Critical Thinking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out critical thinking events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the critical thinking events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find critical thinking events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Critical Thinking Events Today
Join in-person Critical Thinking events happening right now
Play Badminton Friday [Competitive Games] @Smash Center
【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】
* The purpose of competitive game session is to enjoy badminton games by focusing on trying your best to win the games.
* You don't need to be a very good player to join this session. Our level range from beginner to intermediate. We will put you to play with people with similar level. But if you are the first time to come and I don't know your level, then I will put you to play with less-experienced players to start.
* Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) Please also read the instruction inside this link, so that you have an idea how it works.
* Please bring feather shuttles to join the games. We only accept specific shuttles. Please read the following. **If you come without bringing feather shuttles with you, I may ask you to go home.**
【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】
* Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game)
* We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list)
* It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) to see if there is still a slot available there.
* The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost.
【FEE and REFUND POLICY】
* Fee includes courts and the work I do to continue this group. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event.
* Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter.
* No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence.
* Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you is there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't show up.
【COMMUNICATION】
* Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347)
* There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected.
【DETAILS of COMPETITIVE GAMES】
* This is the list of shuttles we accept:
RSL Classic Tourney, Academy
Li-Ning Super 1000
Victor Smash It 1, 2, 3
Ling Mei 70, 80, 90
Ling Mei Gold, Black
Yonex Aerosansa 30, 20, 10
NCS Pro, MAX
* Smash Center also sells feather shuttles (Ling Mei Gold and Black). You can purchase there at your arrival.
【OTHERS】
* Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you!
* If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond.
* If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you.
* Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work.
* Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken.
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing)
* You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)
Hack The Box Meetup: H-T8 CTF 2026
Join us for the very first **Hack The Box Meetup** hosted by **[H-T8](https://ht8.fi/en/)** at the **[Silverskin Information Security](https://silverskin.com/en/) offices** at **Helsinki, Finland!**
During this event we set sail into an on-site **pirate-themed CTF competition** aimed for beginners and cybersecurity professionals alike. The challenges will cover classic categories such as **Web**, **Cryptography**, **Rev**, **Forensics**, **OSINT**, **Pwn**, **Steganography**, and **Misc**.
Whether you are here to compete, learn from others, meet the local cybersecurity community, or just enjoy a fun pirate-themed hacking evening, you are most welcome!
The event will be held on **May 8th, 2026**. The doors open at **3.00 PM** and close at **9.45 PM**. The event is hosted in **Finnish**.
**You'll find the event registration form [here](https://cryptpad.fr/form/#/2/form/view/-eD4t8mvuYrBkmxGWlH-4AdqxDruZmx4bdGKNyQgocc/). Keep in mind that registering does not guarantee a spot. More information on the registration form.**
**Prizes for the CTF include:**
* 1 x Secret Prize
* 1 x BurpSuite Pro License
* 6 x BurpSuite T-shirts
* PortSwigger Swag
* And much more to be announced!
**Things to Note:**
* The event has limited seats so attendees must register in advance.
* Attendees need to bring their own device to participate in the competition.
The event venue will have food and drinks prepared for all attendees!
**Come and find out if you have what it takes to be a pirate!**
Women's Wellbeing Group
Warm welcome to MIITTI's Wellbeing for Women!
Join us weekly in Kulttuuritila Merirasti for different activities that support your mental and physical wellbeing, while giving you opportunity to connect with others.
**IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, so please make sure to reserve yours!
Wellbeing for women means honouring your body, mind, and emotions with compassion and care. These wellbeing sessions will nurture and support your relationships, and make space for rest and growth, because true wellbeing empowers you to live confidently, authentically and in balance with your own needs.
WHEN & WHERE:
Fridays at 10-12
Friday 6th of March we will begin with introductions and building connection and trust with each other.
Kulttuuritila Merirasti
Jaluspolku 3
00980 Helsinki
Warm welcome!
If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms:
WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!
