Energy Ohio. For more info and location visit www.greenenergyohio.org. Columbus State Community College Sun Mar 29, 5:00-9:00 pm Ravinia's Tenth Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser. Friends of the Ravines invites you to join the festivities marking the 10th anniversary of their newsletter. Appetizers, desserts, wines, a silent and live auction and music by Avalon Nine will provide a memorable evening benefiting the ravines of Franklin County. For reservations and more information, visit www.friendsoftheravines.org Barley's, 467 N. High St. Sun Mar 29 Yoga on High Open House. Come join us as we celebrate our eighth birthday with free yoga classes and birthday cake! The following are free Yoga classes: Intro to New Beginner Ashtanga: 1pm; 2pm; 3pm. Intro to New Beginner Hatha: 1pm; 2pm; 3pm. Balance Slide Show: 1pm. Breath Class: 2pm. Gentle Yoga: 3pm. Please call Yoga on High to preregister: 614-291-4444. Yoga on High Tue Mar 31 Environmental Lobby Day. The Ohio Environmental Council and the Sierra Club are hosting this day at the statehouse, focusing on a broad range of environmental issues. For more information or to register, contact Jen Miller at jennifer.miller@sierraclub.org or 614-461-0734 ext 304.. Wed April 1, 7:00 - 8:30 pm Columbus Raw! Sharing Circle. This is a loving, sharing circle for those interested in raw vegan foods and abundant health in all aspects of life. Everyone has some personal experience to share, so bring a goal and an insight! Vibrant refreshments will be provided. Contact Shawna: shawnalovesgod@gmail.com. 2929 N High St. Fri Apr 3, 9:15am-4pm Ohio Botanical Symposium. World-renowned botanist and conservationist Dr. W. Hardy Eshbaugh will present the keynote address "The Challenges to Biodiversity Conservation in the 21st Century: Where does Ohio fit in the Equation?" Six other speakers, the Best Plant Finds of 2008, exhibits and vendors. Cost is $25, $35 after March 31. Hosted by the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. For more information and to register, visit www.ohiodnr.com/tabid/20259/Default.aspx. Villa Milano, 1630 Schrock Rd. in Columbus Sat Apr 4, 9:00 am - noon Pruning Principles. Many potential problems may be prevented by pruning correctly during formative years of a tree or shrub. Healthy plants are often weakened or deformed by using improper methods. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this presentation will have you pruning like a pro! Join Arboretum Director of Horticulture Mike Ecker for this informative session. Cost is $20, reservation required at 740-323-2355 or information@dawesarb.org. Dawes Arboretum on Ohio Rt. 13, five miles south of Newark and 3 miles north of I-70, Exit 132 Sat Apr 4, 10:30 am-1:00 pm Kid's Nature Club at Stratford Ecological Center. 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. Register with April at 740-363-2548 or SECEarthShare@aol.com. Stratford Ecological Center, 3083 Liberty Rd. Wed Apr 8, 7:00 pm Sierra Club Program: Carbon Sequestration. Dr. Kim Brown, ecosystem scientist and Education Manager for the Franklin Park Conservatory, will speak on carbon sequestration, helping us to understand what the carbon offset market is, what biological sequestration projects mean for biological conservation, how carbon influences forest conservation, and how human forest management impacts carbon sequestration. Columbus Main Library, 96 S. Grant Ave. Sat Apr 11, 10:00 am Wild Ones Program. Chrissy Pheifer, Glacier Ridge Naturalist, will talk about the mole family of salamanders that depends heavily on small, temporary forested pools, called vernal pools. They lay eggs in mid-March. Once hatched, the salamander larvae race against time before the pool dries up. Innis House at Inniswood Metro Park, 940 S. Hempstead Rd. in Westerville Sat Apr 11, 11:00 - 11:45 am Wonderful World of Wiggly Worms Series. We'll use our worm bin to explore the worm's habitat, behavior, needs and place in our lives. Be sure to make it back on the second Saturday of each month in 2009 to take part in new projects and fascinating programs. Meet at the Discovery Center. See www.dawesarb.org. Dawes Arboretum on Ohio Rt. 13, five miles south of Newark and 3 miles north of I-70, Exit 132 Tue Apr 14, 10:00-11:00 am Story Time on the Farm at Stratford Ecological Center. 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. Storytime meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 10-11am - $5/family per time. Walk-ins welcome. Contact April at 363-2548 or SECEarthShare@aol.com. Stratford Ecological Center, 3083 Liberty Rd. Wed. April 15, 6:30-8:30 pm Columbus Raw! Potluck. Join us monthly 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 loving community! Contact livinginharmony@aol.com or see rawfood.meetup.com/446 for location. Mon.-Sun., April 20-26 National TV Turnoff Week. Six years into the "War on Terror," aggression, selfishness and insults had exploded on national television. Child Quote: "Watching television replaces your imagination with television thinking and there's not much space left after that." Turning off the television for 7 full days helps participants realize that life without TV is not torture and may actually be more fun. A multi-day TV fast allows time for the development of habits likely to be more productive and rewarding. A 1-day turnoff provides too little challenge. Visit www.tvturnoff.org or call the Center for Screen-Time Awareness at 202-333-9220 for more information, including resources for parents and teachers. You can also order an Organizers Kit for Turnoff Week, including screen-time-reduction plans with sections for the classroom, the living room and the workplace. Wed Apr 22 Earth Day. Please join Lights Out Ohio by turning off lights in your home or office during Earth Day. Spread the word to your friends, family and co-workers to turn Lights Out! Lights Out Ohio is new in 2009, expanding from the hugely successful Lights Out Akron in 2008. Many who turned out their lights on Earth Day 2008 were so pleased with the results that they are continuing to keep them off when not needed. See www.lightsoutakron.org. Sat Apr 25, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Arbor Day Festival. An array of activities and educational displays, including tree climbing and kids' crafts. See www.dawesarb.org. Dawes Arboretum on Ohio Rt. 13, five miles south of Newark and 3 miles north of I-70, Exit 132 First Tuesdays, 7:00 pm Central Ohio Green Party meetings; for more info see www.ohiogreens.org. Northside Library Meeting Room, 1423 N. High St. most Wednesdays, 7:00 pm Ananda Meditation Group Simple yoga, meditation, and devotional music for increased inner peace and joy. Based on the teachings of Paramhanse Yogananda (see www.ananda.org). Call Doug at 614-439-2397 or Elizabeth at 614-216-3640 for more information. 345 E. Beaumont Rd. The Oasis Center, A Space Created for Wellness located at the YWCA downtown offers SL discounts on massages, hypnosis, Avatar. For more info contact Randall Loop, oasiscenter@core.com.
To list your upcoming event in the Simply Living calendar, please contact ben@simplyliving.org. To learn about additional important community listings, please subscribe to Chuck's weekly Community Update, clynd@cavenet.org and to the Simply Living announcements list, janet@simplyliving.org.To the Simply Living homepage.
Updated March 27, 2009