Intimacy

### **THE BEAR** presents: **COLD** *A night of true, personal storytelling* Winter has a way of showing us where warmth is missing — and where it suddenly appears. This month at **THE BEAR**, we explore the theme COLD: stories about distance and closeness, breaking the ice, emotional frost, quiet loneliness, or jumping into cold water — literally or metaphorically. On stage, everyday people from Berlin share true, personal stories, told live and without notes. No acting. No fiction. Just real experiences, shared in a warm, cozy atmosphere. You don’t need to know anyone. You don’t need to be “into storytelling.” **Just come, listen, and be part of the room.** **🔥 What to expect** • 8 short, true stories (about 5–7 minutes each) • Live music throughout the night • A relaxed, welcoming audience • Laughter, honesty, and moments of quiet connection **We start as strangers — and often leave feeling a little closer.** **🎤 Want to tell a story?** Anyone can put their name into our legendary hat. Names are drawn at random — courage counts more than experience. If you’d like feedback on your story beforehand, just write to us. hello(at)thebear-storytelling.de **💬 Language note** Stories are told in English (and sometimes German). **Everyone is welcome — listeners and storytellers alike.** **If winter feels cold, let’s warm up together.** **We’d love to have you there 🐻✨** 🎤 Open Stage · True personal stories (5 minutes) 🗓️ **Thursday, Feb 19, 2026 · 19:00** 📍 Theatre Pool, Berlin 👉 **[Tickets:](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/the-bear-berlin-presents-cold-stories-about-breaking-the-ice-tickets-1980509250482?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*1q61529*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzgxMjIwNDM3LjE3NjgzNDM1OTA.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjgzNDM1OTAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjgzNDM1OTAkajYwJGwwJGgw)**[ €15–20 (sliding scale donation)](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/the-bear-berlin-presents-cold-stories-about-breaking-the-ice-tickets-1980509250482?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*1q61529*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzgxMjIwNDM3LjE3NjgzNDM1OTA.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjgzNDM1OTAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjgzNDM1OTAkajYwJGwwJGgw) ## **Our Mission** ## *THE BEAR* **has grown into one of Berlin’s most beloved live storytelling events: a place where strangers become a community through the simple act of listening.** Supported by: [THE BEAR e.V. ](https://deref-web.de/mail/client/3fe0d0dh9KM/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fthebear-storytelling.us6.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3Db5d7f087b587f8f081c447437%26id%3Dfc0e2d8df3%26e%3D711d4db9af), [Moving-Speaker.com](https://www.moving-speaker.com/), [Female Speaking Berlin](https://www.femalespeakingberlin.com/), and [Experience Berlin Youtube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@Berlin-Videos).

🎶 Choir Workshop (Berlin) 🎶 No experience needed – just your voice and curiosity! We’ll explore singing together through playful warm-ups, simple harmonies, and collective improvisation. A welcoming space to connect, listen, and create music as a group. Find your true unapologetic voice! Theodorstraße 5, 12099 🕕 Thursdays, 18:00 – 20:00

