Have you visited Simply Living’s online Marketplace? It’s our way of offering a “sustainable shopping” option to purchase new and gently used items, from books and classes to jewelry, antiques, cool clothing and even a massage table.
We’re expanding and need TWO Volunteers to help process new items and post them on the Marketplace. If you or someone you know has an hour or two to spare, please Contact Chuck@simplyliving.org. Not sure? Call or text Chuck at 614-354-6172. Thank You!
SAVE THE DATE! SIMPLY LIVING’S 2021
SUSTAINABLE LIVING AND GARDEN TOUR
JULY 24 FROM 10 AM – 3 PM
The Tour will include 8 stops showcasing a wide variety of sustainability features. Talk to home owners and learn about their gardens as well as solar installations, electric cars, rain barrels, and more. This year we are also featuring the CMN Memorial Community Garden
Sooner or later, we will have to recognise that the Earth has rights, too, to live without pollution. What mankind must know is that human beings cannot live without Mother Earth, but the planet can live without humans. – Evo Morales
Upcoming Simply Events in June and Beyond
Ohio Broadleaf Tree Identification-Parts 1 @ 2
Wednesdays June 16 and 23 7 – 8 pm
Virtual Slide Presentations with Q&A
If you wish you knew more about the unique characteristics of our Ohio trees, you will love this learning opportunity. This 2-part, slide presentation by Mort (Marty) Schmidt will teach you how to identify Ohio broadleaf, i.e non-conifer, trees, with an emphasis on recognition by leaves, but also including pictures of the bark, fruits, flowers, berries, etc.
Part 1. Mort will explain the general principles needed for identifying trees, including references to several electronic and printed sources that you can use on your own, offline or in the woods. Register.
Part 2. Mort will offer a brief rundown of 50 common Ohio trees, using one or several key features for each tree. Register.
Both presentations will include time for questions. Mort has a deep knowledge of trees, and often includes facts and anecdotes about how the trees have been used for food, drinks, and medicine.
Bonus: Mort offers free guided walks in various central Ohio parks and wooded areas!
Mort is a retired geologist and amateur naturalist and woodworker. He acquired his B.S. and M.S. in geology from the Ohio State University, and practiced oil exploration in the 1980s, and environmental geology until 2019.
Simply Living Book Club:
Global Warming: Can It Be Stopped?
We’re excited about this new book by Ohio author Paul Robinson. Paul brings a unique perspective as a psychologist and a former science educator to explore the deeper reasons why we are not acting on the climate crisis, and he offers insight into the opportunities for acting now to preserve the quality of life for generations to come. Learn more about the book here.
Simply Living will be arranging an author talk with Q&A at a bookstore or other local venue.
We will announce the date and time of the Book Talk here and on our website and social media.
If you would like to be notified and reserve a seat as soon as the event is confirmed,
email chuck.lynd@simplyliving.org.
MEET SIMPLY LIVING
What’s the backstory?
and the new directions?
We’re revising our popular gathering to learn/reflect on our past and explore new initiatives and possibilities.
Tentative Date: Wednesday, August 7 @ 5:30
Location TBD: Zoom and/or CoHatch office
HIGHLIGHTS FROM SIMPLY LIVING’S BE THE CHANGE COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Join Annie & Jay Warmke of Blue Rock Station
(walking the talk—with sustainable pioneering—goats, renewables, earthen dwellings, spirituality).
more here
This annual event attracts more than 100,000 visitors and will continue to grow, thanks to the strong participation of many people regardless of origin and ethnicity. More here.
Live Streamed on Zoom
Join award-winning journalist Alec MacGillis, author of Fulfillment: Winning and Losing in One-Click America, to learn more about Amazon’s impact on the wealth and poverty of towns and cities across the United States. Alec will be in conversation with Columbus Business First Editor-in-Chief Doug Buchanan. Columbus Business First is Gramercy’s Community Partner for this exclusive conversation. More here
Wed Jun 9th 4:00pm – 5:00pm
We know you support the environment, but is your money doing the same?
Our June webcast will teach you how to get started with fossil fuel-free investing.
