Composting

Sarah Lu, Foster Program Coordinator at the [Humane Rescue Alliance](https://www.humanerescuealliance.org/), will join [Pro-Animals DC](https://proanimaldc.org/) and the [Veg Society of DC](http://www.vsdc.org/) to explore the overpopulation of companion animals, the impact of the economy on this issue, the challenges and controversies facing animal welfare organizations, and ways you can help a cat or dog find a better future. We will have a special guest join us - an adoptable dog from HRA – but unfortunately, we cannot have other dogs attend. Before and after the presentation, we will enjoy a potluck of vegan savory and sweet snacks. Please bring finger food and sweets to share. Note that there are no kitchen facilities available, so plan accordingly. We will have coffee and water available. Veg Society of DC is pairing up with Pro-Animals DC to offer occasional educational programs, so watch for more presentations. After registering here, please [register on their site](https://stampede.proanimal.org/event/1764634382939x246683721837576200) as well. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at all of our events. **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Let's get together to play some competitive doubles volleyball. **COST**: FREE **Court Type**: Outdoor grass **Minimum Skill Requirements**: BB+ (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) Attention: 1. This event is **NOT on a first come-first serve** basis and players with higher skill level and players who can bring a net/ball will get priority over others on the wait list. 2. Since skill levels are **self-reported**, some new attendees may not meet the expected level. For doubles, we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this a competitive event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games. 3. Each person must help set up and take down one net, leaving some nets unset for latecomers. 4. Please answer all questions, so it's helpful for us to organize the event. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

Please bring a nutritarian dish or salad to share with at least 8 members. Also, you could bring containers to take home etras at the end of the evening. We will share resouces, recipes and other info as we support each other in choosing high nutrient dense eating.

Join us for a hilarious evening of comedy at **El Rey**! Get ready to laugh your socks off with the **DMV's best comedians**! This **Standup Comedy Night** is sure to be a blast! Best of the night gets a cash prize -- and you get to decide the winner! Casual meet and greet from 7:15-7:45pm. We'll also hang for a few mins after the show for a nightcap! Time: **8:00 PM** Location: **4201 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203** Come and enjoy a night filled with laughter, good vibes, and unforgettable performances. Our talented lineup of comedians will have you rolling in the aisles. From witty one-liners to hilarious anecdotes, they'll keep you entertained throughout the evening. ***\*RSVP for free to snag a seat, but please tip! Cash/Venmo/Paypal/Cashapp/Plasma accepted!*\*** Link for free RSVP: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/estrogenius-all-female-comedy-show-benefitting-house-of-ruth-dc-tickets-1977995980223?aff=erelexpmlt](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/estrogenius-all-female-comedy-show-benefitting-house-of-ruth-dc-tickets-1977995980223?aff=erelexpmlt) Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the **DMV's finest comedic talent**! Comedians have performed on TV, the DC Improv, The Kennedy Center, Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse, and many more clubs and venues! Best of all, admission is **FREE**! So grab your friends, reserve your seats, and get ready for a night of non-stop laughter. We can't wait to see you there! The food and drinks will be great, even if someone bombs on stage! From the creative team that brought you the popular El Rey on U Street in NW DC, comes a new taqueria & margarita bar located at the Ballston Exchange in Arlington. El Rey VA’s fiesta atmosphere features our signature margaritas, delicious tacos, and a few extra treats exclusive to the Ballston location. This event is produced by Callback Comedy

**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.** Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions** 1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? 2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? 3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out? • 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Open gaming at Panera! New players welcome. We have many games on hand or you can bring your own. We are happy to teach or learn one of yours.

The pickleball courts are situated on the far side of the playground, past the swing sets and picnic area. These courts (are] strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, and we do not offer reservation for public use. The courts are frequently unoccupied, but sometimes few people utilize the courts. We've created a WhatsApp group for our Meetup community to help everyone stay connected and get event updates more quickly. It’s a great way to share important info, coordinate plans, and keep each other in the loop about upcoming meetups. Feel free to join so you don’t miss out on any of the fun! https://chat.whatsapp.com/Bw0vxcNKRC1CeHixU41wTG

Join us for an evening of laughter 😂, good vibes ✨, and holiday cheer 🎄🎅 at Astro Beer Hall in Shirlington, Virginia! Dust off your most hilariously hideous holiday sweater 🤣🧥 and come ready to meet up with old friends 👯‍♂️ and make new connections 🤝 in a festive, laid-back atmosphere 🌟. 🎉 What to Expect: • A cozy, upbeat setting at Astro Beer Hall 🍺🍔 with craft beers and delicious bites 😋 • Icebreaker games 🎲😄 and activities to help you connect with new faces 🌟🫶 • An “Ugliest Sweater Contest” 👚🤪🏆 Whether you’re here to mingle 🗣️, share laughs 🤣, or show off your sweater style 💃🕺, this party promises to bring the holiday spirit to life ✨🎄❄️! Don’t miss the chance to create memorable moments 📸💫 with great people ❤️. Bring your festive spirit 🎁✨ and a sense of humor 😄, and we’ll handle the rest. See you there! 🎅🎉🔥🥳

Join DJ Battle, John & Sean for the Annual Ugly Sweater ride a starting from PJs. There will be a 20 mile route at conversation pace. Meetup will be at 920m and rollout at 10am. Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41559552 For this December ride its we’ll ask for attendees to wear their favorite holiday ugly jersey/sweater. During this season of giving AVS is also partnering with GII for the annual
Coat & Toy Drive. AVS will accept donated “new” coats or a “new” toy” for this years efforts. All donations will go to the Willing Helpers Society in La Plata, Md. Any kindness will go a long way to helping families stay warm and have toys for kids during the holiday season. Thanking you all in advance We look forward to seeing everyone in a few weeks.

Join us for a **fun and social hike** at Rock Creek Park as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center. Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city. This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together! **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike. **Distance:** 5.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 685 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Walk/Hike This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q) With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

Join us for our 2v2 Open **Dinking It with Santa Pickleball Tournament**, where holiday cheer meets friendly competition. Whether you’re aiming for the win or just here for the festive fun, all skill levels are welcome. ***All proceeds go to the Volo Kids Foundation, providing free youth sports programming for kids throughout the DMV.*** **To participate, you must be registered through the Volo Website using [this link.](https://www.volosports.com/l/b102708a-ecbd-4287-bba5-7eb6040cf663)** **Your tournament includes:** * Minimum of 3 Pool Play games to 11 (3 games per match). No win by 2 in pool play. * Top 4 teams will advance to the tournament round. **Other Fun Reminders!** 🎁 **Festive holiday costumes encouraged** (ugly sweaters, elves & Santas galore!) 🎅 **All levels welcome** 🍪 **Raffle items & giveaways!**

Our monthly meeting and Holiday party will be dec 21st 1-4 PM This will be held at 4049 Garrett W Dr, Columbus, 43214 This is off of Olentangy River Rd, north of Riverside Hospital. This is the home of one of our members. Feel free to being something. Everyone is welcome - beginner to expert. This is a casual folding session. People will teach a few models.

Whether you've never done improv before, or you've done it for so long you knew Del Close on a personal level, or anywhere in between, come join us! Swing by *Gresso's* for the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup** for some fun and games! The idea behind improv is to create entire scenes from scratch based on a suggestion from the audience. This can be done in game form, like *Whose Line Is It Anyway*, *ComedySportz*, or *Wild 'n Out*; it could also be done to tell stories, like *Middleditch and Schwartz*. Our meetup, which is central Ohio's longest running (and free!) weekly comedy event, brings the games (and occasionally different forms) for you to play in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. Not only is it a lot of fun, but you get to work on thinking faster on your feet, plus it's an excellent way to meet new people and make friendships that'll last a lifetime! Ask yourself if you want to join the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**, and say "Yes, And" that you'll have fun!

Happy Holidays!! Join us for a warm and welcoming Vegan Christmas Potluck! All holidays are welcome, not everyone celebrates Christmas. This is a great chance to meet other vegans, make new friends, and share delicious plant-based food with people who share the same values. Holiday attire is encouraged! 🤩Best holiday fit wins a small prize!!🏆 📅 Date: Thursday 12/25/25 ⏰ Time: 12pm - 3pm 📍 Location: It’s All Natural! Temple Store Bring a vegan dish to share and post in the comments of this event what you’re bringing so we can avoid duplicates. Doors open at 12pm to begin setting up, but we aim to start the feast between 12:30pm and 1pm. Come hungry, come friendly, and come ready to connect. Card games will be available too! We can’t wait to celebrate with you! ‼️ REMINDER ‼️ If you arrive to the temple early, please do not ring the doorbell or knock before 12pm. Some people may be in prayer and we do not want to disturb them. Simply wait in your car. Thank you for understanding and being considerate of this! 😊

How to be a Better Communicator 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

How to Be a Better Communicator 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

Join us for lunch at True Food Kitchen in Easton as we celebrate the New Year and our friendships!