Crucible

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other's work. Other Important Details: WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

🎭 **Join us at** **Toronto Fringe Festival - Day 5!** Join us for one, two or three shows at today's Fringe. Today's lineup features an interactive comedy experience, a thought-provoking drama about AI and human connection, and a fascinating true-crime-inspired play based on the story of Canadian Olympian-turned-fugitive Ryan Wedding. Best of all, all three performances are at Sweet Action Theatre, so there's no need to travel between venues. Click on "read more" below for full details. 📅 **Today's Schedule** ***3 p.m.*** **[2-Man, No Show, Balls Out](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/2-man-no-show-balls-out)** *Comedy* * Created by acclaimed Fringe comedy duo 2-MAN NO-SHOW, whose previous work earned a five-star review from NOW Magazine and built a reputation for inventive, highly physical comedy. * Features performers Ken Hall (Netflix/TBS) and Isaac Kessler in an interactive "ClownProv" experience that promises to be one of the festival's most unique and audience-driven comedy events. * Known for breaking the fourth wall and embracing absurdity, making it a strong choice for audiences looking for something completely different from traditional stand-up or scripted comedy. * Sweet Action Theatre – 180 Shaw Street, Unit 106 (Shaw / Bathurst-Queen) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6468947,-79.4175449,16z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 55 mins * Ends: 3:55 p.m. ***4:45 p.m.*** **[Imagined Love](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/imagined-love)** *Drama* * Created and performed by Tamara Almeida, an accomplished Canadian actor, playwright and screenwriter whose work has appeared on television, film and stage, bringing strong professional credentials to this intimate Fringe production. * Features dramaturgy by Haley McGee, one of Canada's most acclaimed contemporary theatre creators and a Dora Award-winning artist known for innovative and emotionally intelligent storytelling. * Explores one of today's most relevant topics—the growing role of artificial intelligence in our emotional lives—through a deeply human story about loneliness, heartbreak and connection. * Sweet Action Theatre – 180 Shaw Street, Unit 106 (Shaw / Bathurst-Queen) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6468947,-79.4175449,16z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 55 mins * Ends: 5:40 p.m. ***6:30 p.m.*** **[El Jefe](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/el-jefe)** *Drama* * Inspired by the astonishing true story of Canadian Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, who went from representing Canada at the Olympics to becoming one of the FBI's most wanted fugitives. * Written and directed by Nate Simpson, the play explores themes of ambition, morality and the seductive appeal of fame through a clever confrontation between a young athlete and his future criminal self. * A uniquely Canadian story that combines true crime, sports history and psychological drama, making it one of the most intriguing original plays in this year's Fringe. * Sweet Action Theatre – 180 Shaw Street, Unit 106 (Shaw / Bathurst-Queen) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6468947,-79.4175449,16z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 60 mins * Ends: 7:30 p.m. *** 🎟️ **How to Attend** * **Step 1:** Sign up on this Meetup event page. * **Step 2:** Purchase your own Fringe ticket(s) for the performance(s) you wish to attend by clicking on the show links above and selecting the date/time we are going. If you need help, call the Fringe Box Office at **(416) 966-1062**. * **Step 3:** After buying your ticket(s), post a comment on this event page with the show(s) you'll attend. This helps Belinda know who to look for at the theatre. * ⚠️ **Important:** Signing up on this event page does **not** reserve or purchase a Fringe ticket. Members are responsible for purchasing their own tickets. 💰 **Cost** * Most Fringe tickets are **$19** per show. Multi-show passes and other discount options are also available through Fringe. * There is no meetup fee. 📍 **Meetup Arrangements** * Meet Belinda in the theatre lineup about 30 minutes before showtime. * Belinda is very short and will be wearing a bright pink cap.