**Authentic Relating & Circling with Sophie and Marco** Come and connect and learn the powerful practices of Authentic Relating and Circling. We normally do about a half-hour of Authentic Relating in paired-shares, followed by Circling in up to two breakouts, usually rejoining the large group at the end. However the program will change according to the experience of the participants at each event. If you are not familiar with Authentic Relating & Circling, you can read Marco's book on the [Circling Guide](https://circlingguide.com) website. All events are beginner-friendly and no prior experience is necessary. If all goes well, you will feel that this is what you have been doing your whole life, and all you ever wanted was to be with people who share this way of being! **PS:** **don't look at Meetup RSVP's, as this event is advertised through multiple channels. Please always register due to limited space. To register and get the address, RSVP and then message Marco here on Meetup or else WhatsApp to +49 1573 9667979 or follow this link: [https://wa.me/4915739667979](https://wa.me/4915739667979)** **\*\*Why attend?\*\*** * Are you seeking more fun, connection, and deeper understanding with the people in your life? * Do you lack an honest, loving space to communicate your needs and desires? * You long for a supportive community where all issues can be brought openly and with care? * You are curious about how the powerful practices of Authentic Relating and Circling can enhance your life? *If so, our Authentic Relating and Circling evenings are for you!* **\*\*Who should attend?\*\*** These sessions are open to people of all genders and sexual orientations who want to bring Authentic Relating skills and practice into their life. This program is ideal for you if: * You're interested in other people and how they think and feel. * You enjoy stepping out of your comfort zone. * You're self-responsible and open. * You want to be seen, heard, and appreciated for what's important to you. * You want to engage with others in tender conversations about the challenges of being human. **\*\*Dates\*\*** *We're offering Authentic Relating & Circling every Thursday from 19:00-21:30.* **\*\*Cost\*\*** The cost at the door is 25€ / 30€ / 20€ (depending on your income). Alternatively buy a 5-pass card for €80 (€16 per session). **\*\*Location and Directions\*\*** Kleiststraße @ Eisenacher Str., 10787 Berlin-Schöneberg Our house is a short walk from Nollendorfplatz U, and is also served by several buses. For the exact address message Marco here, or (better)message Whatsapp +49 1573 9667979 (https://wa.me/4915739667979). **\*\*Other Programs\*\*** In addition to AR & Circling live in Berlin, Sophie and Marco have other programs and services, online and in person. These include individual and couples coaching, our 6 week Authentic Relating in Community (in [English ](https://circlingguide.com/arc)and [German](https://circlingguide.com/arcs/)), retreats & immersions. For details refer the the Connecting Circle website at [https://connecting-circle.de/](https://connecting-circle.de/). Join our WhatApp announcement channel [http://bit.ly/46fNuDE](http://bit.ly/46fNuDE) Join our Telegram announcement channel [http://bit.ly/45XXbb6](http://bit.ly/45XXbb6) **\*\*Facilitators\*\*** Marco Beneteau, author of the "Circling Guide" ([www.circlingguide.com](https://www.circlingguide.com/)), the most popular book on Circling within the Authentic Relating tradition. Marco has been leading AR groups for seven years. Sophie Lemperle-McGrath, founder of connecting-circle ([www.connecting-circle.de](http://www.connecting-circle.de/)) is a Gestalt & AR facilitator, mediator and "Getting Real" couples Coach. *Our Authentic Relating & Circling nights are fun and engaging. We hope to see you there!* **\*\*Agreements & Terms of Service (Please read)\*\*** **Authentic Relating and Circling is not therapy**. People encounter states, emotions, beliefs, and sensations in themselves and others which can be difficult. We explore the unknown, the volatile, the ambiguous, as well as welcome emotions many deem as “negative” or “inappropriate” such as feelings of inadequacy, anger, sexuality, and joy. We refer to the willingness to feel difficult and uncomfortable truths as the “commitment to connection,” which of course includes a willingness to set appropriate boundaries, and speak a desire for space, distance, and non-contact. By attending our events you take responsibility for your level of participation, which might include choosing to leave. If all this sounds potentially overwhelming or destabilizing for you, if you have mental illness or significant emotional challenges that you feel may be exacerbated by this type of transformational environment, or if you are not sure that you can be self-directed in taking care of your needs during the event, then we advise you not to attend. We look forward to seeing you!

\*\*\*DEUTSCHE VERSION UNTEN STEHEND\*\*\* 🌟 Calling all Soulful and Energetic Voices that wanna tell stories! 🌟 Hey there, vibrant souls! 🎤 Are you ready to ignite the stage with your youthful energy and passion for music? Join our electrifying urban pop & musical ensemble, where voices come together in a celebration of song and joy! 🎶 Picture this: a dynamic fusion of historic and contemporary pop, musical hits, and soulful melodies, all brought to life by voices bursting with youthful exuberance! 🎵If you're between 15 and 45 and crave the thrill of harmonizing with fellow music lovers, this is your golden ticket! 🌈 Rehearse with us every Thursday from 7:30-10 pm in the heart of Kreuzberg, and experience the sheer exhilaration of making music with kindred spirits! 💃🕺 So, what are you waiting for? We're on the lookout for singers who bring their prior solo and ensemble experience to the mix – voices that stand out and harmonize seamlessly with the sound of the ensemble. 🌟 Are you ready to add your voice to our chorus of excitement? Send us a private message expressing your interest, vocal range, and any singing experience you bring to the table. Let's turn up the volume on fun and create memorable musical moments together! 🎉 🎶 **Day doesn't fit, too little singing experience, or not in the required age group? No problem!** I conduct several choirs with different profiles: **Shabach! *– the choir not only for shy people*** (https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/shabach-berlin-the-choir-not-only-for-shy-people/) **DEUTSCHE VERISON:** Liebe Nachbarn, wir haben 2023 das neue urbane Pop- & Musical-Ensemble "SHOWTIME!" in Kreuzberg 61 ins Leben gerufen, Altersspanne ca. 15-45 Jahre, in englischer und deutscher Sprache. Wir singen Popsongs, Musicals, und Filmmusik. Das Level ist für Fortgeschrittene und die Sänger\*innen sollten über eine gewisse Gesangserfahrung verfügen. Der Chor probt **jeden Donnerstag von 19:30-22:00 Uhr im Gewölbekeller der Kapelle-am-Urban, Grimmstr. 10, Berlin-Kreuzberg.** Falls es Dich interessiert mitzumachen: Schreib mir bitte vorab Dein Interesse und Deine Stimmgruppe / Erfahrung kurz per Privatnachricht. Danke. **Keine Zeit an dem Tag, zu wenig Gesangserfahrung oder außerhalb der Altersgruppe? Kein Problem!** Ich leite Chöre mit verschiedenen Profilen: **Shabach! *– der Chor nicht nur für Schüchterne*** (https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/shabach-berlin-the-choir-not-only-for-shy-people/)

