Classic Books

This month we’ll be reading Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb. Feel free to come even if you don’t finish the book!

Walk for Children - 2026 Save Soil Walkathon in Columbus 🌍 Over 52% of the world soil is degraded and scientists warn we may have only a few decades of fertile soil left. As Sadhguru shares, soil is a living system—and when it degrades, our food, health, and future are at risk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyT-6qiubd0 🚶‍♂️🌎This Earth Day, Join the Walk for Children-2026 SaveSoil 5K Walkathon here in Columbus and help raise awareness about soil for the future of our children! Every step you take helps: ✔️ 1. Raise awareness in your communities about protecting and restoring soil. ✔️ 2. Supports sustainable food systems. ✔️ 3. Helps secure our children’s future. 📅 Date: April 26, 2026 📍 Location: Scioto Audubon Metro Park Check-in address 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. check-in event starts at 9:30 a.m. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-for-children-2026-save-soil-walkathon-in-columbus-registration-1986596534713?aff=oddtdtcreator 👉🏼Free and Open to All. Share this message and bring your neighbours, friends & family along to celebrate our planet! Let’s make it happen!

"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

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

This event is 2:30 - 4 pm Sunday. Conversation tends toward intermediate/advanced, but everybody is welcome. If you come and don't see us right away, keep looking. We could be anywhere in the restaurant.

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

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

**✨ Virtual Speed Dating – Cincinnati Singles, Curated by Personality** The point of this online speed dating event is not just the content. It is the room, the host, and the feeling that people are joining something they can return to. We pair you by personality and age so every conversation feels natural. 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. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - ⚡ **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - 💡 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - ✨ **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - Singles in Cincinnati who want to meet people from home - 🔥 Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting 🔄 **What to expect** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Cincinnati singles. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Meet your matches** – Cycle through short chats with compatible Cincinnati singles. 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. ⭐ *"I was nervous but the host made it effortless. Met someone wonderful first try."* – Cincinnati single --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. ✨ ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The community matters as much as the session itself The long-term goal is a room people want to come back to, not a one-off event people forget about.

**✨ Speed Dating on Zoom – Personality Matched for Toledo Locals** For this online speed dating version, the host and the people in the room matter as much as the agenda. The experience is designed to feel guided, welcoming, and social. Ditch the apps. Meet Toledo singles face-to-face on Zoom tonight. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Toledo singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses — just natural conversation. **Find your age group below:** - 🎉 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - 🚀 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - ⚡ **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- ✅ **You will like this if:** - 🚀 Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - People re-entering the dating scene after a break ⭐ *"So much better than apps. Actual conversations with real people."* – Toledo attendee **How the event unfolds** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Toledo locals. 📌 **What to know** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - 🎉 **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable – no venue, no travel - ✨ **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed 💡 **Tip:** Just be yourself. That's always the best approach. --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. � ✨ Short-form version for faster scanning. Built for clarity over length. 🤝 **Community angle** - The host keeps the pace clear and the room welcoming - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly It is meant to feel like the start of ongoing relationships, not just a single session on the calendar.

**✨ Virtual Speed Dating – Toledo Singles, Curated by Personality** This online speed dating format leans into the human side: strong hosting, repeat attendees, and a sense that the event is part of a growing community. A hosted online speed dating experience for Toledo locals. You'll cycle through short one-on-one video chats with Toledo locals matched to you by age and personality. A host keeps the evening flowing smoothly. **Find your age group below:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - 🚀 Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - 🚀 Singles in Toledo who want to meet people from home 🛠 **What the flow looks like** 1. **Sign up** – Tap the link for your age range above. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Toledo singles. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Chat** – Quick timed rounds with Toledo singles paired to you. 🗂 **Quick details** - **Format:** Live on Zoom – guided rounds from your home - **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Toledo locals tonight. 💘 ✨ Compressed version with the essentials only. Concise by design so people can decide quickly. 🤝 **Community angle** - The host keeps the pace clear and the room welcoming - The community matters as much as the session itself - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly We are building this around repeat faces, good energy, and a community that grows event by event.

**✨ Columbus Virtual Speed Dating – Hosted, Curated & on Zoom** This online speed dating event is built around a host who sets the tone, keeps things easy, and helps people feel comfortable from the first minute. Genuine conversations with real locals — all from your living room. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Columbus singles in guided one-on-one rounds. Matches shared afterwards. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- ✅ **You will like this if:** - First-timers new to speed dating - Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings - 🎉 Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – hosted and well-structured - 💡 **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable – no venue, no travel - **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed 🛠 **What the flow looks like** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 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. 4. **Meet your matches** – Cycle through short chats with compatible Columbus singles. 💡 **Tip:** Good lighting and a clean background make a big difference. **Frequently Asked Questions** **Is my info private?** Absolutely. Contact details are only exchanged on mutual match. **What's the personality quiz for?** --- ✨ Real people, real conversations — all from your home. 💕 ✨ Compressed version with the essentials only. Built for clarity over length. 🤝 **Community angle** - The host keeps the pace clear and the room welcoming - The community matters as much as the session itself - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum We are building this around repeat faces, good energy, and a community that grows event by event.