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

**Note: I recommend you buy your tickets as soon as possible, as the good shows always sell out in advance.** **On Saturday, July 4th, see Evie & Alfie: A British Love Story, and Winner Outstanding English Production at the Montreal Fringe 2025.** Meet Evie & Alfie—a retired, quintessentially British couple—as they potter around their house, drinking tea, bird spotting and reminiscing. From multiple award-winning Fringe legends Alex Dallas (Horseface, Sensible Footwear) and Jimmy Hogg (The Potato King) comes a comedy full of wit, verve and heart. When I googled the top 10 shows to watch at the Toronto Fringe, this is the one I chose. We will start off with a hot beverage at Balzacs prior to heading to the show around the corner. Alex Dallas is a writer and actor from London, England who has been living and working in Canada for the past 30-years. As a founder member of female comedy troupe, Sensible Footwear, she has toured the world. Her one woman shows, Goddess, and Drama Queen, aired on CBC TV, The W Network, Bravo TV and CBC Radio Jimmy Hogg is a writer, comedian and storyteller from Plymouth, UK, who has made his name on the Fringe circuit over the last 20-years with his high-energy, physical, tangential style. Comparisons to Eddie Izzard, Rik Mayall, John Oliver (and other British people) are frequent if not always accurate or deserved. He has numerous awards and merits and is an 18x BEST OF FRINGE WINNER. **Purchase Evie & Alfie: A British Love Stor*y* on Saturday, July 4th at noon.** **COST** Adults: $19 includes service charges If there are Rush tickets, they will be posted online that morning. Cost is $14 + service charge Meetup Organizer Fee: $5 Ticket Policy: All sales are final. **SIGNING-UP** * **RSVP, confirming if you will join for a hot beverage before and if doing Rush** * **[Purchase](https://www.fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/evie-alfie-very-british-love-story) your own ticket for Saturday Jul 4th at 12 noon and post you have your ticket in the Comment section. I will then move you to attending.** * All tickets are general admission A reminder will be sent the day before with my cell and reminder details where to meet and when. RSVPs close 2 days prior and cancellations may result in a No Show and impact future attendance. **MEETUP TIME** **Meet me for a hot beverage at: 10:45am at Balzacs in the Distillery District at 1 Trinity St.** **Meet me for the show at: 11:30am in the line for the Michael Young Theatre inside the Young Centre for the Performing Arts in the Distillery District at 50 Tankhouse Lane** **Show Starts**: noon (Note: Latecomers and re-entry will not be permitted) Length: 60 minutes (no intermission) After: meet at the same spot to chat about the show Enjoy and please post your comments in the Event after.

Join us for a friendly game of Volleyball in **Antibes Park**. All experience levels are welcome... Weather permitting! :) See you on the net!

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/boots-bruce-trail)** ***Join us for this serene and moderately challenging stretch of the famous Bruce Trail.*** This part of the Bruce Trail will take us through lively forests, along Grindstone Creek, and past the dramatic drop of Smokey Hollow Waterfall. Starting at the concrete tunnel under Highway 6 near Waterdown, the trail drops you immediately into deep forests that will make you forget how close you are to the city. Rolling climbs, creek crossings, and rooted terrain keep you on your toes until you hit Smokey Hollow Waterfall: a wide curtain of water spilling over a limestone shelf into a shaded gorge. Beyond the falls, you'll have the trail largely to yourselves as you explore deeper into nature with your fellow adventurers. From there, the path opens into a long gradual climb before flattening out into honest, easy walking to King Road. **Total distance is 17.4 km out-and-back, with 485 metres of elevation gain. This is a solid step up from a beginner day hike but still doable for people with a good fitness level. You'll leave it feeling that sweet satisfaction of accomplishment.** **Highlights** **Smokey Hollow Waterfall:** Expect a wide curtain of water spilling over a limestone shelf into a shaded gorge. It's the natural midpoint of the hike and worth every climb to get there. **Grindstone Creek:** The trail runs alongside the creek for much of the first half, weaving through shaded forest with the sound of water keeping you company**.** **Secluded Nature Close to the City:** Just outside Burlington and about an hour from Toronto, you’ll step onto the trail and be immediately swallowed by nature with nothing around you but trees and creeks. **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $30 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/boots-bruce-trail)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

We are now at **Yonge Sheppard Centre** in the **food court** near **Dazzle Mi**. We start a bit past 1pm, so if you're late, please find a seat and start writing -- we'd love to hear about your story or your day -- afterwards. :) **Coworking for writers in your area!** 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. When you show up, 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://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near **Dazzel Mi**. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