**Queer Bridges Language Café // Sprachcafé** with ***Michal*** for **LGBTQIA+** **[Free event with registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/language-cafe/w03-2026)** 🔵 Join us at our Language Café, where you can connect with others and engage in lively conversations. It’s a great opportunity to practice speaking, listening, and even learn some new vocabulary, all while making new friends and having a good time. No matter your level of proficiency, everyone is encouraged to participate and grow together. Come for the conversation, stay for the community! **What languages are represented?** We will have tables for English and German. Beyond that, it will be up to you! We hope to eventually host a wide range of languages and are excited to see this café grow with your support. **What if I don’t feel confident in my language skills?** Our language café is open to everyone, regardless of their language abilities. From beginners to native speakers – we will ensure it is a fun and safe space for everyone. Registration is required as it gives us an idea of how many people to expect and which languages you speak/look forward to practice. However, if you have not registered please feel free to stop by! Join us at our **Language Café**, where you can connect with others and engage in lively conversations. It's a great opportunity to practice speaking, listening, and even learn some new vocabulary, all while making new friends and having a good time. No matter your level of proficiency, everyone is encouraged to participate and grow together. Come for the conversation, stay for the community! *** This meeting is part of our **Queer Bridges** project, aimed at forging connections and providing resources for LGBTQIA+ people with migration experience. *** **General information** * **Language**: This event will be in German and English. * **Registration**: Register on our website by selecting the event, adding it to your cart, and completing checkout. If you have any difficulties registering for the event, you're still welcome to join us, and we will find a solution. * **Cost**: This event is free of charge. 🔵 *Kostenlos mit Anmeldung über unsere Webseite* Kommt zu unserem **Sprachcafé**, wo ihr euch mit anderen austauschen und an lebhaften Gesprächen teilnehmen könnt. Es ist eine großartige Gelegenheit, eure Sprech- und Hörfähigkeiten zu verbessern und neue Wörter zu lernen, während ihr in lockerer Umgebung neue Bekanntschaften knüpft. Egal, wie gut ihr die Sprache könnt, alle sind eingeladen mitzumachen und zusammen zu lernen. Kommt wegen der Gespräche, bleibt wegen der Gemeinschaft! **Welche Sprachen sind vertreten?** Wir werden Tische für Englisch und Deutsch haben. Darüber hinaus liegt es an euch! Wir hoffen, bald viele verschiedene Sprachen anbieten zu können und freuen uns darauf, dieses Café mit eurer Hilfe wachsen zu sehen. **Was, wenn ich mir in meinen Sprachkenntnissen nicht sicher bin?** Unser Sprachcafé ist für alle offen, egal, wie gut ihr die Sprache könnt. Von Anfänger\*innen bis zu Muttersprachler\*innen – wir sorgen dafür, dass es für alle eine lockere und sichere Umgebung ist. *** Dieses Meeting gehört zu unserem **Queer Bridges** Projekt, das darauf abzielt, Verbindungen zu schaffen und Ressourcen für LGBTQIA+ Menschen mit Migrationserfahrung bereitzustellen. *** **Hinweise** * **Sprache**: Dieses Event wird auf Deutsch und Englisch sein. * **Anmeldung**: Melde dich auf unserer Website (für das Event) an, indem du die Veranstaltung auswählst, sie in den Warenkorb legst und dann den Kauf abschließt. Das gilt auch für kostenlose Events. Wenn du irgendwelche Schwierigkeiten hast, dich für eine Veranstaltung anzumelden, kannst du gerne zu uns kommen und wir werden eine Lösung finden. * **Kosten**: Die Teilnahme ist kostenlos.

**Einladung zur Flowgame-Session** In einer Zeit, die für viele von uns unsicher und herausfordernd ist, tragen wir alle auf die eine oder andere Weise Ängste in uns. In dieser Flowgame-Session möchte ich einen Raum öffnen, in dem wir uns diesen Ängsten gemeinsam zuwenden können – im Gespräch, im Austausch und getragen vom Flowgame als Struktur und Halt. Mehr zum FlowGame hier: www.flowgame.net Es geht darum, miteinander ins Gespräch zu kommen: über das, was uns bewegt, was uns Sorgen macht und was uns vielleicht auch Mut gibt. Indem wir unsere Erfahrungen teilen, können wir uns gegenseitig unterstützen und möglicherweise neue Perspektiven und Zuversicht für die Zukunft finden. Im Mittelpunkt steht dabei vor allem der ehrliche Austausch über Ängste – weil sie zu uns gehören und gehört werden wollen. Ich freue mich auf eine achtsame, offene Runde mit euch.

Bitte kauft in den Restaurants mindestens einen Artikel, damit wir keinen Ärger mit dem Manager bekommen. -> Location Berlin Potsdamer Platz -> The Playce -> Manifesto Markt Wir sitzen unten oft an den großen runden Tischen vor dem Restaurant Kumpir'a oder an den langen Tischen vor dem Pizza und Pasta Restaurant im Erdgeschoss. Dieses Treffen ist für: -Internationale Teilnehmer aus allen Ländern, die auf Deutsch Kontakte knüpfen wollen. -Deutsch-sprachige, die in netter Gesellschaft anderen helfen wollen, Deutsch zu sprechen, oder nur neue Kontakte knüpfen wollen.

**Delicate Dialogues: Genital touch – what does it need?** *Sensual Touch Lab Series for GBTQ men\** with ***Noam Raz*** **[BOOK HERE!](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/sensual-touch/w08-2026)** Members 15 € Not members 30 € in English We will dedicate the evening to our genitals and full-body-emotional attention. Exploring delicate ways of approaching it, teasing it, connecting to its vulnerability and building the emotional safety it requires in order to communicate and become receptive. The evening will start with a somatic (Feldenkrais like) warm up, followed by partner exercises, leading eventually to a more free genital feedback exploration. Participants are encouraged to say no, or check and then say no (or yes). Nudity is optional. Resistances, shame and shyness are cherished and welcomed. **What is Sensual Touch Lab Series for GBTQ Men\*?** Sensual Touch Lab Series for GBTQ Men\* is a monthly workshop where we aim to create a space for sensual closeness and playful encounters. Embodied, somatic experiences that appreciate our full-bodied nature. Using sensuality as an approach to explore new ways of dealing with our own fears or patterns related to nudity, intimacy, and touch. We invite you to explore, communicate, and possibly expand your personal boundaries within a framework of mutual respect and consent. This opens up the opportunity to experience the power of touch, sensation, and non-verbal interpersonal connection. Each event will be a guided process, which will have a special touch depending on the theme and background of the facilitator\*, whether it be bodywork and touch, somatics and intimacy, or something else. These short workshops may include nudity, partner exercises or close physical interactions. **Benefits**: • Creates valuable shared experiences among GBTQ men\* through closeness, empathy, and connection. • Combats feelings of isolation and loneliness • Promotes self-love and acceptance of one’s body and identity • Provides a safe, judgement-free space to explore personal boundaries • Contributes to overall well-being and supports the ability to build lasting relationships • Can serve as a healthy coping mechanism and reduce the risk of substance abuse **General Information** • This format is for all queer men\* / queer masculinities interested in experiencing touch in a safe(r) setting. • Please pay attention to personal hygiene. • Bring a sheet and towel to cover cushions, mats, or massage tables. • This event will be in English. • This event is also available at a reduced member price – but not part of the two-free-monthly-events benefit. • Concession tickets upon written request to events@wearevillage.org available 🔵 **Delikate Dialoge: Was braucht genitale Berührung?** *Sensual Touch Lab Series* für GBTQ Männer\* Mit ***Noam Raz*** Mitglieder 15 € Nicht Mitglieder 30 € Auf Englisch Wir werden den Abend unseren Genitalien und der ganzheitlich-emotionalen Aufmerksamkeit widmen. Wir werden zarte Wege erkunden, um uns ihnen zu nähern, sie zu necken, ihre Verletzlichkeit zu spüren und die emotionale Sicherheit aufzubauen, die sie benötigen, um zu kommunizieren und empfänglich zu werden. Der Abend beginnt mit einem somatischen (Feldenkrais-ähnlichen) Aufwärmen, gefolgt von Partnerübungen, die schließlich zu einer freieren Erforschung des genitalen Feedbacks führen. Die Teilnehmer\*innen werden ermutigt, „Nein“ zu sagen oder zu prüfen und dann „Nein“ (oder „Ja“) zu sagen. Nacktheit ist optional. Widerstände, Scham und Schüchternheit sind willkommen und werden geschätzt. **Was ist Sensual Touch Lab Series for GBTQ Männer\*?** Sensual Touch Lab Series für GBTQ Männer\* ist ein monatlicher Workshop, bei dem wir einen Raum für sinnliche Nähe und spielerische Begegnungen schaffen möchten. Verkörperte, somatische Erfahrungen, die unsere Gesamtkörperlichkeit wertschätzen. Sinnlichkeit als Zugang, neue Wege im Umgang mit unseren eigenen Ängsten oder Mustern in Bezug auf Nacktheit, Intimität und Berührung erkunden. Wir laden dich ein, deine persönlichen Grenzen in einem Rahmen gegenseitigen Respekts und Einvernehmens zu erforschen, zu kommunizieren und gegebenenfalls zu erweitern. Dabei eröffnet sich die Möglichkeit, die Kraft von Berührung, Empfindung und nonverbaler, zwischenmenschlicher Bezogenheit zu erfahren. Jedes Event wird ein geführter Prozess sein, der je nach Thema und Hintergrund der Kursleitenden\* eine besondere Note hat, sei es Körperarbeit und Berührung, Somatik und Intimität oder etwas anderes. Diese Kurzworkshops können Nacktheit, Partnerübungen sowie körperlich nahe Interaktionen beinhalten. **Vorteile** • Schafft wertvolle, gemeinsame Erfahrungen unter GBTQ Männer\* durch Nähe, Empathie und Verbundenheit • Bekämpft Gefühle der Isolation und Einsamkeit • Fördert Selbstliebe und Akzeptanz des eigenen Körpers und der Identität • Bietet einen sicheren, urteilsfreien Raum zur Erforschung persönlicher Grenzen • Trägt zum allgemeinen Wohlbefinden bei und unterstützt die Fähigkeit, dauerhafte Beziehungen aufzubauen • Kann als gesunder Bewältigungsmechanismus dienen und das Risiko von Substanzmissbrauch reduzieren **Hinweise** • Dieses Format ist für alle queeren Männer\*/Männlichkeiten, die Berührung in einer einvernehmlichen, unterstützenden Atmosphäre erfahren möchten. • Bitte lege Wert auf persönliche Hygiene • Bringe zum Abdecken von Kissen, Matten oder Massageliegen ein Laken und ein Handtuch mit • Der Workshop wird auf Englisch durchgeführt. • Dieses Event ist auch zu einem ermäßigten Mitgliederpreis erhältlich – aber kein Bestandteil der zwei kostenlosen monatlichen Mitgliederveranstaltungen • Ermäßigter Zugang ist auf schriftliche Anfrage an: events@wearevillage.org möglich.

