Speeches

Dear Toastmasters & guests, *Theme of the meeting: “Pet Economy” Please note that our **venue** is at: **20/F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong** (Causeway stn exit F1 Jardine's Crescent 渣甸坊, 5-10 minutes walk to Cubus which is opposite to Lee Garden 3) Do you want to **improve your communication skills (both speaking and listening) in English** in your daily life? We have *prepared and impromptu speeches* in English during the meeting. **Evaluation** of the speeches will be given so that the speakers can *improve* their speeches continuously. Do come and enjoy the warm atmosphere and have a wonderful learning experience together with us! **All are welcome. *No guest fee is required.*** **See you then!**

————————————— **Whatsapp group** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BinHaE79kQM1wBPY1icm8g](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BinHaE79kQM1wBPY1icm8g) **We will be at Oasis on G/F, nearby the tea house. As we’ll need to find the table available, you may join the whatsapp group or simply call 91796157 when you are over there** SEATS ARE LIMITED, you are encouraged to walk around and find your partners! If you need any help, just ask me to introduce you into the right group ————————————— Join us for a fun evening of language exchange and socializing with international friends. Whether you're a local looking to practice a new language or an exchange student wanting to meet new people, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant environment **Why we host the event in Central Market?** In 1990, the Central Market building was graded as a Grade III historic building by the Antiquities Advisory Board. After multiple rounds of study and consultation, the revitalization project for the Central Market building began in October 2017. Upon completion, a portion of the market stalls will be preserved. the Central Market's historical significance makes it an attractive venue for hosting various types of events that can celebrate Hong Kong's rich heritage and cultural identity. Please grab a dink and enjoy! **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*Please support and buy some foods or drink in Central market\*\*\*\*\*\*\***

Meetup New Friends at Central HK (Free Entry) Time: Friday night usually \~7:30pm to 10pm (Weekly) Location: Central Market G/F (Center area), Central Hong Kong. 香港中環與新朋友見面 (Free Entry) 時間：週五晚上(通常) \~7:30pm 至 10pm（每週） 地點：香港中環中環街市地下（中心區）

聖經討論會是以日常生活與專業議題（如人際關係、職涯發展、熱門新聞、理財、人工智能等）為基礎的基督教聖經討論。您亦可提議主題，內容信徒與否都合適。 Bible Talk is a social event based on everyday life and professional topics (such as relationships, career, popular news headlines, finance, AI…etc.) You are also welcome to suggest topics. All content will be hospitable to all backgrounds.👌 雖然主持人會援引聖經經文，但請放心，這是個安全的平台，歡迎您基於自身經驗、文化、哲學與宗教背景分享觀點。所有背景皆受歡迎且受到尊重。 Although the host will reference biblical scriptures. Please rest assured that this is a safe platform to share your perspective stemming from your experience, culture, philosophies and religions. All backgrounds are welcomed and respected. 😊 主體語言：英文（可提供中文協助） Main language: English (Chinese assistance is available)

*Follow us on Instagram [@hongkongpubcrawl](https://www.instagram.com/hongkongpubcrawl/) or reserve your spot at our [website](https://www.hongkongpubcrawl.com/lkf-crawl)! HKD 250 for Thursdays, HKD 350 for Friday & Saturday, for booking online and walk in participants.* Party with us and discover Hong Kong’s best nightlife spots in the legendary Lan Kwai Fong (LKF) Bar District as you meet other thirsty travellers, locals, and ex-pats, all the while enjoying our unbeatable drink deals. Happening since 2010. WHAT YOU GET * One free shooter at all bars * FREE ALL YOU CAN DRINK DEAL * Party with a team of experienced crawlers * Enjoy FREE VIP entry to the city's hottest clubs (typically priced at $300HKD and up) * Professional photographer privileges to document all the memories you won't remember ​ Crawl Itinerary * 8:45 pm Dead& Dive Bar and Welcome Speech * 9:00 pm Head to the first bar * 10:00 pm - 12:00 am Additional off-the-beaten-track bars * 12:00 am Clubbing at final nightclub destination ​ The night builds up and ends (and for some, just begins...) at our final nightclub, at around 12:00am. The nightclub is not an experience to be missed. Our drink deals don't apply at the nightclub, so remember to take advantage of them before! Free entry to the nightclub is included in your ticket, but you MUST have valid photo identification for entry. Don't wear flip-flops, sandals, or open-toed shoes.

* **Date & Time**: Friday, March 13, 2025 – Meet at 7:30 PM * **Venue:** a hidden gem Dai Pai Dong located in Shek Kei Mei. Location will be shared after payment * **Cost**: $60 for admission fee excluding cost for food : around HK$150-200 per person for food (at cost, pay as you eat) * *\- PAYMENT* : Please provide the payment slip by FPS to 55073213 or Payme to secure your place. Payme : [https://payme.hsbc/lincolncflam](https://payme.hsbc/lincolncflam) * **Group Size**: 2tables *15people Calling all food adventurers! Whether you're a local craving that authentic wok hei, an expat hunting for off-the-beaten-path bites, or a wide-eyed foreigner ready to unlock Hong Kong's street-food soul—don't miss this spontaneous gathering at a buzzing cooked food centre. Think sizzling seafood, steamy claypot rice, and Cantonese classics cooked fresh by pros who've mastered the art for generations.

Technical Level: NONE Exercise Difficulty: EASY Join fellow **builders, founders, and tech lovers** from the Lunatechs community for a **golden hour hike to [Victoria Peak](http://chatgpt//generic-entity?number=0)**. ​We’ll meet at **[HKU Station](http://chatgpt//generic-entity?number=1) (Exit A2)** and take the beginner-friendly trail up to the Peak (\~60–75 min). ​📸 **Golden Hour Group Photo (\~5:30 PM)** ​We’ll take a Lunatechs skyline group photo — the highlight of the event. ​**3:00 PM** – Meet at HKU Station (Exit A2) **3:15 PM** – Start hike **\~4:30 PM** – Arrive at the Peak **\~5:30 PM** – Golden hour group photo ​After the photo the evening is **optional** — stay for sunset, explore viewpoints, talk tech, grab dinner, or bus down together. ​We’ll create a **WhatsApp group on the day of the event** so late arrivals can coordinate or bus up to meet us. ​**About Lunatechs** ​Lunatechs is a community for people **crazy about technology** — founders, developers, AI builders, creators, and tech enthusiasts. ​In today’s AI world, teams are getting **smaller and more solo**, and many of us spend long hours at our computers building the future. ​Our casual outdoor events are designed to **break that pattern** — get outside, move a little, and connect with fellow builders in the real world. ​Most of the time we’re focused on **changing the world ….** For a few hours, let’s focus on **you — your mind, body, and soul.**

Language exchange@ My home Cafe Kindly at least pay for one food/ drink item for the cafe owner . Please come up stairs to 3/F .

What if life isn’t one journey—but many different games being played at the same time? 🎯 💡Human life is filled with many pursuits—security, relationships, money, knowledge, influence, service, creativity, and personal growth. But what if these pursuits are actually different “games of life” that shape how we spend our time and energy? 🌱In this thought-provoking MOTIVATE Community webinar, Adrian Cahill introduces a fascinating framework for understanding human motivation and life choices. Participants will explore how different life games influence decisions, priorities, and personal fulfilment. Many of these games are not consciously chosen. They are influenced by family, culture, education, and social environments. 📅This session invites you to step back, reflect, and gain deeper self-awareness about the games you are currently playing—and how they shape your life. Join this engaging conversation and begin exploring life with greater awareness and clarity. 🚀**Key Takeaways** ✅ Understand the concept of the Games of Life framework ✅ Discover how human motivations shape life choices ✅ Recognize unconscious influences affecting life decisions ✅ Explore different life pursuits such as security, relationships, career, knowledge, and service ✅ Gain greater self-awareness about personal motivations 🚀**Additional Benefits** ✅ Reflect on what currently drives your life ✅ Learn how different pursuits interact and influence each other ✅ Increase clarity about your priorities ✅ Begin exploring how awareness changes decision-making **🎤 ABOUT THE MOTIVATE COMMUNITY** Our community is a not for profit, social enterprise. We share passion for personal and community growth and evolution. Started by Adrian Cahill, partly Townsville local, partly expatriate and international Coach. For the last years Adrian has brought hundreds of new & experienced coaches/therapist/speakers to our live and virtual community sharing from the heart. **CONTACT DETAILS** 👉Telephone: 0432170578 👉Facebook: www.facebook.com/Adriannqld 👉Instagram: www.instagram.com/adriannqld/ 👉Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/adriancahill/ 👉Youtube: www.youtube.com/@MotivateCommunity 👉Website: www.motivatecommunity.com ⏰**March 15, 2026** (𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆), 𝟭.𝟱 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿 5:00 PM GMT+8 China 7:00 PM GMT+10 Brisbane 8:00 PM GMT+11 Sydney/Canberra 4:00 AM GMT-5 New York 10:00 AM GMT+1 Barcelona 📌For first-time attendees please scan the QR code on the flyer or click the following link to register and become part of our enriching live discussion, all at no cost: https://adriancahill.agilecrm.com/forms/6002900926529536 📌Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/86301571361 Log-in: 86301571361 Password: #motivate 👉Don’t miss it. Register now!

(Partner's Event) English Corner Time: Every Wed, Fri & Sun 19:00 - 23:00 Location: The Crazy Coconut Bar, ShenZhen Longhua Baishilong, 3rd floor, 3N100, Above Metro Exit B2 (BaiShiLong Metro Station) 瘋狂酒吧， 深圳龍華白石龍地鐵站B2上方，3樓 Refer to the picture for details on the BBQ Sat event.

Presented by： “一舖清唱”專業無伴奏合唱藝術家團隊、進階無伴奏合唱訓練班、人聲口技工作坊(二) 、形體工作坊(二)之學員 [Yat Po Singers (Professional A Cappella Artists), the participants of the Advanced A Cappella Classes, Beatbox Workshops II, and Physical Theatre Workshop II] #當中有我Isa+組員Lawrence演出。如果想參加“一舖清唱”下期訓練，可以問我哋。 [One member and I will show up in the performance.] ##此次活動為個別進場。[This event is without group seat arrangement.] 日期：2026年3月15日(星期日) 時間：3:00pm-4:30pm 地點：荃灣大會堂演奏廳 座位: 自由劃位(先排隊入場就可獲取好座置) 主辦單位：一舖清唱, 康文署 Date: 15 March, 2026 (Sunday) Time: 3:00pm-4:30pm Address: Auditorium, Tsuen Wan Town Hall Seating: No seating is set and seats are served on first-come-first-served basis Organization: Yat Po Singers, LCSD MeetUp費用：免費,(亦接受捐贈) 報名：按Attend-> 填寫1)聯絡電話號碼, 2)男/女, 3)電郵地址(予QR code碼入場), 4)你想參與唱歌/舞蹈/作曲/編劇/其他藝術?-> 確認入選活動 MeetUp fee: Free,(also receive donation) Join: Click ‘Attend’-> Write down your 1)Contact number, 2)Male/Female, 3)Email address( for QR code entry ticket) 4)Would u like to learn some music/ dance/ song-composing/ film production/ any arts issue? \*\*\*a) Welcome foreigners. Please remark your language if you are foreigner. [歡迎外地本地人一同熱鬧.請外地人指明語言.] \*\*\*b) Participants are required to follow instruction of the venue. [參與者要遵守場地規則,違者則有可能被邀離開.] \*\*\*c) Late comer may be restricted to admit and continue in the activity. [主辦組織不作逾候,逾時者有可能不被參加,請預早抵達.] \*\*\*d) No refund or seat transfer after payment, unless is the cancellation of activity or by our group. [交費後若未能出席參與者,繳款不獲退回及轉讓.(除非活動取消而全數退款).] \*\*\*e) Photos taken by our group during activity will be as record and promotion. [活動如有拍照,以作記錄和宣傳用途.] \*\*\*f) When there are 3 No Show, we have the right to ban you out from our groups. [凡超過3次No Show者,本組有權將該組員移離本群組.]

Every moment is a new beginning. Meditation focuses on finding the peace and quiet in yourself to restore your happiness and balance : finding back what we allready know. Join us in the energy of group meditation. After a short introduction we will explore different meditation techniques.Some chanting might be part of the session.Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a towel, a yoga mat or a meditation cushion. Follow us on Instagram @theartofcalmhk

(Partner's Event) English Corner Time: Every Wed, Fri & Sun 19:00 - 23:00 Location: The Crazy Coconut Bar, ShenZhen Longhua Baishilong, 3rd floor, 3N100, Above Metro Exit B2 (BaiShiLong Metro Station) 瘋狂酒吧， 深圳龍華白石龍地鐵站B2上方，3樓 Refer to the picture for details on the BBQ Sat event.

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" 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 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 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!

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. 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

**\*\*\*TO ATTEND THE EVENT, YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS THROUGH OUR WEBSITE\*\*\*** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Hosted by Pre-Dating Speed Dating, the experts, bringing people together since 2001! *Our events have been featured on CNN, CBS, Axios, Miami New Times, TLC's 90 Day Fiance - The Single Life, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, The Wall Street Journal, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more -- but come see for yourself!* Join us for a night of fun, flirtation, and possible romance at our singles speed dating event! If you're tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, speed dating is a great way to meet new people in person, in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. **HOW IT WORKS:** We'll introduce you to at least 5, and up to 12 - or more - single women or men. Spend a little time with each one, during a series of 6-minute Pre-Dates. Then tell us who you'd like to speak with again & we'll do the rest! It's the modern, civilized, effective, and fun way to meet other professional-level singles. If you're finished with the games and ineffectiveness of online dating and apps, join us to share a wonderful evening of enjoyable conversation with interesting people... and maybe something magical will happen! **GET TICKETS:** A Meetup RSVP is not a ticket, you must purchase on our website. [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Use Code MATCH5 for $5 off! **DOES IT WORK?** Yes! According to the New York Times, at a speed dating event, people like 2-3 out of 10 people they meet. Online daters only match with 1 in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. This is the best way to meet new people, and it works! Just ask the thousands of people that have met at our events and had successful relationships and marriages. **WHAT DOES IT COST?** We put a lot of time and effort into creating the best singles events possible, so we collect a fee for our hard work. Our events are an excellent value at about $3 per introduction. Get your ticket for the best singles event in town. **NOTE FOR NEWCOMERS:** We post our events on various platforms. Our events often sell out, so expect plenty of fellow singles, regardless of the numbers you see here :) So what are you waiting for? Join us for some fun conversation with great new people... and maybe something more! Who will you meet? **GET TICKETS:** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) #singles #singlesevents #speeddating #love #relationships

**\*\*\*TO ATTEND THE EVENT, YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS THROUGH OUR WEBSITE\*\*\*** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Hosted by Pre-Dating Speed Dating, the experts, bringing people together since 2001! *Our events have been featured on CNN, CBS, Axios, Miami New Times, TLC's 90 Day Fiance - The Single Life, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, The Wall Street Journal, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more -- but come see for yourself!* Join us for a night of fun, flirtation, and possible romance at our singles speed dating event! If you're tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, speed dating is a great way to meet new people in person, in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. **HOW IT WORKS:** We'll introduce you to at least 5, and up to 12 - or more - single women or men. Spend a little time with each one, during a series of 6-minute Pre-Dates. Then tell us who you'd like to speak with again & we'll do the rest! It's the modern, civilized, effective, and fun way to meet other professional-level singles. If you're finished with the games and ineffectiveness of online dating and apps, join us to share a wonderful evening of enjoyable conversation with interesting people... and maybe something magical will happen! **GET TICKETS:** A Meetup RSVP is not a ticket, you must purchase on our website. [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) Use Code MATCH5 for $5 off! **DOES IT WORK?** Yes! According to the New York Times, at a speed dating event, people like 2-3 out of 10 people they meet. Online daters only match with 1 in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. This is the best way to meet new people, and it works! Just ask the thousands of people that have met at our events and had successful relationships and marriages. **WHAT DOES IT COST?** We put a lot of time and effort into creating the best singles events possible, so we collect a fee for our hard work. Our events are an excellent value at about $3 per introduction. Get your ticket for the best singles event in town. **NOTE FOR NEWCOMERS:** We post our events on various platforms. Our events often sell out, so expect plenty of fellow singles, regardless of the numbers you see here :) So what are you waiting for? Join us for some fun conversation with great new people... and maybe something more! Who will you meet? **GET TICKETS:** [https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup](https://www.pre-dating.com/columbus-speed-dating/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event_listing&utm_campaign=meetup) #singles #singlesevents #speeddating #love #relationships

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

So this month's prompt is more general. I think we can all agree that we are living in "unique" times that require coping skills. I think that one role and/or purpose of philosophy is to help us deal with our daily lives and our "unique" times. So, let's share our feelings and thoughts about which philosopher/philosophy we turn to in order to deal with our crazy events. Who/what helps you stay focused in your daily life and helps you sleep at night. I find that Stoicism with a little philosophical pessimism mixed in goes a long way in helping me deal with what I see as very destructive, fearful and mean spirited public policies at both the state and federal levels. Hope to see you on March 28th!

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! VEGAN MEALS: As previously mentioned, the food vendor does NOT have a vegan option at this year’s Oscar Party. However, we DO have a solution! I have reached out to several individuals who are affected. If you are a vegan, plan to attend the Oscar Party and did not receive an e-mail from me, please reach out via private message post a note below. I’ll provide details off-line. And while there won’t be a vegan meal option this year, I think we do have a workable solution. And, all other plans are usiness-as-usual: popcorn, sodas, candy, on-site paparazzi, decorations, bar drinks (including your first drink on the house), the Drexel’s Annual Oscar ballot contest, along with the Big Show on the Big Screen and a fun group of Movie Group friends to watch ‘em with! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan