Car Camping

Join us for our inaugural hike of the 2026 season as we hike the first leg of the Big Walnut trail. We will leave from Morse Rd at Hanna Realty and hike 2 miles on a flat paved trail along Big Walnutl creek and looping Academy Park. See you Sunday at 3 pm!

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

**❤️‍🔥 Online Speed Dating – No Awkwardness, Just Fun – Great for First Timers!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. **Limited spots available** – register now before they're gone! **🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 🔑 **The secret to great first dates?** Feeling comfortable. Start here! Online speed dating is perfect for first-timers. Meet like-minded local singles from the comfort of your own home – no pressure, no crowded venues, just genuine connections in a safe, welcoming environment. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment - Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating - People returning to dating after a break who want a gentle start **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom meetup – real-time conversations in a relaxed online space - **Location:** From the comfort of your own home – no need to go anywhere! - **Host:** Engaging guide creating a welcoming, pressure-free space for beginners - **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Columbus singles – fun and easy - **Rounds:** Multiple short rounds so you meet plenty of people - **Privacy:** Your contact info is never shared without mutual consent - **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good! **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Take the Quick Compatibility Quiz** – Help us pair you with like-minded Columbus first-timers. 3. **Join the Zoom Event** – Log in from home and meet your host. We'll handle the rest! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Columbus singles who share your vibe. 5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special. **Frequently Asked Questions** **Do I need speed dating experience?** Absolutely not! This event is designed specifically for first-timers. Our host guides you through every step. **Do I need to download anything?** Just Zoom! If you've used Zoom before, you're all set. We'll send you the link after registration. --- ✨ Connect from your comfort zone with friendly Columbus first-timers – no pressure, just possibilities! 💘 ✨

We are excited to host Guided Meditations on Sundays at 6 pm in our Ashram/Gallery/Home! !! !! Everyone wants to know what kind of God we worship and what kind of meditation we do. We worship the GOD that LOVES US! We understand that god is an energy and it lives in us as us. Our meditations guide others to actually experience that energy! xoxo We don't just talk about peace, love and affection, we experience it :) Also we are a home not a business, so we enjoy building community one friend at a time. We always build in time for people to mingle & develop friendships! xoxo Much Love, Frank Tennyson Namaste, Frank Tennyson http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/9/9/600_447824953.jpeg

**🥰 Discover Speed Dating Online – The Easiest Way for First Timers to Meet Someone!** **⚠️ CRITICAL: Your Spot Is NOT Confirmed by RSVPing!** Follow these steps to secure entry: 1. Select your age group below 2. Click the registration link 3. Complete the personality quiz **Spots are extremely limited!** **🎯 Select Your Age Group & Register Now:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) --- 🙌 **Never tried speed dating before?** You're in the right place! Think of it as the easiest first date you'll ever have – from your couch, with a host who keeps things fun, and a room full of Cleveland singles who are just as excited (and maybe just as nervous) as you. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - Anyone who's tired of swiping and wants real conversation - Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats - Anyone trying speed dating for the first time - First-timers wanting a low-pressure, guided experience **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Answer a Few Fun Questions** – Our quiz helps match you with compatible Cleveland singles. 3. **Show Up on Zoom** – Grab a drink, get comfortable, and let the host guide you through each round. 4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Each round is timed and guided so every chat feels natural and fun. 5. **Get Your Matches** – After the event, mutual matches are revealed. Start a real connection! **Event Details** - **Format:** Live on Zoom – easy to join, private, and beginner-friendly - **Location:** Wherever you're most relaxed – that's your venue tonight - **Host:** Charismatic host who keeps the energy positive and the nerves low - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Cleveland singles - **Follow-up:** Post-event match results delivered to your inbox - **Support:** Our host is available before, during, and after the event 💡 **Heads up:** The best connections happen when you're genuinely interested in the other person. --- ✨ Connect from your comfort zone with friendly Cleveland first-timers – no pressure, just possibilities! 💓 ✨

