Brooklyn

Join Social Sips & Bites for our Wednesday Happy Hour. Great drinks, easy conversation, new faces, familiar faces, and that signature SSB energy that turns a simple night out into something memorable. https://www.capitalonecenter.com/the-perch

Let’s meet for some casual, mid-week hitting and rallying. Adult beginners, no pressure, easy and fun…

We invite you to an engaging evening of wine, cheese and lively conversation around Cory Doctorow's ***Enshittification: Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What To Do About It,*** a book which explains the process of the “enshittification” of digital platforms over time and what to do about it. **From Goodreads:** Cory Doctorow's *Enshittification* takes a witty yet incisive look at the tech landscape, where platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Google start off great—before they inevitably turn terrible. In this contemporary moment of digital decline, Doctorow explores how tech giants lure users in with convenience and then degrade their services over time, squeezing profit at the cost of user experience. With a mix of sharp humor and deep insight, he unveils the slow creep of "enshittification," turning the online world into a worse place, one algorithm at a time. As always, please feel free to join even if you have not finished the book - no stress :-) All attendees are asked to please bring one of the following: 1. A bottle of wine 2. Cheese and Crackers 3. An alternate beverage or nosh of your choice Host will provide glasses, wine opener, plates & napkins. To enhance the opportunity for great conversation, we would like to keep the group small. Please feel free to sign-up to meet us along with up to 2 friends. 📚 Exciting Updates for 2026 Book Club! 📚 Starting in January 2026, we’ll be implementing a new system for book recommendations that will make our reading selections even more collaborative and engaging! **Book Recommendations:** From January through October, members can submit book recommendations at each meeting, via email, text or Meetup DM. All suggestions will be added to a shared Google Sheet, which will include links to Goodreads and other pertinent information for each book. [LINK to 2027 BOOK LIST](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18AC_FH9bGGxyH6v7Rw36EvPtKtVl5e_N/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102804280893316002961&rtpof=true&sd=true) **Voting for 2027 Reads:** Our voting for next year’s book selections will take place during the November 2026 meeting. Members in attendance will have the opportunity to cast 12 votes for their favorite picks. If you’re unable to attend the November meeting, you can still participate! Simply submit 6 votes via email, text, or DM through Meetup before the start of the November meeting. **Announcement of Selections:** The chosen books for 2027 will be revealed at the end of the November meeting. We’re excited about this new process and can’t wait to see the amazing book recommendations you all have! 📖✨ PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE COMMITTED TO ATTEND WHEN YOU RSVP FOR THIS EVENT. We ask that ALL folks honor their RSVP. If you are unable to attend after sending in a YES, please update your status so that others may join us. In the event you do not communicate and are a no-show, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding. If you are unable to join us in April, we hope you'll remain interested and join us for an evening in the future. Looking forward to wine & cheese with you soon - happy reading!

CALLING ALL DC RIOT GRRRLS & PUNKS!!! We’re up to it AGAIN!!! Sold out Pie Shop for https://survivors.org, now we’re gonna aim to sell out JAMMIN’ JAVA!! Help us help survivors of sexual assault by getting YOUR tix now ➡️ https://www.unionstagepresents.com/shows/punk-it-forward-for-survivors-org-29-apr !!PUNK IT FORWARD FOR SURVIVORS!! 🔥✨🖤✨🔥 🔗🎟️ https://www.unionstagepresents.com/shows/punk-it-forward-for-survivors-org-29-apr Modern Natives: Modern Natives was founded by Florida-born Dezy in 2009 and evolved into a dynamic duo when Savannah joined in 2019. What began in the humid swamps of Florida eventually stretched all the way to frozen Alaska, with the band spending years traveling back and forth between the two extremes while carving out their sound on the road. They’ve toured cross-country from Alaska to Florida and across Canada multiple times—living out of an old camper with their three cats and dog along for the ride. Now nestled full-time in New York’s Hudson Valley, Modern Natives brings that wild, road-worn spirit to every stage. Known for their genre-blending sound and unforgettable live performances, Modern Natives is a must-see act wherever they land. Shelley Star & The Galaxy: Shelley Star & The Galaxy are making cosmic waves in Washington, DC, bringing out-of-this-world lyrics, vibrant pop-rock melodies, and theatrical flair to the Nation’s capital. The enigmatic Shelley Star powerfully belts and stomps the stage in platform space boots while high-octane musicians “The Galaxy” shred by her side. The band takes musical inspiration from icons such as Lady Gaga, ABBA, and David Bowie, and their style comes from deep roots in the art of drag. Old Knife: Old Knife is a trio of musicians who create a distinctive DC post-hardcore sound that draws from much wider geographical influences. Ella Gallogly (drums), Maddie Franca (bass) and VJ Hyde (guitar/vocals) bring a mix of intensity and musicality to their live shows that is like performative group therapy meets art punk opera. Old Knife’s music will cut you and leave a scar. Gigi Marie: Gigi Marie is "DC's favorite red head rock n roller" according to DC radio DJ Reddy Kilowatt!! A finalist for two Wammie Awards this year for Best Punk Song with "Miss Black Lagoon" and Best Rock Album with "All Things Night & Beautiful", she's thrilled to be bringing her truly unique Garage-Glam-Punkette attitude to the Jammin' Java stage in support of an amazing cause: survivors.org.

Join Sober Supper Club – DC for an intimate group dinner at Treehouse Rooftop, an elevated jungle sanctuary tucked into the vibrant Union Market neighborhood of Washington, DC. Perched five stories above the city, Treehouse Rooftop blooms as a lush oasis featuring internationally influenced food and imaginative drinks, all surrounded by cascading greenery within a beautiful historic building. The space organically sprouts from what was once the Bolgiano's Seed Company — now transformed into HOTEL NELL, a boutique hotel that honors the building's storied past while offering a warm, stylish escape full of flavor and character. Treehouse's menu brings together global influences and seasonal inspiration, with creative dishes and thoughtfully crafted beverages designed to be shared and savored. The atmosphere is intimate and transportive — a rare pocket of calm and greenery above the buzz of the city, perfect for slowing down and connecting over a memorable meal. This dinner is intentionally small to keep conversation easy and the experience relaxed. Our guests typically range from 25–45, and the evening is designed for people who enjoy thoughtful conversation, beautiful food, and a communal table built for a fun sober night in the city. **WHO:** You + 9 Other Guests **WHAT:** Intimate Group Dinner **WHEN:** Wedesday, April 29, 2026 · 7:00 - 9:00 PM **WHERE:** Treehouse Rooftop // 411 New York Ave. NE, Wash DC 20002 **COST:** $15/person — RSVP ONLY (guests responsible for cost of dinner) To purchase your ticket on our website instead, head here: [https://sobersupper.club/events/ssc-dc-mar-31](https://sobersupper.club/events/ssc-dc-mar-31)

Come enjoy breakfast and conversation with us at The Kosher Pastry Oven in Silver Spring. This is a great away to break with your old routine and make new friends. Questions? Click on my picture below to contact me. Hope to see you there! Ross A.

We are going to talk about the books we read—any books, from any genre. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, classic literature or something modern, everyone is welcome to share their thoughts, impressions, and favorite passages. It’s a relaxed and friendly conversation where we can discover new ideas and enjoy each other’s perspectives.

We have an opportunity to take a guided group tour of the International Spy Museum at L'Enfant Plaza! And maybe some drinks at The Wharf afterwards... Please RSVP by EOD Friday, March 27th so that we can submit a preliminary head count. After we send the count, details on pricing, payment options, and final schedule will follow in this space. UPDATE: Preliminary head count has been submitted! If you have still not RSVPd, please do so by Friday, April 3rd - RSVPs will be closed after that date. The cost is $25/person, payable via Venmo to Jay Heath. We are planning to meet in the lobby at 3 PM, with the first hour of the tour being guided, the second hour an individual tour. Parking is $30 with a six foot height limit, and the closest Metro is L'Enfant Plaza. We can discuss grabbing post-tour dinner and drinks afterwards, but the Wharf is nearby with lots of options! UPDATE 4/4: RSVPs are now closed. Since all attendees are on our Whatsapp group chat, we will discuss further details there.

Social Sips & Bites friends - we’re heading out for something fun, lively, and full of great vibes! Join us in Historic Downtown Manassas as the streets come alive for First Friday - a full-on block party experience you don’t want to miss Here’s what’s waiting for you: • Live music filling the streets • Local shops & restaurants with special deals • Outdoor vibes, energy, and great people everywhere • A perfect mix of social, fun, and discovery This is one of those nights where the whole town feels alive - and it’s even better with our SSB crew. Come out, bring your energy, and let’s take over Manassas together.

Join us for a discussion of ***Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives* by Siddharth Kara** Here's the summary: An unflinching investigation reveals the human rights abuses behind the Congo’s cobalt mining operation―and the moral implications that affect us all. Cobalt Red is the searing, first-ever exposé of the immense toll taken on the people and environment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo by cobalt mining, as told through the testimonies of the Congolese people themselves. Activist and researcher Siddharth Kara has traveled deep into cobalt territory to document the testimonies of the people living, working, and dying for cobalt. To uncover the truth about brutal mining practices, Kara investigated militia-controlled mining areas, traced the supply chain of child-mined cobalt from toxic pit to consumer-facing tech giants, and gathered shocking testimonies of people who endure immense suffering and even die mining cobalt. Cobalt is an essential component to every lithium-ion rechargeable battery made today, the batteries that power our smartphones, tablets, laptops, and electric vehicles. Roughly 75 percent of the world’s supply of cobalt is mined in the Congo, often by peasants and children in sub-human conditions. Billions of people in the world cannot conduct their daily lives without participating in a human rights and environmental catastrophe in the Congo. In this stark and crucial book, Kara argues that we must all care about what is happening in the Congo―because we are all implicated. **Let’s meet at Caboose Commons in Fairfax to enjoy some good discussion and meet new friends.**

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Join us as we get together to see your choice of two VERY different movies – one sweet and wholesome – the other a terrifying folklore horror! Option 1 is the fun whodunnit-action-comedy-mystery led by Hugh Jackman, THE SHEEP DETECTIVES! Option 2 is the top-reviewed supernatural-horror-thriller starring Adam Scott, HOKUM! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: THE SHEEP DETECTIVES: Every night a shepherd reads aloud a murder mystery, pretending his sheep can understand. When he is found dead, the sheep realize at once that it was a murder and think they know everything about how to go about solving it. The film is directed by Kyle Balda and take a look at this ensemble cast: Hugh Jackman, Nicholas Braun, Molly Gordon, Hong Chau and Emma Thompson and the voices of Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Chris O'Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart, Bella Ramsey, Brett Goldstein and Rhys Darby. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyZI5oM6hWk HOKUM: In this film, a horror writer visits an Irish inn to scatter his parents' ashes, unaware the property is said to be haunted by a witch. It is written/directed by Damian McCarthy stars Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, Florence Ordesh and Austin Amelio. Hokum premiered to rave reviews at this year’s SXSW Festival and is being release by Neon. It is earning a stellar 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which calls it, “A classic haunted house story enriched with atmospheric folklore and perfectly-timed shocks!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVCIK_MPyhc PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing of both films and will meet inside the theater lobby about 20 minutes before showtime. If the showtimes work out, we’ll try to get both groups together for a bite before the shows! Complete details and showtime will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**Our May novel is: *The Quiet Librarian* by Allen Eskens** **This month’s book is set in the 20th century and mixes historical fiction with suspense and thriller elements. It also centers on women’s stories and relationships. The novel is 368 pages in print or 8 hours and 12 minutes on audiobook.** Hana Babic is a quiet, middle-aged librarian in Minnesota who wants nothing more than to be left alone. But when a detective arrives with the news that her best friend has been murdered, Hana knows that something evil has come for her, a dark remnant of the past she and her friend had shared. Thirty years before, Hana was someone else: Nura Divjak, a teenager growing up in the mountains of war-torn Bosnia—until Serbian soldiers arrived to slaughter her entire family before her eyes. The events of that day thrust Nura into the war, leading her to join a band of militia fighters, where she became not only a fierce warrior but a legend—the deadly Night Mora. But a shattering final act forced Nura to flee to the United States with a bounty on her head\*\*.\*\*

Join us for a Fun Friday event as we get together to see the long-awaited sequel to the 2006 original, THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2! Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci all return for this follow-up that finds the former assistant is now a rival! Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follow’s Miranda Priestly's struggle against Emily Charlton, her former assistant turned rival executive, as they compete for advertising revenue amidst declining print media. The film is directed by David Frankel and written by Aline Brosh McKenna (who wrote/directed the 2006 original). It stars returning cast members Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci along with newcomers Justin Theroux and Kenneth Branagh. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9HXmMnUEdE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet inside the lobby area between 6:30 and 6:45pm! Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but early arrival is advised! Be sure to mention you’re with the Movie Group for admission and concession discounts! And don’t miss the best part of the night – immediately after the show, we’ll head to the nearby Rusty Bucket for conversation, food and drinks! Park on Main St, near the Rusty Bucket, or in the lot near Brassica and your car will be close by at the end of the night! Should be a fun one, Dan

Join us for our May Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *[Cantoras](https://caroderobertis.com/books/cantoras/)*[ ](https://caroderobertis.com/books/cantoras/)by [Caro de Robertis](https://caroderobertis.com/bio/) in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.

Let’s meet, wander the exhibits and open galleries, and enjoy an evening out in the Franklinton Arts District. (Nearby pay parking is available in the garage on McDowell, right around the corner from One Line Coffee, and, past it along the curb as McDowell dead ends.)