Middle East

[[RESULTS](https://opavote.com/results/5108084758544384) of the poll for this event] ABCD Reads AND Watches "**Hamnet**", a novel by Maggie O'Farrell, and a theatrical release directed by Chloé Zhao. Join us for an outing to watch the just-released "Hamnet" movie: [ABCD Watches "Hamnet"](https://www.meetup.com/a-book-club-downtown-abcd/events/312075467/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events) **:: ABOUT THE BOOK ::** "Drawing on Maggie O'Farrell's long-term fascination with the little-known story behind Shakespeare's most enigmatic play, Hamnet is a luminous portrait of a marriage, at its heart the loss of a beloved child. Warwickshire in the 1580s. Agnes is a woman as feared as she is sought after for her unusual gifts. She settles with her husband in Henley street, Stratford, and has three children: a daughter, Susanna, and then twins, Hamnet and Judith. The boy, Hamnet, dies in 1596, aged eleven. Four years or so later, the husband writes a play called Hamlet. Award-winning author Maggie O'Farrell's new novel breathes full-blooded life into the story of a loss usually consigned to literary footnotes, and provides an unforgettable vindication of Agnes, a woman intriguingly absent from history." (from [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43890641-hamnet)) (NOTE: Some versions of the book carry the alternate title "**Hamnet & Judith**".) **:: ABOUT THE MOVIE ::** "In William Shakespeare’s day, the names Hamlet and Hamnet were interchangeable. The newest film by Chloé Zhao, director of TIFF ’20 People’s Choice Award winner Nomadland, also an Oscar winner, uses that context as the basis for a tender exploration of Shakespeare’s domestic life, connecting a family tragedy to one of his most famous works. Maybe we can better understand Hamlet, Zhao suggests, if we consider that it was developed while the most famous writer in the Western canon was mourning the death of his 11-year-old son, Hamnet. Based on the novel by Maggie O’Farrell, Hamnet’s main character isn’t The Bard — played here by an impressive Paul Mescal — or even the child who gives the film its name. Hamnet belongs to Agnes, Shakespeare’s thoughtful wife, played by an enthralling Jessie Buckley, who bathes the film in her warmth. Many historical accounts preface reports of Hamnet’s death with statistics about how common child mortality was in the 16th century, as though it barely made an impact. Hamnet rejects that premise, presenting Shakespeare not as a distant, untouchable genius but as a real man whose literary prowess was irrevocably impacted by his domestic life. Grief is a theme here, but Hamnet is not just a film about death. Like any family story, this one contains joy alongside sorrow." (from [TIFF.net](https://tiff.net/films/hamnet)) **:: ABOUT THE EVENT ::** Instead of just reading the book as usual, this time we're asking that you also watch the movie adaptation. During our discussion, we'll explore the strengths of both the book and the movie, evaluate the adaptation's effectiveness, and touch on any other topics that arise. You are welcome to arrive 30 minutes before the event and stay 30 minutes or longer afterward to connect with other attendees outside the book talk. Please ensure you have read the book and watched the movie before attending (though finishing either is not a barrier to participating, as long as you don't mind spoilers). First-time attendees can join for free. If the event is full, we maintain an unofficial waitlist. Please send [Michael](https://www.meetup.com/members/55295192/) a direct message for more information, in either case. We request a $3 contribution from regular attendees to help cover our monthly meetup costs. **:: ABOUT OUR NEXT READ&WATCH ::** At the end of each event, we will ask for nominees for our next Read & Watch (date TBA). If you have a good pairing in mind, please ensure that the book is between 200-400 pages long, available from the Toronto Public Library, and counts as contemporary literary fiction (though these are not hard and fast rules), and that the movie or TV-series is readily available. When enough nominees are collected, Michael will send the members a direct message with a link where you can vote.

**Visitors are always welcome!** Drop by and experience a Toastmasters club first hand. Brainwave Speakers is an open club Toastmasters Club. Everyone is welcome. If you are committed to growing as a speaker and leader, and want to do it in a supportive social atmosphere, we'd love to meet you! **Meetings are every Wednesday 6:45 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.** Please arrive by 6:30 p.m. for a social/networking session. Directions and information can be found at https://1001005.toastmastersclubs.org/ Contact us at vpm-1001005@toastmastersclubs.org

PLEASE CONTACT Jason at 905-308-4100 FOR DETAILS.

🌟 **Celebrate the Solstice with Us!** 🌟 At the darkest time of the year, let’s gather once again to bring warmth, laughter, and light into the season. We’re excited to invite you to our Annual Solstice Party, co-hosted by **HPHC** / **Café Scientifique Mississauga**, and returning—after many years—to **Franklin House in Streetsville**. This year’s celebration features a special performance by Mississauga artist **Natalie G**, who will sing and play flute with seasonal music touched by a Middle Eastern flavor. Join us for an evening of good food, drinks, music, and lively conversation as we toast the return of the light. Last year’s event was a wonderful success, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you again! **Book Exchange** Bring a book you’re ready to pass on, and pick up a new read contributed by someone else. **Food & Drinks** HPHC/CSM will provide some finger foods and munchies, but we **strongly encourage** you to order dinner and a drink (or two!) to help support **Franklin House**, who generously hosts us with no venue charge. **About Natalie G** *Natalie G is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Mississauga.* She has performed at many large festivals across Canada and the United States, including the Mississauga World Music Festival, the Festival of Arabic Music and Arts, Carassauga, the Canadian Egyptian Festival at Mississauga Celebration Square, and Taste of the Middle East. She’s received many awards such as the Mississauga Music Fan Choice Award 2025, Top 30 Arab-Canadian Under 30, and a Civic Award from the Mayor of Mississauga for Achievement in the Arts in 2023. Natalie is an alumna of the Mississauga Symphony Youth Orchestra and a member of the Canadian Arabic Orchestra. She has established a substantial social media presence with over 35K followers on her social media platforms “Natalie G Music”. She is also recognized as one of Canada's Leaders of Tomorrow by the Merit Program. Natalie is dedicated to sharing the joy of music with her community and bringing people together through her music. *Follow Natalie G:* Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/NatalieGFlute](https://www.facebook.com/NatalieGFlute) YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieGMusic](https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieGMusic) Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/nataliegmusic/](https://www.instagram.com/nataliegmusic/) **Parking** Franklin House has its own customer parking just off **Old Pine Street**. There is also a **municipal parking lot** off **Queen Street**, just south of **Franklin House**.

**TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE:** https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-hottest-ai-blockchain-tech-finance-networking-event-tickets-1977139067173?aff=ebdsoporgprofile **Welcome to the Toronto AI, Blochain, Tech & Finance Networking Event!** Welcome to the Toronto AI, Blockchain, Tech & Finance Networking Event! Join us for an exciting evening of dynamic networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration in the heart of Toronto. This in-person event will take place at IDK Social Bar, a modern venue designed to spark connections and conversations among forward-thinking professionals. Whether you're passionate about artificial intelligence, blockchain, finance, or cutting-edge technology, this event is your gateway to building meaningful connections, exploring new opportunities, and engaging with Toronto’s most ambitious innovators. ### 🌐 Event Highlights * Networking Opportunities: Connect with AI experts, blockchain innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of tech and finance. * Collaboration & Partnerships: Discover synergies and potential ventures across industries at the intersection of AI, blockchain, and fintech. * Future Trends: Stay ahead by exploring the latest breakthroughs in AI applications, blockchain adoption, and financial technologies driving global transformation. ### 👥 Who Should Attend? * Professionals: Build valuable connections in AI, blockchain, finance, and technology. * Entrepreneurs & CEOs: Exchange insights with other founders and business leaders. * Investors & VCs: Discover innovative startups and promising ventures. * Developers & Engineers: Meet peers working on AI-driven and blockchain-powered projects. * Job Seekers & Recent Graduates: Explore career opportunities in high-growth industries. * Startups & Project Managers: Recruit talent, find partners, and showcase your innovations. * Media & Influencers: Connect with industry thought leaders and innovators. ### 📅 Date & Location When: Thur\, Oct 23rd\, 2025 \| 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Where: Soluna Toronto ### *✨ The Stellar Socials Experience* At Stellar Socials by Limitless, we specialize in curating premium networking events that bring together professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders across North America. Our mission is to inspire collaboration, innovation, and growth by facilitating authentic connections in stylish, high-energy environments. Expect a relaxed yet purposeful evening where organic conversations flow. Whether attending solo or with colleagues, you’ll leave with new contacts, fresh insights, and opportunities for collaboration. ### 📲 Join Our Community * Instagram: [@stellarsocialsbylimitless](https://www.instagram.com/stellarsocialsbylimitless/ "https://www.instagram.com/stellarsocialsbylimitless/") * Facebook: Stellar Socials by Limitless * TikTok: @stellar.socials

Chill, relax and get over the mid-week hump with boardgames! Pick a game from the WoodForSheep demo library or bring your own games to share & play. All experience levels are welcome. Woodforsheep sitting fee: $8 per person