**💞 Speed Dating from Home – A Warm, Welcoming Experience for First Timers!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. **Limited spots available** – register now before they're gone! **🔗 Click Your Age Group to Register & Complete the Quiz:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 🤝 **Tired of swiping with no results?** Try real conversations instead! We've helped thousands of first-timers discover the joy of speed dating from home. Short, fun conversations with compatible singles – it's easier than you think and more rewarding than any dating app. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Singles anxious about meeting in person who prefer the comfort of home - Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats - People who want to meet local Toledo singles without leaving home - Anyone anxious about crowded bars or in-person meetups **How It Works** 1. **Register for Your Age Group** – Choose the session that matches your age range above and complete registration. 2. **Complete the Personality Quiz** – We'll match you with compatible Toledo singles for the best experience. 3. **Log In & Relax** – Join the Zoom call and let the fun begin. Your host handles the logistics! 4. **Start Chatting** – Short, timed conversations with compatible Toledo singles. No awkward silences! 5. **Get Your Matches** – After the event, mutual matches are revealed. Start a real connection! **Event Details** - **Format:** Online Zoom experience – intimate setting, professional hosting - **Location:** Your cozy space – meet from wherever you feel most comfortable - **Host:** Supportive facilitator experienced in helping newcomers enjoy speed dating - **Vibe:** Fun, guided conversations that make meeting Toledo singles effortless 💡 **Helpful hint:** Prepare 2-3 fun questions to ask – it keeps conversations flowing naturally. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What if my internet drops?** No worries – our host will help you reconnect. Technical hiccups happen and we're prepared for them! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! **What if I don't match with anyone?** That's okay! Many people attend multiple events before finding their match. Each event is a new opportunity. **Do I need speed dating experience?** Absolutely not! This event is designed specifically for first-timers. Our host guides you through every step. --- ✨ Online speed dating perfect for first-timers – meet local singles from the comfort of home. Join us! 🌹 ✨

**💝 Meet Local Singles Online – Speed Dating Made Easy for First Timers!** **⚠️ RSVP ≠ Registration!** Your Meetup RSVP alone does **not** secure a spot. You must click your age group link below, complete registration, and finish the personality quiz. **Spots are limited** and fill fast! **🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) --- 💡 **Curious about speed dating but nervous?** We've got you! We've helped thousands of first-timers discover the joy of speed dating from home. Short, fun conversations with compatible singles – it's easier than you think and more rewarding than any dating app. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats - First-timers who want a safe space to practice dating skills - Anyone who's tired of swiping and wants real conversation **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Log In & Relax** – Join the Zoom call and let the fun begin. Your host handles the logistics! 4. **The Fun Part** – Rotate through rounds of lively chats with pre-matched Columbus singles. 5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special. **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom meetup – real-time conversations in a relaxed online space - **Location:** Anywhere with Wi-Fi – your couch, your café, your call - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Warm, genuine conversations with Columbus locals who are looking for real connection - **Matches:** Mutual matches revealed after the event - **Icebreakers:** Fun prompts provided to keep conversations flowing - **Atmosphere:** Positive, inclusive, and judgement-free - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone ⭐ *"10/10 would do again. The host was amazing and I actually had fun dating!"* – Columbus first-timer --- ✨ You deserve to meet someone amazing – and you can do it from home. We'll see you on Zoom! ❤️‍🔥 ✨

**Celebrate National Meatball Day!** Let's set off on a culinary trail to taste test Italian meatballs! **Carrabbas** happy hour and their wonderful meatball sliders! **Note:** We'll be in their ***large bar area for Happy Hour pricing*** \- specially priced sangrias\, wine and cocktails alongside several yummy appetizers\. You are welcome to order sunday dinner entrees\, too\. **What is National meatball day?** * Whether you prefer the classic spaghetti and meatballs, or just love to pick up a meatball sub for lunch, you are sure to want to celebrate National Meatball Day on March 9 . We may never know who invented National Meatball Day because there are no records of this unofficial holiday being created. But whoever did it was definitely onto something.

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

**💖 Virtual Speed Dating for Beginners – Meet Toledo Singles Stress-Free!** **⚠️ IMPORTANT: Your RSVP Does NOT Guarantee a Spot!** To secure your place, you **must** register and complete the personality quiz by clicking one of the age group links below. Select your age range, click to register, and complete the quiz. **Spots are limited** – don't wait! **🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) --- 🎉 **Ready to try something new from the comfort of home?** Let's go! We've helped thousands of first-timers discover the joy of speed dating from home. Short, fun conversations with compatible singles – it's easier than you think and more rewarding than any dating app. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - First-time speed daters ready to try something new - Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating - Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment - First-timers wanting a low-pressure, guided experience **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual via Zoom – structured rounds in a warm, friendly setting - **Location:** Your cozy space – meet from wherever you feel most comfortable - **Host:** Engaging guide creating a welcoming, pressure-free space for beginners - **Vibe:** Fun, guided conversations that make meeting Toledo singles effortless - **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good! - **Support:** Our host is available before, during, and after the event - **Duration:** A perfectly paced 60–90 minute event with multiple rounds **How It Works** 1. **Pick Your Session** – Select the age group that fits you and register your spot. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Your host will welcome you and walk you through everything. 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Toledo singles who share your vibe. 5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special. 💡 **Insider tip:** Test your Zoom setup 10 minutes early so you feel calm and ready. --- ✨ No need to be anxious about meeting in person – find real connections from your own space! Your person is waiting! 🥰 ✨

**✨ Your First Speed Date Starts Here – Online, Easy & Pressure-Free!** **⚠️ HEADS UP: Clicking RSVP Is NOT Enough!** You **must** register through one of the links below and complete the short personality quiz to secure your spot. Select your age range and register now – **spots are limited and go fast!** **📌 Register for Your Age Group Here:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 💡 **Curious about speed dating but nervous?** We've got you! We've helped thousands of first-timers discover the joy of speed dating from home. Short, fun conversations with compatible singles – it's easier than you think and more rewarding than any dating app. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Anyone who believes great chemistry starts with great conversation - People nervous about traditional dating who want to ease into it online - Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats **Event Details** - **Format:** Live on Zoom – easy to join, private, and beginner-friendly - **Location:** Anywhere with Wi-Fi – your couch, your café, your call - **Host:** Warm, professional host dedicated to making everyone comfortable - **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Cincinnati singles – fun and easy **How It Works** 1. **Choose Your Age Group** – Find your age range above and click to register. 2. **Complete Your Profile Quiz** – A quick questionnaire so we can find your best matches. 3. **Go Live** – Enter the Zoom room, meet your host, and get ready for a great night. 4. **Start Chatting** – Short, timed conversations with compatible Cincinnati singles. No awkward silences! 5. **Get Your Matches** – After the event, mutual matches are revealed. Start a real connection! 💡 **First-timer tip:** Don't overthink it – just be yourself! That's what everyone finds attractive. ⭐ *"I was skeptical about online speed dating, but it exceeded all my expectations."* – Cincinnati professional --- ✨ No need to be anxious about meeting in person – find real connections from your own space! Your person is waiting! 🥰 ✨

**🌹 Online Speed Dating – No Awkwardness, Just Fun – Great for First Timers!** **⚠️ PLEASE READ: Simply RSVPing Will Not Secure Your Spot!** To join this event, click your age group registration link below, sign up, and complete the short personality quiz. **Capacity is strictly limited** – don't delay! **📌 Register for Your Age Group Here:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) --- 🌟 **Want to meet real singles without the bar scene?** Welcome! Our online speed dating events are specifically designed with first-timers in mind. Every conversation is guided, every interaction is comfortable, and you never have to leave your home. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - First-time speed daters ready to try something new - Singles who appreciate a guided, hosted dating experience - Anyone who believes great chemistry starts with great conversation - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort - Anyone looking for a fun, structured way to meet new people ⭐ *"Way better than any dating app. Real conversations with real people. Loved it!"* – Detroit attendee **How It Works** 1. **Pick Your Session** – Select the age group that fits you and register your spot. 2. **Do the Matching Quiz** – It only takes a minute and dramatically improves your matches. 3. **Show Up on Zoom** – Grab a drink, get comfortable, and let the host guide you through each round. 4. **Start Chatting** – Short, timed conversations with compatible Detroit singles. No awkward silences! 5. **See Who Liked You Back** – Mutual matches sent to your inbox. Your next chapter begins! **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom meetup – real-time conversations in a relaxed online space - **Location:** Anywhere with Wi-Fi – your couch, your café, your call - **Host:** Supportive facilitator experienced in helping newcomers enjoy speed dating - **Vibe:** Friendly, no-judgement conversations with singles from the Detroit area - **Matches:** Mutual matches revealed after the event - **Follow-up:** Post-event match results delivered to your inbox - **Atmosphere:** Positive, inclusive, and judgement-free --- ✨ Life's too short for bad dates. Try a great one – from home! 🥰 ✨

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Enjoy a bit of Columbus culinary history at Carfagna's market, wine bar and ristorante. We will gather for a glass of wine or two in the wine bar at 6:30 with dinner at 7pm. Arrive early if you like, shop and place your items in a cooler in your car. This is a pay-on-your-own event. I will have a reservation for eight, and you are encouraged to get your own reservation at 7pm. Message me if you want to be on my table. Keep your reservation up to date as the Attendance and Release of Liability provisions are enforced, including the 48 hour No-Show Rule. See the first page of Group Page for details. Read about the history of Carfagna's here and also see their weekly specials. https://carfagnas.com/about-carfagnas/

**Our March pick is *God of the Woods* by Liz Moore.** **This month’s novel is an award-winning literary mystery that blends family drama with psychological suspense. It explores women’s voices and relationships while delivering an exciting, eerie, and deeply suspenseful story. The book is 576 pages in print or 14 hours and 35 minutes on audiobook.** Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found. As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! VEGAN MEALS: As previously mentioned, the food vendor does NOT have a vegan option at this year’s Oscar Party. However, we DO have a solution! I have reached out to several individuals who are affected. If you are a vegan, plan to attend the Oscar Party and did not receive an e-mail from me, please reach out via private message post a note below. I’ll provide details off-line. And while there won’t be a vegan meal option this year, I think we do have a workable solution. And, all other plans are usiness-as-usual: popcorn, sodas, candy, on-site paparazzi, decorations, bar drinks (including your first drink on the house), the Drexel’s Annual Oscar ballot contest, along with the Big Show on the Big Screen and a fun group of Movie Group friends to watch ‘em with! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan