Shakespeare

Should you be around over the December holidays--we can fit in ONE last outing! A 60th anniversary screening of this documentary. Ticket link is below. $10-$15 per ticket This Genie Award–winning documentary follows a **30-year-old Leonard Cohen on a visit to his hometown of Montreal**. Before he was the celebrated musician, Cohen was a poet and a novelist. This NFB documentary casually observes Cohen in his daily routine: he bathes, he gets a haircut, he delivers a reading before an audience. As he goes about his day, a portrait emerges of a thoughtful, perceptive and soulful man. (This documentary is 45 mins) *Screening with:* **Poen \|** D: Josef Reeve \| Canada \| 1967 \| 4 min Leonard Cohen delivers four different readings of a poem from his book *Beautiful Losers*. Each time it is a little different, and each time the accompanying visuals evoke new responses. **Poets on Film No. 1** \| D: Bozenna Heczko\, Elizabeth Lewis\, Gayle Thomas & Janet Perlman \| Canada \| 1977 \| 8 min This short film brings together animated interpretations of four poems by Canadian writers: *Riverdale Lion* by John Robert Colombo, *A Kite Is a Victim* by Leonard Cohen, *Klaxon* by James Reaney and George Johnston’s *The Bulge*. **Ticket link here:** (tickets have just gone on-sale) Don't sit so close--say row G and behind.. https://hotdocs.ca/whats-on/films/mr-leonard-cohen A nice way to end the year... Hot Docs in Toronto with Leonard Cohen in Montreal

SPACE IS LIMITED! This is a much smaller event than our 7:30 pm event and we can only accept a very limited number of students. Key areas of focus: Practicing spoken English, for conversations, presentations, interviews and job skills Schedule: 1. 6:30 pm - 7:15 : 45-minute English and ESL class with certified award-winning language teacher John Dias 2. 15 minute Break (7:15-7:30 pm) 3. Optional language social (7:30-11 pm): includes Free access to the BIGGEST Language Party and Social Party also in the Madison Pub led by teacher John Dias (same location) Cost: just $ 5 while we have this promo. **PROMO (Limited Time): $5 fee will give you access to both events (usual rate: $15 total)** Feel free to message us if you have any questions!

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other’s work. **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) . Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

This is a FREE Event. Coffee not provided, we may go for a coffee or bite after the event based on the interest. Completely optional. In the event you come late or are unable to locate the host - don't panic just start skating. I am sure we will catchup at some point. I (Jay, the host) will most probably be in a blue hoodie or if I get some lights I will wear those on. **This Event is good for someone who wants to:** * **Make New Friends**: Celebrate the holidays, Connect, friendship, meet people, build relationships, community, bond, network, camaraderie, social circle, companionship. * **New in Town**: Relocate, newcomer, settle in, explore, local vibes, get acquainted, fresh start, new beginnings, discover, integrate. * **Socialize**: Hang out, mingle, chat, gather, interact, catch up, engage, party, socialize, group fun meetups and events, group activities, icebreakers, welcoming, fun, conversation, collaboration, shared interests, outgoing. 📍 **Celebration Square Ice Skating Rink** — the outdoor ice skating rink at **Mississauga Celebration Square** is located at: **🎯 Address:** **300 City Centre Drive** Mississauga, ON L5B 3C9, Canada [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 📌 **Location details:** * In the heart of **downtown Mississauga**, right by **Mississauga City Hall** and the **Central Library**. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * At the intersection of **Burnhamthorpe Road West** and **Duke of York Boulevard** — a short walk from **Square One Shopping Centre** and the City Centre Transit Terminal. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/venue-info/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Open daily (weather permitting) for public skating, typically **10 AM – 10 PM** during the winter season. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/venue-info/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) ## 🅿️ **Best Free Parking Options** ### ✅ **Mississauga Civic Centre Underground Parking Lot** 4.2•Parking garage•Open * **Free on weekends** (like Saturday, Dec 27). * Usually applies from early morning until the garages close (typical hours are \~8 AM–10 PM on weekends). * Very close walk to the skating rink and Celebration Square. * This is often the **easiest free parking spot for rink visits** without any cost. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/MCS_Guidelines_2023.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com) *** ## 🅿️ **Other Nearby Parking to Consider** These **aren’t officially free all day**, but often end up being *free/cheap depending on timing*: ### 🅿️ **Celebration Square Underground Parking** 4.7•Tourist attraction * Large underground garage right under/near the square. * On weekends, municipal garages typically **don’t charge** — but signage or events sometimes change rules, so confirm on arrival. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/MCS_Guidelines_2023.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com) ### 🅿️ **100 City Centre Dr Garage** 4.2•Parking lot•Open * A short walk from Celebration Square. * Paid most of the time, but some spots might be free after certain hours or on weekends (check posted signs). [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/services-and-programs/transportation-and-streets/parking/paid-parking/parking-garages/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) ### 🅿️ **Square One parking lot** (Not Officially for Square) 4.4•Public parking space * **Large free mall parking** that many people use as a cheap option before walking to the rink. * Officially it’s for mall shoppers — *stay mindful of rules/signs*, as security does sometimes patrol. **DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH BUT:** ### ⛸️ **Skate Rentals May Be Available On Site** 👉 **Skate rentals and sharpening services** are available directly at the rink — great if you **don’t own skates** or just want to try skating without buying equipment. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/venue-info/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) **Typical Rental Details:** * 🕐 **Weekends (like Dec 27):** \~**10 AM to 10 PM** for skate rentals and skate sharpening. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/venue-info/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * 🕐 **Weekdays:** \~**4 PM to 10 PM**. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/venue-info/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) **Rental Fees (approximate, based on recent seasons):** * Children (12 & under): \~$10 * Adult skates: \~$15 * Helmet rental: \~$5 * Skate sharpening: \~$10 * Skate aid (for beginners): \~$10 (These are typical fees — subject to change each season.) [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/locations/celebration-square/venue-info/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) ### 📍 **Where Rentals Are** The skate rental booth/shed is set up near the rink on the Square — just ask staff when you arrive and they’ll help you choose and size the skates. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/city-of-mississauga-news/news/make-the-most-of-winter-weather-enjoy-ice-skating-tobogganing-and-trails-in-mississauga/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) ### 🧠 Notes * You **don’t need to bring your own skates** unless you want to. * Bring a **photo ID** when renting (often required as a deposit). [reddit.com](https://www.reddit.com//r/mississauga/comments/1p8g1fu/celebration_square_skate_rentals/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Arrive earlier in the day if possible — weekends and holiday afternoons can get busy. [City of Mississauga](https://www.mississauga.ca/city-of-mississauga-news/news/make-the-most-of-winter-weather-enjoy-ice-skating-tobogganing-and-trails-in-mississauga/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Would you like the **exact rental hours for *Dec. 27*** (in case they change for holidays)? I can check that too!