**✨ Cleveland Speed Dating – Personality Matched & Hosted on Zoom** This online speed dating event is built around a host who sets the tone, keeps things easy, and helps people feel comfortable from the first minute. Speed dating from home — connect with real Cleveland singles on Zoom. We match you with compatible Cleveland locals using a quick personality quiz. You'll chat one-on-one on Zoom in short timed rounds while a host guides the session. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - 💡 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - 🚀 **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ 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. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting - ⚡ Singles in Cleveland who want to meet people from home - 🎯 People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation 🧭 **How the session runs** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Chat** – Quick timed rounds with Cleveland singles paired to you. 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What happens after?** Mutual matches are sent out after the event. **Do I need experience?** **What if I'm shy?** --- ✨ Meet Cleveland singles from home. Sign up and we'll take care of the rest. 💝 ✨ Quick version: this one gets straight to the point. Concise by design so people can decide quickly. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The community matters as much as the session itself We are building this around repeat faces, good energy, and a community that grows event by event.

**🥰 Online Speed Dating via Zoom – Connect with Columbus Singles Tonight!** This online speed dating format leans into the human side: strong hosting, repeat attendees, and a sense that the event is part of a growing community. A straightforward, fun way to meet local singles without stepping out. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Columbus singles in guided one-on-one rounds. Matches shared afterwards. **Choose your age range to register:** - 🔥 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ 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. --- ✅ **You will like this if:** - First-timers new to speed dating - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - Columbus locals after personality-matched dates 🛠 **What the flow looks like** 1. **Sign up** – Tap the link for your age range above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Chat** – Quick timed rounds with Columbus singles paired to you. 📌 **What to know** - ⚡ **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - ✨ **Host:** Experienced host steering the session **Frequently Asked Questions** **Do I need experience?** Not at all. The host walks you through everything. **Is my info private?** **What's the personality quiz for?** **How long are the chats?** --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. ✨ ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Fast to read, easy to act on. 🤝 **Community angle** - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The community matters as much as the session itself - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

We're meeting at 5pm local to read from and discuss Normal People by Sally Rooney. Read what you can beforehand and bring your thoughts, favorite moments, and questions. New members are very welcome.

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Let’s meet and share our thoughts about Carson McCullers’ novella, The Ballad of The Sad Café.

Posting this early because seemingly all Sundays in May are holidays or busy! I picked a shorter thriller that's hopefully a fast read/listen. [Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3458940) Location: Grandview Cafe, *1455 W. 3rd Ave*, Columbus, OH 43212 [Menu](https://www.grandviewcafe.com/menu) Book summary: Daniel leads a rich life in the university town of Athens, Georgia. He's got a couple close friends, a steady paycheck working for a regional airline, and of course, for a few glorious days each Fall, college football tailgates. He considers himself to be a mostly lucky guy -- despite the fact that he's suffered from a debilitating disease since he was a small child, one that has left him unable to speak or to move without a wheelchair. Largely confined to his home, Daniel spends the hours he's not online communicating with irate air travelers observing his neighborhood from his front porch. One young woman passes by so frequently that spotting her out the window has almost become part of his daily routine. Until the day he's almost sure he sees her being kidnapped.

**Our May novel is: *The Quiet Librarian* by Allen Eskens** **This month’s book is set in the 20th century and mixes historical fiction with suspense and thriller elements. It also centers on women’s stories and relationships. The novel is 368 pages in print or 8 hours and 12 minutes on audiobook.** Hana Babic is a quiet, middle-aged librarian in Minnesota who wants nothing more than to be left alone. But when a detective arrives with the news that her best friend has been murdered, Hana knows that something evil has come for her, a dark remnant of the past she and her friend had shared. Thirty years before, Hana was someone else: Nura Divjak, a teenager growing up in the mountains of war-torn Bosnia—until Serbian soldiers arrived to slaughter her entire family before her eyes. The events of that day thrust Nura into the war, leading her to join a band of militia fighters, where she became not only a fierce warrior but a legend—the deadly Night Mora. But a shattering final act forced Nura to flee to the United States with a bounty on her head\*\*.\*\*