Animation & Visual Effects
Meet other local people interested in Animation & Visual Effects: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Animation & Visual Effects group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out animation & visual effects events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the animation & visual effects events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find animation & visual effects events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Animation & Visual Effects Events Today
Join in-person Animation & Visual Effects events happening right now
Impromptu Indoor Sketching Hangout - Chefs Hall
Hi everyone!
We're doing an afternoon impromptu hangout at Chefs Hall.
Location:
111 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2G4
A sort walk from Osgoode subway station. head south on University till you reach Richmond St and head east along Richmond St. you should see Chefs Hall on the south side of Richmond.
**First time meeting us and still not sure about the vibe?** Check out photos from **[past in-person events of 2023](https://www.meetup.com/artsrecto/photos/34212927/)**
Bring your art supplies (mainly dry medium or small watercolour set), and order a warm drink and snacks.
Looking forward to meeting you all :)
===
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**Support This Group 🥰🤩**
We hope you're enjoying the Arts & Rec events! If you'd like to give support, please consider making a small Ko-fi donation of $5-10 USD at [https://www.ko-fi.com/artsnrectoronto](https://www.ko-fi.com/artsnrectoronto.) .
This helps cover meetup and miscellaneous expenses with hosting events! For more inquiries, please PM me for more info!
Thank you all so much!
Open Coffee at Boxcar Social at Waterworks
Welcome to Open Coffee!
Hey friend!
Open coffee meetup in downtown Toronto Wednesday at 8 AM at Boxcar Social in Waterworks.
The event will be hosted by myself, Trevor Carlson. You can find out more about me here -> https://www.youtube.com/@trevor-carlson
I am new in town and looking to start a meetup group to make new friends and meet like minded people.
Open Coffee was started in Cedar Falls, Iowa and grew to over 500 members. I’m bringing the same concept to Toronto.
The format is you show up, share what you’re working on or excited about, and we all have a discussion around it and share ideas. Pretty simple but can be very fun and beneficial.
I look forward to talking about adventure travel and writing.
Hope to see you there!
MongoDB Meetup: Retrieval-Augmented Generation Skill Badge
💘 **Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) with MongoDB Skill Badge**
**Rescheduled due to hazardous winter weather for Toronto.**
Fall in love with building smarter AI applications using Retrieval Augmented Generation with MongoDB.
In this Valentine-themed session, you will learn how to design RAG applications, use vector search effectively, apply smart chunking strategies, and build an LLM-powered app with LangChain and MongoDB using your own data.
🎓 **Skill Badge**
Complete the skill check at the end of the session and earn a Credly Badge to share with your network.
**💚 Why Attend**
• Learn RAG architecture, chunking strategies, and hands-on implementation
• Connect with MongoDB users, engineers, and AI enthusiasts
• Free community event with complimentary food
**🕠 Agenda**
**5:30 PM** Meet & Greet - refreshments
**5:45 PM** Talk: [Dev J. Shah](https://www.linkedin.com/in/busycaesar) (SWE @ [TribalScale](https://www.linkedin.com/company/tribalscale)) - RAG with MongoDB: Learn and get a [Credly Skill Badge](https://learn.mongodb.com/courses/rag-with-mongodb)
**6:45 PM** Networking and connecting with your peers
**7:30 PM** Event ends
**⚠️ Important RSVP Notes**
• When you arrive, please take the **elevator to the 4th floor, turn left, and follow the signs**
• We kindly ask that **you arrive on time** so we can keep the event running smoothly
• If you arrive **after 6 PM and the building doors are locked**, please signal the **security guard** at his desk for assistance
• You may use a **fully charged laptop or a smartphone** to participate in the session
• Please note that this event **will end firmly at 7:30 PM**
💡 Join us for an evening of learning, sharing, and community-building. We look forward to seeing you there!
✅ Thanks to our sponsors **[@MongoDB](https://www.linkedin.com/company/mongodbinc)**, **[@Slalom Consulting](https://www.linkedin.com/company/slalom-consulting),** and **[@Delbridge Solutions](https://www.linkedin.com/company/delbridge-solutions)**
💚 We’d love to hear from the community. **Are you doing something cool with MongoDB you’d like to share?** Message our MUG leaders [@Ian](https://www.linkedin.com/in/iancloves) / [@Leonardo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/leogomesdev)
🌎 Sessions will be presented in English
FREE Oral Conversational Spanish, English, and French Class 4 Adults!!
\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\*
\***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\*
These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!**
No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.
Make connections with relaxing conversations and art
Welcome!
Join us at the North York Centre to colour and chat.
You can bring your own colouring books and colouring pencils.
There’s a Dollarama across the street to buy them.
If you’re coming empty-handed, no worries, you can use ours for $2 cash.
You can do other art related projects such as sketching, crocheting, etc. As long as you bring your own materials :)
We’re meeting at the North York Centre food court by 5:55pm, at the long table in front of the subway.
Please contact me if you’re coming late, have trouble finding the place, or have any other questions.
Hope to see you soon:)
P.S. The group will grab some food after the event in a nearby area and socialize. It is totally optional.
FREE Vegan Conversational French, English, and Spanish Class!!
\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\*
\***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $45 depending on which type of class you want to continue with.\*
These French, Spanish, and English, classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a francophone, hispanophone, or anglophone country. *English in this class can only taught in French and Spanish unless you are an advanced learner* The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. **Program is also offered in private and online classes**. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!**
No other French nor Spanish classes are as oral as these ones. We guarantee it! Group classes are hosted at **600 Bay Street** (Wishbone Animal Rights Lab) every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Call (647)787-9953 upon arrival if no one is there to let you in, and someone will come down to let you in.
Parking is available across from the Greyhound bus station on Elm Street and Bay Street.
Magic the Gathering: Going Commander
Every Wednesday Night!
Free Magic The Gathering Commander games at Hairy Tarantula, hosted by Toronto Gaymers!
Please note: Masks are required in store!
For more information and to RSVP please over to harryt.com/events
Animation & Visual Effects Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
❄️🎨 WINTER STATIONS WALK + SOCIAL + LUNCH 🎨❄️
❄️ WINTER STATIONS WALK + SOCIAL + LUNCH ❄️
Art, Architecture & a Brisk Boardwalk Adventure
Why hibernate when you can bundle up and experience one of Toronto’s most imaginative winter traditions?
Launched in 2014, **Winter Stations** invites the international design and art community to reimagine the lifeguard towers along Toronto’s east-end beaches for the winter season. What began as a bold local collaboration between RAW Design, Ferris + Associates, and Curio has grown into a global design competition, attracting entries from over 90 countries and transforming the quiet winter shoreline into an open-air gallery at the water’s edge.
It’s creative. It’s architectural. It’s windswept and wonderfully Canadian. And it’s even better with good company.
**Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t)
***
♂️ What We’ll Do
We’ll meet at Woodbine Beach and walk along the boardwalk, stopping to admire and chat about each installation as we go. The walk will take us along the waterfront (approximately 1 hours total, depending on our pace and how long we linger).
Once we reach the end point, we’ll make our way back toward Woodbine Beach along the boardwalk.
Afterward, for those who’d like to warm up, we’ll head toward Queen Street East to find a cozy spot to grab something to eat and continue the conversation. ☕
End Spot: Queen & Silver Birch
***
❄️ Weather & Commitment
Please only sign up if you’re ready to walk in true winter conditions. This event is happening rain, snow, or classic Toronto wind. We embrace the elements.
The only exception: the event will be canceled if temperatures reach -20°C.
If you’re not sure you can handle the cold, it’s absolutely okay to skip this one. This is for the winter warriors.
***
How to Find Me
I’ll be waiting in front of the washrooms and changing area near the parking lot at Woodbine Beach.
I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat.
Please do not wander off without checking in — I will only wait 5 minutes.
***
Meetup Fee
Meetup Fee: $5
Cash in person or e-transfer to:
mathewmaclean@hotmail.com
️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to
\*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)
This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community!
***
What to Bring
* Water or a warm drink
* Proper winter boots or good walking shoes
* Warm winter clothing (layers are your friend!)
Comfort is key — we’ll be outdoors the entire time.
***
⏰ Can I Leave Early?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to head out at any point. The full walk is about 1 hour but you can participate for as long as you like.
***
Who Is This For?
This group is open to anyone who wants to be social, make friends, and enjoy shared experiences — whether you’re single or not.
We also host:
Movies
Walks & hikes
Arts & culture outings
️ Restaurant meetups
…and plenty of cozy, community-focused gatherings all year round.
You’re always welcome here.
***
⚠️ A Gentle Reminder
If you’re unsure about your schedule, feel free to decide on the day of. You’re welcome to just show up.
And as always, sometimes circumstances change and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates.
***
Organizer: Mathew
Questions? Post on the event wall or email
torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com
Come for the art.
Stay for the fresh air.
Leave feeling invigorated, inspired… and maybe just a little proud of yourself for choosing winter over the couch.
There’s something magical about the beach in February — especially when you don’t experience it alone. ❄️✨
Meet & Greet + Impact Discussion 🌱
This will be our very first **Justice for Animals** meet-and-greet, and it’s meant to be a relaxed, welcoming way to connect in person ☕🐾
We’ll get to know one another, chat about why animal welfare matters to us, and talk casually about how this group can support local animal rescues in Toronto in realistic, meaningful ways. No pressure, no heavy planning — just good conversation, shared values, and community.
If you care about animals and want to meet like-minded people in a positive, supportive space, you’re very welcome to join. Looking forward to meeting you all!
EvolveDigital Toronto 2026
🎟️ **\*\*\*Please get your tickets here\*\*\*** 🎟️
[https://register.evolvedigital.com/events/evolvedigitalsummits/2032056](https://register.evolvedigital.com/events/evolvedigitalsummits/2032056)
**Join us for the eleventh EvolveDigital (formerly EvolveDrupal) summit – returning to Toronto at the MaRS Centre on March 6!**
**Immerse yourself in dozens of sessions covering diverse topics from web development and site-building to AI, digital and content strategy, UX design, and more.**
🧐 Our summit features +30 talks over a range of **distinct**
**themes that shape open source and the digital space:**
1. Marketing & Comms Strategy
2. Digital Craftsmanship
3. Tech & AI
4. Higher Ed
5. Drupal
6. WordPress
7. Design & Creative
🔹 See more at [evolvedigital.com](http://evolvedigital.com/) 🔹
**✅ Why attend?**
EvolveDigital (formerly EvolveDrupal) summits attract 150-200 participants from diverse professional backgrounds, offering robust networking opportunities with peers and experts, including our distinguished speakers.
**Even more on what to expect:**
🎯**Marketing & Comms Strategy**
Learn how to enhance your online presence and effectively connect with your audience. Explore unique challenges and opportunities in higher education and research institutions.
**🤖Tech & AI**
Stay ahead of the curve by exploring how emerging technologies, automation, and ethical AI are driving real-world innovation.
🎨**Design & Creative**
A curated selection of sessions for designers, product owners, and other creatives.
**🛠️ Digital Craftsmanship**
Bridge the gap between strategy and execution with proven best practices in SEO, AEO, accessibility and technical excellence for building smarter, more resilient digital experiences.
**🌐 Drupal, WordPress and Open Source**
Champion the open web by leveraging the community-driven power and flexibility of open source platforms like Drupal and WordPress to build scalable digital experiences.
**👩🎓 Higher Ed**
See how top institutions are navigating digital transformation to create scalable solutions and inclusive student experiences.
**🤝Even More Networking Opportunities**
Beyond the summit’s networking reception, join us for an afterparty in Toronto, maximizing your chances to build and strengthen business relationships.
🎤 **Interested in speaking?**
We’re currently accepting proposals for 20-minute sessions on a variety of topics. Whether you're a seasoned presenter or a first-time speaker, we’d love to hear from you!
👉 Submit your session here: [evolvedigital.com/apply-to-speak](https://www.evolvedigital.com/apply-to-speak)
📣 **Become a sponsor**
Want to showcase your brand to a vibrant tech community? We're currently welcoming sponsors for the summit.
📧 Reach out to us at info@evolvedigital.com to explore sponsorship opportunities.
Learn more at[ ](https://www.evolvedrupal.com/)[evolvedigital.com](http://www.evolvedigital.com/)[,](https://www.evolvedrupal.com/boston) email info@evolvedigital.com with any questions, or[ sign up for our newsletter](https://share.hsforms.com/1I1SBadMPSa2-YDdPoan1mQ1qwun?__hstc=131413968.236cffcfa389e8f6bf02ff323070c948.1740157384451.1740595281730.1742237990042.5&__hssc=131413968.1.1742237990042&__hsfp=2850574025) to stay updated on this and future events 💙💚
**The EvolveDigital story so far**
EvolveDigital (formerly EvolveDrupal) is in its fourth year and has welcomed 1500+ professionals over its past summits in Atlanta, Boston, Toronto, and Ottawa. Participants come from a range of backgrounds: digital strategy, web development, UX/UI design, marketing, and project management. EvolveDigital has hosted high-profile speakers from various sectors including government, higher education, healthcare, not-for-profit, and technology. Explore some of our past summits to see what to expect: [evolvedigital.com/past-events](https://www.evolvedigital.com/past-events)
**Sponsors**
[Evolving Web](https://evolvingweb.com/)
[Pantheon](https://pantheon.io/)
[Trial] 🇨🇦 Toronto English Connection & Networking! (English Only / All Levels
Trial Events, Entrance fee : Free
【詳細 / Details】
⚠️ English Guidance below ⚠️
今までのような「ただ座って話すだけの言語交換」はもう終わり!
今回のイベントは**【英語でのコミュニケーション&ネットワーキング】**に特化した新しいスタイルのソーシャルイベントです。
ネイティブスピーカーも、英語を勉強中の人も大歓迎!英語が完璧じゃなくても大丈夫です。大切なのは「英語を使って、トロントでの新しいコネクション(繋がり)を作ること」!
✨ このイベントの特徴 ✨
English Focused: 会話は基本的に英語!「英語環境にどっぷり浸かりたい」という人に最適な空間です。(ブロークンイングリッシュでも100%OK!)
Active Networking: ただ座るだけでなく、「Topic Roulette(トピックルーレット)」などのゲーム性を取り入れ、グループを定期的にシャッフル。短い時間でたくさんの人と自然に話せる仕組みを用意しています。
Life & Career Connection: 単なる言語練習ではなく、トロントでの友達作り、仕事探し、情報交換のための強力なネットワークが手に入ります。
気軽にお友達を作りたい方、リラックスした環境で楽しく英語を話したい方にぴったり!
🎟 参加費: たったの 5ドル
💰 支払い: 「当日」現金または e-transfer(イベントホストにお声がけください)
Japanish ルール (Safe & Fun Community)
みんなが安心して楽しく参加できるよう、以下のルールを設けています。ルールを守れない場合は、グループから退会となります。
キャンセルポリシー
参加できない場合は、必ず「不参加(Not going)」に変更してください。無断キャンセル(No show)が2回続いた場合は退会となります。
他の参加者への配慮
・場の雰囲気を壊すような発言(セクハラ・侮辱・差別的な発言・強引な勧誘など)は禁止です。
・同意のない軽いタッチやハグなど、あらゆるハラスメント行為を禁止します。
ホストの指示に従うこと
・全員が楽しめるよう、イベントの進行(席替えなど)にご協力をお願いします。
・これは出会い系(デート)イベントではありません。特定の人のみを指名して会話することはご遠慮ください。
⚠️ 話したくない相手(NGパーソン)がいる場合は、いつでもホスト(KOKI または Juan)にこっそり相談してください。すぐに対応します!
(English Version)
Toronto English Connection & Networking!
No more "just sitting and talking" standard language exchanges!
This time, we are bringing you a new style of social event strictly focused on 【English Communication & Networking】.
Whether you are a native speaker or an English learner, everyone is welcome! Your English doesn't have to be perfect. The most important thing is to use English to build new connections in Toronto!
✨ Event Highlights ✨
English Focused: Conversations will be in English! It's the perfect environment if you want to immerse yourself. (Broken English is 100% welcome!)
Active Networking: We don't just sit! We use fun systems like "Topic Roulette" and regular seat shuffles so you can naturally talk to many different people in a short time.
Life & Career Connection: More than just language practice—this is the place to make real friends, exchange information, and expand your Toronto network.
🎟 Fee: Just $5
💰 Payment: Cash or e-transfer on the day of the event. (Please find one of the hosts upon arrival).
Japanish Rules
To ensure everyone enjoys the event safely and comfortably, please follow these rules. Anyone who violates them may be removed from the group.
Cancellation Policy: If you can’t attend, please change your RSVP to “Not going.” Two no-shows without notice will result in removal.
Respect for Others: Inappropriate behavior (harassment, discrimination, unsolicited business pitches) is strictly prohibited. Avoid any unwanted physical contact.
Follow Host Instructions: Please cooperate with our event flow (like seat shuffling). This is NOT a dating event; do not monopolize specific individuals.
⚠️ If there’s someone making you uncomfortable, let the hosts (Koki or Juan) know privately. We’ve got your back!
🎲International boardgame Event!
インターナショナルボードゲーム🎲イベント
Practice English with Boardgame!
Big discount $10 -> $5! (Fees help us keep the event running.)
Join Japanish for a fun mix of language, board games, and new networking opportunities—all in a friendly, supportive environment! Perfect for anyone eager to practice English and build a new community.
ボードゲームで楽しむ英語の練習!
参加費は割引10ドル -> 5ドルだけ!(イベント運営に使います。)
Japanish では、英語をメインにボードゲーム、新しいネットワーキングの機会を楽しみながら、英語を学びたい人を繋げます!新しいコミュニティを作りたい方はぜひご参加ください!
注) 連絡無しのドタキャンをされた方はブラックリストに載ります。
Note: Those who cancel last-minute without contact will be added to the blacklist.
🦋🏛️ DANFORTH WALK, BUTTERFLY MURAL & GREEK LUNCH🏛️🦋
🦋🏛️ DANFORTH WALK, BUTTERFLY MURAL & GREEK LUNCH🏛️🦋
Street Culture, Public Art & A Proper Greek Feast
There’s something about the Danforth that feels like old-school Toronto in the best possible way — vibrant, layered, proudly local, and full of stories.
Join us for a social walk along one of the city’s most iconic stretches: **Danforth Avenue**. As we stroll west toward downtown, we’ll pass lively patios, long-standing family restaurants, cozy cafés, independent shops, and the everyday rhythm of a neighbourhood that has shaped Toronto’s cultural identity for generations.
This area is famously home to the annual **Taste of the Danforth**, one of the largest street festivals in the city — and historically, it was once home to the largest Greek community outside of Greece. You feel that history in the bakeries, the signage, the music drifting from open doors.
It’s not just a walk.
It’s a little slice of Toronto heritage — experienced together.
👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t)
***
🦋 The Butterfly Mural Stop
Along the way, we’ll stop at the Butterfly Mural, sponsored by the **David Suzuki Foundation** as part of The Great Canadian Butterflyway Project.
It’s bold, colourful, and rooted in environmental awareness — a reminder that even in the middle of the city, we are connected to something larger. We’ll pause, take photos, chat, and enjoy a little moment of art-meets-nature in urban Toronto.
***
🏛️ Greek Lunch at a Danforth Institution
After our walk, we’ll sit down for lunch at the historic **Astoria Shish Kebob House**, one of the most well-known Greek restaurants in the city.
Expect:
🥙 Classic souvlaki
🍋 Lemon potatoes
🥗 Fresh Greek salad
🍷 Big, generous comfort food energy
Menu: Click Here!
Nothing bonds people like sharing a table and passing the tzatziki. 😉
***
🚶♂️ What to Expect
We’ll walk at a relaxed, social pace — stopping to observe, chat, and enjoy the neighbourhood. The route will take us toward Danforth & Chester.
You’re welcome to leave at any time.
***
❄️ Weather & Commitment
Please don’t sign up if you’re not ready to walk in real winter conditions. This event happens rain, snow, or classic Toronto wind.
The only exception: if temperatures reach -20°C, the event will be canceled.
Bundle up — this one is for the walkers. 💪❄️
***
🧢 Meetup Details
📍 Meetup Location: Outside the station (exact station noted in event listing)
🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat
⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM
❗ I will only wait 5 minutes
Please arrive on time so we can begin together.
End Location: Danforth & Chester
***
💰 Meetup Fee
🎟️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to
📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)
This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖
***
🎒 What to Bring
* Water
* Good winter boots
* Gloves & hat
* Something warm to drink
* A small snack (optional)
Layers are your best friend.
***
🌈 Who Is This For?
This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether you’re single or not.
We also host:
🎬 Movies
🚶 Walks & hikes
🎭 Arts & culture
🍽️ Restaurant outings
…and lots of welcoming, low-pressure community gatherings.
You’re always welcome.
***
REMEMBER: You can just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule.
And as always, sometimes life happens and plans may need to shift — please keep an eye out for updates.
***
👤 Organizer: Mathew
Questions? Post on the event wall or email
📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com
Come for the culture.
Stay for the conversation.
Leave full — in more ways than one.
The Danforth has heart. Let’s go feel it together. 🦋🏛️✨
Animation & Visual Effects Events Near You
Connect with your local Animation & Visual Effects community
Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
Meeting Room 2b, Main Library
Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen).
Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desirere to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and all members are treated with compassion and respect.
All backgrounds are welcome.
Apply to be an Ohio Virtual Men's Group Leader!
Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us.
As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead.
**Apply now to lead a group in your area:**
👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application
Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind
Prototype, Play, and Build Workshops (In-Person @GameArena)!!!
This month, we are in-person at GameArena!!! We will also be joined by students and their games from [Shawnee State](https://www.shawnee.edu/game-design-programs)!
\-\-\-
Join us for our our monthly COGG Prototype and Play event @GameArena! Come to play and showcase your games.
We're back in the upper levels of the catwalk mezzanine area. It'll be packed with lots of camaraderie playing your game(s) and other's games on the 2nd floor as well as the 1st floor in the gaming room below the mezzanine.
Light snacks and water provided but you can buy food and drinks at the bar (alcoholic drink ID required).
[https://www.game-arena.co/menu](https://www.game-arena.co/menu)
**Attendees:**
Don't have a game to show? Not a problem! All are welcomed and invited from all ages and backgrounds. The more we can have to play test our games the better!
**Developers:**
Do you have a game that you would like to get critical feedback on? Would you like an excuse to work on a game with other talented artists, programmers, musicians, designers, and writers? Digital, table-top, non-experienced developers, and the like are welcomed! We'll provide signage for your game to help others learn more about your work. Wifi, outlets, tables, and seats (though standing tables also) are available.
Come to the Prototype and Play workshop to collaborate and meet local game developers for an evening of epic and raw game play fun! Play works-in-progress, show off your own game, work with others to add polish to a game, or even lend your talents to other fellow developers.
Can use South Garage at the Gateway with a $5 voucher on your way out.
75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
[https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9)
If you have any questions or comments, as always, feel free to reach out to us at [info@thecogg.com!](http://info@thecogg.com!/)
Humanist Program: Fighting the Efforts to Insert Religion into Public Education
The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event.
Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk.
Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association:
They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved.
Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online
Join Zoom Meeting
[https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1)
Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953
Passcode: 760812
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York)
+13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC)
The formal presentation will start at noon
Oscar International Nominee: SIRAT at the Gateway Film Center
Join us as we get together to see SIRAT, an Oscar-nominated Best International Film from Spain that follows a father, accompanied by his son, goes looking for his missing daughter in North Africa. Here’s a description, trailer and our plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: A father, accompanied by his son arrive at a rave deep in the mountains of southern Morocco while searching for his daughter who vanished months ago at one of these endless, sleepless parties. As their search continues, the journey forces them to confront their own limits. The film is directed by Oliver Laxe and stars Sergi Lopez, Bruno Nunez Arjona and Richard Bellamy.
TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww-IXHXvS70
BUZZ & ACCLAIM: SIRAT has already won numerous awards, including 4 at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, along with the Chicago, Montclair and Toronto International Film Festivals! It also earned a whopping 11 nominations at the 40th Goya Awards, including Best Film and Director, and was nominated for Best International Feature Film and Best Sound at this year’s Academy Awards. The film is earning a stellar 92% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes which calls it “an unforgettable exercise in tension” and “a brutal reminder that the journey can be more important than the destination.”
PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and we’ll meet inside the upstairs lobby between 6:40 and 6:50pm. Super Tuesday ticket price is just $6.50 (including online fee)! Advance ticket purchase is advised (via Gateway website preferred). Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event! This one will be a “movie only” event.
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
Effective Data Visualization
Dear ACM Chicago Chapter members,
On March 4, we are hosting a hybrid event at AON Center (200 E. Randolph, suite 200). Please note that this venue requires the attendee list to be submitted 48 hours before the event starts, so the RSVP will close then. Please remember to bring your government-issued ID to present to building security.
You can also join virtually using the Zoom link below:
[https://acm-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ky5PEBMTSaiGQ6Q42-qrNA](https://acm-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ky5PEBMTSaiGQ6Q42-qrNA)
**Talk Title:** Effective Data Visualization
**Speaker:** David Giard, Partner Solution Architect at Microsoft,
**Tald Abstract:**
We spend much of our time collecting and analyzing data. That data is only useful if it can be displayed in a meaningful, understandable way.
Yale professor Edward Tufte presented many ideas on how to effectively present data to an audience or end user.
In this session, I will explain some of Tufte's most important guidelines about data visualization and how you can apply those guidelines to your own data. You will learn what to include, what to remove, and what to avoid in your charts, graphs, maps and other images that represent data.
**Agenda (Central Time):**
* 5:30 – 6:00 PM — Networking
* 6:00 – 6:05 PM — Introductions
* 6:05 – 6:45 PM — Talk
* 6:45 – 6:55 PM — Q&A
* 6:55 – 7:00 PM — Adjournment
* 7:00 – 7:30 PM — Networking
Refreshments will be provided.
Hope to see you there!















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