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Yes! Check out discussion & debate events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the discussion & debate events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Discussion & Debate Events Today
Join in-person Discussion & Debate events happening right now
Literary Reading Group: “Everything That Rises Must Converge" by F. O'Connor
We will discuss our reactions and interpretations of Flannery O'Connor's story about the post-segregationist South, readable online [here](https://jerrywbrown.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Everything-that-rises-must-converge-OConner-Flannery.pdf).
This is an unofficial continuation of our discussion of O'Connor's story we read last time, but if you weren't there you're still welcome to attend this one as there will be plenty to discuss regardless.
I look forward to speaking about it with you!
Python Crew Talk: It scales... until it doesn't
**Python is often celebrated as the universal glue that can do anything, but what happens when your project scales, a trace breaks, or a lack of architecture becomes your biggest bottleneck?**
Join us on **Tuesday, April 21,** for an evening focused on the realities of operating Python at scale. We're bringing together developers and engineering leads from Applifting, ROUVY, and DX Heroes to share hard-won lessons on everything from clean architecture to distributed systems
Let's meet in the **Applifting meetup space**, both in person and online. **We’ll start at 18:00.**
👉 [Register here](https://applifting.io/events/python-crew-talk-it-scales-until-it-doesnt) 👈 **if you want to attend in person. Spaces are limited and our event planner Anetka would be sad if we had to turn you away at the door!**
**Who’s speaking?**
We will kick off with two lightning talks.
First, **[Ondřej Doskočil](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ondrejdoskocil/)**, Python tech lead at Applifting, will challenge the mindset that clean architecture is "too Java" for Python and show how AI tools can help you adopt proper structure as your projects scale.
**[Stanislav Gurník](https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanleygurnik/)**, backend chapter lead at ROUVY, will follow up with hard-won lessons from the trenches of distributed systems, exploring what it takes to move event-driven Python services from "it works" to "it scales".
Then, they will be joined for the panel discussion by **[Jiří Maňák](https://www.linkedin.com/in/manakjiri/)**, software engineering team lead at DX Heroes, and **Martin Jiřík**, senior DevOps engineer at ROUVY.
**We look forward to meeting you!**
**Schedule:**
**17:30 – Doors open**
* Get your ticket ready, say hello to others, and have a drink with us. 🥂
**18:00 – Introduction by Filip Kirschner**
* Our co-founder Filip will give you a short welcome and introduce our speakers.
**18:15 – Architecture in Python: Breaking the 'too Java' taboo with Ondřej Doskočil**
* *Why a lack of structure becomes the real problem as projects scale, and how to successfully adopt clean architecture in Python.*
**18:35 – Lessons learned from operating Python services in event-driven architecture with Stanislav Gurník**
* *Distilling hard-won lessons on the architectural pivots that move event-driven Python services from "it works" to "it scales."*
**18:50 – Short break**
* *Time to stretch, refill drinks, and chat a bit.*
**19:00 – Panel discussion with Ondřej Doskočil, Stanislav Gurník, Jiří Maňák, and Martin Jiřík**
* *An open discussion on scaling Python and adopting clean architecture, exploring the realities of distributed systems, operations, and team collaboration.*
**20:00** — **Q&A session**
* *Your turn. We’re open to any questions or comments you have.*
**20:30 – Networking, food & drinks 🍻**
* Snacks and drinks, including draft beer, will be available for you all evening. Get ready to network with Applifters!
**22:00 – Time to say goodbye!**
* Some of us may move on to a pub, but the doors of Applifting are closing, and we'll look forward to seeing you next time!
For capacity reasons, **please let us know if you will** [attend in person](https://applifting.io/events/python-crew-talk-it-scales-until-it-doesnt) or participate online. The presentations will be streamed, but we would love to see you there.
We look forward to meeting you!
Everpure: The Future of Data Management
**Event Summary**
We are diving into how Everpure is redefining data - evolving beyond storage into a unified, intelligent platform. Expect real insights, practical demos, and a fresh take on how simple data management can be.
**Talk 1: From Pure Storage to Everpure**
**Speaker: [Paul Melmon](https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmelmon/) \- Prague Site Lead / VP\, Engineering**
Paul will unpack why Pure Storage became Everpure, a shift that reflects our move from storage to full-scale data management. You will see what’s changing, what remains core to our DNA and how the 1touch acquisition expands our capabilities into data intelligence. Paul willl also spotlight our Prague R&D hub, where much of this innovation is being built.
**Talk 2: The Intelligent Control Plane**
**Speaker: [Adam Mazouz](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammazouz/) \- Principal Product Manager**
Managing data doesn’t have to be complex. This session shows how we bring everything into one intelligent control layer. With Fusion, Pure1, and Purity working together, you get unified visibility, AI-driven insights and automated workflows. Adam will walk through how this evolves from siloed management to a truly intelligent, self-optimizing system.
**Talk 3: The Unified Data Plane**
**Speaker: [Bogusia Frese](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bogusia-frese-3780901b/) \- Consulting Field Solutions Architect**
Say goodbye to silos - this is where block, file and object storage come together as one seamless data layer. Bogusia will show how a consistent platform spans on-prem, cloud and hybrid environments while supporting every workload from databases to AI. Built on Evergreen Architecture and designed for resilience, it keeps your data always available, protected, and ready to scale.
**Time Agenda:**
**17:30–18:00** – Doors open and registration with snacks and beer
**18:00–18:20** – Talk 1
**18:25–18:45** – Talk 2
**18:50–19:10** – Talk 3
**19:10–20:00** – Networking time
**20:30** – Doors close
Research Tuesday: UX mimo obrazovku - jak zkoumat orientaci ve fyzickém světě
Čekání je u konce - jedeme dál! Po povedeném návratu se Research Tuesday vrací podruhé. Navazujeme přesně tam, kde jsme minule skončili: u sdílení zkušeností, otevřených diskusí a upřímného pohledu na naši práci bez příkras.
**💡 Atmosféra: Bez kamer, jen diskuse**
Jestli jsi tu poprvé, připomínáme naši „tajnou ingredienci“: meetupy nenahráváme ani nestreamujeme. Dává nám to svobodu mluvit otevřeně o tom, co fungovalo – i co ne.
**🗺️ Téma měsíce: Když UX opustí obrazovku**
Co když zákaznická cesta nezačíná ani nekončí v jednom rozhraní, ale vede přes digitální touchpointy do fyzického prostředí, a pak zase zpátky? Co když uživatel neřeší aplikaci, ale snaží se ve stresu a pod časovým tlakem najít správné dveře v nemocnici?
**Michaela Holubec Birtusová**
UX výzkumnice, facilitátorka a service designérka, která se pohybuje na pomezí digitálních a fyzických služeb. Dlouhodobě působí v organizaci Czechdesign, kde se věnuje především projektům ve veřejném sektoru, od municipalit po zdravotnictví. Kromě toho pracuje na volné noze pro další klienty, kterým pomáhá s výzkumem, facilitací a nastavováním služeb tak, aby odpovídaly reálným potřebám lidí.
V posledních letech se intenzivně zaměřuje na výzkum orientace (wayfindingu) ve zdravotnických zařízeních. V rámci výzkumného projektu podpořeného TAČR se podílí na výzkumu, který kombinuje kvalitativní metody, testování v terénu, eye-tracking i VR, s cílem navrhovat navigační systémy, které skutečně fungují.
Michaela nasdílí své zkušenosti z výzkumu orientace (wayfindingu) ve zdravotnických zařízeních. Otevře témata, která se v digitálu často neřeší – práci s fragmentovanou pozorností, kontextem, stresem nebo chybou. Probereme i to, jak důležitá je v tomto kontextu přístupnost a jak ji do výzkumu zahrnout co nejvíce. Michaela ukáže case study jako otevřený vhled do procesu: co fungovalo, kde si tým nebyl jistý a kde narážel.
**Nové místo & káva:**
Tentokrát se potkáme v útulném prostředí **kavárny Ruelto na Andělu**. Abychom podpořili majitele, kteří nám vyšli vstříc, nebudeme tentokrát zajišťovat externí catering. Na místě si ale můžete koupit jejich skvělou výběrovou kávu a lahodné koláčky.
