Freedom of Speech

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

This month's prompt concerns the idea of the “warrior philosopher” (seemed appropriate in these times)--that is someone whose understanding of violence, power, and justice is forged through direct experience of war. We are looking at Major General Smedley D. Butler, a highly decorated U.S. Marine raised in a Quaker (pacifist) tradition who later became a prominent critic of American militarism (there is a wonderful biography of Gen. Butler called "Gangsters of Capitalism") Butler's argument in *War Is a Racket* (1935): that many U.S. interventions were driven less by national defense than by corporate and financial interests, with Butler portraying himself as an enforcer for business and Wall Street. We can consider the moral ambiguity of his insider critique—whether complicity strengthens or undermines credibility and also consider some of the concrete reforms he proposed (e.g., “conscript” capital before soldiers, restrict the military to coastal defense, and have only those who fight decide on war). Butler’s life arc clearly changed from pacifist upbringing to warrior to antiwar crusader—and asks whether true understanding of peace requires firsthand knowledge of war, and what that implies about the cost of suffering. So do we need to suffer to understand suffering? Do we have to experience war to appreciate peace? As one more question: in the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character says that "you have the luxury of not knowing what I know" so do most of us go through life oblivious to real violence and suffering? See you at Drunken Philosophy!

Soccer + vegan deli eats = the perfect Saturday ⚽🌱🔥 We’re kicking things off with soccer (all levels welcome!) and then heading to Vida’s Plant-Based Butcher for some seriously good food—Vida’s Reubens, Philly cheesesteaks, Chipotle Cheddar Melt and classic deli sides. Whether you’re playing, socializing, or just here for the food, this is a great way to meet like-minded people and enjoy the day! Game → Food → Good vibes 📍 Soccer - Park of Roses 3923 N High St Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Vida’s Plant Based Butcher 1724 Northwest Blvd Unit C Columbus OH, 43212

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

**\*\*\*TO ATTEND THE EVENT, YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS THROUGH OUR WEBSITE\*\*\*** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Hosted by Pre-Dating Speed Dating, the experts, bringing people together since 2001! *Our events have been featured on CNN, CBS, Axios, Miami New Times, TLC's 90 Day Fiance - The Single Life, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, The Wall Street Journal, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more -- but come see for yourself!* Join us for a night of fun, flirtation, and possible romance at our singles speed dating event! If you're tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, speed dating is a great way to meet new people in person, in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. **HOW IT WORKS:** We'll introduce you to at least 5, and up to 12 - or more - single women or men. Spend a little time with each one, during a series of 6-minute Pre-Dates. Then tell us who you'd like to speak with again & we'll do the rest! It's the modern, civilized, effective, and fun way to meet other professional-level singles. If you're finished with the games and ineffectiveness of online dating and apps, join us to share a wonderful evening of enjoyable conversation with interesting people... and maybe something magical will happen! **GET TICKETS:** A Meetup RSVP is not a ticket, you must purchase on our website. [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Use Code MATCH5 for $5 off! **DOES IT WORK?** Yes! According to the New York Times, at a speed dating event, people like 2-3 out of 10 people they meet. Online daters only match with 1 in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. This is the best way to meet new people, and it works! Just ask the thousands of people that have met at our events and had successful relationships and marriages. **WHAT DOES IT COST?** We put a lot of time and effort into creating the best singles events possible, so we collect a fee for our hard work. Our events are an excellent value at about $3 per introduction. Get your ticket for the best singles event in town. **NOTE FOR NEWCOMERS:** We post our events on various platforms. Our events often sell out, so expect plenty of fellow singles, regardless of the numbers you see here :) So what are you waiting for? Join us for some fun conversation with great new people... and maybe something more! Who will you meet? **GET TICKETS:** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) #singles #singlesevents #speeddating #love #relationships

**\*\*\*TO ATTEND THE EVENT, YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS THROUGH OUR WEBSITE\*\*\*** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Hosted by Pre-Dating Speed Dating, the experts, bringing people together since 2001! *Our events have been featured on CNN, CBS, Axios, Miami New Times, TLC's 90 Day Fiance - The Single Life, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, The Wall Street Journal, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more -- but come see for yourself!* Join us for a night of fun, flirtation, and possible romance at our singles speed dating event! If you're tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, speed dating is a great way to meet new people in person, in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. **HOW IT WORKS:** We'll introduce you to at least 5, and up to 12 - or more - single women or men. Spend a little time with each one, during a series of 6-minute Pre-Dates. Then tell us who you'd like to speak with again & we'll do the rest! It's the modern, civilized, effective, and fun way to meet other professional-level singles. If you're finished with the games and ineffectiveness of online dating and apps, join us to share a wonderful evening of enjoyable conversation with interesting people... and maybe something magical will happen! **GET TICKETS:** A Meetup RSVP is not a ticket, you must purchase on our website. [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Use Code MATCH5 for $5 off! **DOES IT WORK?** Yes! According to the New York Times, at a speed dating event, people like 2-3 out of 10 people they meet. Online daters only match with 1 in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. This is the best way to meet new people, and it works! Just ask the thousands of people that have met at our events and had successful relationships and marriages. **WHAT DOES IT COST?** We put a lot of time and effort into creating the best singles events possible, so we collect a fee for our hard work. Our events are an excellent value at about $3 per introduction. Get your ticket for the best singles event in town. **NOTE FOR NEWCOMERS:** We post our events on various platforms. Our events often sell out, so expect plenty of fellow singles, regardless of the numbers you see here :) So what are you waiting for? Join us for some fun conversation with great new people... and maybe something more! Who will you meet? **GET TICKETS:** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) #singles #singlesevents #speeddating #love #relationships

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

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. 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 BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am 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 is 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 all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events! Should be a good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

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 for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, April 22 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

**💞 Meet Cincinnati Singles Tonight – Hosted Speed Dating on Zoom** Online speed dating for Cincinnati locals — hosted live on Zoom, personality matched. Each round is a brief one-on-one Zoom chat with a Cincinnati local paired by age and personality. A host keeps the pace comfortable. **Find your age group below:** - 🌍 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't guarantee a place.** Click your age group link below, register, and take the personality quiz to lock in your spot. Limited places. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - 🔥 Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience - Cincinnati locals after personality-matched dates 🧭 **How the session runs** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Join on Zoom** – Click the link, jump on, and the host handles the rest. 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable – no venue, no travel 💡 **Tip:** Just be yourself. That's always the best approach. ⭐ *"The personality matching genuinely works. My matches were spot on."* – Cincinnati local **Frequently Asked Questions** **Do I need anything besides Zoom?** Just Zoom, a webcam, and Wi-Fi. That's it. **Do I need experience?** --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Cincinnati locals tonight. 🥰 ✨ Short-form version for faster scanning. Everything important, without the extra padding.

Get ready for a fun night with amazing food, great energy, and even better company! 🥰✨ 🍽️ Portia’s Café — 6:30PM 🛼 Skate Zone 71 — 8:30PM Come join us for delicious vegan food and/or roller skating — it’s totally up to you! Whether you come for the food, the skating, or both… you’re in for a great time 💗 📍 Portia’s Café 4424 Indianola Ave Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229

**🦋 Online Speed Dating – Real Detroit Locals, Live on Zoom** We pair you by personality and age so every conversation feels natural. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Detroit singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses — just natural conversation. **Choose your age range to register:** - 💡 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 👥 **Best for:** - 🔥 Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings - People re-entering the dating scene after a break 🛠 **What the flow looks like** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Detroit singles. 3. **Join on Zoom** – Click the link, jump on, and the host handles the rest. **At a glance** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - **Location:** From home – all you need is Wi-Fi and a webcam ⭐ *"So much better than apps. Actual conversations with real people."* – Detroit attendee **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the chats?** A few minutes each — just enough to get a sense of someone. **What's the personality quiz for?** **What happens after?** --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Detroit locals tonight. 🦋 ✨ Quick version: this one gets straight to the point. Fast to read, easy to act on.

**💝 Meet Columbus Singles Tonight – Hosted Speed Dating on Zoom** A hosted online speed dating experience for Columbus locals. Join from home, get paired with Columbus singles your age, and have real conversations on Zoom. A host manages everything so you can just relax and enjoy. **Choose your age range to register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - 💡 Singles in Columbus who want to meet people from home - 💡 First-timers new to speed dating 🛠 **What the flow looks like** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 🗂 **Quick details** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - 🚀 **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you 💡 **Tip:** Just be yourself. That's always the best approach. **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the chats?** A few minutes each — just enough to get a sense of someone. **What if I'm shy?** --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Columbus locals tonight. 🦋 ✨ Quick version: this one gets straight to the point. Everything important, without the extra padding.

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!