We are a warm, welcoming community of meditators that offer meditation instruction and opportunities to practice meditation twice every week, every Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. No need to register, just show up! FREE MEDITATION INSTRUCTION Perhaps you’ve heard about Mindfulness, or read about current research showing the many benefits that it brings. Maybe you've decided you want to learn to meditate, or you’ve tried it on your own but have difficulties or questions. We offer free meditation instruction in an environment with other new people. Our trained meditation guides will provide you with all the information and structure you need to begin your meditation practice. Wear comfortable clothing. Meditation cushions or chairs are provided. No experience necessary, no need to register ahead of time. GROUP MEDITATION SITTING - open to the public Every Sunday at 10:00am - 11:00am we have silent shamatha/vipassana (mindful/awareness) group meditation + an informal teacher-led discussion about meditation related topics Every Wednesday at 7:00pm - 8:00pm we have silent shamtha/vipassana (mindful/awareness) group meditation. DONATIONS (of any amount) are gratefully accepted. We are a non-profit, all-volunteer organization that relies on your donations to support all that we offer. SUNDAY TALKS - every week after Sunday meditation After meditation we offer tea and a 45 min. informal group discussion lead by an experienced teacher. Topics are wide-ranging, but in each one we have the opportunity to learn how Mindful/Awareness meditation skills can bring more resources, resilience and calm to our everyday experiences. For more information about our meditation community and the Courses and Retreats we offer, please visit https://mississauga.shambhala.org/programs/

🎭 **Join us at** **Toronto Fringe Festival - Day 6!** Join us for one, two or three shows at today's Fringe. Today's lineup features an award-winning tango and ballet production, one of the festival's most promising new Canadian musicals, and an interactive improvised murder mystery where the audience secretly chooses the killer. We'll begin and end the day at Tarragon Theatre, with a stop at Theatre Passe Muraille in between. Click on "read more" below for full details. 📅 **Today's Schedule** ***2:30 p.m.*** **[Tango After Midnight](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/tango-after-midnight)** *Dance* * Presented by PointeTango, a 15-time Fringe Award-winning company and winner of both the Toronto Fringe Patrons' Pick Award and the B Street Collaborative Dance Award, making it one of the most decorated productions in the festival. * Features 2025 Canadian Tango Champions Erin Scott-Kafadar and Alexander Richardson, who combine Argentine tango and classical ballet in a visually stunning and highly original performance. * Blends world-class dance, cinematic projections filmed in Buenos Aires, and innovative design elements, offering one of the most artistically ambitious and distinctive experiences in this year's Fringe. * **[Video](https://youtu.be/mVFyQ2sgacM)** * Tarragon Theatre – Mainspace – 30 Bridgman Ave (Dupont – Bathurst-Dupont) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6750792,-79.4130606,17.03z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 55 mins * Ends: 3:25 p.m. ***5:15 p.m.*** **[Grey Spaces](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/grey-spaces)** *Musical* * One of the most highly regarded new musicals in the festival, having been selected as the First Runner-Up for the 2026 Adams Prize for Musical Theatre, a juried competition that recognizes promising new Canadian musicals. * Features an original contemporary pop score and an ambitious story that explores perfectionism, mortality and the pressure to succeed, giving it more thematic depth than the average Fringe musical. * New Canadian musicals are one of my favourite Fringe discoveries, and Grey Spaces stands out for its strong creative team, live musicians and emotionally resonant premise. * Theatre Passe Muraille – Mainspace – 16 Ryerson Avenue (Bathurst-Queen) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6750631,-79.4130221,17z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 90 mins * Ends: 6:45 p.m. ***8 p.m.*** **[You Choose: An Improvised Murder Mystery](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/you-choose-improvised-murder-mystery)** *Comedy* * From the creators of the Best of Fringe-winning hit *Entrances and Exits* and the acclaimed *Murder at the Winterhouse*, this new improvised whodunit puts the audience in control. * A talented cast of Toronto improvisers creates a completely new murder mystery at every performance, with the audience secretly choosing the murderer while the performers remain in the dark. * Combining interactive theatre, improv comedy, and classic mystery elements, every show unfolds differently as the cast must build the story and solve the crime in real time. * Tarragon Theatre – Mainspace – 30 Bridgman Ave (Dupont Station – Bathurst-Dupont) * **[MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6750631,-79.4130221,17z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * 60 mins * Ends: 9 p.m. *** 🎟️ **How to Attend** * **Step 1:** Sign up on this Meetup event page. * **Step 2:** Purchase your own Fringe ticket(s) for the performance(s) you wish to attend by clicking on the show links above and selecting the date/time we are going. If you need help, call the Fringe Box Office at **(416) 966-1062**. * **Step 3:** After buying your ticket(s), post a comment on this event page with the show(s) you'll attend. This helps Belinda know who to look for at the theatre. * ⚠️ **Important:** Signing up on this event page does **not** reserve or purchase a Fringe ticket. Members are responsible for purchasing their own tickets. 💰 **Cost** * Most Fringe tickets are **$19** per show. Multi-show passes and other discount options are also available through Fringe. * There is no meetup fee. 📍 **Meetup Arrangements** * Meet Belinda in the theatre lineup about 30 minutes before showtime. * Belinda is very short and will be wearing a bright pink cap.

~Notice to all participants ~全参加者へのお知らせ *****Event seating guidelines / rules for Native Japanese speakers, and non-native Japanese speakers are entirely different ***** イベントの座席に関するガイドライン／ルールは、日本語ネイティブスピーカーと非ネイティブスピーカーで全く異なります **** This is an entirely free event for everyone! **** これは、全員にとって完全に無料のイベントです！ *** Everyone will be in a waitlist and gradually moved into the going list to balance Venue seating availability and ratio of native/non native Japanese speakers *** 全員がウェイトリストに入り、会場の座席の空き状況やネイティブ／非ネイティブの日本語話者の比率を調整するために、徐々に参加リストへ移行されます. **Please carefully read the lengthy event description below and fill out the questionnaire to participate. ** 以下の長いイベントの説明を注意深く読んで、参加するためのアンケートに記入してください ———————————————————————— ~Event guideline for Native Japanese speakers 日本語ネイティブスピーカーの皆さん、こんにちは！ このイベントでは、参加するエリアやテーブルを選ぶことで、使用したい言語を選択できます。合計2回のテーブル移動があります。最初は45分で1回目、2回目は90分で行われます。イベントの合計時間は2時間15分です（45分で移動、90分で再度移動、2時間15分で終了） 座席配置のテンプレートは以下の通りです（3つの座席） A：日本語重視。このテーブルではほぼ完全に日本語でコミュニケーションを取ります。言語比率の目安は日本語80％／英語20％（日本語が非常に堪能な学習者とコミュニケーションします） B：ミックス交流。このテーブルでは英語を練習しつつ、日本語でもコミュニケーションを取ります。言語比率の目安は日本語50％／英語50％（中級／初級の日本語学習者とコミュニケーションします） C：英語重視。英語を練習しましょう！言語比率の目安は英語90％／日本語10％（英語話者との気軽な交流や文化交流） 注意：すべてのエリアに座る義務はありません！どのエリアやテーブルに参加するか、どのように時間を過ごすかは完全にあなたの選択です。ただし、テーブルを変えて新しい友達に出会うことをお勧めします *テーブルのサイズは、その時の状況や会場の収容人数によって変動します. イベントの質を皆さんのために保つため、特別な状況では主催者が別のテーブルへ移動をお願いする場合があります。可能な限り、男性が先にお願いされることになります **暴力、ストーカー行為、ハラスメント、いじめは一切許容されません。違反者には警告が与えられ、重大度によってはグループから即時（永久に）排除される場合があります。極端な状況下では、法執行機関に連絡する義務が発生し、法の最大限の範囲で対処します ~Non native Japanese guideline Hello all non native Japanese speakers. In this event , we ask that you seat yourselves at your Japanese language PROFICIENCY level. There will be NO seating ROTATIONS for non-native Japanese once the event begins. You will remain at the same table for the entirety of the event. Only Japanese native speakers will be OPTED to change area / tables at 45m into the event and also at 90m, in which they can participate at whichever table they desire. Total event duration 2H 15m. ~Seating arrangement template is as follows A: Nihongo focus. Practice your Japanese! Only sit at this table if you have high language competency and able to almost fully communicate in Japanese. (Language Ratio approximation. Japanese %80 / English %20 B. Mixed social. Communicate in both English and Japanese. Language ratio approximation. Japanese %50 / English %50 Only sit at this table if you can somewhat socialize in Japanese (at the very least you must have decent Japanese listening skills and/or understand when spoken to in Japanese) C. English Social. Anyone and everyone is welcome to sit at this table. Just chill, culture exchange and facilitate English learning for our Japanese friends. Language ratio approximation. English %90 / Japanese %10 ATTENTION: This seating arrangement template is formed to show gratitude to our friends from Japan, and respect how they would like to use their time, so they can maximize their energy and efforts in whichever they desire to do. *Table sizes will range and vary on what’s available at the moment and by the venue occupancy. To sustain the quality of the event for everyone, event hosts may switch tables and/or place you at another table under special circumstances to help balance and supplement other tables that need more participants. **** No acts of violence, stalking, harassment and bullying will be tolerated. Violators will be given a warning, and depending on severity may be swiftly removed (permanent) from the group. Under extreme circumstances, there could be obligations to reach out to law enforcement in which we will pursue to the fullest extent of the law.