**🕒 Agenda:**
* **09:00 AM** – Otevření dveří & ranní networking
* **9:30 AM** – Úvodní blok: Když UX opustí obrazovku: Jak zkoumat orientaci ve fyzickém světě
* **10:30 AM** – Otevřená diskuze
* **11:30 PM** – Závěr & networking
*
**🧸 Hlídání dětí na vyžádání:**
Research Tuesday stavíme na tom, že profesní rozvoj má být přístupný všem. Chceme podpořit i rodiče malých dětí, aby mohli zůstat v kontaktu s oborem a potkávat se bez zbytečných překážek.
**Máte zájem o hlídání?** Rádi ho na místě zajistíme, ale potřebujeme vědět, jestli o něj bude zájem.
Dejte nám vědět v komentářích nejpozději do pondělí do 8:00, jestli službu využijete a pro kolik dětí. Podle toho rozhodneme, jestli ji zajistíme.
**🎟️ Důležité informace:**
**Vstupenky:** Vstupné na Research Tuesday je dobrovolné. Kapacita je omezena na **35 míst**, abychom udrželi osobní a otevřenou atmosféru.
**Rezervace:** Zarezervuj si místo včas. Pokud se ti plány změní, prosíme, uvolni místo ostatním.
**Těšíme se na známé tváře i nové účastníky!**
Ivana, Lucie, Martin
International Pub Quiz Tuesdays 🍀💙
Grab a couple of friends (or join a team on the spot) and come play.
It’s a mix of random questions, guessing, and moments where you’re either a genius or completely lost 😄 all part of it.
**What to expect:**
• Teams of 1–4 (**if you’re alone, we can pair you up! 😊**)
• Fun rounds, no pressure, good vibes
• Different prizes every week, from sponsor gifts to free tickets or discounts for our events
We start at 19:00, so don’t come too late 😊
Easy evening, a few drinks, and a chance to randomly win something. 😁
[Reserve your spot here](https://erasmusinprague.com/events-eip/)
Done in colaboration with **Erasmus in Prague** (expat & international students organisation)
after-work pint :)
Anyone up for having an after work pint? :) Join me at Becketts Irish pub at 7pm! Try to come on time, the booking is on my name. :)
PS. A symbolic fee of 40 CZK will be collected in order to cover the Meetup membership subscription, thank you for understanding and hope to see you all there!
Maya
Join us for a 2.5-hour walk in the Old Town of Prague!
Who can attend this meetup:
The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you).
Description:
Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route.
Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia.
End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle.
======
Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :)
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2
Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute.
Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/).
For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications.
Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case.
We look forward to meeting you,
Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris
Discussion & Debate Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Community and connection project
## **What IdeaVerse is about**
**We meet usually once a month to discuss some of the current challenges as well and perhaps come up with new ideas on how to overcome them. For those who came regularly, this next meetup would be slightly different. We will do a workshop on solving real world problems.**
The problem we will attempt to solve is the dissolution of communities and spaces where people connect in person, and with it, our increased isolation and loneliness.
There are many reasons why this is happening:
\- replacement of religion with science as a beacon of meaning\, which seems to be much less great at inspiring connection;
\- economic forces boosting our ego\, and make it easier to pay for random strangers for help then making lasting connections with people\.
\- political polarization
\- \(anti\)social media \(as I call it\) and now AI offering simulations of relationships\.
\- climate change increasing our distrust in a better future and the importance of investing in life and people\.
\- closing down of third spaces like churches\, malls and retail stores \(due to online shopping\)\, youth centers and increase in remote work\.
These are all causes we'll explore, together with examples of how other people expressed they feel about this issue from research, reasons why this issue exists as well as examples of small victories against this tide.
We'll work in small groups putting all this knowledge together with out imagination and attempt to find local solutions to similar problems here in Prague.
This is is more than a discussion. It's an exploration of our ability to work together to effect change in ourselves and in our social circles.
**Some suggested reading/watching:**
1. "Contrary to the perception that isolation and loneliness primarily affect older people in high-income countries, they impact the health and well-being of all age groups across the world. One in four older people experience social isolation and the rates are broadly similar in all regions. Among adolescents, between 5–15% experience loneliness, according to research findings." (3 minute read - [WHO launches commission to foster social connection](https://www.who.int/news/item/15-11-2023-who-launches-commission-to-foster-social-connection))
2. "Many popular sitcoms center around what's known as a third place-- for example, Central Park in Friends or the Bull and Finch Pub from Cheers. Like the theme song goes, it's somewhere where everybody knows your name, where you can socialize in a place other than your home or work and build some community.
But with the whole world accessible on your smartphone, it's kind of hard to resist the call of the couch. And it's hurting us more than we think." (10 minute Podcast [Third places’ may be the answer to America’s loneliness epidemic](https://www.mprnews.org/episode/2024/05/23/third-places-may-be-the-answer-to-americas-loneliness-epidemic))
3. “These verdicts mark an unsurprising breaking point. Negative sentiment toward social media has been building for years, and now it’s finally boiled over,” said Mike Proulx, a director at Forrester, a market research company. (4 minute read - [How the landmark verdict against Meta and YouTube could hit their businesses](https://www.aol.com/finance/landmark-verdict-against-meta-youtube-100000070.html))
**The meeting is free to attend, but please buy a drink or two at our patron's place, to make them happy.**
Filozofická kavárna (Café Philo): přemýšlet a diskutovat
Filozofování o životě a o všem ostatním pro všechny, bez vstupného a bez přihlášky:
Co si přejete, s čím si lámete hlavu, co Vás nenechá spát, o čem dumáte, o čem sníte, co Vám vrtá hlavou, čeho se bojíte, na co vzpomínáte, o čem přemýšlíte? Nenechte tyto věci jen pro sebe, zkuste rozhovor s jinými lidmi. U nás nejde jen o to, si popovídat, o to taky, ale to máte i jinde. U našeho stolu se pokusíme, spolu *filozofovat*. Nejdříve se dohodneme, jaké téma budeme diskutovat, a pak se do toho pustíme, budeme přemýšlet, rozmýšlet, promýšlet a zamýšlet se, až se nám z toho bude točit hlava, přitom nám budou podporou filozofové všech věků, abychom jí neztratili, tu hlavu. Ani byste nevěřili, jak filozofie může být osvěžující…
Sunday Reading Circle: Spiritual Practices Pt. 1
It's easy to get the idea that philosophy is largely an abstract and conceptual endeavor–studying theories that try to explain the universe, morality, or language, and then arguing until we either prove those we disagree with wrong or at least reach a smug sense of clarity. But is that all that philosophy has to offer?
Back by popular demand, this month we'll be diving deeper into the reflections of **Pierre Hadot** by beginning his essay **Spiritual Exercises**. In this essay, Hadot argues that **ancient philosophers didn't just theorize about what a good life might be, but practiced it through disciplines of attention, meditation, and self-examination aimed at transforming how one sees and lives in the world**. The essay invites us to ask **whether philosophy might still serve that purpose today**.
Hadot specialized in **ancient Greek and Roman philosophy--especially Stoicism, Neoplatonism, and early Christian thought**–as was known for his scholarship on **Marcus Aurelius, Plotinus, and ancient spiritual exercises**. His work has influenced many contemporary philosophers, classicists, and the modern revival of philosophy as a lived practice.
As noted in the title, this will be the first of two sessions. We're splitting the text into two parts in order to give everyone a chance to fit the text into their busy lives, as well as to give us space to move more slowly through the text together.
\*\*\*
Below is a PDF copy of Hadot's book Philosophy as a Way of Life. This session will cover up to p.93 (ending at 3. Learning to Die). If you have trouble accessing it, send the host a message–extra copies are available.
Link:
[https://ia800203.us.archive.org/7/items/PierreHadotArnoldDavidsonPhilosophyAsAWayOfLifeSpiritualExercisesFromSocratesToFoucault1995/Pierre%20Hadot%2C%20Arnold%20Davidson%20Philosophy%20as%20a%20Way%20of%20Life%20Spiritual%20Exercises%20from%20Socrates%20to%20Foucault%20%201995.pdf](https://ia800203.us.archive.org/7/items/PierreHadotArnoldDavidsonPhilosophyAsAWayOfLifeSpiritualExercisesFromSocratesToFoucault1995/Pierre%20Hadot%2C%20Arnold%20Davidson%20Philosophy%20as%20a%20Way%20of%20Life%20Spiritual%20Exercises%20from%20Socrates%20to%20Foucault%20%201995.pdf)
\*\*\*
We’ll have tea and light snacks, but please feel free to bring any drink or snack you’d like to share!
This event will be hosted in an apartment with a well-trained dog who will be happy to meet you. If anyone has concerns about dogs, let me know so I can be mindful about keeping her from bothering you.
The buzzer is Everett and Mainous—we’re on the 5th floor, apartment 16.
Meeting structure: We will start with a brief summary of the key ideas Hadot presents then move to open discussion. Please read the text in advance, make highlights, and note any thoughts or questions you find interesting and compelling.
Gisèle Pelicot & Her Memoir, Hymn to Life
This time, we will meet to discuss the unbelievable story of Gisèle Pelicot after reading her recent memoir, Hymn to Life.
We will meet, as always, on the last Sunday of the month, this time at The Globe Café, for an interesting discussion from a feminist perspective.
5 Minute University
Are you interested in a lot of things but just a little at a time?
Then come to the 5 Minute University!
Each talk lasts only 5 minutes followed by 1-2 questions and you'll have the chance to talk to the speakers and other listeners before and after the event - it's a great place to make some friends and find good conversation!
Here's the current line up:
1.Jamin Tuma - "What happens if you ask yourself 500 pages worth of questions?"
2.Martin Popop - "How to Drink Without Getting a Hangover"
3.Steven Rasovsky - "The Power of Breath"
4.JT Ostdeik - "What is Philosophy?"
5.Tom Thumb - "The Art of Storytelling"
6.Mauro Pellegrini - Everything I know about the contemporary art scene in Prague
8.Maria - It takes two to tango
9.Trang - Why are there so many potraviny in Prague?
10.Vita - TBD
11.Bara - TBD
This event is solo-friendly, there will be plenty of things to talk about. So join alone or bring a friend, everyone is welcome.
It's a free event and so be sure to support our hosts, Dorado Coffee, by buying drinks.
Hablamos español!
Hola tod@s! Tenemos otra reunion este viernes en Pivni Bar Blanička! Sois muy bienvenidos!
Let's Play Badminton! - At 12!
Let's play badminton at Sports Centre Olšanka. We'll meet at 10.40 and play for 60 minutes.
If you have a Multisport card please bring it along, as it will make the court free for you and also reduce the cost for others. If you don't have a Multisport card the game will cost you a maximum of 150 crowns, probably much less. I will cover the cost of the court so please bring cash to pay me.
There is a small organisation fee of 20 crowns for all players to participate in this event. Racquets can be rented for 50 crowns.
Discussion & Debate Events Near You
Connect with your local Discussion & Debate community
City Lights (1931)
"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
COUNT Discussion Meeting: Topic: Current Events
We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another.
Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us.
Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.
Franklinton Arts District Second Fridays Meet @ One Line Coffee, 471 W. Rich St.
Let’s meet, wander the exhibits and open galleries, and enjoy an evening out in the Franklinton Arts District.
(Nearby pay parking is available in the garage on McDowell, right around the corner from One Line Coffee, and, past it along the curb as McDowell dead ends.)
Afternoon Coffee Break!
(craft and chit chat included)🤣☕️🤗
**Let’s catch up and take an afternoon break.**
**Grab a coffee or snack and let’s chit chat! Gayle and I will bring adult coloring books and/or a simple craft if you’d like to unwind and relax.😊**
Kind Exchange: Vegan Book & Plant Swap
[The Kind Exchange](https://www.facebook.com/events/3087825058070662/)
A gathering to share, swap, and connect with like-minded people who care about plant-based living, sustainability, and mindful choices.
This is more than a swap — it’s a space to circulate what we already have and meet others in the community.
Bring any of the following to share:
* **Vegan-related books** (cookbooks, sustainability, mindful living, etc.)
* **Plants or cuttings** (optional)
Swap for something new-to-you from others. *The more you bring, the more there is to exchange!*
Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly- [https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073](https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVGxJeFRub0FQNmhUcmF3VnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4u9YhVWcSkITKfEn_NajeEUIyxFrXbcaG0HjFHoQn-MCxKlhGlUpFAnsMIzw_aem_vo9QISntFpTtGskmWaVEkQ)
Unclaimed books/plants at the end of the event will be donated.
ASH UU Topic: TBD
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!






















