Secret Society

Unlike the usual BYOB format of this group, this is an **assigned reading format.** **You are expected to have read some of the book** to join the discussion :) I am excited to finally read this book, its an award-winning, one of the most highly rated non fiction books across Goodreads/Amazon and for good reason! About the book: # "In vivid detail... examines the little-known history of two extraordinary dynasties."--The Boston Globe An epic, multigenerational story of two rival dynasties who flourished in Shanghai and Hong Kong as twentieth-century China surged into the modern era, from the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Shanghai, 1936. The Cathay Hotel, located on the city's famous waterfront, is one of the most glamorous in the world. Built by Victor Sassoon--billionaire playboy and scion of the Sassoon dynasty--the hotel hosts a who's who of global celebrities: Noel Coward has written a draft of Private Lives in his suite and Charlie Chaplin has entertained his wife-to-be. And a few miles away, Mao and the nascent Communist Party have been plotting revolution. By the 1930s, the Sassoons had been doing business in China for a century, rivaled in wealth and influence by only one other dynasty--the Kadoories. These two Jewish families, both originally from Baghdad, stood astride Chinese business and politics for more than 175 years, profiting from the Opium Wars; surviving Japanese occupation; courting Chiang Kai-shek; and losing nearly everything as the Communists swept into power. In The Last Kings of Shanghai, Jonathan Kaufman tells the remarkable history of how these families participated in an economic boom that opened China to the world, but remained blind to the country's deep inequality and to the political turmoil at their doorsteps. In a story stretching from Baghdad to Hong Kong to Shanghai to London, Kaufman enters the lives and minds of these ambitious men and women to forge a tale of opium smuggling, family rivalry, political intrigue, and survival. Note: ***location subject to change **but we'll keep it nearby. *You **must** buy something at the venue. *** First timer attendees **are requested to contribute 20HKD to fund the Meetup Group Subscription. *No-Shows make the host sad (please update your attendance)

Chinese Sword Dance - Beginners 中式劍舞 (初班) 🗡️ Discover the Art of Chinese Sword Dance ! 🩰 Beginner’s Class – No Experience Needed Thu 8-9pm lai Chi Kok /Sun 6-7pm South Horizons $120/hr Step into the graceful world of Chinese Sword Dance, where tradition meets movement. In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn: ✨ Fundamentals of Chinese Sword techniques in a dance-inspired style ✨ Basic Chinese dance movements to enhance coordination and flow ✨ Strength and flexibility training for arms, wrists, and fingers ✨ Footwork that tones and strengthens your legs ✨ A full-body workout that blends elegance with power The sword adds gentle resistance, turning each movement into a dynamic fitness experience. Whether you're exploring a new cultural art form or seeking a graceful way to stay active, this class is for you! Enquiry 查詢/ Class Booking 預約: lssdance2012@gmail.com WhatsApp : 65230389 Regular students no need to register here.

依家異形嚟咗, 都唔駛逃離啦! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* 🔔 費用: [$105 / Girls $75 Meetup報名平$5] 入場前要付款, 包飲品一盒, extra飲品每盒 $5 🔔 場地冇食物提供, 但係歡迎帶外賣上嚟食. 🔔 宣傳其他場地/放飛機/遊戲過程中態度惡劣者會被放入黑名單 🔔 入場要除鞋. 場內拖鞋淨係供店內使用, 請勿著出店外. 🔔 報名參加 Meetup 活動, 當系統問你 "Are you bringing anyone"時, 如果你祗是一個人來, 毋須㩒+1 (+1 代表會帶朋友來的意思) 🔔 我哋嘅活動主持人有時會因為工作或者學業關係臨時嚟唔到, Meeple Tree 保留臨時更換主持嘅可能性 🙏🏻 🔔 因放飛機已被移除人數: 102 (活動開始前24小時內退出者) 🔔 Meeple Tree 保留參加者名單最後決定權. 🔔 Follow我哋 IG: [https://www.instagram.com/mtboardgame?igsh=MTY0a3Myc2Jwc2l4&utm_source=qr](https://www.instagram.com/mtboardgame?igsh=MTY0a3Myc2Jwc2l4&utm_source=qr)

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/b/2/600_437702482.jpeg Life is hard for the young people in the society. we all need friends. We are all social animals. We all have problems in our life. http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/d/d/600_437702525.jpeg Matt and Victoria are from England. They led us to talk about dating cultures and education before. People learned a lot from them and enjoyed it very much. http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/f/b/600_437702555.jpeg This time, there was a Italian friend name Nico joining us. And Kimmy, the host, led us to talk about the something i forgot. But i still remembered people enjoy it very much. http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/0/e/600_437702574.jpeg We talked in a very nice backyard of the cafe.

(Partner's Event) English Corner Time: Every Wed, Fri & Sun 19:00 - 23:00 Location: The Crazy Coconut Bar, ShenZhen Longhua Baishilong, 3rd floor, 3N100, Above Metro Exit B2 (BaiShiLong Metro Station) 瘋狂酒吧， 深圳龍華白石龍地鐵站B2上方，3樓 Refer to the picture for details on the BBQ Sat event. Wechat ID: Pandoraparties

你跟父母有傾有講嗎？還是對他們有很多不滿？這是一個討論父母、祖父母輩對自己有多大影響的群組。但首先要了解，才能發問。之前辦過兩次英語的，今次來個廣東話的。希望引起大家對家族、家人的好奇。

We will be meeting at Forever Lounge in Causeway Bay on Sunday, May 17th. We will begin with informal introductions, where you will have the opportunity to talk about yourself and your background, experiences and/or goals). Your host Ben will introduce a new topic (this week we will discuss different ways of lighting a scene on a zero-low budget), and finally we will wrap up by discussing any projects we are working on or would like to get started. The emphasis is always on the creative, artistic, and collaborative aspects of filmmaking. All are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Questions and opinions are always encouraged. If you have any materials (scripts, showreels, raw/edited footage, etc.) that you would like to share, please feel free to bring it along, but all you will need is enthusiasm and confidence! Forever Lounge is near Tin Hau MTR station (exit A1), at 176-178 Causeway Road, Causeway Bay 銅鑼灣銅鑼灣道176-178號地舖 [Forever Lounge - Western Wine Bar in Causeway Bay Hong Kong | OpenRice Hong Kong](https://www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-forever-lounge-causeway-bay-western-wine-r18523)

**Total beginners** **welcome!** A whole new movement, fitness & self defense cultural activity **outdoors!** Structured progressive practices for **Strength**, **Flexibility,** **Coordination** & **Self Defense** skills in a fun group environment! Totally NOT what you expect, **serious cardio**, **whole body movement** & **practical!** You will really be surprised by what WE do but even more by what YOU can do! Nothing like what you imagine about Kung Fu, No screaming, No rigidness, No mysticism & No getting hit… but YES, definitely a fun workout with great people! **Curious?** To get an ideal of what class is like, hear instructor & hear student testimonials go to [https://www.instagram.com/natural.style.kungfu](https://www.instagram.com/natural.style.kungfu) **FEE:** 1st time TRIAL fee of $100 HKD for residents. Please RSVP here or Whatsapp me. Non-Resident $150 HKD. After trial 10 class package is $1500 HKD or $200 HKD single class. **WEAR:** Workout clothing, sports shoes & bring bottle of water! **WHEN:** Sunday 5:45 pm NEW people, 6 pm students. Please be on time, warm up very important for your 1st class! **WHERE:** Inside Kowloon Park in the Multi-purpose room. Meet at McDonalds across from Indoor Swimming Pool entrance, next to Sports Center. MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui, Jordan, or Austin. Link below: [Kowloon Park Swimming Pool](https://maps.apple.com/?address=22%20Austin%20Rd,%20Tsim%20Sha%20Tsui,%20Kowloon,%20Hong%20Kong%20SAR,%20China&auid=15054175802527892571&ll=22.301815,114.170365&lsp=9902&q=Kowloon%20Park%20Swimming%20Pool&_ext=CjIKBAgEEAUKBAgFEAMKBQgGEKcBCgQIChAACgQIUhADCgQIVRAQCgQIWRADCgUIpAEQARIkKSODum0jNjZAMWByPQiohFxAORGqqD1gZDZAQaw+9nwmkVxA&t=m) **WHY:** Out of shape? Gym BORING? More? You want to exercise & have fun building strength, flexibility, coordination & self-defense skills while cultivating patience, focus, confidence & yes… discipline! **HOW:** To get in touch with me, Whatsapp .9420.0360. or email through Meetup. For more info about my art, please visit NaturalStyleKungfu.com. **\- Book a Private 1\-on\-1 Kungfu Class\!** Learn at your own pace & prepare for later group classes, choose the day & time suitable to you! Private Class in Kowloon Park: 1.5 Hours $500, other locations $900 **-**

🛎️ 地址: 觀塘成業街 16 號怡生工業中心 A 座 2 樓 A2 室 🏢 \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* 📣 我地成業街超抵Deal場地‼️ 星期一至四，$400 book 場玩6個鐘，book 晒成個場, 600尺空間自由玩！ 歡迎約埋啲朋友仔一齊上去玩啦！查詢預約：Whatsapp 6️⃣7️⃣9️⃣4️⃣1️⃣1️⃣6️⃣6️⃣ \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **今日活動資訊:** 費用: [$105 / Girls $75(Meetup報名平$5)] Pay at entrance. 包飲品一盒, extra飲品每盒$5. 🔔 人多, 或員工/主持忙於教玩遊戲時可能沒暇收取場費, 請利用櫃面PayMe code/Ali Pay /FPS號碼自行支付. 如發現有故意走數情況, 會被放進Meeple Tree 黑名單. 🔔 必須在此報名. 🔔 場地沒有食物提供, 但歡迎帶外賣上來食. 🔔 宣傳其他場地/放飛機/遊戲過程中態度惡劣者會被放進黑名單. 🔔 入埸請除鞋. 埸內拖鞋祗供店內用, 請勿著出店外. 🔔 報名參加Meetup活動, 當系統問你"Are you bringing anyone"時, 如果你祗是一個人來, 毋須㩒+1 (+1代表會帶朋友來的意思). 🔔 我哋嘅活動主持人有時會因為工作或者學業關係臨時嚟唔到，Meeple Tree 保留臨時更換主持嘅可能性。🙏 🔔 本會因放飛機(活動開始前24小時內退出者)被移除人數: 102 🔔 Meeple Tree保留參加者名單最後決定權. 🔔 Follow我哋IG: mtboardgame / boardgame_hk

Cultural Diversity Meetup Group join the group now! INVITE TO JOIN: 0 Cultural Diversity Meetup Group join the group now! [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vwqhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vwqhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 0 Call for speakers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/zwqhvtyjcdbsb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/zwqhvtyjcdbsb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 1 Indonesia workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/kxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/kxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 2 Phılıppınes workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/gxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/gxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 3 Indian workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/wxqhvtyjccblc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/wxqhvtyjccblc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 4 EGYPT workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rzqhvtyjcdbqb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rzqhvtyjcdbqb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 5 Pakıstan workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/dzqhvtyjcdbkb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/dzqhvtyjcdbkb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 6 Thaıland workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vzqhvtyjccbgc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vzqhvtyjccbgc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 7 Bangladesh workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/cbrhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/cbrhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 8 Srilanka workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 9 Nepal workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/mzqhvtyjccbvb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/mzqhvtyjccbvb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 10 Nigeria workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vbrhvtyjccbxb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vbrhvtyjccbxb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) Diversity * **What it is**: The presence of people with different backgrounds, experiences, identities, and perspectives (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, culture). * **Analogy**: A diverse team has members from different places, with different skills. Inclusion * **What it is**: Actively creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, supported, and empowered to participate and succeed. * **Analogy**: In an inclusive team, everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and is heard, not just present.

Cultural Diversity Meetup Group join the group now! INVITE TO JOIN: 0 Cultural Diversity Meetup Group join the group now! [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vwqhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vwqhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 0 Call for speakers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/zwqhvtyjcdbsb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/zwqhvtyjcdbsb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 1 Indonesia workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/kxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/kxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 2 Phılıppınes workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/gxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/gxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 3 Indian workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/wxqhvtyjccblc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/wxqhvtyjccblc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 4 EGYPT workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rzqhvtyjcdbqb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rzqhvtyjcdbqb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 5 Pakıstan workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/dzqhvtyjcdbkb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/dzqhvtyjcdbkb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 6 Thaıland workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vzqhvtyjccbgc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vzqhvtyjccbgc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 7 Bangladesh workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/cbrhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/cbrhvtyjccbfc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 8 Srilanka workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/rxqhvtyjccbhc/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 9 Nepal workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/mzqhvtyjccbvb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/mzqhvtyjccbvb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) 10 Nigeria workers - Diversity and Inclusion meetup group [https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vbrhvtyjccbxb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list](https://www.meetup.com/diversityhk/events/vbrhvtyjccbxb/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) Diversity * **What it is**: The presence of people with different backgrounds, experiences, identities, and perspectives (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, culture). * **Analogy**: A diverse team has members from different places, with different skills. Inclusion * **What it is**: Actively creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, supported, and empowered to participate and succeed. * **Analogy**: In an inclusive team, everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and is heard, not just present.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

Come attend a free in-person seminar where you will find out why you: -Feel isolated -Can't express yourself openly -Get nervous or anxious in front of people -Run out of things to say or feel tongue-tied -Feel introverted -Don't feel comfortable in any social setting -Can't make more friends -Are shy and miss opportunities to connect in a meaningful way And we cover what you can do about any one, some or all of the above. This seminar is the weapon against loneliness, isolation and boredom, come join us! COME TO THIS SEMINAR AND LEARN THE SECRETS TODAY This seminar is brought to you by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215

Join DotBitz for an interactive course preview and introduction session designed for students, parents, and aspiring learners interested in Web development, programming and future AI technology careers. During this session, you will learn about: * DotBitz learning programs and course pathways * How students can start learning programming from an early age * Career-focused learning and mentorship opportunities * Real-world skills students can develop through technology education * Future opportunities in software development and technology careers * How AI will be impact in our future career. This event is a great opportunity to explore how DotBitz supports students from beginner learning to career readiness in a structured and supportive environment. ### Event Details 📍 Location: Columbus Metropolitan Library 4500 Hickory Chase Way, Hilliard, OH — Meeting Room 2A 📅 Date: May 18, 2026 🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM We welcome students aged 9+, parents, beginners, and anyone interested in learning more about programming education and technology career pathways.

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/

Join us for a free in-person seminar where you will get knowledge and tools to build your confidence. Do you ever: -Feel isolated -Can't express yourself openly -Get nervous or anxious in front of people -Run out of things to say or feel tongue-tied -Feel introverted -Don't feel comfortable in any social setting -Can't make more friends -Are shy and miss opportunities to connect in a meaningful way At this workshop we will cover what you can do about any one, some or all of the above. This seminar is the weapon against loneliness, isolation and boredom, come join us! COME TO THIS SEMINAR AND LEARN THE SECRETS TODAY This seminar is brought to you by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215