[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/miitti1)
[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/miitti1)
[Website](https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti)
Guided Meditations
Join us on **Fridays, 18:00 - 19:30** at **Lapinlahden Lähde** for a free session where we’ll explore the topic of the week. **After 19:30**, you're welcome to hang out with us. Depending on what the group decides, we sometimes:
\- stay in\, enjoy tea and cookies and play board games
\- go out for dinner or order food\, feel free to bring your meal
\- Just engage in conversations
✅ Your **RSVP counts as your registration**, we expect you to **honour it**.
🤝 All conversations are confidential. What’s shared, stays in the group.
🌿 Small group, big heart: Everyone gets a chance to share.
🧘♀️ Come comfy, come curious.
💧 Bring water. Skip heavy meals & caffeine.
📍 **Tallipääty, Lapinlahdenpolku 8, Helsinki**
(Through the gate, first door on the left!)
**Kind reminder:** Last-minute cancellations or no-shows mean others miss out. To keep it fair, repeated cases may result in losing the spot in future sessions.
If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms:
IG: [instagram.com/miitti1](http://instagram.com/miitti1)
Facebook: [facebook.com/miitti1](http://facebook.com/miitti1)
Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti)
Whatsapp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!
BTCHEL Fridays
THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!
Welcome to pay a visit to BTCHEL HUB every Friday from 10am to 6pm, as we launch a new meetup concept: BTCHEL Fridays!
BTCHEL Fridays is when the community hub has open doors for anyone to pay a visit, when the active Helsinki bitcoiner scene gathers together under one roof.
The BTCHEL Hub is a versatile physical space for workshops, meetups, parties, movie nights, game nights and of course, co-working office where all the members are building together!
Join us every friday at your convince! Coffee is on the house ☕️ You'll find us from google maps!
Learn more about us from BTCHEL.com
Finnish Language Café
Learning Finnish in Finland can be difficult because Finns tend to switch to English. That is one of the reasons people like our Finnish language café: you get to practice Finnish with Finns :)
The events are completely free and there is always a native speaker to facilitate the conversation and to help find the right words. The coffee is good too ☕😋🇦🇹
Tervetuloa!
When? ⏰
Usually Tuesday to Friday from 15:00 - 16:00
Where? 📍
In a cozy Viennese coffee house: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki
The Good Coffee Company
A Taste of Vienna 🇦🇹
Eerikinkatu 33, 00180 Helsinki
Please visit our Facebook page for updates and changes:
https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events
Sahaja Yoga meditaatiokurssi suomeksi
Tervetuloa mukaan Sahaja Jooga -meditaatiotilaisuuksiin suomeksi! Tilaisuudet ovat maksuttomia, ja voit tulla paikalle ilman ennakkoilmoittautumista. Istumme yleensä tuoleilla tai lattialla tyynyillä, joten mattoa ei tarvitse ottaa mukaan, ja voit pukeutua tavallisiin vaatteisiin.
Meditaatio tarkoittaa mielen hiljaisuutta tai ajatuksetonta tietoisuutta. Olet läsnä tässä hetkessä, mutta mielesi ei ole täynnä menneisyyden tai tulevaisuuden ajatuksia. Tässä tilassa tunnet rauhaa ja iloa, jotka ovat nykyhetken olennaisia elementtejä. Säännöllisellä meditaatioharjoituksella tämän tilan voi saada vakiintumaan meissä.
Ryhmää johtavat vapaaehtoiset, joilla on kokemusta ja jotka voivat ohjata sinut alkuun. Annamme lyhyen johdatuksen meditaatioon, minkä jälkeen teemme meditaatioharjoituksia. Annamme myös vinkkejä meditaation harjoittamiseen kotona.
Tervetuloa!
