Sherlock Holmes

CHERRY BLOSSOM, BLACKHEATH VILLAGE, PARKLAND, LAKE, followed by SOCIALISING with CHEAP FOOD and DRINKS in a convivial pub atmosphere. **WALK START POINT: LEWISHAM Station** (DLR and National Rail). Look for Ken with the Kens Events/Meetup Flag/Badge outside the station. The fastest way to get to Lewisham is to use British Rail from/via London Bridge (8 mins). WALK ROUTE: Blackheath to Greenwich Park (Cherry Blossom). WALK DISTANCE: Approx 4.5 miles. WALK END POINT: Cutty Sark Station. WALK STOP OUT POINT: We cross several London bus routes. BREATHE FRESH AIR: Give up the city streets for a day and improve your overall fitness levels on a green walk. Explore and enjoy London's abundant and sometimes secret green spaces, forest areas and surprising surrounding countryside. Meet new people and make some new friends. Walking is a great social activity. Visit parts of London, unknown to most people, that you would not otherwise have a reason to see. Afterwards there will be an option to head off to a local bar for something to eat/drink to continue the socialising. When you arrive at the starting point look for the Ken with the red and white Meetup Badge **Cost of Event £5 :** To allow for maximum flexibility for attendees, this event is free to RSVP. The £5 fee is only payable on attendance at the start of the walk. Attendees who show the Ken's Events Membership card can attend for free. Please note that it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. RISKS: Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. In these walks we use; pavements, and cross busy roads. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No dogs on this walk or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. Please note that this is a joint event with [Ken's Green Walks Meetup ](http://www.meetup.com/kens-green-walks/events/)Group. All Ken's Events and Walks are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Kens Events also has a Facebook Group that you can join and post your photos of the event . [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Kensevents](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) RAIN POLICY: Our walks normally go ahead as planned even if it rains. Light rain is not usually a problem . However if torrentail rain is forecast, please check back to this webpage on the afternoon of the event around 4pm for the latest update.

All are welcome on this walk which is presented by Central London Humanists. Humanists believe we have just one life to be lived rationally and well with compassion for others. This event is a guided walk of +/-2 hours pointing out places of interest. We will be walking 3 Km / 1.8 miles. Maida Vale’s name is derived from Italy. However we will come across buildings relating to Wales, Indonesia, Spain and Portugal. Whilst Maida Vale is often overlooked, many famous people have made it their home because of its tree-lined avenues and attractive housing. Amongst other discoveries we’ll try to spot an eruv (no – I hadn’t heard this word before), a former roller skating palace visited by top music artists and a plaque to someone “who lived in a relatively modest way”. **Date:** Saturday 11th April 2026 **Time:** 2 pm with a prompt departure at 2.15 pm. **Place:** Meet outside Maida Vale underground station (Bakerloo Line). It is strongly suggested you find us using: [https://what3words.com/afford.gold.tell](https://what3words.com/afford.gold.tell) \- or the What3Words app\. The nearest toilet is at Gail’s café opposite the underground station. **Finishes:** About 4.15 pm near Maida Vale underground station or join us for refreshments at The Elgin, 255 Elgin Avenue W9 1NJ. The walk is led by Robert – 07981963681. He can be contacted for further information but please note he won’t be able to respond to messages or calls after the walk has started. **The formal bit:** These walks are not suitable for dogs, sorry. CLH events are 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. You are responsible for your own actions and safety; there is no liability on the walk leader or CLH for anything that may happen on the walk. You must be able to keep up with the walk leader at 4 Km/h (2.5 mph) for 5 Km (3 miles). It is participants' responsibility to safely cross roads. Where appropriate, pedestrian controlled lights will be obeyed unless it is obvious that the whole group can cross safely. When the group stops at a point of interest, please be mindful not to block pavements so members of the public can pass by safely. Don’t forget this is the UK and it may rain at any time! The walk will go ahead whatever the weather unless conditions are dangerous so please bring clothing for all seasons. **A donation of £3 to Central London Humanists would be appreciated.** The majority of Central London Humanists events are free, but we welcome a £3 contribution per head. This helps towards the running and organising of events, as well as various admin expenses. If you can't attend and would still like to contribute, or would prefer to pay online, please **[click here](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML71XMH66FX5E/checkout/ALWCDLQ3S7AVPLFZ62PZGXLU)**[.](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML71XMH66FX5E/checkout/ALWCDLQ3S7AVPLFZ62PZGXLU) Anyone who is interested in Humanism and Central London Humanists may wish to consider becoming a member: * If you wish to register as a full member of CLH (no membership fee) please register on our website: [https://centrallondonhumanists.org.uk/signup](https://centrallondonhumanists.org.uk/signup) * If you wish to join Humanists UK and support its work to promote humanism in British life, please go to: [Humanists UK – Think for yourself, act for everyone](https://humanists.uk/) We encourage dialogue, debate, and sharing of information, but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any individual's views expressed (most definitely including the walk leader!) do not necessarily reflect the views of the group at large.

Join us for an evening of sophistication and charm at the illustrious Mandarin Oriental, five star hotel’s opulent bar, The Aubrey. This distinguished event has been thoughtfully curated for discerning singles like yourself – professionals who seek to mingle and connect with like-minded souls in an atmosphere of refinement. **[Tickets Available here](https://buytickets.at/cocktailsconversation/2064490)** 🗣️ Engaging Conversations: Prepare to be captivated by the allure of meaningful conversation. Engage with other eligible professionals, each embodying the essence of sophistication and grace. As the night unfolds, forge connections that transcend the ordinary, and embrace authentic encounters with London’s most eligible. 🎵 Melodies of the Night: From 9pm the DJ will set the stage for an unforgettable night of music and celebration. Let the melodies serenade your soul as you bask in the company of kindred spirits. **Schedule Of Events** Arrival Time: 8:00 PM onwards Welcome Drink Till 9pm Introductions and mingling till 10pm DJ & Dancing till 12am Dress Code: Cocktail Chic – Unleash your most sophisticated attire, embracing the allure of classic elegance. 🎫 Secure Your Place: This exclusive soirée has limited availability, so reserve your spot now to partake in an evening of mingling, connection, and delight. In the realm of The Aubrey, where style meets soul, join us for an extraordinary celebration of elegance and meaningful connections. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of The Aubrey’s five-star ambience, the taste of impeccable cocktails, and the enchantment of the night. **[Tickets Available here](https://buytickets.at/cocktailsconversation/2064490)**

**Cosmic Soul,** I am thrilled to extend a heartfelt invitation to you for an enchanting gong bath session at the serene and welcoming "andosteo" studio, nestled in the heart of Brockley. Just a short stroll from Brockley overground station, this wellness sanctuary features a delightful yoga studio, the perfect setting for our transformative gong bath. Imagine stepping into a tranquil space, laying down on a yoga mat, and allowing the soothing vibrations of the gong to wash over you. With an open heart and mind, you’ll be guided into a state of deep relaxation, as the powerful yet gentle sounds of the gong help you melt into the floor. The guided meditation at the very start of our session will be centered around the topic of New Beginnings. Spring is in full swing, the earth is re-awakening and we are dreaming about what the future may hold for us. The gong is a powerful instrument. Its rich tapestry of harmonics and hauntingly beautiful melodies can lower your brainwaves into a Theta state, promoting profound healing and inner peace. As the gong sings, you might experience vivid visuals, a deep sense of calm, or the emergence of long-forgotten emotions ready to be healed and integrated. There is no right or wrong way to feel during this experience. Each journey is unique and personal. Embrace whatever arises, knowing it’s part of your path to wellness and self-discovery. Space is limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience, so I encourage you to book your spot early to avoid disappointment. Don’t miss this opportunity to nourish your soul and reconnect with your inner stillness. Cost: £28 for 1 hour - I cover the Eventbrite booking fee. All my love, Theresa x ## IMPORTANT BITS AND BOBS: The studio will provide yoga mats and bolsters. Please bring your own blanket and pillow/eye pillow for extra comfort. A bottle of water is also recommended. Body temperature tends to drop during a gong bath, so please dress comfortably, in layers. **Please arrive 5 minutes before the session begins and avoid being late, as late-comers cannot be admitted.** ## CONTRAINDICATIONS: Please be advised that by booking your ticket to this event, you are also in agreement that the session is safe for you and that you take full responsibility for your own health & well-being. Please have a read through the following contraindications BEFORE booking your ticket: Gong baths are not recommended for pregnancies in the first trimester, individuals with pacemakers/metal implants, epilepsy, or any form of a serious mental health condition. By purchasing your ticket, you confirm that you have read and understood these conditions. **Your facilitator:** Theresa holds transformative spaces across London and is a highly intuitive and at times melodramatic triple water sign. She is a mother to two young girls and spends her time chasing fairies in the park or baking cupcakes. She trained in many disciplines but sound healing and in particular the gong captured her heart. She sends gratitude to her teachers of Tone of Life and Leo Cosendai. By booking your spot, you also agree to be added to Theresa's newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time.

