Buffy

*All the presentations are in Hungarian. Thanks for your understanding!* Fél évszázad után visszatért az emberiség a Holdhoz, miután az Artemis–2 négy űrhajósa kedden hajnalban elhaladt az égitest mellett. De miért lett újra érdekes a Hold? Pacher Tibor, a Puli Space Technologies vezetője elmondja. A Hold után egy másik nagyon aktuális témáról, az inváziós fajok és kártevők által jelentett kihívásról hallhattok a HUN-REN Ökológiai Kutatóközpont kutatójától, Halassy Melindától. Részletes program: **A holdi víz nyomában avagy mit keres a Puli a Holdon?** *Pacher Tibor – Puli Space Technologies, ügyvezető igazgató* **Új fajok, új kihívások – Az inváziós fajok terjedése és kezelési lehetőségei** *Halassy Melinda – HUN-REN Ökológiai Kutatóközpont, Ökológiai és Botanikai Intézet* Mi a hasonlóság a homoki prérifű, az ázsiai tigrisszúnyog és a mosómedve között? Egyik sem őshonos a Kárpát-medencében, ám újabban gyorsan terjednek. Az inváziós fajok megjelenése ma már alapvetően formálja környezetünket, és kihívást jelent a természet, a gazdaság és az emberi egészség számára is. A folyamat teljesen nem állítható meg, hiszen a globalizáció és az emberi mobilitás folyamatosan új fajok megjelenésének kedvez. Ugyanakkor a terjedés üteme lassítható, a hatások mérsékelhetők, ami időt ad a természetnek és a társadalomnak az alkalmazkodásra. Hazai példákon keresztül bemutatjuk, hogyan zajlik az inváziós folyamat, és hol miképpen lehet még hatékonyan beavatkozni, hogy időt nyerjünk az alkalmazkodáshoz.

Please sign up in advance! Hot Paprika Presents: Budapest’s Best Pub Quiz! Register here: https://forms.gle/JKjGn4aGBr1r1dF48 Join us for the Hot Paprika Pub Quiz at A&O Hostel Budapest, kicking off at 8 PM! This isn’t your average trivia night—it's hosted by comedians, so expect uncomfortable laughs, unexpected twists, and an unforgettable time! What to Expect: Diverse Topics – From pop culture to history, no subject is off-limits! Comedian Hosts – The hilarious Tauseef Parvez & Fanni Pinter will keep you entertained. Big Prizes – Weekly winners score free comedy show tickets & bar discounts . Grand Prize – The season’s top team wins a 20,000 HUF bar tab! First Event: Donation-Based – Come, play, and support the show however you can! Gather your team, sharpen your wits, and let’s make trivia night legendary! Register now and don’t miss out!

El objetivo de este encuentro es romper el hielo, hablar de las historias que nos gusta escribir, de por qué escribimos, de los libros que nos gusta leer, de qué dificultades encontramos al enfrentarnos al folio en blanco y de qué esperamos del grupo. En definitiva, se trata de conocernos como personas para entendernos como escritores. No importa si has escrito diez novelas, cuatro cuentos o el precioso título de un poema sin versos. Aquí todo aspirante a juntaletras es bienvenido.

Step into a world of secrets and laughter at our next Whodunit interactive evening. You’ll become one of the guests in a story where something has gone wrong — and it’s up to the group to uncover what really happened. Language: English Players: 6–12 (no acting experience needed) Duration: 2–2.5 hours Location: downtown venue (to be confirmed) Once your attendance is sure, you’ll receive a character guide a few days before the event. Dressing up to match your character is encouraged but not required and a few small accessories will be available on the night as well. During the evening, you’ll interact, gather clues, and piece together the story while enjoying a relaxed and social atmosphere. Drinks are not included; guests are welcome to order and pay for their own beverages at the venue. This event is tip-based, you’re welcome to contribute what you feel the experience was worth at the end of the evening.