Tämä video auttaa sinua löytämään Kamppi Sahaja Jooga -keskuksen:
https://vimeo.com/199566137
Lisätietoa Sahaja Jooga -meditaatiosta:
www.discoversahajayoga.org (englanniksi)
www.jooga.org (suomeksi)
www.sahajayoga.ru (venäjäksi)
www.sahajayoga.es (espanjaksi)
Ohjattuja verkkomeditaatioita, jotka tukevat meditaatioharjoitustasi kotona:
www.wemeditate.com
Critical Thinking Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Founders Running Club :: Helsinki
**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome.
🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022
🌍 Now in 35+ cities
📅 Running + Networking events + Community
**Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)
**Stay updated**:
Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/)
Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/)
LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/)
Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC)
Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)
Sketchy Collective: Helsinki Drawing Meetup (15:00 Helsinki time)
**Welcome to Sketchy Collective!**
A relaxed and social drawing group for anyone who enjoys sketching — or just wants to give it a try.
\*\*\*
We meet **every Sunday at 15:00** in **Oodi Library**.
\*\*\*
**HOW TO FIND US**
We meet on the **top floor of Oodi Library**, on the stairs **opposite** the children’s area.
It's a good idea to **keep your sketchbook visible** so others can easily recognize that you're there for the sketching meetup. And if you’re a regular participant, making it clear that you're part of the sketching group can be very helpful for newcomers!
\*\*\*
**HOW IT WORKS**
At each meetup, attendees take turns being the model for a quick **10-minute sketch session**. One person poses, everyone else sketches, then we rotate.
\*\*\*
**WHAT TO BRING**
Pencils and paper (or any sketching tools you like).
No fees, no pressure. The only thing we ask is that everyone takes a turn posing for the group. You can sit however you feel comfortable — the 10 minutes go by quickly! Draw as much as you like, skip a round if you’re tired or just want to chat, and leave whenever it suits you. The event continues as long as there’s interest.
\*\*\*
**STAYING CONNECTED**
Due to issues with spam and advertising, the group has decided that **only people who have attended at least one meetup will be accepted into the WhatsApp group**. To be added, please ask other participants at the meetup — a few members have permission to approve new people, and at least one of them will likely be present.
\*\*\*
**SOCIAL MEDIA**
If you’d like to share your drawings from the meetup, you can send on WhatsApp group or use the Instagram collab function (instagram.com/sketchy.collective). We warmly encourage everyone to share their work and take part in building our international sketching gallery — together with artists from all the cities where Sketchy Collective meetups are organized.
Ren Xue Yuan Gong
Welcome to join our Ren Xue Yuan Gong practice throughout the summer at Lapinlahden Lähde!
The practice is simple but yet practical and powerful.
It is easy to learn and will help you:
-gain energy, feel less tired and stressed
-more mental clarity, easier to concentrate
-boost your immune system
Time:
Sundays 15:30 - 17:00
WHERE:
Tallipääty, MIITTI office
Lapinlahden Lähde
Lapinlahdenpolku 8
00180 Helsinki
About REN XUE
Ren Xue is a comprehensive system for uplifting human life. It includes a unique form of Qigong (Yuan Qigong); three foundational theories (Theory of Qi, Theory of Consciousness, Theory of Totality) and a large body of teachings.
It was created by world-renowned teacher and healer Yuan Tze who continues to offer online and in-person events worldwide.
Ren Xue combines ancient Chinese wisdom traditions with modern insights into health and well-being.
The goal of Ren Xue is to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental health through a holistic approach that emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, and spirit.
REN XUE FINLAND
Ren Xue Finland (RXF) is the Finnish branch of the global movement, an organization dedicated to the promotion and teaching of Ren Xue and its associated practices, including Yuan Gong and Yuan Ming Medicine.
It provides easy entry into the Ren Xue system through local in-person sessions, online courses and workshops/retreats.
Other learning methods can be found here: Ren Xue TV, a YouTube channel and Learn Ren Xue website. More about Ren Xue: [https://www.renxueinternational.org](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.renxueinternational.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR06uJQRSC7BE3zhPePQ7X_KO7WXa60cr7NK25KdOqfbSIHpYqBLO3dYgVM_aem_alDR7a6KhbNhG3u9NhCUVA&h=AT18asmYaRkvHCJemaC7rr9GVu579uflDCg7T6mLNodWdtMVhuxwFhIyz0p5ONeJbm3WQ3ZGIwONIa0_pDvih4t9BCCJUBkjhK4BdIMEl4aQ_qPzR5ykW-aiOndhYDPeAW9_2_eWZaMsv889HKbp8_c&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT35KTjVjr2kCnYHrXXjXPxEGFK-RFbZnFVdDmWrTe5WwbSZZ5ulNxFEjPPhejS8Pf4xetwkU1hhM1P2K_ABugpnXL6w-CKE25ARXwtLSexv-4fPJ4s2_Kcqgj3g2XWjCVkPPgcjwrPoNWOvdKa2f1VqyVa-2kcTojodTS3wn9zrnRjZLcG7)/
Badminton at Tali
Hello sporty population!
Join us for badminton and meet people from around the world! Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a beginner or already experienced.
**IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, so please reserve yours in advance. Only registered participants can join to ensure fair access for everyone. If you mark “going” but do not attend, or fail to cancel at least 1 day before(By 9pm Saturday), you may be suspended from the next two sessions.
📍 Location: Talihalli Huopalahti
⏰ Time: 12:00–13:30
🏸 Courts: 9, 10, and 11
You can meet us at the entrance a little before 11:00 or come directly to the courts (**please do not enter before our booking starts**).
Who can join?
• Open to everyone, regardless of background or gender
• No badminton skills needed – beginners are welcome
• **Age limit: 16+**
Event is free, but please bring your rackets and indoor shoes, or you can borrow a racket from the hall for free if needed.
We are committed to making our events and activities accessible to those who need them most. Therefore, **individuals with a refugee background are welcome to attend free of charge without prior registration.** If you plan to join, simply send a message to Alaa to let us know you’re coming.
This approach is intentional. Many refugees and newcomers face practical, cultural, and psychological barriers that can make formal registration difficult or discouraging. By removing this requirement, we aim to create a more inclusive, low-threshold environment where participation feels safe, simple, and welcoming.
Our events are designed to support the mental health and well-being of refugees and immigrants, while also encouraging dialogue that challenges cross-cultural stigmas and stereotypes. We believe open access is an important step in building trust, increasing participation, and creating meaningful connections across communities.
After badminton, we'll enjoy Talihalli's sauna and maybe go to a local restaurant to grab some lunch after the game.
Warm welcome!
📞 Questions / Contact:
Alaa – 040 5656096
Arun - 050 3206169
If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms:
WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!
[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/miitti1)
[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/miitti1)
[Website](https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti)
Mafia game
Let's play Mafia together!
Locations: Oodi library, Group room #8 (2nd floor).
Mafia is a role playing social deduction game. People sit around the table, and are secretly assigned a role. The role divides them in two teams:
\- Mafia \(minority\)
\- Citizens \(uninformed majority\)\.
Members in the Mafia team know each other, but the citizens don't. You are not allowed to reveal your role in any way.
Each turn consists of a night time and day time.
During the night:
The Mafia team secretly "kills" one member of the Citizens.
Players with special roles (detailed below) secretly use their ability.
During the day:
Everyone presents their opinions on who they think are in the Mafia team, or present arguments as to why they are not in the Mafia team if they have been accused.
Vote for those players you think are in the Mafia team - those who get a majority vote (>= 50%) will get a chance to present their defense.
Vote to "eliminate" 1 person in the defense - the accused will not be eliminated if there are no votes or gets <50% of the votes.
The game continues until either the Citizens eliminate all Mafia members, or the Mafia becomes the majority.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Most of the people at our event have experience playing the game. But we are glad to meet new people, and will be happy to briefly introduce you to the game rules and players' strategies if you decide to come.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Special roles at our game party:
Doctor (Citizen team):
At each night, you can save a player who you think the Mafia team has killed. That player cannot be killed by the Mafia team that night, and the Mafia do not know who you saved. You can save yourself once.
Detective (Citizen team):
At each night, you can point to a player you think is in the Mafia and the narrator will show thumbs up if they are in the Mafia team. You can not detect the Godfather.
Sniper/Professional (Citizen team):
Each night, you could either choose to kill someone you think is in the Mafia, or not shoot. You have only two bullets. If you select a citizen to shoot, you go out of the game yourself, but that citizen is still in the game.
Constantine (Citizen team):
During the night, you can bring back one dead person to life. This can be used only once per game.
Matador (Mafia team):
Each night, you can diffuse someone's special ability. You can not diffuse the same person two nights in a row.
Godfather (Mafia team):
You're the head of the Mafia. The detective can not detect you.
Terrorist (Mafia team):
During the day, you can reveal your character, and choose to kill yourself and another player. The latest time you can do this is during when someone (e.g. you) are presenting their defense. The person you kill with yourself cannot be resurrected by Constantine
Play Badminton [Social Games] @Smash Center
【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】
* The purpose of social games is to know some people, do some exercise and enjoy the games together with others. Winning and getting points is not the focus of this session. Please play with consideration to your opponents' level.
* Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/)
【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】
* Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/saturday-badminton](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/saturday-badminton)
* We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list)
* It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game) to see if there is still a slot available there.
* The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost.
【FEE and REFUND POLICY】
* Fee includes courts and plastic shuttles. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event.
* Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter.
* You can put a comment to sell your slot after the deadline of refund, or sell your slot in our whatsapp group.
* No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence.
* Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you was there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't come to use it.
【COMMUNICATION】
* Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347)
* There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected.
【OTHERS】
* Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you!
* If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond.
* We play double games to 21 points. After each game, please let those who are waiting to play. Feel free to play with whoever you want, but please avoid playing with the same people all the time.
* If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you.
* Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work.
* Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken.
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing)
* [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)
* You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more"
* https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/[https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)
Social Walking Tour: Cherry Blossom
If you're looking for the easiest event to join on Meetup, you just found it! Join our free social walking tours and explore Helsinki with a local who knows every corner of the city. On these 100% unofficial tours, we visit lesser-known, less touristy places for a fresh perspective. Discover new areas, hear stories, learn about local history and how it connects to the broader picture.
Our walk takes place on Saturdays at 12 o'clock, weather permitting. The tours typically last around 60 to 120 minutes. Afterward, we can join one of the nearby cafés for socializing.
This event is for everyone! Whether you're a tourist, new to Helsinki, or a local who wants to come along for a leisurely walk, you're warmly welcome. See you there!
THIS WEEK:
Kulosaari - Herttoniemenranta - Roihuvuori
Difficulty: Easy
Approximate duration: 80 minutes
Meeting point: Kulosaari Metro Station (outside, by the doors of the main entrance)
How to get there: For example, you can take any metro eastwards from Central Railway Station
This week, we'll visit Roihuvuori's cherry tree park, where the sakura season is in full swing.
Critical Thinking Events Near You
Connect with your local Critical Thinking community
Vienna Writer's Group
Attention Vienna and Vienna-adjacent writers! Let's carve out a lil' bit of time each week for our passion at a cool place with good creative vibes: Caffe Amouri. I would like this group to focus on getting our creative work done, with a bit of socializing and shop talk thrown in too. We will carve out a little bit of time for critique also -- but that won't be the main focus (I find that when people feel obligated to read and critique they tend to blow off meetings if they haven't had time to read). Together we can set goals for helping each other (will set up some sort of Google doc upload system for those who want direct feedback). This is the very first meeting -- a "pilot episode" if you will -- to see if there's interest, so if you are interested, make sure ya show up!
A MAFN / NOVA Scribes Facilitation Open House!
What does it look like when ideas come to life?