More here
Overall Economic Impact Study of ECDI’s Lending to Ohio Entrepreneurs by Bill Lafayette, Ph.D.
On June 4th, the 31st Annual Conference from The Sustainable Business Network of MA (SBN) will feature an exciting and diverse array of dynamic local and national leaders who are aligned with SBN’s mission. AMIBA Executive Director, Derek Peebles will be a featured presenter at this important event. Join us virtually as we address a range of topics from local business support and community development, to local food and sustainability, and racial equity and equitable economies. More here.
Saturday, June 4th
Upaya Zen Center is bringing together women leaders engaged in the field of spiritual practice and environmental activism for an intensive day-long program unfolding on the June 5th anniversary of the United Nations World Environment Day. In a time of racial inequity, climate catastrophe, poverty, hunger and global pandemic this program honors the commitment to plant life and grow justice.
Find many more events posted on our Community Calendar.
Browse now. Select the Monthly View to find events quickly.
HINT: Search using keywords like FOOD, ENERGY, SUSTAINABLE, YOGA, MEDITATION, MUSIC, SUMMIT, ETC.
NEWS + RESOURCES
FOR LIVING LOCAL
by Maarten Hajer Valiz
A plea for the social efficacy of the neighborhood and its ecology
Neighbourhoods for the Future revisits the neighborhood as the designated scale and arena to build our urban futures. The neighborhood is small enough to be tangible, yet big enough to make an actual difference. This book provides a new perspective on the relation between participants, resources and rules to spark change and prepare urbanites and policymakers for realizing their own sustainable neighborhoods for the future. Read about all the recommended new books in the Two Dollar Radio Headquarters latest blog post here,
“Local power is also the realm of the small nonprofit, church, and civic association. A handful of people, properly organized, can drive enormous changes in a city’s dynamics.” ~ Toby Hemenway, The Permaculture City: Regenerative Design for Urban, Suburban, and Town Resilience
Backyard Composting: There are also diversion opportunities, like backyard composting, you can utilize from your own home to minimize the amount of yard waste that enters the landfill:
- Compost adds nutrients to plants, retains soil moisture and offers a natural alternative to chemical fertilizers.
- Check with your local government regarding any rules or regulations pertaining to properly composting at home.
- Get Started! Gather grass clippings, leaves and brush to create a home compost system. The rich humus produced can be used for the lawn and garden.
- Download SWACO’s easy-to-use Compost at Home Guide.
- Watch a pre-recorded webinar on how to start composting at home.
DYK that Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District’s Community Backyards program also offers a $50 rebate towards the purchase of a new compost bin? There are two ways to qualify. Find out how.
Keeping yard waste out of the landfill is easy to do. SWACO provides opportunities for all Franklin County residents to divert organic waste from the waste stream and turn it into compost. As a result, SWACO helps Franklin County residents and businesses divert nearly 200,000 tons of organic lawn and yard waste from the landfill each year. Properly disposing of yard waste offers several benefits to the environment and the community – it saves space in the landfill, reduces the amount of greenhouse gases being generated and promotes the use of natural, renewable resources. Visit SWACO.org to learn more. Together, we can make a difference.
Free Summer Fun in Columbus – Website Here
Music, Movies, Fitness, Outdoors, Museums
The Beautiful Waterfall At Rock Mill
Is One Of Central Ohio’s Hidden Gems
Rock Mill is more than the tavern and brewery. More here.
You want me to put my coffee where?
These three DIY recipes for skin and hair care feature leftover coffee grounds. Give one a try! more…
Solar Panels & Electric Vehicles: a Match Made in Heaven
Learn how to make sure your system can fully power your home and your EV. more…
Can We Break Free from Plastic Pollution?
A federal bill introduced in March seeks to help us do just that. more…
Join us in June for our virtual Foundations of Compassionate Nonviolent Communication Training
This four-week, online foundations training is perfect for people new to Compassionate Nonviolent Communication (NVC) or refreshing their practice with the basics.
Plan to meet from 3-5pm every Sunday starting on June 6. Register here.
