New community lecture series to begin at Bucci’s January 14

MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Beginning in January, The Ohio State University at Marion and Bucci’s Italian Scratch Kitchen will partner to offer a new lecture series called “Lectures on Tap.” The series will take place on the second Tuesday of each month at Bucci’s, located at 320 W. Center St., Marion, Ohio.

Ohio State faculty and other community experts will share the latest research and scholarly information on a variety of timely subjects, including the environment, astronomy, agronomy, health and wellness, linguistics, crime, engineering a better Marion, food safety, Ohio migration patterns, and more. The goal of the lecture series is to foster casual, open discussions about thought-provoking topics of interest to the citizens of the Marion regional area.

The inaugural lecture is scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, at 5:30 p.m. It will feature Ohio State Marion Assistant Professor of Physics, Dr. Chris Orban, who will present “The Science Behind an Unforgettable Year in Backyard Astronomy.” Dr. Orban will discuss the significant celestial events of 2024 and explain how the sun’s 11-year cycle of magnetic activity contributed to these phenomena.

“There has been no greater year for celestial events in Ohio than we had in 2024,” said Orban. “There were not one but two major solar flares that allowed the northern lights to be seen across the state, and in April, a once-in-centuries total solar eclipse passed right through downtown Marion.”

Patterned after the successful international phenomenon Science Cafe, Lectures on Tap aims to create engaging conversations in casual environments like pubs, restaurants, and cafes, bridging the gap between academic/scientific experts and the community.

Attendees are encouraged to eat, drink, and relax during the lecture. Doors open at 5 p.m., allowing time for attendees to place food and drink orders. The lecture will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer session at 6 p.m. Those attending January’s event will be entered to win a $50 gift card to Bucci’s and an Ohio State memorabilia basket.