Join NOVA Scribes and MAFN for a full-day, in-person open house where the public is invited to step inside the world of facilitation. This is a come-and-go experience designed for curiosity, exploration, and conversation. Whether you are new to facilitation groups, you are welcome.
The space will be set up as a "theater in the round," (see the image) with facilitators working live around the room. Throughout the day, you will see different techniques, styles, and modalities demonstrated in real time, from visual templates, facilitation tools, and decision-support methods. You can observe, ask questions, and engage directly with the practitioners as the work unfolds.
**What you can expect**
* Live demonstrations of facilitation techniques
* Multiple practitioners working simultaneously, each with their own approach and style
* Short, informal demos and tiny teaches that explain how and why specific techniques are used
* Opportunities to talk one-on-one with experienced facilitators
* A chance to see how facilitation can support sensemaking, alignment, and group dialogue
**What you might explore**
* Methods and templates for planning, strategy, and reflection
* Facilitation methods that support participation and decision making
* Tools, materials, and setup considerations for live work
This open house is designed to be accessible, hands-on, and inspiring. You do not need to stay all day. Come for 20 minutes or stay for hours. Watch ideas take shape. Notice how facilitation can change the energy in the room. Ask the questions you have always wanted to ask.
If you have ever been curious about how facilitation works and supports groups, this is your chance to experience it up close.
**Open to the general public. No prior experience required.**
We’re not charging for this workshop, but we will be asking for donations!
[Hybrid] Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI (2024) by Ethan Mollick
256 pages [Technology]
• Paperback
• Hardcover
• Kindle
• Audiobook
• Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=614113
Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)**
### Review
"[Co-Intelligence] is a solid explainer. Convincing…a blueprint…smart and well informed…"— The Wall Street Journal
"A sharp and good-humoured guide to how to make the most of generative AI. Mollick follows his own prescription for success, 'inviting AI to the table' and running his own experiements into its creative and problem-solving potential."
* Andrew Hill, The Financial Times
"Generative AI has an oracle, and his name is Ethan Mollick. Lucky you: our oracle has written a lucid, succinct, and eminently practical guide to navigating the revolution that is right now unfolding at an astonishing pace. Co-Intelligence is the very best book I know about the ins, outs, and ethics of generative AI. Drop everything and read it cover to cover NOW."
— Angela Duckworth, New York Times bestselling author of Grit
"Ethan Mollick has been a leader with the hands-on exploration of AI's evolving capabilities. In Co-Intelligence, he masterfully navigates the landscape of AI advancements with insightful and informative commentary, presented with remarkable clarity and precision. This book is an invaluable resource, offering a comprehensive gide to current trends and future expectations in AI. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this rapidly evolving technology."
— Eric Horvitz, Chief Scientific Officer, Microsoft
“In today’s cacophony of ‘AI hot takes’, Mollick has distinguished himself as the leading voice of reason on the implications of AI for work and education. Anyone seeking a basis of practical knowledge to understand the coming massive changes should read this insightful book right now."
— Reid Hoffman, Co-Founder of LinkedIn and Inflection AI
"Co-Intelligence brilliantly captures the essence of our evolving relationship with AI. With lucid explanations and useful examples, Mollick shows how we can enlist this technology's astonishing power to build a more intelligent and humane future."
— Daniel H. Pink, New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Regret, Drive, and A Whole New Mind
“Embark on a transformative journey with Co-Intelligence, Ethan Mollick’s page-turning must-read for those at the helm. Mollick’s work will help CEOs and leaders harness AI’s enormous potential as a catalyst for elevating the capabilities of any team and any organization. Brilliant, authoritative, and educational.”
— Jim M. Citrin, Leader, Spencer Stuart CEO & Board Practice, author of You’re in Charge, Now What? and The 5 Patterns of Extraordinary Careers
### About the Author
Ethan Mollick is a professor of management at Wharton, specializing in entrepreneurship and innovation. His research has been featured in various publications, including Forbes, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. He is the creator of numerous educational games on a variety of topics. He lives and teaches in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: The Physics of Baseball
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Physics of Baseball,”** with Scott Paulson, professor of physics and interdisciplinary liberal studies at James Madison University.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-physics-of-baseball](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-physics-of-baseball) .]
Profs and Pints is offering baseball fans an even bigger treat than Cracker Jack, an exploration of the physics underlying their beloved sport.
Professor Scott Paulson, who regularly teaches introductory physics classes that make the physics behind real-world phenomena accessible to all, will discuss the forces and phenomena that come into play in baseball during pitching, batting, and fielding. He’ll toss you basic physics concepts that help explain how baseball’s routine plays got to be that way, and he’ll explain what’s going on in some situations where the laws of physics seem to be violated by what’s happening on the field.
Ever wondered why curveballs curve or knuckleballs behave so strangely? You’ll learn how Newton’s laws and the Magnus force explain how pitchers get drastically different results from subtle differences in their releases.
Curious about what exactly the “sweet spot” of the bat is? Ever wondered how big an advantage batters get from the thin air of Mile High Stadium? We’ll explore the physics of the batted ball, examining the phenomena of waves and analyzing the interaction of ball, bat and batter with the help of high-speed video.
During one of the more exciting scenarios in a baseball game—the close play at the plate—fans often see outfielders throw to an infielder rather than directly to home. We’ll look at the pros and cons of this relay play, known as a “cut-off,” in the context of the physics of projectile motion.
Finally, we will also look into high-profile cheating scandals involving corked bats and doctored balls. Dr. Paulson will present models to explain how these alterations to the equipment can benefit the batter and pitcher respectively, and he’ll discuss how much these models are backed up by data.
These few hours in a brewpub will forever enhance your enjoyment of time at the ballpark. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image: Photo by Tage Olsin / Wikimedia Commons
“Good Job”: A Conversation on Seeing, Valuing, and Uplifting One Another
Inspired by the song "Good Job" by Alicia Keys, this gathering invites us to pause and reflect on the quiet strength, resilience, and everyday efforts that often go unseen.
How often do we acknowledge the people who keep things moving—at work, at home, in our communities? And how often do we recognize that same perseverance in ourselves?
In this conversation, we’ll explore:
* The power of simple recognition and encouragement
* How affirmation can strengthen resilience and connection
* Ways to create environments where people feel seen and valued
* The impact of gratitude on culture, leadership, and well-being
Through reflection and shared dialogue, we’ll consider how a simple phrase—*“good job”*—can carry deeper meaning when it’s grounded in sincerity and awareness.
Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the underlying truths that unite us all – on seeing, valuing, and uplighting one another.
Join us for an open and respectful conversation where participants can share perspectives, experiences, and insights.
Whether you come to speak or simply to listen, all thoughtful voices are welcome.
Shut Up & Write!® in Washington DC
Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area.
Bring your writing materials (such as a notebook or a charged laptop - outlets are limited.) And if you'd like to tune out other patrons at Sonny's or any overhead music, we recommend bringing headphones or earplugs.
BEING LATE IS OKAY: Just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you!
When you show up, I will be sitting at a table with folded "Shut Up & Write" table cards. Say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session.
Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries!
**A note about the format**
We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing.
For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com).
**Other Important Details:**
**WiFi name/password:** Name - Sonny's/Doubles Guest; Password - pingpong
**Travel / Parking info:** Sonny's is on the D40/D4X bus line and about a 15 minute walk from either the Columbia Heights or Georgia Ave/Petworth metro lines. There is limited on-street parking.
**Venue Guidelines:** Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee. At Caffe Amouri in Vienna
Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching.
Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.
Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles
4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
Optional Questions: AI & Being Human
7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning
10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche
13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
Optional Questions: Work & Purpose
16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection
19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
Optional Questions: Time & Mortality
22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
Optional Questions: Society & Culture
25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy
28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?




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