*Hi everyone... this much-anticipated film is opening next week, but so far only showing at 'TIFF'.. apparently has gotten many rave reviews for this very difficult subject-matter..* **Plot Summary :** *" Volunteers at the Palestine Red Crescent stay on the phone with a 6-year old girl trapped in a car in war-torn Gaza"* **Don't Forget to join our WHATSAPP GROUP -** [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JpUbpvfPcNuFzTJ1VqTLZO) **Starring:** **Saja Kilini, Motaz Malhees, Amer Hlehel, Clara Khoury** **Director:** **Kaouther Ben Hania** **Trailer:** [Click Here!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pI2IXKtlew&ab_channel=Dogwoof) **What time the Meetup group will meet at:** suggest **@7:00-7:10pm** **Time the movie STARTS:** **7:15pm** **Movie Running Time:** approx. **1 hr 29 minutes** **Meetup Spot:** I will be standing at the foot of the escalators (as you enter the front lobby) and I will be carrying my infamous ***"Leopard-Spotted Purse" with 'Red Straps'!*** .... I'll also send out my 'cell #" to any RSVPs that I see in case anyone needs to contact me who might be running a bit 'late', etc... **How to Find the Theatre:** address is 350 King St West (just west of John Street) - North side **Where I will be sitting:** in seat "**D-3**" ! **Cost of movie:** depending on 'adult' vs 'senior' rates (see online for details on TIFF Belllightbox website) **Click here to go to the website to buy your ticket:** [CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS](https://am.ticketmaster.com/tiff/ism/NUYyMjYxVDQ=?_gl=1*1cb4m4p*_gcl_au*MTA2ODA2MDEwOC4xNzM5MzE4MTYy) **After the Movie:** *We'll do a quick 'check-in' back at the original 'meet-up' spot & for those who'd like to go out for a quick bite/drink & chat more about the film ...., we'll head out shortly after!* **PLEASE NOTE:** Ticket must ("Ideally"!) be bought before signing up. You will be asked where you will be sitting. Seating may be limited, depending on popularity of film and how close to 'opening' night we are seeing it. **REMEMBER YOU CAN JUST SIGN UP ON THE DAY OF OR JUST SHOW UP ON THE DAY OF IF YOU ARE NOT SURE YOU CAN MAKE IT.** **THIS GROUP IS OPEN TO THOSE THAT WANT TO BE SOCIAL, MAKE FRIENDS, THAT ARE SINGLE OR NOT SINGLE. WE ALSO HAVE LOTS OF OTHER EVENTS LIKE, MOVIES, WALKS, HIKES, ARTS & CULTURE AND RESTAURANTS. WE LOVE TO SUPPORT MEMBERS TO SOCIALIZE AND TO FORM LONG LASTING FRIENDSHIPS.** **Toronto Movies and Social Group: Policy** Please do not use your cellphone, talk, or otherwise disrupt the enjoyment of others around you, once the movie starts. Any complaints will be dealt with first as a warning, then subsequent removal from the group on repeated complaints. **Laura** is the organizer for this meetup. If you need to contact her, please post a message on the wall, or message her thru Meetup!

Join us this week as a guest to overcome your fear of public speaking and speak with confidence! We hold weekly meetings on Thursday nights to facilitate impromptu speaking, debates, discussions, and prepared speeches to practice our skills and give each other constructive feedback. We are a friendly group of all ages and backgrounds in the GTA, where we help our members and guests in their personal and professional development. We typically meet at the Etobicoke Civic Centre with lots of free visitor parking. You can join us as a guest anytime you want, for as long as you would like, to see what Toastmasters is all about! Come and join us this Thursday to become the best version of you. The theme for this week's meeting is TBD! Join us to practice your improv. speaking skills, debating skills, and to improve your public speaking abilities. If you're interested in attending this meeting, please contact us through our "Contact Us" form on http://goodyeartoastmasters.com/ See you there! ABOUT GOODYEAR TOASTMASTERS \*NOTE\* We are now back in-person at the Etobicoke Civic Centre! Visitor Parking is free. Simply let the Security Person know you're here for a Toastmasters meeting. • Our meetings start at 6:45 PM and lasts for about 2-hours. We suggest you arrive earlier to settle in and network before we begin. • It's free to attend as a guest and you can join us as many times as you would like. For the full access to the Toastmasters Pathways Programme, however, you will need to join as a member and pay a membership fee. • Don't worry about the low attendance numbers on Meetup. Members do not RSVP here. We use the club website instead. Meetup is primarily a place for us to reach out to newcomers such as yourself!

**NOTE: This is a paid event, please purchase a ticket to attend.** **Tickets here:** https://www.bouncelife.com//events/691f9703537a8a26600e28fb?t=693b3ce2467744f63edf60f2 Dubbed “the BIGGEST Jewish party in North America”, the Matzoball is here to set a yearly staple in the calendar of Jewish professionals across the GTA. On December 24th, Christmas Eve, Matzoball Toronto will be bringing the community together for a night of serious partying. Two floors of Kosher mayhem!!! 5 DJs Live Entertainment SO MUCH MORE!!!

Join a fun and supportive group who assist each other in improving their public speaking and leadership skills. Everyone progresses at their own speed. To attend as a Guest, please register at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/richmond-hill-toastmasters-meeting-in-person-tickets-294554439257 To learn more about our Club visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Richmond-Hill-Toastmasters-Club-425782637479885

Hey Toronto! This is your weekly escape into global cultures. [Click this WhatsApp Groupchat Link to join ](https://l.gourl.es/l/4ed7dff035771e7de7cc448f4403465c1b8d1f99?u=7709345) Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people in their 20s and 30s gather for a mix of language practice, travel stories, and community. Whether you’re new in town or born here, this is where world citizens connect. No judgment, no pressure — just pure, human interaction.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).

Join us for lunch at True Food Kitchen in Easton as we celebrate the New Year and our friendships!

This is a free, in person meeting. Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [5 Bean Coffee](https://5beancoffee.com/)!