Ex-Chicagoans

**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/)

BRUNCH and Weekend Vibes at Querida Mexican & Friends 🌮 Join us this weekend for a relaxed Mexican-style brunch in the heart of Al Barsha. Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/i3vLDu4aaRkq5ZGcA Menu: https://qr.emenu.ae/querida/#/en/category/32795 Fresh tacos, classic plates, and cozy vibes 📍 Querida Mexican & Friends , Al Barsha

Hi all! My name is Lance, I am a fully qualified English teacher from the UK and have moved to Dubai. I run a speaking club in Camelot English School every other Saturday for free in JVC. It is a great chance to improve your English and meet some new friends in a fantastic location. Hope to see you all there!

**Green is the New Black. An Innermost Launch Party** 💚 A high-energy, wellness-led social with house beats and free-flowing green drinks. 📍 Common Grounds, JBR 🗓 Saturday\, 25 April \| 4:00pm onwards Free event. Parking available. [Sign-up here to join the guest list.](https://luma.com/f155tw5b) Attendees must be on the guest list in order to enter. **Innermost Links:** **WhatsApp** (1100+ members): [Innermost Wellness Club](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GZjspN0KcecBA36lNgQc4r) **Instagram**: [@innermostglobal](http://www.instagram.com/innermostglobal) **Website**: [www.innermostglobal.com](https://www.innermostglobal.com/)

Marhaba! Dubai brings the world together — and so does our meetup. [[[Click this WhatsApp Groupchat Link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/I0OyqZO7w4r1sCwWwm4R0v) ]] Join us Saturdays at 7:30 PM for a mix of global minds, mostly in their 20s and 30s. If you’re craving culture, company, or conversation in any language, you’re home. We talk, we laugh, we learn — together.

**Ever wanted to actually speak Emirati Arabic… not just recognise a few words and panic?** This is your chance. Join us for a relaxed **Emirati Arabic ↔ English language exchange** where the focus is simple: real conversations with real people. No textbooks. No pressure. No “repeat after me.” Just everyday situations, cultural nuances, and the kind of Arabic you actually hear in the UAE. **What to expect:** • Speak (even if you’re shy or rusty) • Learn authentic Emirati expressions • Small group conversations with guidance • A mix of culture, daily life, and a bit of business talk • A friendly space where everyone gets a chance Whether you’re completely new or just want to sound more natural — you’ll fit right in. Hosted at **English Expand**, with experienced language hosts guiding the flow. **Entry:** AED 30 **Bonus:** Drinks & snacks on us Seats are limited — we’re keeping it interactive.

🫂 Looking for real friends and a social circle in Dubai? You’re not alone and you don’t need to figure it out by yourself. That’s exactly why our community exists. ✨ Join us this Saturday for a warm, fun, friendly and safe evening where meeting new people feels natural. Connect with amazing people around the world, make real friendships, and practice languages like English, Arabic, Spanish and more all in a relaxed, welcoming vibe. -As we have limited spots, please make sure to show up once you RSVP. Canceling last minute takes a spot from someone who wanted to attend but couldn’t book because it was already taken.- 📅 This Saturday \| 8:00 PM 💵 50 AED — includes 1 drink 🔥 DM now to secure your place before it fills up! 👨‍🏫 Got questions? Just message us we’re here for you! \- Instagram \- [https://www.instagram.com/socializinguae?igsh=MWQyeGh5ZDNqcXhtZw==](https://www.instagram.com/socializinguae?igsh=MWQyeGh5ZDNqcXhtZw==) 📍Venue: La Vue (Pullman JLT cluster T) Just next to the metro station of Sohba realty [https://share.google/1gz6JWWchmGT7bc9i](https://share.google/sNXcRIgvcEdr3SuQx) Telegram: [https://t.me/socializingoriginal](https://t.me/socializingoriginal) WhatsApp [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FbA47CP5nXDLOFWHPx7wAi](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FbA47CP5nXDLOFWHPx7wAi) ☎️ For any possible question, please Call/WhatsApp +971585774523/+971569579533

This is a paid event for deep discussions, but it's ABSOLUTELY NOT for the faint of heart. Topics range from philosophy and psychology to relationship issues, spirituality and other mysterious stuff that is rarely discussed in public. Expect the discussions to be deep, dark, wild and mysterious but also thought-provoking and life-transforming! Also expect something unexpected and fun every event! Please note the following rules that exist to ensure that the group fits its description as accurately as possible: 1\. We do NOT discuss politics or religion as we respect the laws of this country\. 2\. There is an event fee of **AED 60** that must be paid at the start of the event. 3\. This group takes RSVPs seriously\. People who RSVP but do not show up are banned from the group immediately without warning\. 4\. You are NOT welcome if you have not RSVP'd\. 5\. You may bring up to two guests\, but they MUST be included in the RSVP\. 6\. You may be unwelcome for no apparent reason \(but there is always a hidden reason\)\. For instance\, 'fainthearted' people will be banned immediately\. 7\. The event is exciting\, so be prepared for anything\! Note: Yes, I am fully aware of the crazy time. This group IS intended to be weird and mysterious. **Whatsapp link**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FytQQgS85I61vS6nkduLm5

BRUNCH and Weekend Vibes at Querida Mexican & Friends 🌮 Join us this weekend for a relaxed Mexican-style brunch in the heart of Al Barsha. Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/i3vLDu4aaRkq5ZGcA Menu: https://qr.emenu.ae/querida/#/en/category/32795 Fresh tacos, classic plates, and cozy vibes 📍 Querida Mexican & Friends , Al Barsha

## Exclusive Dine-Out Offers at Querida – Al Barsha 📍 **Querida Restaurant** ### 20% OFF Available for dine-out bookings via: * Talabat * Zomato * Careem * The Entertainer Book through your favorite app and enjoy 20% off your total bill. *** ### 🇦🇪 15% OFF for Fazaa Members Show your **Fazaa** card and enjoy 15% off your dine-in experience. *** 🌮 Authentic Mexican flavors 🌶 Freshly prepared daily 🥑 Guacamole. Tacos. Birria. Pozole. 🍹 Refreshing hibiscus water & mocktails 📍 Al Barsha, Dubai

For more details call on 054 583 9903

**The Islands of the Moon, Comoros**, are a small cluster of volcanic isles drifting between Africa and Madagascar, blending African and Arab cultures with a French accent. The name "Comoros" comes from the Arabic **word Qamar, meaning moon**, **a name given by old sailors** who saw something magical in these shores. And in many ways, the moon still fits in a distant, beautiful reference, that’s always pulling the tides and the past together. Their flag proudly flies four stars, even though only three of the islands are truly part of the country today. **The fourth star belongs to Mayotte**, **which chose to stay with France** after independence in 1975, despite the rest of the islands voting to break away. Still, Comoros keeps Mayotte on the flag, not just out of habit, but out of hope, memory, and maybe a little stubbornness too. **The four islands of the Comoros are home to 500 plant species, 21 bird species, 9 reptile species, and 2 species of fruit bats** that are found only in this archipelago. However, deforestation has caused significant changes to the landscape and threatens the survival of these rare plant and animal species. The Comoros are reminiscent of Madagascar. Most of the species found in the Comoros are related to those from the "eighth continent" (Madagascar) and Africa. A small number also originate from Asia. **The archipelago was formed by volcanic activity.** The oldest island is Mayotte, and the youngest is Grande Comore. It is on this last island that eruptions of the Karthala volcano (over 2,300 masl) still occur. Today Comoros enjoy their independence to the full extent. Since gaining independence, the **islands have changed hands many times, experiencing over 20 coups**, more than the number of years under stable governance. It has rightfully earned the nickname **“the Coup Capital of the World.”** **Country has zero traffic lights** and roads are so chill and bumpy that no one bothers. Locals say, "We have goats and patience instead." Thanks to vast ylang-ylang plantations, parts of the islands literally smell like perfume., the air is often scented with flowers and yes, people do stop and sniff the air. In fact, this cousin of custard apple with yellowish flowers is a key ingredient in luxury perfumes, ie. Channel no. 5. Although the plant came to the Comoros from the much larger Indonesia, it is the African country that is the largest producer of ylang-ylang oil, an important ingredient in many perfumes. The Comoros is also the second largest producer of vanilla in the world. Despite being a sovereign nation, the Comorian franc is still tied to the euro and printed in France. However, in rural areas, vanilla and cloves are so valuable they’re sometimes used in bartering. The Livingstone’s fruit bat and Comoros drongo are among the national wildlife symbols. Bat curry is still a local delicacy in some villages. They're fruit bats, and apparently... "tastes like chicken," **But in a background, it is still an untouched tropical paradise** where volcanic peaks meet coral reefs, ancient Islamic culture shapes daily life with a quiet rhythm of tradition and hospitality. Spice-scented beachside villages with sacred mosques blend seamlessly with passing sea turtles and whales, all moving to the gentle rhythm of island time. Inshallah, it could be your perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure: **raw, real, and refreshingly undiscovered.** **Let’s go!** **Day 1 // Grande Comore: The Historic Town of Itsandra** Arrival to Moroni International, immigration and check–in to our beach side hotel. After short refreshment head out to discover the historic town of Itsandra. Once the beating heart of Swahili civilization on the island of Ngazidja (Grande Comore), Itsandra has roots stretching back to the 14th century. It was once the capital of the island and its first seaport, a hub where merchants and travelers converged. Today, remnants of this vibrant past still linger. The fortress of the 17th century, once linked to the city by a walled corridor, stands proudly, while fragments of ramparts dotted with observation holes whisper tales of bygone days. The Arab quarter, with its mausoleum of Al Habib Omar Bin Sumet and centuries-old mosques, offers a spiritual glimpse into the island’s layered past. As you stroll through public squares framed by monumental gates, you’ll feel the timeless rhythm of a place where history and community converge. Before returning, we’ll explore a local handcrafts shop, where fine woodcarvings and artisanal creations celebrate the artistry of the Comorian people. **Day 2 // Mohéli: a UNESCO Paradise** The morning begins with an early transfer to Ouroveni, in the south of Grande Comore, where a boat ride carries us across the ocean to Mohéli. Known as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Mohéli is the smallest and most untouched of the Comoros islands, home to lemurs, coral reefs, and uninhabited islets brimming with life. Short coastal drive to beachfront bungalows, set against a backdrop of rainforest and turquoise sea. Time to relax and indulge into paradise. As dusk settles, massive green turtles emerge from the ocean, hauling themselves ashore to dig nests and lay eggs under the moonlight. With a bit of luck, we may also witness tiny hatchlings breaking free and scrambling toward the waves, a moving reminder of the fragile wonders of nature. **Day 3 // Mohéli: Waterfalls and Whales** The day begins with a forest hike to Wallah’s hidden waterfalls. Following a clear mountain stream, we’ll ascend into the rainforest until we reach a double cascade tumbling into a natural pool. Here, you can take a refreshing swim and even snorkel among freshwater fish and small eels, while the sounds of the forest create a soothing harmony. The seas surrounding Moheli offers many marvels. We’ll set off for a boat trip to reveal Mohéli’s seven uninhabited islands, their deserted beaches, and coral reefs teeming with a tropical you-name-it-fish, an unforgettable snorkelling paradise in a UNESCO sanctuary. **Day 4 // Grande Comore South** After breakfast return by boat to Grande Comore, docking once more at Ouroveni. From here, the southern coast unfolds in a tapestry of culture and volcanic landscapes. In Chindini, the gateway to Mohéli, we’ll enjoy a short tour before continuing to Singani village. Here, the scars of the 1977 volcanic eruption remain visible. The lava that once devastated the community has now become the very material with which its people rebuilt, a striking symbol of resilience. Later, in Iconi, the former sultan’s capital, history reveals itself in dramatic form. From its volcanic cliffs, women once leapt to escape enslavement by Malagasy pirates. At the heart of town, the coral and lava palace of Kaviri Djewé still stands, while the bangwes (the traditional meeting squares) echo with centuries of community debates. Beyond the medina lies Lake Marabou, a tidal pool fringed with mangroves, where birds nest under the towering presence of Mount Karthala. **Day 5 // Mount Karthala (2,361m)** Today, the adventure reaches new heights with a trekkup Mount Karthala, the largest active volcano in the world. From Mvouni village, vehicles take us partway up the slopes, before we hit a 6k trail (700 m altitude). The trail winds through lush forest and volcanic rock, eventually opening onto the vast caldera at the summit. Here, steam vents rise from the earth, and the crater within a crater offers a breathtaking reminder of the island’s geological power. A picnic lunch at the rim allows time to absorb the view of the island below, of the endless sea beyond, and of the raw forces that continue to shape Comoros. It’s definitely one of the most spectacular hikes in the Indian Ocean. **Day 6 // Grande Comore North** Today we are set to explore the scenic northern coast and its volcanic history. As we follow the western coast we will see where lava flows enter the sea and how the mangrove forests are now growing in the lava beds. One of the day’s highlights is the island’s largest baobab tree, so huge a dozen visitors can stand inside its hollow trunk. From there, we continue to two volcanic craters: Lac Salé, whose mineral waters are said to hold healing powers, and the Dragon’s Back, a submerged crater whose curving rim forms a dramatic peninsula. In Bangwa Kouni village, we’ll visit the “Miraculous Mosque,” said to have appeared overnight, as well as the tombs of some of the earliest Arab travelers to the islands. Lunch today is at Trou du Prophète, a tranquil bay shaded by baobabs, followed by time to relax on Maloudja Beach, where the coconut palms lean gracefully toward the sea. Unfortunately, it’s time to bid farewell to Comoros. It will not be easy to wave bye-bye and transfer to airport for flight back home… **Activities:** Trekking, boating, snorkelling, sightseeing, encounter of wildlife, cultural immersion. **Accommodation & meals:** beach side 4 star hotel and lodge - shared rooms. Meals on Moheli included. **Cost:** **7,100 AED** excl. flights until APR 17. **Flights by Ethiopian, you can use any alternative connection.** **Specifically excluded:** Insurance, visa, meals on Grand Comore. **Visa:** Nationals of any country can obtain a visa on arrival. **Note:** Wildlife spotting can not be guaranteed. See yah in Comoros xx Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com)

Want to play chess, have fun and make friends? Join us for two hours of chess fun every **OTHER** Sunday night, starting at 19:00! Players of all ratings are welcome. Note: This is a free event. PLEASE bring your own chessboards and chess clocks because there aren't enough chessboards at the moment.

A movie this big deserves a big dinner! Join us after MICHAEL for fun and delicious dinner at another CMG-favorite restaurant, CAP CITY FINE DINER! RSVPs are limited for the dinner portion of this event! Here are complete details: CAP CITY FINE DINER: This upscale diner from Cameron Mitchell is known its “retro-cool” atmosphere, modern twists on classic comfort food and their “showstopper” desserts! The menu reimagines nostalgic dishes like meatloaf, beef stroganoff, and pot roast with gourmet twists. The menu also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options with lots of apps, cocktails, salads, sandwiches, burgers (including a black bean veggie burger), the most welcome return of their Veggie Plate (with Hummus) and more. Desserts include their 24K Carrot Cake, Coconut Cake and Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Pie. MENU: [https://capcityfinediner.com/locations-menus/gahanna/menus/dinner/](https://capcityfinediner.com/locations-menus/gahanna/menus/dinner/) RSVP: Dinner immediately following the movie at nearby CAP CITY FINE DINER! Please RSVP for here for the dinner portion of this event at Cap City Fine Diner. Since the dinner portion of this event is limited, please only RSVP if you plan to attend. If your plans change, please update your RSVP as early as possible. Please RSVP in both events, if you plan to attend the movie and dinner. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Join us for a fun Dinner & a Movie event as we get together to see MICHAEL + Dinner at CAP City! The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua and stars Jaafar Jackson (Michael Jackson’s nephew) as the King of Pop! Early buzz is strong for what should be an excellent musical-biopic! Here are details, a trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: This biographical musical drama follows the life of Michael Jackson, from his time with the Jackson 5 to his early solo career! Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. Jaafar Jackson (Michael Jackson’s nephew) stars in the title role alongside Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, Miles Teller and Colman Domingo. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbtgEE6rkxw](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbtgEE6rkxw) MOVIE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 3:35pm showing and meet inside the theater lobby between 3:10 and 3:20pm. Tickets already on sale and advance purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event! DINNER PLAN: Dinner immediately following the movie (around 6pm) at nearby CAP City Fine Diner! Seating is limited for the dinner portion of this event, so separate RSVP required. If you plan to join for Dinner AND the movie, please be sure to RSVP in both places. CAP CITY FINE DINER: This upscale diner from Cameron Mitchell is known its “retro-cool” atmosphere, modern twists on classic comfort food and their “showstopper” desserts! The menu reimagines nostalgic dishes like meatloaf, beef stroganoff, and pot roast with gourmet twists. The menu also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options with lots of apps, cocktails, salads, sandwiches, burgers (including a black bean veggie burger), the most welcome return of their Veggie Plate (with Hummus) and more. Desserts include their 24K Carrot Cake, Coconut Cake and Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Pie. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

We will have our certified mediums available and you can receive 3 10-minute readings for $20. To keep you safe, we will be following all CDC and Health Dept. guidelines at our psychic fair today. Sitters and readers required to wear a mask. We will maintain a minimum of 6 foot physical distance during readings. Please, if you can, bring your own portable chair to use during your readings. Please note that we are at our wonderful new home at Unity of Columbus, 4211 Maize Road, Columbus, OH

"The SOB is a ballet dancer. He’s the best ballet dancer that ever lived, and if I get a good chance I’ll kill him with my bare hands." - W.C. Fields In *City Lights*, Chaplin's Little Tramp meets a blind girl selling flowers who mistakes him for a wealthy man. When he learns that an operation may restore her sight, he sets off to earn the money she needs to have the surgery. He also befriends an alcoholic millionaire who only recognizes him when he is drunk. When the blind girl and her grandmother fall behind in the rent and face eviction, he tries working and even enters a boxing competition to raise the money they need. Regarded as Chaplin's masterpiece, *City Lights* has been ranked on more than seventeen "100 greatest movies of all time" lists. Orson Welles cited it as his favorite picture. *City Lights* is available for streaming on Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBOMax, Tubi and PlutoTV. The Columbus Library lists three copies on blu-ray and eight copies on DVD. Watch the movie on your own, then join us upstairs at East Market to discuss the film. If you want more, *Unknown Chaplin* is a three-episode lost-footage documentary available on Youtube. It covers his time on *City Lights* beginning at the twenty-six minute mark of episode two: https://youtu.be/f8960Uc15hI?t=1558

How do we recover from having had a toxic or narcissistic ex? How do we move on from the past, especially something as traumatic as a divorce or breakup? How do we avoid anxiety and depression? How do we have more self esteem? In this meeting, you will learn the mental health secrets to help you quickly get over the past and heal your mind. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.