As the public banking movement continues to surge forward, everyone can now learn about banking in the public interest
and declare your support for the creation of public banks. Check it out now
Listen on your radio or online anytime!
CALENDARS!
LIVE LOCAL, BUILD COMMUNITY #SIMPLYLIVING
In This Issue…
- Almost 200 free or cheap events this weekend in Columbus!
- Popcorn Pops Concerts for Kids with Columbus Symphony Orchestra
- Explore at New Albany Touch a Truck
- Tickets now available for Picnic with the Pops at Columbus Commons
- 2021 Memorial Day events around Columbus
- Free Fitness in Columbus
- Where to go berry picking in Columbus this Spring and Summer
- Best Places for Canoeing and Kayaking in Columbus
- Liberty and Lunacy: Doo Dah Parade and Block Party
- Drive-in Popups and Outdoor movies around Columbus 2021
- Outdoor Public Pools in Columbus open for 2021
- Green Lawn Abbey Yard Sale and Crypt-ique Handmade Market
- Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse tickets just $1.50
- Cool off at Free Splash Pads in Columbus in 2021
- 2021 Farmers Markets in Columbus
- Worthington Concerts on the Green on Sundays
- The best Dog Parks in Columbus
- Free outdoor concert roundup around Columbus in 2021
- Best places for Creeking in Columbus
COLUMBUS UNDERGROUND
Mega Weekend
Outdoor Theatre, Baseball, Yoga & More!
Welcome to the weekend. Theaters are reopening, it’s pool time (but chilly!), and the Clippers are allowing full capacity. Tickets to Yes, There Will Be Vegan Options are on sale through June 4. Have a great weekend.
Shopping and Outdoors
Watch A Quiet Place 2 or Cruella at the South Drive-In.
Dinosaur Island opens this weekend at the Zoo.
Grandview has a parade on Saturday for Memorial Day.
Do some outdoor yoga and fitness at MPACC.
Craftin’ Outlaws has a popup. The Big Bike Drive is this weekend.
Do yoga at Whetstone Park of Roses.
Explore the colorful gardens at Franklin Park Conservatory.
Shop the Loyal to the Soil Flea at The Crest.
Fun Stuff To Do
Shop the Pearl Market.
White Castle turns 100! Honey Cup Coffee opens in SoHud.
More Farmers Markets are starting up on Saturday.
It’s Last Call Sunday at The Forum.
ENJOY EXPLORING ART
Actors’ Theatre returns with Much Ado About Nothing.
Check out a 2010s Dance Party.
The Drexel Reopens this weekend.
La Bohème continues on Friday and Sunday.
Watch a movie at The Gateway Film Center.
Last weekend to catch Jerome Jennings livestream with JAGtv.
You’re running out of time to see beautiful paper turned into flowers at Franklin Park Conservatory.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO
THIS WEEDKEND?
Asian Festival has virtual specials on Saturday.
Columbus Eagles has a game, as does the Columbus Crew.
Get tickets for this summer’s Picnic with the Pops.
Thanks for reading and enjoy your weekend!
Visit ColumbusUnderground.com and support them!
edited by Connie Hammond (pictured above).
Email cmhammond11@att.net to subscribe to her Community Calendar or share meeting info.
Friday, May 28, 2021, 5:00 – 5:30 PM. GrassRoot Ohio With Carolyn Harding. Our mission is to profile every-day people working on important issues and to connect them with other folks who want to help. Conversations with every-day people, working on important issues here in Columbus and all around Ohio Justice: environmental, social, racial, economic, w/ folks on the front lines. LISTEN TO 94.1 FM and stream US online at WGRN.com. You can find all GrassRoot Ohio podcasts/shows on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-42674753. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grassroot-ohio/id1522559085 and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAX2t1Z7_qae803BzDF4PtQ.
Saturday, May 29, 2021, 12:00 – 1:00 PM. Occupy for Our Revolution. Join Our Revolution each Saturday at the intersection of North Broadway and High street to demonstrate for peace and justice. Bring a mask and a sign or two in solidarity. Register here.