Join us to explore Wedding 🥰 On 21.02 we’ll gather at U-Bahn Franz-Neumann Platz at 11 am for another 5k run in Wedding. The meeting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/obm9Fcc43aGL2GV36?g_st=ipc Don’t worry if you are new! We run at a pace which is comfortable for everyone, so it’s a great chance to start 😉 Take care and see you soon to enjoy another active morning together ❤️ P.S. ‼️️ Please cancel your participation if you can’t show up, even if it’s at short notice so that we don’t wait for you. Thanks! ‼️

RSVP on Luma: https://luma.com/66zp1utm Silent Reading / Creating Club is a gathering for people who enjoy focusing together in public. Bring a book, a notebook, a sketchpad, knitting needles — whatever you’d like to spend a quiet hour with. All projects and all participants are welcome. ​This year is about creating more — quietly, consistently, imperfectly — and shaping environments that support that. If you’re building something of your own, you’re especially welcome here. ​We’re building a community of readers and creators who value depth, presence, and shared silence. The magic isn’t just in the quiet hour — it’s in the people who return and make it feel like a familiar room. ​(Please RSVP “yes” only if you can make it, so we can save a seat for you and others on the waitlist.) ​This quiet ritual unfolds at **W66 Café**. ​There’s no entrance fee, but please order at least one item from the café and don’t bring outside drinks 🙂 ​No assignments. No pressure. No productivity race. Just a shared hour of intentional silence, followed by relaxed conversation. 🕰 Our Agenda ​**10:30 – 11:00** Arrivals, ordering drinks/food, light social time ​**11:00 – 12:00** The Great Quiet Hour (Read. Write. Sketch. Code. Think. Sit.) ​**12:00 – 12:30** Optional socializing — share what you were reading or creating, or simply continue in quiet focus. ## **​🏡 House Guidelines** ​To keep this space calm and welcoming for everyone: ​• Silence during the focus hour (no calls or conversations) • Phones on silent mode • If using a laptop, please avoid meetings or audio — headphones welcome • Arrive before 11:00 if possible to minimize disruptions

Drypoint Printmaking Workshop — Coming Up! Learn the fundamentals of drypoint printmaking in a hands-on workshop held over 4 sessions, every Saturday from 11:00–14:00, starting February 21. until 14.03.2026 After completing the course, participants will be able to create their own drypoint prints independently in our studio. Upcoming workshops will introduce additional printmaking techniques, including Aquatint and Sugar Lift — stay tuned! Price: 110€ for the full 4-session workshop 35€ for one session Registration for full 4 - session Please email Kifan Alkarjousli 📧 kifan@pakd-gallery.com Limited spots available — be sure to secure yours early! Drypoint Printmaking Workshop — Coming Up! Learn the fundamentals of drypoint printmaking in a hands-on workshop held over 4 sessions, every Saturday from 11:00–14:00, starting February 21. until 14.03.2026 After completing the course, participants will be able to create their own drypoint prints independently in our studio. Upcoming workshops will introduce additional printmaking techniques, including Aquatint and Sugar Lift — stay tuned! Price: 110€ for the full 4-session workshop 35€ for one session Registration for full 4 - session Please email Kifan Alkarjousli 📧 kifan@pakd-gallery.com Limited spots available — be sure to secure yours early!

This week we are discussing Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - The Thing Around Your Neck. We look forward to seeing you! If you have book suggestions, would like to vote on our next reads, or join us for additional activities, please ask someone at the meeting to add you to our WhatsApp group.

Who is in the mood for some quiet togetherness while catching up on their reading? Let’s enjoy literature or non-fiction together and come to our Reading in Companionable Silence meeting on Saturday. While Nathania is away, Miro will welcome members and there is time to socialize and to order some food or a beverage - ca. 30 min. Then we read for an hour in silence. After that - time to exchange impressions, suggestions, ask questions and generally have a good time. There might be a break in the middle in order to allow for more drinks, a bathroom break etc.

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

Join us as we get together to see the period drama / classic monster movie, THE BRIDE! The film is written/directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal and stars Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale in a new take on the classic tale, The Bride of Frankenstein. We'll be seeing this one on Thurs, 3/5 one day ahead of the film's opening on Friday. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: In 1930s Chicago, Frankenstein's creature asks Dr. Euphronius to create a companion for him. They give life to a murdered woman as "the Bride," sparking romance, police interest and radical social change. It is written, directed and co-produced by Maggie Gyllenhaal and stars Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, Peter Sarsgaard, Annette Bening, Jake Gyllenhaal and Penélope Cruz. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-qJkAXLfYM 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! PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet inside the lobby area about 30 minutes before the show begins. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have your ticket, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. Complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**Welcome to the inaugural meeting of the International Relations / Foreign Policy Group Columbus!** This group brings together students, professionals, academics, and anyone interested in global affairs, diplomacy, and geopolitics. Our first meetup will be an informal discussion focused on current international developments and global trends. This is a great opportunity to: • Meet others interested in international relations and foreign policy • Discuss current global events and geopolitical developments • Exchange perspectives and ideas in a respectful environment • Build a network of globally minded individuals in Central Ohio (Columbus and periphery) **Discussion topics may include:** * Strategic planning for the group and the way forward * US foreign policy priorities in 2026 * Major geopolitical developments (Europe, Asia, Middle East) * Global security and strategic competition * International economic and diplomatic trends No prior expertise is required—everyone is welcome, whether you're a student, professional, or simply interested in world affairs. **This will be a casual, friendly, and intellectually engaging conversation.** I look forward to meeting everyone and building a strong international relations / foreign policy community in Central Ohio.

Younkin Branch Library (Ashville) meeting space is now reserved for any and all interested in or enthused by playing a game of chess. The second Thursday of each month, 6:00pm to 7:50pm. First gathering is Thursday, May 11th. No fees. Chess sets provided; however, you may bring your own if you wish.