**Address: 210-212 Southwark Park Road, London SE16 3RX** **Doors Open 12pm Event starts 12:30pm-5pm** **Player Capacity: 20 players** Welcome toour **Hololive TCG** Constructed Tournament. The event consists of 3 to 5 rounds of Swiss and prizing is distributed to players with a positive record. To participate in the event, alongside your **ticket purchase on [our website](https://www.thebrotherhoodgames.co.uk/hololive-events)**, you will be asked to register on the desk to be entered into the tournament. We will hand out a promo pack for entry to the tournament. If you are unfamiliar, please ask our member of staff upon arrival to the store where a member of staff will be happy to assist. If you haven't already, please join our Instagram, YouTube and Discord Server for news about upcoming events, announcements, and social interaction with your fellow players! *The Brotherhood Games Discord* https://discord.com/invite/SJaQXyeNXx

New and Experienced Players Welcome! 🤗 Ever played Werewolf, Mafia or Secret Hitler? Well this game is like that but on steroids! 😈😇 Ever watched The Traitors and wished you could have a turn? Well now you can! Suitable for complete beginners, experienced veterans and everyone in between, we Play **'Blood on the Clocktower'** a game where you never know who you can trust... A great way to meet new people in a fun interactive way, at a bar serving food and drinks Continue reading for a general description of the game: Blood on the Clocktower is a bluffing game enjoyed by 5 to 20 players on opposing teams of Good and Evil, overseen by an experienced Storyteller. During a 'day' phase players socialize openly and whisper privately to trade knowledge or spread lies, culminating in a player's execution if a majority suspects them of being Evil. At 'night' time, players close their eyes and some are woken one at a time by the Storyteller to gather information, spread mischief, or kill. Use all your powers of deduction and deception to survive this game of murder and mystery. The game will be fully explained at the event. However if you'd like to learn more now watch: https://youtu.be/M-aZP47Nm9g?feature=shared

Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.

Join us at the top of the biggest bookshop in Europe to work in company on your own writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing, work stuff or anything else. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. Now that our regular Saturday events are filling all the seats we're adding some Sundays when we're able to - check Meetup for dates. Same format but an hour later. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 12.00 - Shop and café open 12:30 - Host will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 12.40 - Brief introductions from everybody - your name and what you’re working on 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 13:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 14:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura, Anna, Solitaire and John

A chance just to work in company on your writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing or work stuff. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. WE FILL THE ROOM, so you MUST SIGN UP below AND ARRIVE BY 11.40 at the latest, or we can’t guarantee you a seat. And if you can't make it CHANGE YOUR RSVP to "not going" ASAP to give someone else a chance, thanks. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 11.00 - Café starts serving 11:30 - Host of the day will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 11.40 - Brief introductions for everybody - your name and what you’re working on 11:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 12:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura, Anna, John and Solitaire