***Join us for THE MID-CENTURY MODERNES Matinee at The Duke, 2–5 PM! They'll be receiving your donations of coats, any type of clothing, housewares, or gift cards to support those in need. Sponsored by Abuse Hurts.*** ***There is also a cover charge of just $10 for the band. We've enjoyed the Mid-Century Modernes in the past and they're well worth it.*** ***I (Alex) won't be hosting like I have in the past. Instead I'll be hanging out with everyone.*** ***Hoping to see some old friends as well as new ones. For those who don't know me I'll be wearing a bright orange Giants jersey. Just seek me out!*** ***Come out and dance and enjoy great live classic rock while donating to a great cause!!*** ***Please make your own reservations closer to the 27th.*** ***We will have individual cheques.*** ***HOPING TO SEE YOU ALL DECEMBER 27TH @ THE DUKE!!***

Instagram: https://instagram.com/shoshinsha.japanese Come and practice Shodo, the art of Japanese calligraphy! This workshop is lead by our very own Misaki, an award-winning calligrapher who has hosted many workshops in Japan. We'll provide everything you need to get started including brush pens and paper. **This time we will be making New Years greeting cards, called Nengajo. Make your own card to keep or to send to someone!** Location: CSI Spadina, located at 192 Spadina Ave. The closest intersection is Spadina & Dundas or Spadina & Queen. When you arrive at the building, the door will be locked but we will let you in. If you have any questions or concerns, please comment or DM us on here or on Instagram! Participation Fee: $15 per person, we take cash or card (credit/debit) at the event. **Note:** Due to a recent number of no-shows at our events, we will be asking participants to pay the fee ahead of time in order to secure their spot. We will share the e-transfer address in the comments. If you are not able to pay by e-transfer, please contact us for alternative means. Thanks and hope to see you there! \* このイベントはカナダ人向けなんですが日本人の方も歓迎です！カナダ人に日本の文化を教えましょう～参加費は５ドルで飲み物（お茶やコーヒー）を用意します。

🎶 **Seasons of Love on the Big Screen!** 🎶 **Saturday\, December 27 \| RENT at Imagine Cinema Carlton** Join us for a high-energy, feel-every-note **musical movie meetup** as we head to Imagine Cinema Carlton to watch the iconic film **RENT** — a story about friendship, love, art, and living boldly in the moment. Big songs, big emotions, and an unbeatable price make this the perfect weekend plan. *** ### 🎬 About the Movie: *RENT* Based on the groundbreaking Broadway musical, *RENT* follows a close-knit group of friends and artists navigating life, love, and loss in New York City’s East Village. With unforgettable songs like *Seasons of Love*, *La Vie Bohème*, and *Take Me or Leave Me*, it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and choosing love over fear. ⏱ **Runtime:** approximately **2 hours 15 minutes (135 minutes)** 🎥 **Watch the trailer:** [https://youtu.be/KGciEYSshrQ?si=98A7lFSuMdvu2hi7](https://youtu.be/KGciEYSshrQ?si=98A7lFSuMdvu2hi7) *** ### 🕒 Meetup Details * **Meet:** **12:15 PM** * **Where:** Outside **Auditorium #6** at Imagine Cinema Carlton * 🎟️ Nick will be there holding a **Meetup sign** * **Movie starts:** **12:30 PM sharp** *** ### 💸 The Best Part? The Price! 🎉 **Tickets are ONLY $5.99** 🎉 Yes, really — an amazing deal for a full musical film experience on the big screen. This location is general, not assigned, seating *** Whether you’re a longtime RENT fan or seeing it for the first time, come sing (quietly 😄), feel, and celebrate the music together. 🎶✨ Let’s measure our lives in love — see you there! Remember you can just show up if unsure of your schedule

Start the new year by meeting like-minded ladies and gents! Join us for a relaxed Fast Friending evening where connecting feels natural and fun. Share the festive spirit, make new friends, and step into 2026 with fresh energy and meaningful new connections. 🎉❄ **Book tickets now & save money -** [https://toro27thdec.eventbrite.co.uk](https://toro27thdec.eventbrite.co.uk) \*You can use any debit or credit card to purchase your ticket at PayPal checkout. It will ask you for your email address but that is only to send you a receipt. You do not need a PayPal account. EVENT COST: Early Bird - CAD$ 10 per person Regular Ticket - CAD$ 15 per person Cash at meetup - If you have not purchased your ticket in advance then you can pay CAD$ 20 cash when you meet Susi at the venue. Whether you're looking to expand your social circle, settle into a new city, or just enjoy great conversations, this event creates the perfect setting for effortless and enjoyable networking. Expect a lively, welcoming atmosphere where friendships can spark in minutes! **Our venue for the evening** \- Stout Irish Pub is spacious\, has comfortable seating and not very noisy\. We have a reserved area where our members can meet each other in a supportive environment\. **Here's how your evening is planned -** \- We will meet at 7\.00 pm when you will be welcomed by your host Susi\. She will manage the evening and also help you make connections\. If you are a bit shy or anxious then please come early. Susi will help you meet other members in a small group and help you settle down and get comfortable. All attendees are also welcome to bring a lady friend along with them for free. This will make it a lot less stressful for you as you will always have your friend alongside. \- From 7\.30 to 8\.30 pm\, we will start 'Fast Friending' where our host will ask you to speak to a different attendee every 3 minutes\. You will be able to meet lots of ladies and gentlemen and not be limited to only those sitting or standing next you\. \- After 8\.30 pm you will have time to interact with those you have met as well as others\. \- We are not a close knit tight group\. Our evenings are warm and comfortable for members attending for the first time and those coming alone\. You will not feel alone\! \- We have many groups in this city\. Members of our other groups who RSVP are included as guests of the organisers in order to give you an indication of expected people\. \- This evening is for ladies and gents in the 25 to 40 age group\. While some will be at the younger end of this range there will also be others at the other end of the range and lots in\-between\! You will naturally gel with others of your own age range and so you will always find many attendees who fit your range\. \- We are not a 'dating' group\. We are focused on helping ladies and gents meet other like minded ladies and gents\. You will generally find a good gender balance \(maybe not perfect\) at all our events\. **Why do we have tickets?** 1. Cover our costs - Our host is compensated for their time and work. We also pay meetup and have dedicated staff to manage our events, hosts, venues and communication. 2. Group Safety - By securing your ticket we have a record and you contribute to a well organized evening where everyone is more committed and better behaved. 3. Management - Tickets help us better manage attendee group size, book suitable space and activity. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ABOUT [fastfriends.co.uk ](https://fastfriends.co.uk/)- We have connected members successfully for the past 10 years in over 30 cities (operating as Expatsclub, MeetConnectDevelop and fastfriends.co.uk). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- You can contact our founder Dan on +447715705005 with any questions or ideas. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Here are some videos which will give you some guidance and comfort to make your attendance more productive.** Secrets for socialising at our meetups - [https://bit.ly/44ZdVwx](https://bit.ly/44ZdVwx) Making new friends -[ https://bit.ly/455TsWY](https://bit.ly/455TsWY) How to make people like you instantly - [https://bit.ly/3Vj5PeT](https://bit.ly/3Vj5PeT) Members review - [https://bit.ly/3yHfu6d](https://bit.ly/3yHfu6d)

Learn to meditate with a certified Heartfulness trainer. Experience yogic transmission, a subtle energy that helps practitioners to attain deeper states of meditation. Heartfulness Canada hosts group meditation sessions and learn to meditate every Sunday at this downtown location. All backgrounds welcome. There is never any charge for Heartfulness. The venue is a dance studio located on the second floor. **Enter the door at 527 Bloor St West (directly under the Dance Annex sign) and proceed up the stairs**. Come and meditate with a group of friendly meditation practitioners. There is free street parking on Sundays and the location is also close to both Bathurst and Spadina subway stations.

Hello everyone, I'd like to invite you out for a fantastic Sunday afternoon with **Name That Tune.** A great way to make lots of new friends, share some laughs and enjoy all the best music that we love. \*We will be joining my other social groups too, so we can look forward to a great turn out and great afternoon **Date:** Sunday November December 28th **Time** 4:00-6:30 pm **La Carnita - (Main Floor)** **Address:** 130 Eglinton Ave. Toronto, ON M4P 2X9 Free Parking on Eglinton on Sundays on North side of street :) See below for event details: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer & DJ) Event Details: **NAME THAT TUNE** **(Music, Treats and Memories) (Sunday December 28th)** -Everyone can play, all ages welcome! -Teams will be formed in groups of 4-6 people -New teams for each round will be formed so that we can all meet lots of new people -Treats handed out to winning teams -Lots of fun and laughter in store for all who come out (Songs will include the various decades, past and present so everyone will have a chance to contribute and have a great time) **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (Cash only please at the door) (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\- **Friendly Reminders:** -Please arrive between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m. \*Name That Tune will start shortly after that (Invite your friends out too if you l \*Plan to have dinner here if you like as the food is great! \*Dinner Party after event at no extra charge as well :) \-\-\- **Dinner & Beverage Menu available too** \*Includes reserved seating for the group \*Beverage and/or appetizer minimum to support the staff and venue \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Parking Available:** \*Plenty of free street parking on Eglinton and (Residential area south/east of venue for free) **Close to Subway Station:** \*Also just a three minute walk east from the Yonge/Eglinton subway station \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

### 🎲 Board Game Afternoon at SNAKES & LATTES 🍂 Join us for a cozy **afternoon of fun, laughter, and friendly competition** (or non-competition, if that’s more your style)! This is the perfect way to unwind, meet other members, and try out a few new games — no experience needed! We’ll teach you how to play. 🕐 **Meetup Time & Spot:** 1:00 PM — I’ll be waiting **outside Snakes & Lattes** wearing my famous **Moose Hat** for 5 minutes before we head in. 🎯 **Game Time:** 1:15 PM sharp! Please be on time — some games can take an hour or more to play, and if you arrive late, you might have to wait until the next round. 🕔 **End Time:** Around 4:00 PM (you can leave whenever you like). 💵 **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person or e-transfer 📲 to **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com...**.**If you have never been to event before and I have not met you, you must send the Meetup fee before signing up.** 🎟️ **Game Admission:** Entry to Snakes & Lattes is **$20**, which includes **UNLIMITED non-alcoholic drinks** to keep you refreshed. 🍸 **Bonus:** Order any alcoholic drink and get **$10 OFF** your Game Admission! 📅 **Note:** Sometimes things happen and I might have to cancel — please keep an eye out for updates. 📱 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t)**!]** Mathew is the organizer for this meetup. If you need to contact him, please post a message on the wall or email **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**

**#Note: As of Aug 17, 2025,** **we will be moving to Yonge Sheppard Centre** due to the closing of our prior venue Whole Foods. Please read the new location details. **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near Jimmy the Greek. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

The topic for January is "Chemistry" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 7:00 pm, show starts at 7:30 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

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 Sunday 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 noon on Sundays. 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: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. 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. 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 Sunday!

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

We're collaborating with Westerville Queer Collective to gather supplies and pack care packages. Head over to their event page to [register](https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-wroejsfn/events/312453970/) officially. We’ll be assembling care packages with food, warm weather supplies, recreational items like books, and resource guides for local unhoused folks. Packages will then be delivered to HEER2SERVE, local nonprofit that has weekly “serves”, when they go out into local encampment areas and deliver needed items and food. Our care packages will be a part of that. WQC will supply containers and food items for the care packages. So this time we are primarily focusing on gathering donations for keeping warm, including up to 50 of the following items: Clean or new socks, hats, scarves and gloves Handwarmers Sanitizing wipes Lighters You are welcome to contribute items or just come and help pack. Leave a comment if you are bringing donations. We can also accept money donations through WQC.

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!