Sunday, May 30, 2021, 2:00 PM. GrassRoot Ohio With Carolyn Harding. Our mission is to profile every-day people working on important issues and to connect them with other folks who want to help. Conversations with every-day people, working on important issues here in Columbus and all around Ohio. Justice: environmental, social, racial, economic, w/ folks on the front lines. LISTEN TO 94.1 FM and stream US online at WGRN.com. You can find all GrassRoot Ohio podcasts/shows on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-42674753. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grassroot-ohio/id1522559085 and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAX2t1Z7_qae803BzDF4PtQ.
Wednesday, June 2, 2021, 8:00 PM. AFSC Webinar: Stopping police militarization. Communities of color and poor communities are policed using militarized tactics and equipment underwritten by the federal government and local budgets—turning communities across the U.S. into war zones. Join our community conversation to hear how people are organizing against police militarization and calling for policies and investments in programs that strengthen our communities. Register here.
Wednesday, June 2, 2021, 12:00 PM. Conversations with the Nation: Whistleblowing as a Moral Mission. In the 1960s, Daniel Ellsberg traveled to Vietnam to study conditions on the ground, as the war escalated during the Johnson presidency. While there, he slowly but surely came to the conclusion that the war was not only immoral but also unwinnable. And, upon his return Stateside, he told this to anyone whose ears he could catch, be they Defense Secretary Robert McNamara or Ambassador Averell Harriman, as Sasha Abramsky detailed in a recent Nation profile of Ellsberg as he approaches his 90th birthday. When these senior figures didn’t listen, when the war continued and the list of lives lost grew longer by the hour, he made the momentous decision to go public with his insider knowledge that that war was based on a web of lies. The Pentagon Papers published in 1971 by The New York Times changed the course of history. Cost $10.00. More information and registration here.
Thursday, June 3, 2021, 1:00 PM. Ending Death By Incarceration – Part 1 of the June “Lessons From The Front Lines” Webinar Series. In recognition of Torture Awareness Month in June 2021, the National Religious Campaign Against Torture presents a Thursday afternoon webinar series, “Lessons From the Front Lines: Legislative Campaigns On Prison Conditions and Solitary.” Organizers, advocates, community members, and torture survivors are gaining new ground with campaign and legislative successes across the country. Tune in as they reflect on how their work to undo our nation’s immoral and harmful conditions of confinement is critical to ending mass incarceration. Johnny Perez, the Director of NRCAT’s U.S. Prisons Program, will hold a fireside chat with Amy Fettig, Executive Director of The Sentencing Project. The discussion will take a closer look at death by incarceration, youth life sentences, solitary confinement, the death penalty, and most importantly what needs to happen at this moment to end these torturous sentences and practices. This conversation is aimed at informing both criminal justice practitioners as well as people who are interested in engaging in these efforts, particularly people of faith and those impacted by mass incarceration. Register here.
June 4 -6, 2021. #NoWar2021 Virtual Conference: From Weapons Fairs to War Zones: Unraveling the War Machine. Leading activists and trainers from around the world will be making connections between weapons fairs and war zones and focusing our global efforts on a few key projects while preparing us to unravel the war machine everywhere it’s found. The whole thing will be virtual, with full participation possible from anywhere on June 4-6, 2021. Early-bird discounted tickets are now available!
Saturday, June 5, 2021, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Columbus Mennonite Church Plant Sale. Lots of great perennials and annuals at good prices. Proceeds support the Peacemaker’s comforter project for refugees. Location: 35 Oakland Park Avenue, Columbus 43214.
“Hope is not a feeling. It’s a virtue. We have good reason to practice it right now – And no alternative but to embrace it.” ~ E. J. Dionne
MORE LOCAL CALENDARS
Columbus Free Press Activists Calendar Editor Bob Roehm
WCBE Arts & Life Calendar
BE THE CHANGE: READ OUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Without aggression, it becomes possible to think well, to be curious about differences, and to enjoy each other’s company. ~ Margaret J. Wheatley
Be the Change: Join Simply Living Individual membership rates have been reduced to $25 annually. Seniors, $20. Students only $10. Business memberships starting at $100 now include membership in the Ohio Sustainable Business Council.
Sign up online here or email HELLO@simplyliving.org