Would you enjoy a relaxed evening with fellow Science Fiction and Fantasy fans? If so, we’d love to meet you. Our next gathering takes place on **Saturday 11th April from 6pm** at **The Mad Hatter**, just by Blackfriars Bridge. Drop in, say hello, and join us for a drink. We’re a long‑running group that’s been meeting since **1998**—long before meetup sites existed. Over the years we’ve hosted celebrity meet‑and‑greets, attended conventions together, run role‑playing games, organised cinema trips, LARPs, and plenty more. These pub meetups are all about socialising and connecting with other Sci‑Fi and Fantasy enthusiasts. To help break the ice, we’ll be running a fun **team quiz at 8.30pm**. There’s no fee to attend—just pay for whatever food or drink you order at the venue.

*✨**The Worst Person in the World is a wistful and subversive romantic drama about the quest for love and meaning in contemporary Oslo.*** 👋 **Hey everyone**, we’re watching a film that revolves around Julie (a dazzling star-making central performance from **Renate Reinsve**), a vibrant and impulsive young woman who, on the verge of turning thirty, is faced with **a series of drastic choices** that force her to **continually reinvent** and pursue new perspectives on her life… Over the course of several years, Julie navigates **multiple love affairs,** **existential uncertainty** and career dissatisfaction as she slowly starts deciding what she wants to do, who she wants to be with, and ultimately who she wants to become. [Trailer](https://youtu.be/w_cV1q02cyE) Co-starring Trier regular **Anders Danielsen** Lie and **Herbert Nordrum** as the men pivoting around Julie’s magnetic presence. **This is as much a formally playful character study as it is a poignant and perceptive observation of quarter-life angst. It’s a wry, life-affirming coming of age story.** **See you guys at the meet up** **Ray** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 👉 **HEADS UP** * If you **sign up** but later can’t make it, **please** 🙏 **drop us a quick message** (or change your RSVP). And follow our club **[@movieroadhouseuk](https://www.instagram.com/movieroadhouseuk/)** on **Instagram** — for fun updates! **🗓️ SCHEDULE BREAKDOWN** * **4:00 PM:** Pre-drinks (Victory House Wine Bar) * **5:05 PM:** Screen 1 (Prince Charles Cinema) * **8:00 PM:** Catch up before home 📱**STAY CONNECTED** * Join our WhatsApp or Telegram groups (available by request), or hop onto our **[WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaMVu2Z1NCrYkXpqOd1X)** or **[Telegram Channel](https://t.me/movieroadhouse)**[ ](https://t.me/movieroadhouse)for quiet updates without the chat. Whatever you prefer! 🎟️ **TICKET INFO & PRICES** * **Members Price**: £12.50 * **Non Members Price:** £14.50 * **Tickets:** [Prince Charles Cinema](https://princecharlescinema.com/film/21935566/the-worst-person-in-the-world/) 📍**VENUE ADDRESS** * **Victory House Wine Bar:** 14 Leicester Pl, London WC2H 7BZ * **Prince Charles Cinema:** 7 Leicester Pl, London WC2H 7BY 🔊 **HOW WE ROLL** * Have fun, be respectful, and no abuse of any kind * Three-time no-show limit (applies after your first attended event), please update your RSVP if your plans change * This group is for over-18s only 🌐 **FOLLOW US ONLINE** * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/movieroadhouseuk/) * [Letterboxd](https://letterboxd.com/movieroadhouse) * [WhatsApp News Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaMVu2Z1NCrYkXpqOd1X) * [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/movieroadhouse) * [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@movieroadhouse) * [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/MovieRoadhouse) * [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/movieroadhouselondon) * [Threads](https://www.threads.com/@jonnyhideout) * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jonnyhideout/) (Jonny) 🫂 **RELATED HANGOUTS** * [The Hideout: Film Club (London)](https://www.meetup.com/thehideoutlondon/) * [Cosmic Nightmares Book Club (London)](https://www.meetup.com/cosmicnightmareslondon) * [Ani-Mates: London Animation & Art Group](https://www.meetup.com/london-motion-design-and-animation-group/?eventOrigin=your_groups) * [Film & TV Review (London)](https://www.meetup.com/film-chat/?eventOrigin=your_groups) * [Event Horizon Film Club (North Virginia)](https://www.meetup.com/event-horizon-film-club/)

**💝 Cleveland Zoom Speed Dating – Personality & Age Matched** 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. Meet Cleveland singles from home. We sort the matching, you just turn up. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Cleveland 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=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience - Singles in Cleveland who want to meet people from home - 🔥 Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting 📌 **What to know** - 🔥 **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – hosted and well-structured - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - 🎯 **Host:** Experienced host steering the session 🔄 **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 Cleveland singles. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Cleveland locals. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What if I'm shy?** The virtual setting and hosted rounds keep things comfortable for everyone. **What's the personality quiz for?** **How long are the chats?** --- ✨ Real people, real conversations — all from your home. 🥰 ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

💓 **Online Speed Dating Built for First Timers – Real Connections, Zero Pressure!** **🔴 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! **📋 Choose Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=55+&face_v=1.0) --- 🤝 Tired of swiping with no results? Try real conversations instead! Online speed dating removes all the awkward parts of traditional dating. A friendly host guides you through each round, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort **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. **Connect on Zoom** – No setup needed. Just click the link and you're in! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Toledo singles who share your vibe. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Hosted live on Zoom – guided, fun, and stress-free - **Location:** No venue needed – just a comfy seat and a good internet connection - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Toledo singles - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone - **Duration:** About 60–90 minutes of structured, fun conversations **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! --- ✨ The hardest part is clicking register. After that, we make everything easy. See you there! 💘 ✨

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

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

...and speaking of breakthrough roles: who can forget the first time we saw Tom Cruise singing Bob Seeger in his underwear? Often considered an updated 1983 version of The Graduate, the movie sparkles with memorable lines and original music. I only regret that I was never told that "Princeton could use someone like Bob..." See the movie first and join us for some "Cruisin'"

**Hosted by Unity of Columbus \| Facilitated by Carisa Holmes\, EFT Practitioner** Join us for a powerful and uplifting workshop where you’ll be introduced to **Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping**—a simple, effective method that helps release stress, calm the mind, and restore emotional balance. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us carry tension, anxiety, and emotional blocks that impact our well-being. This interactive session will guide you through practical techniques you can use anytime to create a sense of peace and clarity.

Join us as we get together for a Discount Tuesday / Choose Your Movie event to see your choice of two great new films! Option 1 (and the one I'll be seeing) is the top-reviewed comedy-drama, THE CHRISTOPHERS! The film is set in the art world and follows the estranged children of a former artist who hire a forger. It is directed by Steven Soderberg, stars Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel and has been earning rave reviews on the indie circuit. Option 2 is the latest action-thriller starring Bob Odenkirk, NORMAL! The film follows a temporary small-town sheriff who uncovers dark mysteries after a local bank robbery. Here are descriptions, trailers and our plan for this event: THE CHRISTOPHERS: The children of a once famous artist hire a forger to complete some unfinished, long ago abandoned canvases so they'll have a better inheritance when he dies. It is directed by Steven Soderbergh and stars Ian McKellen, Michaela Coel, Jessica Gunning and James Corden. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film is earning an excellent 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it a “dynamic, emotional and surprising journey” and a “compelling chamber piece that works like intellectual comfort food.” Others call the film, an “incredibly funny, comedy drama with plot reversals that make it feel like it’s on the verge of a thriller!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H79-EqzmdwY&t=20s NORMAL: This action-crime-thriller follows a man who comes to the sleepy town of Normal, Minnesota to serve as the temporary sheriff. But a bank robbery leads him to a criminal underground reaches throughout the entire town. The film is directed by Ben Wheatley and stars Bob Odenkirk, Henry Winkler and Lena Headey. The film comes from the same team that brought us Nobody and the John Wick series, so expect an over-the-top, action-filled thrill ride! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rmm-lM33Qw0&t=19s PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing of both films and will meet in the lobby area about 30 minutes before showtime. Once showtimes are announced, advance ticket purchase is advised (GFC website preferred)! Please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. Showtimes and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan