Speeches

🎀 Ladies, circle up 👑📚 It’s time to crown our June Book of the Month: “There are Rivers in the Sky” by Elif Shafak A beautifully woven story where time, memory, and water flow together like hidden threads connecting lives across generations — a truly moving reflection on love, loss, and what endures beneath the surface. Mode: in person 🗓️ 27-06-2026 ⏰ 19:00 🗺️ Innovation cafe 🍵 Lusail Wishing you a calm, thoughtful, and meaningful reading experience ☁️ 🫧🧚‍♀️

**Hello, my name is Abdulrahman and I’m a passionate desert guide based in Qatar. I have several years of experience driving in the desert and sharing the beauty of Qatar’s landscapes with visitors from around the world.** **I have extensive experience navigating the Qatari desert and guiding guests through safe and thrilling dune bashing routes. I’m knowledgeable about the desert environment, local culture, and the best locations for incredible desert views and sunset photography.** **I specialize in private desert safari experiences using a 4x4 Land Cruiser, ensuring both safety and excitement during dune bashing adventures. My goal is to give guests an authentic and memorable experience while exploring the stunning dunes and desert scenery of Qatar.** **———————————————————————————** **What to expect:** **-You will be Experiencing thrilling dune bashing in a luxury 4x4, where comfort meets adventure in the stunning desert.** **-Guests will enjoy a scenic desert photo stops at the stunning dunes, perfect for capturing breathtaking views.** **-We’ll visit the ocean at the inland sea (where the Golden Sahara desert meet the crystal-clear ocean, creating a rare and unforgettable natural landscape).** **-You will Experience the thrill of sandboarding as you glide down the golden dunes of the desert.** **-You will be experiencing the sunset unfold in the dessert, filling the sky and water with breathtaking colors.** **———————————————————————————** **Additional to the trip:** **-You can choose an optional camel ride to add a rich cultural touch to your desert adventure, connecting with tradition. (additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **-You can also choose an optional quad biking** **(1 seater, 2 seater) or dunes buggy (4 seater) to add to your adventure and add a bit more excitement in the desert.(additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **———————————————————————————** **Where to meet:** **-name of the meeting place on google maps (Mina Hotel and Residences By The Torch)** **Be there by 2:00 (P.M) Sharp.** **Or——————** **-if you are only one private group i will pick you up from the (Hotel / accommodation) and back after the trip is done.** **———————————————————————————** **What to bring:** **-preferable bring hat.** **-with the hot weather better to wear something light.** **———————————————————————————** **What's Included:** **Dune bashing** **Inland Sea visit** **Local Tea** **Professional English-speaking Guide** **Camel ride (can be booked on site)** **Quad bike ride (can be booked on site)** **Sunset** **Transportation in an air-conditioned 4x4** **Luxury Landcruiser** **Unlimited water** **———————————————————————————** **What's NOT Included:** **Any extra services or expenses not mentioned as included.** **——-————————————————————————** **Additional info:** **• Not wheelchair accessible** **• Service animals not allowed** **• Infants must sit on laps** **• Not recommended for travelers with back problems** **• Not recommended for pregnant travelers** **• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions** **• Most travelers can participate**

🎀 Ladies, circle up 👑📚 It’s time to crown our June Book of the Month: “There are Rivers in the Sky” by Elif Shafak A beautifully woven story where time, memory, and water flow together like hidden threads connecting lives across generations — a truly moving reflection on love, loss, and what endures beneath the surface. Mode: in person 🗓️ 27-06-2026 ⏰ 19:00 🗺️ Innovation cafe 🍵 Lusail Wishing you a calm, thoughtful, and meaningful reading experience ☁️ 🫧🧚‍♀️

**Hello, my name is Abdulrahman and I’m a passionate desert guide based in Qatar. I have several years of experience driving in the desert and sharing the beauty of Qatar’s landscapes with visitors from around the world.** **I have extensive experience navigating the Qatari desert and guiding guests through safe and thrilling dune bashing routes. I’m knowledgeable about the desert environment, local culture, and the best locations for incredible desert views and sunset photography.** **I specialize in private desert safari experiences using a 4x4 Land Cruiser, ensuring both safety and excitement during dune bashing adventures. My goal is to give guests an authentic and memorable experience while exploring the stunning dunes and desert scenery of Qatar.** **———————————————————————————** **What to expect:** **-You will be Experiencing thrilling dune bashing in a luxury 4x4, where comfort meets adventure in the stunning desert.** **-Guests will enjoy a scenic desert photo stops at the stunning dunes, perfect for capturing breathtaking views.** **-We’ll visit the ocean at the inland sea (where the Golden Sahara desert meet the crystal-clear ocean, creating a rare and unforgettable natural landscape).** **-You will Experience the thrill of sandboarding as you glide down the golden dunes of the desert.** **-You will be experiencing the sunset unfold in the dessert, filling the sky and water with breathtaking colors.** **———————————————————————————** **Additional to the trip:** **-You can choose an optional camel ride to add a rich cultural touch to your desert adventure, connecting with tradition. (additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **-You can also choose an optional quad biking** **(1 seater, 2 seater) or dunes buggy (4 seater) to add to your adventure and add a bit more excitement in the desert.(additional cost) and can be booked when we arrive.** **———————————————————————————** **Where to meet:** **-name of the meeting place on google maps (Mina Hotel and Residences By The Torch)** **Be there by 2:00 (P.M) Sharp.** **Or——————** **-if you are only one private group i will pick you up from the (Hotel / accommodation) and back after the trip is done.** **———————————————————————————** **What to bring:** **-preferable bring hat.** **-with the hot weather better to wear something light.** **———————————————————————————** **What's Included:** **Dune bashing** **Inland Sea visit** **Local Tea** **Professional English-speaking Guide** **Camel ride (can be booked on site)** **Quad bike ride (can be booked on site)** **Sunset** **Transportation in an air-conditioned 4x4** **Luxury Landcruiser** **Unlimited water** **———————————————————————————** **What's NOT Included:** **Any extra services or expenses not mentioned as included.** **——-————————————————————————** **Additional info:** **• Not wheelchair accessible** **• Service animals not allowed** **• Infants must sit on laps** **• Not recommended for travelers with back problems** **• Not recommended for pregnant travelers** **• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions** **• Most travelers can participate**

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

[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).

The topic for July is "Shoes" 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!

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

**Practical Curiosity: Learning from Everyday Data** How do we actually get better at utilizing our day-to-day data? Fancy dashboards and complex models might look nice and draw attention, but that’s not where most of us spend our time. In fact those shiny outputs frequently sit unused, while the real insights are drawn from the analyst’s daily practice. Sometimes it’s as simple and as powerful as noticing that a segment is shrinking, a channel is underused, or certain links keep getting all the clicks. There’s many different places that the spark of insight can come from, but you have to keep your head in the data and know where to look. In this session, we’ll explore real-world examples of how segmentation, testing, and click behavior can uncover practical digital marketing opportunities. You’ll leave with inspiration for your own use cases, along with a few simple ways to ask better questions, spot meaningful patterns, and make smarter decisions without overcomplicating it. **About Our Speaker:** [Elaine Armbruster](https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainearmbruster/) is a Director of Digital Experience at the [American Diabetes Association](https://diabetes.org/), where she focuses on using data and insights to create smarter, more effective digital experiences. A lifelong Columbus resident, she has built her career in email marketing and the broader digital user journey, and is finding she most enjoys working in the messy middle where systems, data, and big ideas don’t quite line up yet. Thanks to our 2026 sponsors: [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)

Join us as we get together for a CAPA Summer Movie event to see the romantic, funny, heartwarming, feel-good classic, PRETTY WOMAN! Julia Roberts and Richard Gere star in this modern-day fairy-tale romance! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A wealthy corporate raider hires a Hollywood escort as his date for a week of high-society business events. But what starts as a business transaction blossoms into genuine love, challenging both of their lives and leading to an unexpected romance. The film is directed by Garry Marshall and stars Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Héctor Elizondo, Ralph Bellamy (in his final performance), Laura San Giacomo and Jason Alexander. MINI TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc) SHORT BONUS CLIP #1 - DIRECTOR GARRY MARSHALL Recalls Famous Scenes from the Film: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs) SHORT BONUS CLIP #2 - RICHARD GERE on the Film’s Impact all these years later: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8) SHORT BONUS CLIP #3 - JULIA ROBERTS Remembers a Gift from Director Garry Marshall: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA) BUZZ & ACCLAIM: A huge box office hit at the time of its release, PRETTY WOMAN has since gone on to become a modern-day classic! The film catapulted Julia Roberts to superstardom and earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress and her first Oscar nomination! Critics praise Julia Roberts’ star-making performance, the undeniable chemistry between her and Richard Gere, and its warm, funny feel-good story about kindness, self-worth and transformation! The film’s “intelligence and wit,” “first-class performances” and “sharp, funny script” have made Pretty Woman a classic and truly “something special!” THE OHIO THEATRE: The Ohio Theatre is located at 39 E. State Street, between 3rd and High Streets, across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. From classical music to modern dance, yearly family traditions to hot concerts, the world’s best artists come to the 2,791-seat, historic Ohio Theatre. The breathtaking details (including the 21-foot-high chandelier!) of its opulent, Spanish-Baroque architecture make any night at the Ohio Theater an event to remember! PRE-SHOW ENTERTAINMENT: Now celebrating his 33rd year as featured organist for the CAPA Summer Movie Series, Clark Wilson will again provide pre-show entertainment at the keyboards and controls of the Ohio Theatre’s treasured “Mighty Morton” theatre organ 30 minutes prior to each screening. PARKING: Parking is available at Columbus Commons Parking Garage off 3rd or Rich Streets or in Statehouse Parking Garage off 3rd Street. You can find out more about parking in Downtown Columbus by visiting the Downtown Columbus website. PLAN: Purchase your ticket for the 7:30pm showing and we’ll meet outside the theater between 6:50 and 7:00pm. We’ll head in at 7pm to get good seats and enjoy the pre-show organ music! TICKETS: Tickets just $6 adult / $5 senior! Parking is available under the Capital building, in the nearby garage, or on the nearby streets. You can purchase your ticket at the box office on the day of the event or online here: [https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/](https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/) Look forward to seeing you there, Dan