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This is a **recurring weekly gathering** of open-minded people who want to understand geopolitics **without confirmation bias**. We are not here to repeat talking points, defend camps, or feel morally validated. We are here to **listen, compare perspectives, and learn** — especially from people who come from, live in, or are directly affected by the regions being discussed. Each week, we look at **current and long-term geopolitical issues**, including conflicts rarely covered or oversimplified by Western media. **Topics We Cover** Our discussions focus on **current and long-term geopolitical issues**, including conflicts rarely covered or oversimplified by Western media, sovereignty, and reality as it is, not as it is marketed. We approach geopolitics and society from a realist, sovereignty-first perspective, skeptical of globalist ideology and media **groupthink**. The aim is to understand interests, incentives, history, law, and consequences — not to rehearse fashionable outrage. **Examples of topics we regularly examine include:** **1\. Venezuela & Cuba** Sanctions, regime survival, sovereignty, and how U.S. policy, energy interests, and regional power dynamics shape outcomes in Latin America — beyond Cold War clichés. **2\. Ukraine\, Cyprus & European Borders** Frozen conflicts, divided territories, and how international law is selectively applied when sovereignty clashes with strategic interests. **3\. Iran\, Gaza\, Syria & Lebanon** The Middle East beyond slogans: proxy wars, regional balances, sectarian fault lines, sanctions, militias, state collapse, and why Western media framing often obscures long-term realities. **4\. Congo \(DRC\) & Resource Wars** How minerals, supply chains, and foreign interests fuel instability in Africa — and why some of the deadliest conflicts on earth barely make the news. **5\. Taiwan\, Greenland & Strategic Geography** Why islands, trade routes, chokepoints, and remote territories matter enormously in a multipolar world — and how geography shapes power more than ideology ever will. **What Makes This Different** – We prioritize **voices from affected regions**: Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia – We examine **what Western media doesn’t tell, doesn’t show, or doesn’t contextualize** – We welcome **new ideas, uncomfortable facts, and disagreement** – We focus on power, interests, culture, history, economics — not slogans **This is not a safe space for ideology.** **It *is* a safe space for honest thinking.** In Brussels, there are already debate initiatives that offer structured discussions. Too often, however, a small circle curates skewed propositions and narrows the range of acceptable conclusions, turning moderation into gatekeeping . There are also plenty of spaces dedicated to repeating anti-American slogans or reducing complex geopolitics to partisan outrage. This forum is not one of them. Our approach is different. **We welcome genuine diversity of opinion and lived experience.** No one here will be cancelled, banned, or shamed for challenging dominant narratives. Ideas are debated openly; personal attacks and defamation are not tolerated. **Motions & Proposals Welcome** We actively encourage participants to propose motions for debate. If you suggest a motion, please do so with substance: a clear claim, basic historical or legal grounding, and an understanding of the stakes involved. Motions designed to provoke thinking are welcome; motions designed to score points or repeat media talking points are not. **Languages** The language of discussion will depend on the participants present. Debates are typically held in English and French, but we are comfortable switching or accommodating other languages when the moderation team can support it. Languages we can currently handle include: – English – French – Dutch – Spanish – Italian – Russian – Farsi The goal is understanding, not linguistic purity. When needed, participants may clarify or translate key points to ensure everyone can follow the discussion. If you speak more than one language, that’s an asset here ### **What We Ask of Participants** – Come to understand, not to perform or “win” – Be genuinely open to **new ideas and perspectives**, especially those that challenge your own – Speak from **knowledge**, not slogans — history, law, and context matter – If you bring a topic, come prepared: facts, timelines, sources, and legal or historical grounding are encouraged – Argue **ideas**, never individuals – No censorship of viewpoints – No personal attacks – No defamation or accusations against individuals **Strong disagreement is not only accepted — it is expected.** **Intellectual laziness is not.** **This is not a dating meetup.** Not every social space exists for flirting, hitting on people, or testing romantic opportunities. Anyone who treats this forum as a dating pool, approaches others with unwanted advances, or assumes participation implies romantic availability is misunderstanding the purpose of this group. Conversation comes first. Ideas come first. Respect comes first. If you are here primarily to date, pursue, or pressure others, this is not the right space for you. Boundaries are enforced. Discomfort is taken seriously. **Those who ignore this will be immediately asked to leave.** **Location & RSVP** The event will take place in Ixelles, in a public bar. To keep the discussion safe, focused, and accountable, the exact venue will be shared only with confirmed RSVPs via our WhatsApp chat. Depending on the final size of the group, we have several appropriate and secure venue options in the area. This allows us to: – Adapt the venue to the group size – Avoid disruptive or bad-faith behavior common to fully open meetups – Prevent meetup creeps and repeat offenders – Ensure everyone present respects the rules of conduct 👉 To RSVP and receive the location: **https://chat.whatsapp.com/LX7UkWGZ3UdLQWLBvNdezN** The goal is not exclusivity, but accountability and quality of discussion. If this format doesn’t suit you, this event may not be the right fit.

EN (FR en bas): We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!​ -step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html) -step 2: Show up! Schedule: [Monday to Thursday](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule) Fees : [All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees) Locations: -Rue Brialmont 7, Brussels Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1: From base to the dancefloor! When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base. Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or Forró! Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2: Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or Forró? Let's go! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3: Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with Forró Root? We've got your back! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates) More info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project) \-\-\-\-\- FR: Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous ! -1ère pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html) -2ème pas : Vient danser ! Horaire : [lundi à jeudi](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire) Les prix : [Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix) Endroits : -Rue Brialmont 7, Bruxelles Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1 : De la base à la piste de danse ! Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mêmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base. C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró ! Notre groupe est très accueillant et a hâte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs ! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2 : Prêt à approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le Forró ? Allons-y! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3 : Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi ! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires) Plus d’info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)

News from the Middle East, and from Iran in particular, has been stark. Following months of nationwide unrest and a severe state crackdown, casualty estimates vary widely and remain difficult to verify, ranging from official figures in the thousands to independent claims far higher. In late February 2026, Israel and the United States began a major military campaign against Iran, with publicly stated objectives ranging from degrading Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities to calls that imply, or explicitly seek, regime change. Reports also indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been killed during the strikes. Understanding this moment requires more than headlines; it requires historical perspective. Modern Iran’s relationship with Western powers has been shaped by deep mistrust. In 1953, the UK and the US backed a covert operation that overthrew Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh after his government moved to nationalise Iran’s oil industry. For many Iranians, the coup became a lasting symbol of foreign interference and a denial of democratic sovereignty. The decades that followed were marked by repression under the Shah and intense geopolitical competition and helped set the conditions for the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which replaced the monarchy with a theocratic system under Ayatollah Khomeini. Since then, relations with the West have been defined by sanctions, nuclear diplomacy, regional conflicts involving allied armed groups, and sharply competing visions of order in the region. The reported death of Khamenei may be seen by some as an opening for change inside Iran, and by others as a trigger for instability: succession struggles, hard-line consolidation, fragmentation, or a prolonged power vacuum. Externally, it raises urgent questions about escalation, international law, civilian protection, and the long-term consequences of force. This evening, we will explore the broader forces shaping the conflict rather than reducing it to simple narratives: * What weight does history carry in shaping today’s realities? * How do foreign interventions alter domestic political trajectories? * Can external pressure promote reform or does it entrench authoritarianism? * How should states balance strategic interests with international law and human rights? Join us for a discussion that seeks to unpack the historical roots, competing narratives, and moral complexities surrounding Iran and the wider regional crisis. This debate will follow a British Parliamentary format with eight debaters split into **four teams of two.** Participants who wish to speak are highly encouraged to bring a paper and pen. You are welcome to participate even if you have no prior debating experience. We aim for debates that are respectful, constructive, and welcoming: * **Respect ideas and people** Listen actively, stay quiet while others speak, and debate arguments, not identities or beliefs. * **Be concise and civil** Keep questions short and relevant; avoid hostility, hate speech, or discrimination. * **Respect boundaries and time** No unwanted advances or suggestive behavior; arrive on time to avoid disrupting the debate. * **Follow moderators** They guide the discussion and ensure fairness.

🇬🇧 EN 🇬🇧 🔥 SALSA CUBANA CLASSES ARE BACK 🔥 We are delighted to see you again for the start of the 2025/26 academic year 👉 Find all the needed information on our website : **[https://danzamania.be/](https://danzamania.be/horaires/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExUjNGU3gzRWdsUFlWMGJMQgEeCHgiKV40mum5hOp5szt0Lxx3U-5DyHO_wR_ZJekcr_m7EFRdpcRthKRV9EU_aem_W6hFXCri8O6Kd9el-RIuIQ)** ✅ PROGRAMME ✅ 👉 TUESDAY 16/09 7:00-8:00 pm - Salsa Level 1A @ Salle Oxygène - Angie, Octavia & Raffa 8:15-9:15 pm - Salsa Niveau 1B\* @ Salle Ste Suzanne - Tine & Sam 8:00-9:00 pm - Salsa Cubana Level 2 @ Salle Oxygène - Angie, Octavia & Raffa \*The Level 1B course is the same as the Level 1A course. It will be taught by Tine & Samuel and starts at 8.15 p.m. It allows those who wish to arrive one hour later and have a group of about 10 people. 👉 WEDNESDAY 17/09 7:00-7:30 pm - Body Expression @ Salle Oxygène - Yusnay, Tine & Raffa 7:30-8:30 pm - Salsa Level 3 @ Salle Oxygène - Yusnay, Tine & Raffa 8:30-9:30 pm - Salsa Level 4 @ Salle Oxygène - Yusnay, Tine & Raffa 👉 THURSDAY 18/09 8:00-9:00 pm - Cuban Salsa Partnerwork - Level 1 + @ Studio Empain - Zoli 9:00-10:00 pm - Cuban Salsa Partnerwork - Level 2 + @ Studio Empain - Zoli 👉 FRIDAY 19/09 8:30-9:30 pm - Rueda de Casino @ Vibrato - Team Danza Mania 9:30-12:30 am - Practica & Entertainment with DJ Joel 💃 Dale Mambo🕺

Looking for a cozy and fun way to spend your time in Brussels? Join our **Board Game Meetup**, where we play a mix of strategy, party, and cooperative games. Whether you’re new to board games or an experienced player, you’re welcome! Come alone or with friends — you’ll quickly find a table to join. **Free entrance. Friendly atmosphere. Great people.**

Making new friends in a new city doesn’t need to be a struggle at all.

**Cinema Galeries : En Construcción** 14/03 @ 18h45 PORTRAITS Work in Progress (En Construcción) is a portrait of people and of a neighbourhood. The film’s characters are builders working on a new building in the Raval, and the residents of this symbolic historical neighbourhood of Barcelona. Throughout the film, Guerin focuses on their faces and gestures, on how they speak and on how they occupy spaces. The composition of the shots is fundamental to his portrayal of the characters. The streets and spaces of the Raval, a popular working classneighbourhood in the city centre undergoing gentrification, are the other characters of the film. CONVERSATION AND THE POWER OF WORDS Through words, people with very different life stories and origins truly get to know each other: they listen to each other and they talk to each other. During the building work they learn to understand each other, to work together, to pass on their skills and to forge friendship. This sequence takes place when both the construction work and the film are coming to an end, and the viewer feels that a community has been created which connects the workers, local residents and also the film crew. Words are also often the means by which characters often become memorable for us, allowing us as viewers to learn to know and love them. WORK This is a film about work. It is about the builders working on the building, but also the filmmaker, Guerin and his student film crew, working to create a film over the two years during which they filmed the construction of the building. In this image, the builders are involved in the manual work of building a window. In the same way, the filmmaker uses the camera to create another window, the frame, to compose each shot in a meaningful way. Thus the construction of the building, brick by brick, progresses in parallel to the film, shot by shot. When the building is completed, so is the film. THE WINDOW AND THE FRAME WITHIN A FRAME The windows connect the outdoors and the indoors, the homes and the neighbourhood. Through the windows, the new building is incorporated into and visually connected with the neighbourhood, so that the interiors (the private spaces of homes) are linked with the exterior (the city). While Guerin uses his shots to create frames or visual windows showing the architecture, the shots are also transparent windows for seeing and documenting the life and reality of the neighbourhood. It is a visual idea of pictorial tradition that is characteristic of many of the film’s shots: the frame within a frame. In this photogram it is expressed by means of the connection between the foreground, showing the builders inside the building, and another frame in the middle distance: the window showing the façade of the church of Sant Pau del Camp. PRESENT AND PAST Different layers of time and history are brought together in a single image: the new construction of the building still in progress, the church which is still standing after eleven centuries, and even further away, other buildings from the 20th century. This gives a glimpse of a neighborhood, in which many different eras, cultures and origins coexist. And one of the main themes of the film is highlighted: the passing of time, the contrast between the stable and the transitory, the tension between construction and destruction, and memory and loss. [Cinema Galeries](https://galeries.be/fr/lheure-dhiver-2026-en-construccion/) [CinEd - European Cinema Education for the Youth - En construcción - José Luis Guerín - SPAIN, 2001 - PEDAGOGICAL PACKAGE](https://cined.eu/back-office/uploads/english_5c353d35a8.pdf) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

Our traditional "Join & Play" event is on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Thursdays of each month. As always, it's free to come & play with us. How does it work ? • The events are open for beginner to advanced gamers. If you're new here they're the perfect gateway to discover what we do! • Those who want to host a game are asked to share in the comments below which game, & for how many players you can run your table. • For others, if you see a game you'd like to join just respond to the host in the comments below and we'll reserve a spot for that game for you. • Don't worry if you're new to boardgames or simply don't know the games being hosted this time around; you can simply show up and the event host will sort out a spot at a table for you! *But please make sure to arrive by 19h30* at the latest *so we can take the time to find you a suitable spot.* • The rules for the games will be explained by the table host before the game starts. No need to study them upfront, although several hosts post a video link to rules or background which can enhance your enjoyment of the game if you have the time to watch beforehand. This is never mandatory, however. ============================================== Games on the night: **\-\-\-\-** [The King Is Dead](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/319966) **\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Toby (host) Spot 2: Spot 3: Spot 4: **\-\-\-\-** **[ETERNAL DECKS](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/424981/eternal-decks)** **\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Jorge (host) Spot 2: Dan Spot 3: Yarince Spot 4: cottynmaurits **\-\-\-\- [River of Gold](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/399941/river-of-gold) \-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Jeroen (host) Spot 2: Spot 3: Spot 4: **\-\-\-\- [GREAT WESTERN TRAIL](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/193738/great-western-trail)\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Geraldine (host) Spot 2: Cerebral Spot 3: Francisco Spot 4: Marina **\-\-\-\- TABLE 5 \-\-\-\-** Spot 1: (host) Spot 2: Spot 3: Spot 4: **\-\-\-\- TABLE 6 \-\-\-\-** Spot 1: (host) Spot 2: Spot 3: Spot 4:

**Cinema Galeries : La Plaga** 12/03 @ 19h00 [...] The film is a combination of fiction and reality, which deals with the impact of the economic crisis. ‘La Plaga’ tells the story of five different characters living in the suburban area of Barcelona that are all hit by the consequences of the economic crisis. For more than four years Ballús worked together with these characters with the aim of showing their fight for survival in times of economic depression. For that reason, she has painted a portrait of the lives of five people living on the outskirts of a city, fields, streets or industrial parks. The movie tells the story of five apparently independent people, who end up connected to each other. Iurie, a Moldavian wrestler, works for the farmer Raül, who has big crop failures because of a plague of insects. The third is his neighbour Maria, who has to move to a retirement home, because of health problems. There she gets to know the Filipino elderly care nurse Rosemarie, who walks a cart-track every day to come to work where she always passes Maribel on a beach chair. Maribel tries to earn her living as a prostitute so she and her unemployed son can get by. Ballús explains that the film is based on true life stories, real emotions, situations and genuine characters. However nevertheless the director points out that “La Plaga is more of a composition than truth. The word documentary has high brow connotations, but it means not being manipulated or constructed. But for me everything in a film is constructed and manipulated, so it is more a film than a documentary.” Ballús’ movie wants to reflect the current critical situation in Catalonia, Spain and Europe. “We are all living in a situation of uncertainty about the future, a feeling of being lost in the system and excluded by politicians.” The film shows the difficult and unfortunate situation of five different people, but despite life’s hardships how they can handle their daily life and this is a big strength. That’s why Ballús wanted to present her story in this film, because these characters are real heroes of everyday life. [...] [Cinema Galeries](https://galeries.be/fr/lheure-dhiver-2026-la-plaga/) [Karina Reinhard, for the Agència Catalana de Notícies](https://www.catalannews.com/culture/item/catalan-film-director-neus-ballus-presents-la-plaga-at-the-berlin-international-film-festival) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

This time we visit again the beautiful Theatre de Poche in Bois de la Cambre! After the show we can drink something and discuss at the cozy bar of the theater. [informations](https://poche.be/show/2025-le-long-chemin-du-retour) (language FR) [Ticket](https://shop.utick.net/?pos=POCHE&module=ACTIVITYSERIEDETAILS&s=1CDA7DC4-DB97-49B3-46D3-282B2CC97A46) Nick et Tom reviennent à la maison après avoir fait la guerre d’Afghanistan. En apparence ils vont bien. Mais ils ont ramené avec eux quelques souvenirs encombrants : les fantômes de soldats en mission envahissent leur quotidien, troublant les retrouvailles en famille, perturbant leurs jours et leurs nuits, s’immisçant dans les tâches ménagères, et leurs tentatives d’oublier ce qu’ils ont vu... Le Long Chemin du retour permet d’ouvrir la réflexion tant sur les dégâts collatéraux des guerres se profilant à nos portes, que sur une certaine attirance pour la violence.

A transformative weekend that bridges science, psychology, and movement, showcasing the therapeutic and educational power of dance. This immersive two-day experience blends cutting-edge neuroscience, psychology, and dance therapy to enhance well-being, deepen self-awareness, and revolutionise the way we learn and teach through movement. Whether you're a therapist, educator, dancer, or simply curious about the mind-body connection, this workshop offers practical tools and scientific insights to elevate your practice. All workshops have theory applied to practice. 📅 15th March\, 2026 \| Vleugelsstraat\, Goossensstraat 3\, 1030 Schaarbeek\, Belgium ⏳ 10AM – 9PM (with a 1-hour break) Book https://www.neuroscienceofdance.co/plans-pricing 💃Part 1 \- The Science of Dance therapy Delve into the neuroscience, psychology, and therapeutic applications of dance in this intensive course. Through a blend of theory and hands-on exercises, you’ll explore how movement impacts the brain, emotions, and overall well-being. 🔹 Neuroscience of Dance – How movement stimulates brain regions linked to creativity, memory, and emotional regulation. 🔹 Psychology of Dance – Understanding embodiment, nonverbal communication, and symbolism in movement therapy. 🔹 Therapeutic Applications – Practical techniques that enhance the benefits of dance. 🔹 Experiential Learning – Engage in improvisation, group discussions, and reflective practices to develop self-awareness and resilience. For: Dancers, therapists, educators, and anyone interested in integrating dance into personal or professional wellness practices. ​ 🧠 PART 2 The Neuroscience of Dance – Learn and Teach Better Unlock the science behind movement-based learning and teaching with insights from neuroscience. Whether you're a dancer looking to refine your learning process or an educator seeking to enhance instruction, this session will transform the way you approach dance. 🔹 Neuroscience Demystified – Understand how the brain processes dance and movement for optimal learning, teaching and performance. 🔹 Accelerated Learning Strategies – Evidence-based techniques to enhance skill acquisition and retention. 🔹 Teaching Excellence – How to structure dance instruction in alignment with the brain’s natural learning mechanisms. 🔹 Fostering Creativity – The role of dance in boosting creative thinking and problem-solving. 🔹 Neurodiversity: How to learn and adapt teaching techniques to neurodiverse dancers. For: Dance educators, choreographers, performers, and movement enthusiasts looking to optimize their practice. ​

After several walks and activities together, it felt like a good idea to simply **meet and spend some relaxed time together**. So this is a very simple gathering: we meet on the **terrace of the Maison du Prieur at Rouge-Cloître**, have a drink, talk, and get to know each other. No formal activity, no structure — just a moment to connect with other members of the **Happy Body community**. If the weather is nice, Rouge-Cloître is one of the most beautiful natural spots in Brussels, with forests, ponds and quiet paths. Feel free to come for **10 minutes or stay longer**.

This month, we are in-person at GameArena!!! We will also be joined by students and their games from [Shawnee State](https://www.shawnee.edu/game-design-programs)! \-\-\- Join us for our our monthly COGG Prototype and Play event @GameArena! Come to play and showcase your games. We're back in the upper levels of the catwalk mezzanine area. It'll be packed with lots of camaraderie playing your game(s) and other's games on the 2nd floor as well as the 1st floor in the gaming room below the mezzanine. Light snacks and water provided but you can buy food and drinks at the bar (alcoholic drink ID required). [https://www.game-arena.co/menu](https://www.game-arena.co/menu) **Attendees:** Don't have a game to show? Not a problem! All are welcomed and invited from all ages and backgrounds. The more we can have to play test our games the better! **Developers:** Do you have a game that you would like to get critical feedback on? Would you like an excuse to work on a game with other talented artists, programmers, musicians, designers, and writers? Digital, table-top, non-experienced developers, and the like are welcomed! We'll provide signage for your game to help others learn more about your work. Wifi, outlets, tables, and seats (though standing tables also) are available. Come to the Prototype and Play workshop to collaborate and meet local game developers for an evening of epic and raw game play fun! Play works-in-progress, show off your own game, work with others to add polish to a game, or even lend your talents to other fellow developers. Can use South Garage at the Gateway with a $5 voucher on your way out. 75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9) If you have any questions or comments, as always, feel free to reach out to us at [info@thecogg.com!](http://info@thecogg.com!/)

[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).

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, March 25 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

Discover Kiro, AWS’s innovative development environment that adapts to your workflow. Whether you prefer specification-driven development or a more intuitive, vibe-based approach, Kiro empowers you to build applications your way. In this session, speakers will explore Kiro’s core functionality and its evolution through re:Invent 2025, along with demonstrations of prompts used to create APIs, hooks, and steering documents. In the latter part of the session, watch as we build a complete example from scratch, showcasing Kiro’s agentic AI workflow in action for spec-driven development and vibe coding. What You'll Learn - Core Kiro concepts and development philosophy Feature evolution: pre and post re:Invent 2025 Practical examples: API creation, hooks, and steering docs Live coding demonstration with real-time problem solving Who Should Attend - Developers, solutions architects, and technical leaders interested in modern AWS development tools and AI-assisted coding workflows. **Speakers Bio:** Matthew Jorat: Matthew Jorat is a Customer Solutions Manager at AWS with nearly three decades of expertise in AI, cloud transformation, migration, modernization, IT, technology, and business. His career spans infrastructure engineer, solutions architect, security auditor, customer success director, support and services director, and operations officer. He was an early adopter of AWS services as a customer, and his current role at AWS uniquely blends his technical and business skills as he partners with executive teams to translate strategic priorities into measurable business outcomes through cloud adoption, AI implementation, and operational excellence. Matt leads end-to-end AI initiatives for enterprise customers, identifying high-impact use cases and maintaining relentless focus on measurable ROI. He holds eight AWS certifications and serves as Adjunct Professor at Franklin University teaching cloud computing and AWS architecture. His expertise encompasses GenAI, agentic AI systems, migration, modernization, and optimization strategies that drive transformation at scale. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/) Girish Bhatia: Girish Bhatia is a seasoned technology delivery leader with deep expertise in cross-domain program management. He holds multiple AWS certifications, including AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, and AWS Generative AI Practitioner, and is also an AWS Community Builder. Girish brings over two decades of experience in the information technology industry. Throughout his career, Girish has led major technology-driven business transformation from modernizing on-premises applications to driving large-scale cloud migrations. His work includes API-based integration platforms, data-center and mainframe modernization, and enterprise cloud adoption initiatives. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Girish works at a tech-forward fintech company. He is passionate about AWS serverless architectures, Generative AI and emerging cloud technologies. An avid learner and builder, he continues to explore and apply the latest innovations in AWS to help organizations accelerate their digital transformation. https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/[https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/) **THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/ **DIRECTIONS** Franklin University Fisher Hall 300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8 Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map. NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

This Month's Book: The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen. Join us for discussion at the Granville Public Library from 6 to 7pm. Follow us on Instagram: @granvillepridebookclub

Join us as we get together to see Ryan Gosling and Sandra Huller in the highly anticipated sci-fi adventure, PROJECT HAIL MARY! The film is based on the best-selling novel of The Martian and follows a man who awakens on a spacecraft before realizing his mission to save Earth. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A science teacher wakes up on a spaceship, light years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission to save the Earth. The film is directed by the filmmaking due Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (21 and 22 Jump Street, Into and Across the Spider-Verse) and is based on the 2021 novel by Andy Weir (The Martian). The film stars Ryan Gosling, Sandra Huller (Anatomy of a Fall, The Zone of Interest), Lionel Boyce, Milana Vayntrub and Ken Leung. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VYsnngkS_U MOVIE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 2:30pm SuperScreen DLX showing and meet in the lobby area between 2:05 and 2:15pm! Tickets already on sale and will likely move fast for this hot ticket / opening weekend showing so advance ticket purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. As a head’s up, this is a longer movie at 2hrs 36mins. DINNER PLAN: Dinner immediately following the movie at 5:30pm at group favorite, FUGU SUSHI, located just next door! Separate RSVP required for the Dinner / Movie portions of this event. An RSVP here means you're signed up for the MOVIE! This portion will be open as long as seats remain. If you also plan to join for dinner, please also RSVP in the separate event listing for the dinner portion of this event. Should be a good one, Dan