Comedians

To celebrate ***International Women’s Day***, we’re bringing our community together for a special evening featuring two inspiring women in tech. This event is all about sharing experiences, learning from real journeys, and creating space for honest conversations about building a career in cloud and technology. Whether you’re just starting out, making a transition, or already deep in the industry, you’ll find stories, insights, and perspectives that resonate. **And some exciting news** — thanks to our friends from [Programmable](https://www.programmable.tech/), attendees on the day will get a chance to win a ticket to the Programmable conference (valued at $449!). Expect practical lessons, personal reflections, and the kind of discussions that remind us why community matters. See you then! **Topics** **1\. One Platform\, Infinite Connections** An API Platform is not simply a layer for routing traffic; it is an operating model for how organisations design, secure, and monetise digital capabilities. This session opens by defining what an enterprise API Platform looks like in practical terms and why it’s becoming a core part of modern engineering and business strategy. Using a real implementation as context, the discussion examines how Apigee enables structured governance, streamlined developer onboarding, intelligent traffic control, and deep observability. It also addresses how the platform supports emerging AI, LLM, and MCP patterns, outlining its security architecture in production environments and demonstrating how APIs can be bundled into consumable products to create commercial value. Particular attention is given to advanced protection strategies for managing both conventional API workloads and AI-driven traffic. Attendees will leave with a concrete, experience-backed framework for turning an API platform into a measurable driver of innovation, resilience, and revenue. **About the speaker** Neha is an Engineering Manager at MYOB, leading the API Platform capability. With nearly two decades of experience in the IT industry, she has built deep expertise across cloud infrastructure, platform engineering, and large-scale technology transformations. **2\. Stateful Secrets in a Stateless World: Navigating the Azure Serverless Landscape** Serverless is more than just a buzzword; it represents a fundamental shift from managing infrastructure to focusing entirely on code. In this session, we’ll begin by comparing serverless with traditional server-based models to unpack the true differences in cost, maintenance, and scalability. From there, we’ll walk through a real-world application architecture to see how Azure Functions can be used to solve practical engineering problems that conventional servers often struggle to handle efficiently. Drawing on lessons learned from hands-on experience, we’ll also explore common pitfalls, optimisation strategies, and cost-saving techniques. Whether you’re new to serverless or already working with cloud-native systems, this talk will leave you with a clearer, more practical blueprint for designing and building modern applications. **About the speaker** Archana is a Master’s in Data Science candidate with a foundation in Computer Science and Engineering. She brings hands-on experience from her background as a Full Stack Developer, where she focused on building web applications powered by Azure serverless backends. By blending her software engineering roots with her current work in data science, Archana designs cloud-native solutions that are both scalable and data-driven. She is passionate about sharing practical lessons and helping the community understand how to effectively bridge the gap between web development and serverless technology. **Agenda** 5:30pm – Food and networking 6:00pm – Presentation 1 6:40pm – Presentation 2 7:20pm – Networking Thanks to our sponsors: [HAL systems](https://www.halsystems.com.au/), [Mantel](https://mantelgroup.com.au/) and [REA group](https://www.rea-group.com/)! Join us for an evening of learning, conversations, and great company!

Practice speaking/leadership at SmashSpeak. Less formalities and technicalities, just speaking! Suits beginners to confident Multicultural Hub, 506 Elizabeth St (Opposite Queen Vic Market) Level 1, **Purple Room** (End of corridor) More to come...

Meet Gillian outside Sebastian's - to walk along the beach to Green Point in Brighton (one hour round trip). There are plenty of benches along the way if you don't feel like doing the whole walk. Then back to Sebastian's for a cuppa & chat. For any queries, don't hesitate to get in touch with Gillian 0409219524 http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/8/6/8/event_431898536.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/7/5/4/event_306566452.jpeg

Join us for a peaceful and rejuvenating lunchtime meditation session every Thursday at the Theosophical Society Lodge. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, increase focus, or simply find a moment of calm in your busy week, this regular event is designed to help you reconnect with your inner peace. Our guided meditation sessions offer a welcoming space for all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners. You will be gently guided through calming techniques that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. It’s the perfect way to break from your workday and restore your balance. The Theosophical Society Lodge provides a tranquil environment ideal for meditation, with a peaceful atmosphere that encourages personal reflection and growth. Sit back, and enjoy a nourishing experience for your mind and body. No prior meditation experience is required, and all are welcome. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your practice or simply explore the benefits of meditation, our Thursday sessions offer a moment of calm amidst the chaos of everyday life.

Beloved Friends , You are warmly invited to join **Osho Dynamic Meditation** — a powerful space to release stress, let go of built-up tension, and breathe freely again. Through movement, breath, and silence, allow the mind to unwind and the body to relax. No experience is needed — just come as you are and reconnect with your true nature, with awareness, aliveness, and inner peace. We would love to share this meditative journey with you. http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/e/0/600_453663808.jpeg When : Every Saturday , 7:30am to 8:30am Where : Elwood Angling Club, Foreshore, Elwood Contribution : $15 "Just to be is such a great celebration if you know how to take the conditioning off. This 'taking off' you will learn through Dynamic Meditation. it will not be caused; it will come to you uncaused. Meditation will create a situation in which you will come to the unknown; by and by you will be pushed from your habitual , mechanical, robot-like personality. be courageous: practise Dynamic Meditation vigorously and all else will follow. it will not be you doing, it will be a happening" OSHO - Meditation the art of ecstasy With Love and Hugs, Bodhiprem * If you are coming along for the first time, please arrive 10 minutes early for instructions, Please see below a link for the Dynamic Meditation Instructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjxr9MySioc&feature=youtu.be

Camberwell Meditation Group Find Your Inner Peace within. Take a moment to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with your inner peace. Join our friendly community every Saturday afternoon for a peaceful guided meditation session led by a teaching monk, who will share simple techniques to relax the mind and find clarity — no religious commitment required. 🕑 Every Saturday \| 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Camberwell Meditation 41 Cookson Street, Camberwell, Melbourne VIC 3124 (Just a short walk from Camberwell Railway Station) 🌼 About the Session Each 60-minute class offers a calm and welcoming space to rest, recharge, and experience peace of mind. * 🧘‍♂️ Guided Meditation (in English) by a Teaching Monk * 💬 Gentle reflections and Q & A * ☕ Light refreshments served afterward * 💝 Donations welcome * You don’t need any experience — just bring an open mind and a kind heart. Our approach is simple, practical, and suitable for everyone. 🌿 Why Join Us? * Relax and release stress from your busy week. * Recharge your mind and body with calm energy. * Learn meditation techniques that can support mindfulness in everyday life. * Meet kind and like-minded people who value peace and balance. Meditation helps you discover calmness and clarity within yourself — something everyone can benefit from, regardless of background or belief. 🌷

Whether you've never done improv before, or you've done it for so long you knew Del Close on a personal level, or anywhere in between, come join us! Swing by *Gresso's* for the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup** for some fun and games! The idea behind improv is to create entire scenes from scratch based on a suggestion from the audience. This can be done in game form, like *Whose Line Is It Anyway*, *ComedySportz*, or *Wild 'n Out*; it could also be done to tell stories, like *Middleditch and Schwartz*. Our meetup, which is central Ohio's longest running (and free!) weekly comedy event, brings the games (and occasionally different forms) for you to play in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. Not only is it a lot of fun, but you get to work on thinking faster on your feet, plus it's an excellent way to meet new people and make friendships that'll last a lifetime! Ask yourself if you want to join the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**, and say "Yes, And" that you'll have fun!

Whether you've never done improv before, or you've done it for so long you knew Del Close on a personal level, or anywhere in between, come join us! Swing by *Gresso's* for the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup** for some fun and games! The idea behind improv is to create entire scenes from scratch based on a suggestion from the audience. This can be done in game form, like *Whose Line Is It Anyway*, *ComedySportz*, or *Wild 'n Out*; it could also be done to tell stories, like *Middleditch and Schwartz*. Our meetup, which is central Ohio's longest running (and free!) weekly comedy event, brings the games (and occasionally different forms) for you to play in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. Not only is it a lot of fun, but you get to work on thinking faster on your feet, plus it's an excellent way to meet new people and make friendships that'll last a lifetime! Ask yourself if you want to join the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**, and say "Yes, And" that you'll have fun!

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the Upper Arlington Library (**Tremont** Branch) in **Meeting Room A** to speak in Italian for 1 hour. Keeping Monday for consistency but we can discuss if there are better days/times/locations!

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

Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3262835](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3262835) Location: [Knotty Pine Brewing](https://www.knottypinebrewing.net/) [Menu, scroll to the bottom](https://www.knottypinebrewing.net/menus-1) Book summary: Adunni is a fourteen-year-old Nigerian girl who knows what she wants: an education. This, her mother has told her, is the only way to get a "louding voice" -- the ability to speak for herself and decide her own future. But instead, Adunni's father sells her to be the third wife of a local man who is eager for her to bear him a son and heir. When Adunni runs away to the city, hoping to make a better life, she finds that the only other option before her is servitude to a wealthy family. As a yielding daughter, a subservient wife, and a powerless slave, Adunni is told, by words and deeds, that she is nothing. But while misfortunes might muffle her voice for a time, they cannot mute it. And when she realizes that she must stand up not only for herself, but for other girls, for the ones who came before her and were lost, and for the next girls, who will inevitably follow, she finds the resolve to speak, however she can--in a whisper, in song, in broken English--until she is heard