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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out google cardboard events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the google cardboard events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find google cardboard events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
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Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations.
If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!).
**HOW IT WORKS**
**Step 1: Bring a topic**
Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event.
**Step 2: Circle up & share**
We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds.
**Step 3: Walk, talk & float**
We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!"
**Step 4: Feel more alive**
Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times.
*For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)*
**HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC**
A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about.
Recent topics include:
* "What are you passionate about right now?"
* "What makes a good friend?"
* "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?"
* "How do you want to be remembered?"
* "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?"
Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter.
**WHAT TO EXPECT**
This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.*
But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here.
**FAQ**
* Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk!
* We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space.
* We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space.
* Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know.
* Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic!
**LOGISTICS**
* If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event.
* This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs.
* Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details.
* If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋
**IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...**
[The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up.
* This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
Christians in Tech - Meetup #30 @ Improving
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)
Saturday Board Games! ♟️ 🎯 🚉 🎲 🎴 ♥️ ♠️ 👾
This event will be hosted by our Special Guest Host, Krista! 🙂 So please be sure to bring any of your own games that you want to play! 😄
\* \* \*
Let's play various and sundry board games at [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/)! The brewery has extensive food options, a good amount of space, and a large (free) parking lot.
The games I bring come from the following list, but feel free to bring some of your own as well!
1. *[Bang!](https://www.amazon.com/dV-Giochi-VINCI-Bang-4th/dp/B001RU7UNW)*
2. *[Chinatown](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IVF4ZH0)*
3. *[Codenames](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014Q1XX9S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
4. *[Coup](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDI4HX4?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title)*
5. *[Deception](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019FPQZNG)*
6. *[Family Feud](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y5XD2HN)*
7. *[Just One](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W3PJTL2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
8. *[Mafia](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D97V536)*
9. [Mexican Train Dominoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EULZDM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title)
10. [Playing cards](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003E6Q8R6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
11. *[The Resistance](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008A2BA8G?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title) ([Hidden Agenda](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OVZ693W?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title))*
12. *[Secret Hitler](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JKD4HYC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
13. *[Sequence](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NLKHQ3Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
14. *[Settlers of Catan](https://www.amazon.com/CATAN-Board-Game-Discovery-Civilization/dp/B00U26V4VQ)*
15. *[So Clover!](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0941TJHXX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
16. *[Splendor: Marvel](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DG63MBG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
17. *[Telestrations](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0083J768O)*
18. *[Ticket to Ride](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0975277324/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
19. *[Tsuro](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002SQBB3O)*
20. *[Ultimate Werewolf](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MHWUJA0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
21. *[Uno](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P6MZPK3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
22. *[Wits & Wagers](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09C916PWB)*
23. *[Yahtzee](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TLEMRKM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*
Men's Group meetup
**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.**
How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently?
Then we will go into a topic discussion.
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
**COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS**
\*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\*
1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group.
2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another.
3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up.
4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space.
5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable.
6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.
Pot Luck at the Office!
Inspired by our successful events like "Saturday Mornings @ East Market" and other "Pot Luck in the Park" lunches, this gathering promises to be a blend of fun conversations, language exchange, and cultural insights, all while sharing wonderful foods with each other.
Please bring a dish to share and anything you would like to drink.
We will provide plates, plastic silverware and napkins.
So, come hungry and ready to chat!
Google Cardboard Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Columbus Online Speed Dating for Long-Term Relations
**❤️🔥 Online Speed Dating – No Awkwardness, Just Fun – Great for First Timers!**
**🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!**
To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. **Limited spots available** – register now before they're gone!
**🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0)
---
🔑 **The secret to great first dates?** Feeling comfortable. Start here! Online speed dating is perfect for first-timers. Meet like-minded local singles from the comfort of your own home – no pressure, no crowded venues, just genuine connections in a safe, welcoming environment.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience
- Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment
- Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating
- People returning to dating after a break who want a gentle start
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Zoom meetup – real-time conversations in a relaxed online space
- **Location:** From the comfort of your own home – no need to go anywhere!
- **Host:** Engaging guide creating a welcoming, pressure-free space for beginners
- **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Columbus singles – fun and easy
- **Rounds:** Multiple short rounds so you meet plenty of people
- **Privacy:** Your contact info is never shared without mutual consent
- **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good!
**How It Works**
1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above.
2. **Take the Quick Compatibility Quiz** – Help us pair you with like-minded Columbus first-timers.
3. **Join the Zoom Event** – Log in from home and meet your host. We'll handle the rest!
4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Columbus singles who share your vibe.
5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
**Do I need speed dating experience?**
Absolutely not! This event is designed specifically for first-timers. Our host guides you through every step.
**Do I need to download anything?**
Just Zoom! If you've used Zoom before, you're all set. We'll send you the link after registration.
---
✨ Connect from your comfort zone with friendly Columbus first-timers – no pressure, just possibilities! 💘 ✨
Investing & Personal Finance Meeting
If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you.
We are a local chapter of Bogleheads**®**, whose investment strategy can be found here:
https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy
Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here:
https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php
I look forward to seeing you there.
Mark Vonder Haar
Toledo Online Speed Dating Perfect for first timers
**💖 Virtual Speed Dating for Beginners – Meet Toledo Singles Stress-Free!**
**⚠️ IMPORTANT: Your RSVP Does NOT Guarantee a Spot!**
To secure your place, you **must** register and complete the personality quiz by clicking one of the age group links below. Select your age range, click to register, and complete the quiz. **Spots are limited** – don't wait!
**🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0)
---
🎉 **Ready to try something new from the comfort of home?** Let's go! We've helped thousands of first-timers discover the joy of speed dating from home. Short, fun conversations with compatible singles – it's easier than you think and more rewarding than any dating app.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- First-time speed daters ready to try something new
- Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating
- Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment
- First-timers wanting a low-pressure, guided experience
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Virtual via Zoom – structured rounds in a warm, friendly setting
- **Location:** Your cozy space – meet from wherever you feel most comfortable
- **Host:** Engaging guide creating a welcoming, pressure-free space for beginners
- **Vibe:** Fun, guided conversations that make meeting Toledo singles effortless
- **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good!
- **Support:** Our host is available before, during, and after the event
- **Duration:** A perfectly paced 60–90 minute event with multiple rounds
**How It Works**
1. **Pick Your Session** – Select the age group that fits you and register your spot.
2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening.
3. **Hop on Zoom** – Your host will welcome you and walk you through everything.
4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Toledo singles who share your vibe.
5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special.
💡 **Insider tip:** Test your Zoom setup 10 minutes early so you feel calm and ready.
---
✨ No need to be anxious about meeting in person – find real connections from your own space! Your person is waiting! 🥰 ✨
Columbus Online Speed Dating Perfect for first timers
**💝 Meet Local Singles Online – Speed Dating Made Easy for First Timers!**
**⚠️ RSVP ≠ Registration!**
Your Meetup RSVP alone does **not** secure a spot. You must click your age group link below, complete registration, and finish the personality quiz. **Spots are limited** and fill fast!
**🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0)
---
💡 **Curious about speed dating but nervous?** We've got you! We've helped thousands of first-timers discover the joy of speed dating from home. Short, fun conversations with compatible singles – it's easier than you think and more rewarding than any dating app.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats
- First-timers who want a safe space to practice dating skills
- Anyone who's tired of swiping and wants real conversation
**How It Works**
1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above.
2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening.
3. **Log In & Relax** – Join the Zoom call and let the fun begin. Your host handles the logistics!
4. **The Fun Part** – Rotate through rounds of lively chats with pre-matched Columbus singles.
5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special.
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Zoom meetup – real-time conversations in a relaxed online space
- **Location:** Anywhere with Wi-Fi – your couch, your café, your call
- **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun
- **Vibe:** Warm, genuine conversations with Columbus locals who are looking for real connection
- **Matches:** Mutual matches revealed after the event
- **Icebreakers:** Fun prompts provided to keep conversations flowing
- **Atmosphere:** Positive, inclusive, and judgement-free
- **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone
⭐ *"10/10 would do again. The host was amazing and I actually had fun dating!"* – Columbus first-timer
---
✨ You deserve to meet someone amazing – and you can do it from home. We'll see you on Zoom! ❤️🔥 ✨
Columbus Online Speed Dating for Adventurers & Travelers
**💗 Online Speed Dating Night – Beginner Friendly – Columbus Singles Welcome!**
**⚠️ HEADS UP: Clicking RSVP Is NOT Enough!**
You **must** register through one of the links below and complete the short personality quiz to secure your spot. Select your age range and register now – **spots are limited and go fast!**
**✅ Step 1: Find Your Age Group & Register:**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=18-32&face_v=5.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=30-46&face_v=5.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=40-58&face_v=5.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=55+&face_v=5.0)
---
🏠 **Prefer to meet people from home first?** Same here! Forget everything you think you know about speed dating. Our online events are relaxed, guided, and perfect for anyone who's never done this before. Just log in from home and meet amazing Columbus singles.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- Anyone anxious about crowded bars or in-person meetups
- First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings
- Anyone who's tired of swiping and wants real conversation
- Anyone who believes great chemistry starts with great conversation
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Live on Zoom – easy to join, private, and beginner-friendly
- **Location:** From the comfort of your own home – no need to go anywhere!
- **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun
- **Vibe:** Engaging, real-time chats with Columbus singles – no scripts, just vibes
- **Rounds:** Multiple short rounds so you meet plenty of people
- **Matching:** Powered by our personality quiz for better compatibility
**How It Works**
1. **Select Your Age Range** – Click the link for your age group and sign up.
2. **Answer a Few Fun Questions** – Our quiz helps match you with compatible Columbus singles.
3. **Hop on Zoom** – Your host will welcome you and walk you through everything.
4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Each round is timed and guided so every chat feels natural and fun.
5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special.
💡 **Quick tip:** Smile when you answer the call – it sets the tone for a great conversation!
---
✨ The best first-time experience happens at home – hosted on Zoom, welcoming and easy. 💖 ✨
Google Cardboard Events Near You
Connect with your local Google Cardboard community
Data & Analytics Wednesday - Google Analytics Alternatives
**Google Analytics Alternatives**
Is it finally time to make the switch away from Google Analytics? Two-and-a-half years ago Jason Packer asked this question at Columbus Web Analytics Wednesday.
Since then: Google’s Universal Analytics has been sunset, we’ve changed our name to Columbus Data & Analytics Wednesday, and Jason has released two editions of his book “Google Analytics Alternatives”.
Fresh off the release of the 2nd edition of his book, we thought it was time to re-open this conversation. While people love to complain about it, GA’s market share has remained relatively constant (at least in the United States). Why is that? You won’t find any complaints about GA4 in this talk, but rather an overview of what’s currently available in the market and how to frame your decision-making process.
We’ll also be giving out some free copies of Jason’s book! So even if you’ve got a “GA4Lyfe” tattoo (no judgement), there’s free books to go with the free pizza and beer.
Thanks to our 2026 sponsors:
[Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro)
More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)
Prototype, Play, and Build Workshops (In-Person @GameArena)!!!
This month, we are in-person at GameArena!!! We will also be joined by students and their games from [Shawnee State](https://www.shawnee.edu/game-design-programs)!
\-\-\-
Join us for our our monthly COGG Prototype and Play event @GameArena! Come to play and showcase your games.
We're back in the upper levels of the catwalk mezzanine area. It'll be packed with lots of camaraderie playing your game(s) and other's games on the 2nd floor as well as the 1st floor in the gaming room below the mezzanine.
Light snacks and water provided but you can buy food and drinks at the bar (alcoholic drink ID required).
[https://www.game-arena.co/menu](https://www.game-arena.co/menu)
**Attendees:**
Don't have a game to show? Not a problem! All are welcomed and invited from all ages and backgrounds. The more we can have to play test our games the better!
**Developers:**
Do you have a game that you would like to get critical feedback on? Would you like an excuse to work on a game with other talented artists, programmers, musicians, designers, and writers? Digital, table-top, non-experienced developers, and the like are welcomed! We'll provide signage for your game to help others learn more about your work. Wifi, outlets, tables, and seats (though standing tables also) are available.
Come to the Prototype and Play workshop to collaborate and meet local game developers for an evening of epic and raw game play fun! Play works-in-progress, show off your own game, work with others to add polish to a game, or even lend your talents to other fellow developers.
Can use South Garage at the Gateway with a $5 voucher on your way out.
75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
[https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9)
If you have any questions or comments, as always, feel free to reach out to us at [info@thecogg.com!](http://info@thecogg.com!/)
NFT AI ART Columbus
NFT's are here to stay folks!
This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more.
**PLUS**
This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.
Board games at The Forge
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 be challenging. There is a parking lot behind the neighboring Mexican restaurant that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.
From Idea to Working App in Minutes: The Agentic Development with Amazon Kiro
Discover Kiro, AWS’s innovative development environment that adapts to your workflow. Whether you prefer specification-driven development or a more intuitive, vibe-based approach, Kiro empowers you to build applications your way.
In this session, speakers will explore Kiro’s core functionality and its evolution through re:Invent 2025, along with demonstrations of prompts used to create APIs, hooks, and steering documents.
In the latter part of the session, watch as we build a complete example from scratch, showcasing Kiro’s agentic AI workflow in action for spec-driven development and vibe coding.
What You'll Learn - Core Kiro concepts and development philosophy
Feature evolution: pre and post re:Invent 2025
Practical examples: API creation, hooks, and steering docs
Live coding demonstration with real-time problem solving
Who Should Attend - Developers, solutions architects, and technical leaders interested in modern AWS development tools and AI-assisted coding workflows.
**Speakers Bio:**
Matthew Jorat: Matthew Jorat is a Customer Solutions Manager at AWS with nearly three decades of expertise in AI, cloud transformation, migration, modernization, IT, technology, and business. His career spans infrastructure engineer, solutions architect, security auditor, customer success director, support and services director, and operations officer. He was an early adopter of AWS services as a customer, and his current role at AWS uniquely blends his technical and business skills as he partners with executive teams to translate strategic priorities into measurable business outcomes through cloud adoption, AI implementation, and operational excellence. Matt leads end-to-end AI initiatives for enterprise customers, identifying high-impact use cases and maintaining relentless focus on measurable ROI. He holds eight AWS certifications and serves as Adjunct Professor at Franklin University teaching cloud computing and AWS architecture. His expertise encompasses GenAI, agentic AI systems, migration, modernization, and optimization strategies that drive transformation at scale.
[https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/)
Girish Bhatia: Girish Bhatia is a seasoned technology delivery leader with deep expertise in cross-domain program management. He holds multiple AWS certifications, including AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, and AWS Generative AI Practitioner, and is also an AWS Community Builder. Girish brings over two decades of experience in the information technology industry.
Throughout his career, Girish has led major technology-driven business transformation from modernizing on-premises applications to driving large-scale cloud migrations. His work includes API-based integration platforms, data-center and mainframe modernization, and enterprise cloud adoption initiatives.
Based in Columbus, Ohio, Girish works at a tech-forward fintech company. He is passionate about AWS serverless architectures, Generative AI and emerging cloud technologies. An avid learner and builder, he continues to explore and apply the latest innovations in AWS to help organizations accelerate their digital transformation.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/[https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/)
**THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/
**DIRECTIONS**
Franklin University
Fisher Hall
300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8
Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map.
NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct.
**Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?**
Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com
Casual Boardgames - make friends, then beat them in games
Welcome to Casual Boardgames, where we enjoy classic tabletop games and social deduction games while bonding over good food, drinks, and great conversations.
We started this group to meet new people and make new friends, and bonding over games in a relaxed atmosphere is a great way to do that.
We currently meet near route 23 and Polaris Parkway, and this is close to areas like Powell, Lewis Center, Worthington, and parts of Westerville and Columbus.
Feel free to bring your own games or play one of the many games our members bring. If you are inexperienced, we will help you learn.
Here are just a few examples of the kind of games we play.
Tabletop/board games: Splendor, Catan, Azul, Dominion, 7 Wonders…
Social deduction games: Code Names, Chameleon, Werewords…
IMPORTANT:
1. While we love playing a variety of games and competing, we are not just about the games. We interact and talk while playing, and this leads to a lot of laughter and fun. If you just want to compete and focus solely on the game, then this is probably not the group you are looking for.
2. Many people join groups like this and never (or rarely) show up after weeks or months. If you join and never really come, we will eventually remove you from the group as a courtesy to our members. Why? Because limiting group conversations (on the app) to regular members makes communication and planning much easier. Also, while it may be rare, it protects members from people who join because they are interested in following a person instead of having a real interest in our group. If you get removed, it is just because you haven’t come, and we follow this protocol as a courtesy to our regular game players.




