*“credentialism is the last acceptable prejudice. In the United States and Europe, disdain for the poorly educated is more pronounced (...) than prejudice against other disfavored groups”* **Michael J. Sandel - The Tyranny of Merit.** **(In english!)** Modern societies increasingly celebrate meritocracy — the idea that talent and effort should determine success. In principle, this seems logical: those who contribute more through their effort or abilities should secure a better life for themselves. Yet meritocracy has many critics. Some argue that it simply does not work or is broken. Others go further: even if it worked perfectly, it would still be unfair — and potentially oppressive. In *The Tyranny of Merit*, Michael J. Sandel, an american philosopher, argues that this belief system has quietly reshaped modern societies, fueling resentment, individualism, a loss of solidarity, and even contributing to the rise of radical political movements. **Introduction of guests (15 minutes)** We start with a short introduction of the guests with the question: * Have you ever achieved something difficult in your career? * How proud do you feel about it? **Questions (1 hour and 45 minutes)** 1. Do you think meritocracy actually exists? 2. Do you feel you truly deserve everything you have today? 3. Have you ever worked hard and still failed? 4. If success is deserved, does failure become deserved too? 5. Do you believe people who struggle are mostly responsible for their situation? 6. Can a society be both highly competitive and compassionate? 7. Should a CEO earn 100 times more than an employee? 8. Does a person’s market value reflect their social contribution or moral worth? 9. Does meritocracy unite or divide society? 10. Should policies aim for equality of outcomes, rather than only equality of opportunity? 11. Do you think meritocracy encourages humility or arrogance? 12. Do working-class voters feel represented by today’s progressive politicians? Why or why not? 13. What happens in a society where everyone has reached their “deserved” position? What happens to those at the bottom? 14. If you are a hardworking person, is that something you built — or something you were lucky to become? *** ### Thought Experiments * Two children: one born into wealth, one into poverty * Two worlds: one aristocratic, one meritocratic **RSVP:** Please confirm your attendance here on Meetup to save your space and if you cannot assist, yield your space to another person in the waiting list. We welcome donations from 1.000 HUF (min 400 HUF) to keep the costs of the meetup. **If you are looking to order food, or drink alcohol-free wine, you dont need to donate for the group. Thank you!**

The Hungarian election is looking like a dead heat. Will the opposition overturn 16 years of Fidesz dominance - or will Orbán make history as the most electorally successful postwar European leader? Henry Olsen is a highly respected American polling guru who has been doing field work in Hungary ahead of the election. He has been a frequent visitor to the country down the years. At this special event at the Danube Institute, he will present his findings, then be joined in conversation by a number of other luminaries. John O'Sullivan - former adviser to Margaret Thatcher. Ralph Schoelhammer - Professor of International Relations and host of Hammer Time podcast Calum Nicholson - Director of Research at the Danube Institute. Join the audience for an evening of light banter and serious analysis. Q&A afterwards. Please register beforehand. Registration is free but space is limited. LINK HERE: https://danubeinstitute.hu/en/events/hungary-chooses/rsvp

Practice Buddhist meditation in the middle of Budapest! The meditation is suitable for beginners. Each regular meditation is guided and begins with a short introduction. (all together is about 30-40 minutes) Our regular Buddhist meditations have proven popular with people who want to integrate authentic Buddhist methods into their daily lives. For the modern lay person who is juggling work, relationships, and an active role in society, we teach a meditation that is easy to learn, and profound and powerful for experienced practitioners. The meditation originates from the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It has a cumulative effect on mind, leading to greater clarity and calmness. Fearlessness, joy, and active compassion are the result of regular practice of Buddhist meditation. * Do I need any special clothing? No special clothing needed. * Does the attendance cost anything? No, the meditation is free.

Ticket Link: [https://cooltix.hu/event/69c30bc50a188cf1f659e316](https://cooltix.hu/event/69c30bc50a188cf1f659e316?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExMkhHYmU3dlFybGZURHhnZ3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7ZVJMuvE8lHxA8Y721bfCg2ZFPI2BZJPA_yYW4l_pC_e5UcBoIKNMmJ3Q3zQ_aem_zAhHzvcA8UBA7d1VELfGbA) Themed English Stand-Up Comedy Showcase about Relationships Join us on the 11th of April at Mixát Udvar for a night full of stories about love and heartbreaks. Our comedians are going to bare it all Single Ticket price online: 3000 Student tickets; 2000 (Online only) Door Prices: 3000 Reserve the best seats: 4500 Show starts: 8PM Doors open: 7pm Mixát Budapest, Krúdy u 7, 1088 Hosted by: Parvez Tauseef We have an amazing lineup in store for you. To be revealed.... Seats are on a first come first serve basis. So, come a bit earlier to make sure you have a good seat. Follow our page @hotpaprikacomedy to stay updated on future shows

Most professional events feel like a job interview. Most social hangouts feel like aimless small talk. **We are here to do the opposite!** 🌟 WHY JOIN? At the **Women’s Coffee Network**, we offer a non-traditional experience where you don't have to fight for your voice, perfect an elevator pitch, or navigate a room of strangers alone. We created this circle because **we don't believe in the hustle; we believe in the power of a steady anchor.** This is a facilitated experience, not just a meeting. We don’t just book a table; we curate a journey. Working with the precision of a designer and the empathy of a coach, we’ve built this soft sanctuary where **the superficial is skipped** and **the high-fidelity connection begins**. We're here to share personal stories and build professional alliances. WHO IS THIS FOR? * 🎀 It's a **female-only community** because we have our unique way to express ourselves, struggles in the business world, and jokes only other women can understand. * 🎀 If the idea of a meetup with 50 people makes you want to stay home, this circle is for you! We gather in **small, intimate groups** — to meet enough new people to have a deep conversation, but not so many that you feel anxious or overwhelmed. * 🎀 Whether you are leading a corporation, building a creative empire, or navigating the quiet uncertainty of a career transition, you have a seat at our table. The **diversity of professional backgrounds** makes our circle special with shared wisdom. * 🎀 Our **soft-flow dialogue** ensures that no bravery is required to be heard. You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to be the most impactful. Here, your silence is respected, and your voice is gently invited. HOW TO JOIN US? [Reserve your seat in less than a minute](https://luma.com/mwb10eo1) 👈 🔗 Link also pinned in the comments for easy mobile access. We believe the best conversations happen in small groups. To keep our soft landing atmosphere, we host only 8–10 women at a time. Once you apply through Luma, we’ll review your profile to maintain our safe, female-only professional circle and confirm your spot within 48 hours. *Note: No charges are finalized until your seat at the table is confirmed! 💜* **What's included?** The support fee for this edition is **€15**, which includes: * ⚓️ 2 hours of expert-led facilitation and curated dialogue * ☕ Your first coffee or tea (so you can simply arrive and settle in) * 🏠 Exclusive access to our private Facebook community * 💜 Supporting our work to create steady anchors for professional women * 🎫 All platform and transaction fees are also included. WHAT TO EXPECT? * A **guided start** where every woman is seen and heard. You introduce yourself saying whatever you feel like sharing in a way that is comfortable to you. * We use our **custom-designed materials** to move past titles and discover the humans behind the roles. * A **verified circle** of women where you can be professionally ambitious and personally vulnerable at the same time. * Leave with **full batteries**, meaningful new professional bridges, and the support of women who truly *get it*. **If you feel called to create real connection in Budapest within a female-only community, we can’t wait to welcome you.** 💜 👉 [To secure your spot, please register here](https://luma.com/mwb10eo1) \-\-\- Follow us on ​[LinkedIn ](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/17220029/)\| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/womenscoffeenetwork/?hl=es) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/womenscoffeenetworkglobal) to see the atmosphere of our gatherings and get a daily dose of grounding.

Join the first joint GDG Agentic AI Hackathon in Hungary, bringing together the communities of GDG Budapest, GDG on Campus ELTE, GDG on Campus BME, GDG on Campus UniDeb and NextGen Data Science Club at Corvinus University. This one-day hackathon brings together developers, AI enthusiasts, and innovators to build practical solutions using agentic AI - systems that can autonomously work toward defined goals. Participants will collaborate in teams to design and prototype real-world AI applications and present their projects to a professional technical jury from the industry. The event connects university students with the tech ecosystem through hands-on challenges, mentorship, and technical talks. Participants will work in teams of up to 5 members, so make sure your team includes a mix of skills such as development, data science, AI, product thinking, and presentation. The hackathon is open to both Hungarian and international participants, creating a diverse and collaborative environment. 📅 Date: April 11, 2026 ⏰ Time: 10:00–21:00 CET 📍 Location: Budapest (TBA) 🌐 Language: English 👥 Expected attendance: 100–150 participants Come build, learn, and compete with some of the most active tech communities in Hungary. 🚀 Az eseményről Csatlakozz az első közös GDG Agentic AI Hackathonhoz Magyarországon, amely egyesíti a GDG Budapest, a GDG on Campus ELTE, a GDG on Campus BME és a GDG on Campus UniDeb közösségeit. Ez az egynapos hackathon fejlesztőket, AI-rajongókat és innovátoroket hoz össze, hogy gyakorlati megoldásokat építsenek agentic AI segítségével – olyan rendszereket, amelyek önállóan képesek meghatározott célok elérésére törekedni. A résztvevők csapatokban dolgoznak majd valós AI-alkalmazások tervezésén és prototípusának elkészítésén, majd bemutatják projektjeiket egy szakmai zsűrinek az iparágból. Az esemény összeköti az egyetemi hallgatókat a tech-ökoszisztémával gyakorlati kihívásokon, mentorálással és technikai előadásokon keresztül. A résztvevők legfeljebb 5 fős csapatokban dolgoznak, ezért gondoskodj arról, hogy csapatod változatos tudással rendelkezzen – például fejlesztés, adattudomány, AI, termékgondolkodás és prezentáció terén. A hackathon nyitott magyar és nemzetközi résztvevők számára egyaránt, sokszínű és együttműködő környezetet teremtve. 📅 Dátum: 2026. április 11. ⏰ Időpont: 10:00–21:00 CET 📍 Helyszín: Budapest (hamarosan) 🌐 Nyelv: Angol 👥 Várható létszám: 100–150 résztvevő Gyere, építs, tanulj és versenyezz Magyarország egyik legaktívabb tech-közösségeivel együtt. 🚀 Agenda --- Hosted By Zsigmond P. Toth, GDG Budapest & WTM Budapest organizer Zsigmond is the organizer of the GDG Budapest and GDG Cloud Budapest communities and the DevFest Budapest and DevFest Live events. He is a Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect and he works as the Head of Google Cloud, Hungary at EPAM Systems. Farida Elchuzade, GDG Budapest & WTM Budapest organizer Lechlech Latifa, GDG Budapest & WTM Budapest organizer Aamna Tayyab, GDG Budapest organizer Founder & Pioneer of GDSC ELTE, building one of the university’s first developer community spaces. Head of Delivery at Adroit Group, responsible for leading cross-functional teams, overseeing project delivery frameworks, and ensuring successful execution of technology initiatives across the organisation. Muhammad Hassan Raza, GDG Budapest organizer A dedicated and resourceful individual who is a GDG Budapest Co-Organizer and GDSC Leads Mentor with the ability to persuade and persuade people about computer-related works. Software Developer skilled at technical leadership, communication, and presentations. Experienced in the full project life cycle from design to implementation to integration. Hagigat Ahmadova, GDG Budapest organizer Nurtoza Aykhujaev, GDG Budapest organizer Asel Temiralieva, GDG Budapest organizer Ulukbek Tursunov, GDG Budapest organizer - Ines Meliani, GDG Budapest organizer Kaniz Fatima, GDG Budapest organizer --- Partners GDSC BME (https://gdsc.community.dev/budapest-university-of-technology-and-economics/) GDG on Campus Eotvos Lorand University (https://gdg.community.dev/gdg-on-campus-eotvos-lorand-university-budapest-hungary/) GDG on Campus Eotvos Lorand University - Budapest, Hungary is an independent group; our activities and the opinions expressed here should in no way be linked to Google, the corporation. GDSC Debrecen (https://gdsc.community.dev/university-of-debrecen-debreceni-egyetem-de/) ELTE Data Science Club (https://datasciencelte.netlify.app) Building a high-impact data science community at ELTE. Founded in 2025, the Data Science Club at ELTE is a beginner-friendly community where students learn together through hands-on projects, guest talks, and collaborative exploration of data science, AI, and machine learning. Our approach is community-first: we learn together rather than teaching from above. We focus on showcases, teamwork, and real projects that give members portfolio evidence through GitHub contributions. Everyone contributes at their own level while building a stronger community. NextGen Data Science Club (https://www.instagram.com/next_gen.dc?igsh=MWRlbmJ5YmR3Z3E0dA==) --- Complete your event RSVP here: https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-budapest-presents-agentic-ai-hackathon/.

Want to know what happens when a comedian and a psychologist team up to solve your problems? Hot Paprika Comedy presents a one-of-a-kind show where we do exactly that! Bring us your everyday challenges—the trivial issues that complicate your life—and we’ll offer the best advice in the most entertaining way possible. Ever had questions you wanted to ask a psychologist but never had the chance? Now’s your opportunity! Participants have the option to remain anonymous, so feel free to share your thoughts without hesitation! Who will give better advice, the comedian or the therapist? Come find out! Join us on April 10th at Jo&Joe Budapest, 8PM for an evening of laughter, insight, and unexpected solutions! This is a donation based show, we will be collecting donations at the entrance, so please consider contributing. We recommend 2000 huf per person Disclaimer: This show is for entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice

We don’t shy away from the 'M' word at our table. Normalizing conversations about money is how we empower our circle — whether that’s exploring how to make your wealth work for you while you sleep, navigating the hurdles of investing, or sharing the financial challenges unique to women. These topics deserve a safe, casual space. Because real empowerment isn’t just a mindset; it’s about having the tools to fund your freedom. We’re here to bypass surface-level networking and dive into the things the corporate world often ignores. COME JOIN US IF YOU'RE * **Building your Budapest circle**, weather you're a local or a newcomer (expat), ready to make this city feel like home. * **Hungry for high-fidelity connections** that go deeper than a business card. * **Eager to swap stories** with women who see the world differently than you do. * **Looking for your people** and a supportive space where you can be inspired and offer a hand to others. THIS IS HOW IT WORKS **We discover the city’s hidden gems together.** Once you register, you’ll receive the secret location for our gathering. **You’ll be greeted with a warm welcome hug** **and your first coffee (or tea) is on us**. We keep our groups intimate to ensure real conversation. With the help of a facilitator and our custom cards, we open the door to insights you won't find anywhere else. **No pressure, just presence.** You can stay quiet and listen, or share your wisdom with the group. You only share what you’re comfortable with. When the gathering ends, the connection continues, and you’ll be invited to our private community to keep the chemistry going. WHY WE ARE DIFFERENT We know the algorithm loves loud, party-style events, but we believe in the power of the intimate and the intentional. We are here for the women who want to be seen, heard, and truly connected. 👉 Take your seat at our table.[ Register here](https://luma.com/mwb10eo1) \-\-\- *This group is part of the Women's Coffee Network. View our full community [Event Calendar](https://luma.com/WomensCoffeeNetworkBUDAPEST) and follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/womenscoffeenetwork). See you at the table!* 💜

Hello everyone, Take a break from your week, make progress on your reading in good company, then join a relaxed chat about what everyone's been reading. **Schedule** 10:30 \- 11:00 \| Arrival & Introduction round 11:00 \- 12:00 \| Silent Reading Hour 12:00 \- 13:00 \| Chat & Discussion **The After-Event** ☕ The trial was a success, so it's officially a thing! After the session, we’ll head over to Zaj kávézó for some tea, coffee, cookies, and sandwiches. Feel free to stick around and join us to keep the conversation going! **Location** Metropolitan Ervin Szabo Public Library, Boulevard Library It will take place in the event room. After you enter the library, turn right, cross the lounge, and go down the stairs at the far end. If you bring snacks, you can have them in the lounge area. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, you're welcome. See you there! **[Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/people/Budapest-Silent-Book-Club/61567388151835)** (previous books read in sessions) **[Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1271292-budapest-silent-book-club)**[ ](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1271292-budapest-silent-book-club)(monthly book club voting) **[Silent Book Club](https://silentbook.club/pages/about-us)** (the idea itself, where did it come from?) This is a free event, but Meetup has its own fee. If you'd like to contribute and help keep this going, you're welcome to donate [via Revolut](https://revolut.me/schmidtpeter), every bit helps! (we keep track of all donations in this [spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1C_N9CN_pQO5aUYezqzQW4GS7pr8IfplchwG8-ruZ19g/edit?usp=sharing))

Hey everyone, here we go again with our next event on Saturday! I will host this session, so please follow my instructions! 🙏 IMPORTANT NOTE: Free Cancellation is only until Friday, 18:00 PM. If you cancel after that without noticing the host, You must pay the fee to compensate the court and shuttlecock. WAITLISTED ATTENDEES: If you are in the WAITLIST. Do not come Level of expectation : intermediate - advanced Venue: HODOS TAMAS Badminton Hall Our venue does not provide rackets, which means that you'll have to bring your own racket! There are 2 courts booked for us for 2 hours from 14:00 till 16:00. Showers and changing rooms are available! Extra Note Attendance fee: We will divide the court fee by the number of people showing up. However, in certain circumstance, when the number of people cannot is less than and equal to 12, The Host deserve to contact the people who canceled after the time designated cancellation time. The expected fee is usually around 2000-3000 HUF per person. Payment is done at the court. or The host will reach you out via meetup chat. !!!Last but not least: if you have signed up but cannot make it for some reason, just take a minute to sign off, RSVP = no. This is to help those who are on the waiting list and want to play. The cancellation time with non-sick reason should be 18 hours before the session. In case you are not feeling well on the session day, please kindly contact the host via comment or privately message him/her with the direct message feature maximum 3 hours before the session. Looking forward to seeing you! cheers, Yoga Liability: The participation happens on own risk. There is no liability for any accidents, thefts or damages from the organizer.

Let's bedazzle some books while we discuss our April pick: Bloodguard by Cecy Robson! Book description: One hundred years. Tens of thousands of gladiators. And today, only one will rise… Everything in the Kingdom of Arrow is a lie. Leith of Grey thought coming to this new land and volunteering to fight in the gladiator arena—vicious, bloodthirsty tournaments where only the strongest survive—would earn him enough gold to save his dying sister. He thought there was nothing left to lose. He was wrong—and they took everything. His hope. His freedom. His very humanity. All Leith has left is his battle-scarred body, fueled by rage and hardened from years of fighting for the right to live another day. Then Leith meets Maeve, an elven royal who is everything he despises. Everything he should hate. Until the alluring princess offers him the one thing he needs most: a chance to win the coveted title of Bloodguard—and his freedom. But in a kingdom built on secrets and lies, hope doesn’t come cheap. Nor will his ultimate revenge… Event: Please bring your own book, journal, bookmarks, etc to bedazzle. If you have bedazzling supplies, please bring them as well. I will supply gems, glue, and picker tools, but if you have certain colors in mind, you may want to bring your own.

Join Neurospicy Columbus at the Stauff's for coffee and then a stroll through the Book Loft nearby! This will be a friendly chat for like minded individuals with Autism and/or ADHD (or somewhere on the Neurodiverse Spectra).

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

Semi in honor of March being International Women's Month Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3454709](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3454709) Location: SOW Plated Menu: [https://www.sowplated.com/menu-brunch/](https://www.sowplated.com/menu-brunch/) Book summary: In 2006 Julia Lerner is living in Moscow, a recent university graduate in computer science, when she's recruited by Russia's largest intelligence agency. By 2018 she's in Silicon Valley as COO of Tangerine, one of America's most famous technology companies. In between her executive management (make offers to promising startups, crush them and copy their features if they refuse); self promotion (check out her latest op-ed in the WSJ, on Work/Life Balance 2.0); and work in gender equality (transfer the most annoying females from her team), she funnels intelligence back to the motherland. But now Russia's asking for more, and Julia's getting nervous. Alice Lu is a first generation Chinese American whose parents are delighted she's working at Tangerine (such a successful company!). Too bad she's slogging away in the lower echelons, recently dumped, and now sharing her expensive two-bedroom apartment with her cousin Cheri, a perennial "founder's girlfriend". One afternoon, while performing a server check, Alice discovers some unusual activity, and now she's burdened with two powerful but distressing suspicions: Tangerine's privacy settings aren't as rigorous as the company claims they are, and the person abusing this loophole might be Julia Lerner herself. The closer Alice gets to Julia, the more Julia questions her own loyalties. Russia may have placed her in the Valley, but she's the one who built her career; isn't she entitled to protect the lifestyle she's earned?

Join us as we get together for a Discount Tuesday / Choose Your Movie event to see your choice of two great new films! Option 1 (and the one I'll be seeing) is the top-reviewed comedy-drama, THE CHRISTOPHERS! The film is set in the art world and follows the estranged children of a former artist who hire a forger. It is directed by Steven Soderberg, stars Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel and has been earning rave reviews on the indie circuit. Option 2 is the latest action-thriller starring Bob Odenkirk, NORMAL! The film follows a temporary small-town sheriff who uncovers dark mysteries after a local bank robbery. Here are descriptions, trailers and our plan for this event: THE CHRISTOPHERS: The children of a once famous artist hire a forger to complete some unfinished, long ago abandoned canvases so they'll have a better inheritance when he dies. It is directed by Steven Soderbergh and stars Ian McKellen, Michaela Coel, Jessica Gunning and James Corden. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film is earning an excellent 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it a “dynamic, emotional and surprising journey” and a “compelling chamber piece that works like intellectual comfort food.” Others call the film, an “incredibly funny, comedy drama with plot reversals that make it feel like it’s on the verge of a thriller!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H79-EqzmdwY&t=20s NORMAL: This action-crime-thriller follows a man who comes to the sleepy town of Normal, Minnesota to serve as the temporary sheriff. But a bank robbery leads him to a criminal underground reaches throughout the entire town. The film is directed by Ben Wheatley and stars Bob Odenkirk, Henry Winkler and Lena Headey. The film comes from the same team that brought us Nobody and the John Wick series, so expect an over-the-top, action-filled thrill ride! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rmm-lM33Qw0&t=19s PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing of both films and will meet in the lobby area about 30 minutes before showtime. Once showtimes are announced, advance ticket purchase is advised (GFC website preferred)! Please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. Showtimes and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**