Can you join us at ***FRINGE***--early July?? We'll attend 'just' three performances. $19 tickets. Details below. ### June 30-July 12, 2026 Welcome to the **38th annual Toronto Fringe Festival**, Toronto's place for indie theatre and performance. With [123 shows](https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/shows) at [27 venues](https://fringetoronto.com/accessibility/access-at-venues/venues) across the city! Sunday July 5th (2pm-4pm) ***TANGO After Midnight-- (55 minutes)*** As night falls, a new dance emerges... PointeTango—winner of the Toronto Fringe Patrons’ Pick and the B Street Collaborative Dance Award—ignites the stage with a striking fusion of pointe shoes and stilettos. This electrifying production blends Argentine tango with classical ballet, interwoven with cinematic projections filmed on location in Buenos Aires. Fast-paced and visually arresting, the work features innovative lighting and sound design, alongside world-class performers and 2025 Canadian Tango Champions Erin Scott-Kafadar and Alexander Richardson. **A 15-time Fringe Award–winning company.** ★★★★★ “Breathtaking artistry” –Winnipeg Free Press ★★★★★ “They dance as one body, with grace and precision” –Monday Magazine **Ticket link here**--(our group will attend Sunday July 5th) https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/tango-after-midnight Don't delay--Fringe tickets sell out quickly! $19 per person.

\*\*\*7/1 UPDATE\*\*\* THANK YOU for the GREAT response and extra thanks to everyone who RSVP’d + Prepaid (or made arrangements)! You are all set! Finalizing details now for what should be another FUN event and a GREAT time together! *For those RSVP’d but not yet pre-paid and those on the waiting list, here are the key dates:* * **Thurs, 7/9: If you are RSVP’d but not yet pre-paid, this will be the last day to make pre-payment to guarantee your spot!** Please pre-pay or make arrangements with me by Thurs, 7/9! * Fri, 7/10: All un-paid RSVP’s will move to the Waiting List. * Fri, 7/10: In fairness to those on the waiting list and to help us provide an accurate count to the theater and restaurant, all remaining spots filled first-come, first-served and will go to those making (or arranging) pre-payment. * Fri, 7/17: RSVP’s close. Last day to RSVP and pre-pay! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-ORIGINAL ANNOUNCEMENT\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for a CMG Special Event you won’t want to miss: The Columbus Movie Group’s 17th Anniversary Party with THE ODYSSEY + BRAVO! Always a fun and memorable event, this year we’re combining a DELICIOUS meal in Bravo’s Banquet Room and a CMG Exclusive Private Screening of what’s certain to be one of the BEST films of the year: THE ODYSSEY! Plus, a great group of Movie Group friends to enjoy it with, and more! Here are complete details for this event: THE ODYSSEY: The film is an adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic that follows Odysseus, the Greek king of Ithaca, and chronicles his long and perilous journey home after the Trojan War as he attempts to reunite with his wife, Penelope. The film is written/directed by Chrostopher Nolan and the ensemble cast includes Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya, Jon Bernthal, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie and Charlize Theron. Early buzz is strong for what should be an excellent epic film! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_bKjZeJBBI MEAL PLAN: Meet at the Lennox Bravo between 1:45 and 2:00pm and we’ll be dining their upstairs Private Banquet Room! Just let ‘em know you’re with the Movie Group! Our meal includes \ \*bread \* unlimited soft drinks / tea \ \*choice of soup or salad \* choice of selected entree (including vegetarian/vegan options) \* dessert! Added perks: Door prizes and a little something for everyone as we celebrate 17 years of good movies, good friends and good times together! See meal details and options below. BRAVO MEAL DETAILS. All meals include: \* Freshly-baked focaccia bread \* Unlimited Soft Drinks, Coffee and Tea. (Pay-as-you-go Bar Drinks Also Available) \* Soup or Salad. Choices include: • Wedding Soup: Classic Italian Wedding soup with orzo, meatballs, spinach & Parmesan • Chopped Salad: Chopped greens, cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes, olives, feta, red wine vinaigrette (Vegetarian or Vegan w/out Feta) \* Choice of Entrée. Options include: • Chicken Marsala: Grilled chicken, marsala sauce, mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables • Pasta Bravo: Grilled chicken, rigatoni, mushrooms, roasted red pepper cream sauce • Pasta Bravo w/out Chicken: Rigatoni, mushrooms, roasted red pepper cream sauce (Vegetarian) • Eggplant Parmesan: Crispy breaded eggplant, marinara, mozzarella, herb linguine (Vegetarian) • Mediterranean Vegetable Salad: Entrée Salad with grilled seasonal vegetables, orzo, farro, sweet garlic vinaigrette, balsamic reduction (Vegetarian or Vegan w/out Feta) • Spaghetti Pomodoro: House-made tomato compote and basil (Vegetarian or Vegan w/out Parmesan) \* Plus, Dessert, Door Prizes and a little something for everyone to celebrate our CMG 17th Anniversary! MOVIE PLAN: We’ll be seeing a CMG-Exclusive Private Screening of THE ODYSSEY immediately following the meal at 4:00pm. We’ll head to the theater together immediately after the BRAVO portion of the event. We'll be in Theater #6! HOW TO GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT: Seating is limited and prepayment required to RSVP. Don't miss out -- please RSVP and pre-pay as soon as possible to guarantee your spot! All-inclusive pricing of $55 per person includes: salad, bread, entrée, beverages, dessert, tax, tip + private screening and a little something-something to take home with you! Prepayment via VENMO (@Daniel-Bezon), ZELLE (Daniel Bezon), or cash/check at any event between now and the Anniversary Party. If either payment option requests a phone number or if you’d like to mail payment, just send me a private message offline and I’ll send you the phone number and/or address. Look forward to seeing you there for what should be another fun and memorable event, Dan

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

The Forge does have a full bar and kitchen. There is no cover charge but they do request all attendees to purchase a minimum of ~20 per person. Soft drink refills are 1 each. Please support our hosts so we can continue to provide great events for the group! The Forge has a large library of games available for us to enjoy. Hosts and regulars will also provide numerous popular games but please bring any games you would like to teach and/or play. Doors open at 6, and we expect gaming to be rolling by around 630. Please promptly end your games and clear out the space at 10pm when the bar closes. We encourage socializing but do not permit disruptive behavior of any kind. Thank you for your continued commitment to providing a fun and welcoming space to veteran, newbie, and rookie gamers in the Columbus area. Parking can sometimes fill esrly. There is additional parking lot behind the neighboring Mexican restaurant that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.

Let’s meet and discuss John Updike's Rabbit, Run, the first in his series of four novels following the life, hopes, and disappointments of former local basketball star, Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom, as he fitfully confronts and evades adulthood.