Diverse Ethnic Storytelling

Have you had a few too many quiet or boring New Years? Time to change the game. Pack your bags and **ring in the New Year 2026** on the magical island of **Sri Lanka**. Join me for golden beaches, ancient temples, wildlife safaris, mouth watering cuisine and a celebration to remember. A **trip of a lifetime across the Indian Ocean**, surrounded by amazing people, unforgettable experiences, and positive energy to kickstart your year in style. Whether you're flying solo or bringing a friend—everyone's welcome! A fantastic diverse tour that included temples, caves, tea plantations, safaris, an elephant transit centre, boat trips, train rides, excellent hotels, wonderful weather and delicious eateries. Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is an irresistible destination. This tranquil island boasts idyllic beaches, ancient ruins, sacred temples, verdant tea plantations, and an abundance of elephants and diverse wildlife. Immerse yourself in the magic of this extraordinary island as we journey through its breathtaking landscapes, uncover its rich history, and experience the warmth of its people and incredible natural wonders. The name Sri Lanka means “Resplendent Island”, and nothing could be more appropriate for this lush tropical paradise. Sri Lanka’s vast forests are home to elephants, leopards, bears, monkeys and crocodiles, as well as a diversity of birdlife. **Visa** **You will need a visa to Visit, please see link below for further details** [Entry requirements - Sri Lanka travel advice - GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka/entry-requirements) **Currency:** Sri Lankan rupee **Weather**: In December - January 29 Degrees **Vaccine requirements:** Not needed if residing in the UK **CHECK DETAILS BELOW IF ARRIVING FROM ANOTHER COUNTRY** https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/65/countries-with-risk-of-yellow-fever-transmission This holiday will take place once i have 4 deposits, if i don't you will be refunded fully and trip will be cancelled. Name of hotel will be disclosed once you have paid in full. Hotel will be of 4 star standard, we always stay at good standard accommodation. **Itinerary** **Day 1 (Fri)** We fly overnight from Gatwick. This flight has one stop over on return flights **Day 2 (Sat)** On arrival to the airport we are transferred to our hotel. **FREE TIME** to relax and recover from our travels **Day 3 (Sun)** Today at 10.30 am we will explore Colombo for 4 hours on a city sightseeing tour by tuk-tuk. See some colonial architecture City and Dawn Town Local life, eat delicious street food, and shop for souvenirs and Find the Gem Mine. Bustling with energy all day long, this is a city of vibrant colours and rich culture, offering fascinating insights into the national psyche of Sri Lanka. We will visit Gangaramaya Temple, Colombo Fort, Pettah bazar, Viharamahadevi Park, Independent square, Pettah Market and Galle Face Green, includes bottle of water and coconut water. **Day 4 (Mon)** An early start today pick up between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM **TBC**. Day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla and Safari. Relax and enjoy the scenic countryside—lush greenery, quiet farmlands, and misty landscapes. A breakfast stop at Café Amakie in Kurunegala (self-paid), which offers a selection of local and international dishes, before heading to Dambulla. The safari offers a chance to spot elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. If you are not keen on safari you can enjoy leisure time visiting batik and silk shops or indulging in an Ayurvedic massage. The tour is an immersive cultural experience with a traditional bullock cart ride through scenic paddy fields, followed by a canoe journey across a serene lake. Upon arriving at a village home, a freshly prepared meal with authentic Sri Lankan flavors is served. A tuk-tuk ride concludes the tour, offering a chance to interact with locals and witness everyday rural life. For those opting for wildlife instead of the village tour, an optional jeep safari awaits at Eco Park, Kaudulla, or Minneriya National Park, depending on seasonal animal movement. **Day 5 (Tues) Free Time** **Day 6 (Wed) New Years Eve** Let's have an easy day today or go into town etc. **Details of a New Year's Party to be confirmed** **Day 7 (Thurs) Happy New Year** xx A day to relax, go to the beach or swim at the hotel, shopping etc **Day 8 (Fri)** **Super early start at 4am** Tea Factory, Train, and Nine Arch Day Tour Discover Ella's natural beauty and enchanting sights on a day trip with all transportation included. Visit the Halpewaththa Tea Factory, unwind at the Ravana Pool Club, and hike to Little Adam's Peak. The hike is 45-minute, the journey may be a bit of a challenge, but the reward of the awe-inspiring panoramic views, that await is worthwhile. We will also visit the Ravana Waterfall, an iconic sight ranked among the country's most popular attractions. Witness cascading water amidst lush surroundings, then arrive in Ella, a charming town nestled amidst one-of-a-kind scenery. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime on the Flying Ravana Mega Ziplinne. Feel an unparalleled sense of adventure coursing through your veins as you fly through the sky. **Day 9 (Sat) FREE TIME** **Day 10 (Sun)** Early start day tour to Ambuluwawa Tower & Pinnwala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy Temple of Tooth and more **We can visit the following attractions during our full-day tour** 1\. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage \(need to buy an entrance ticket\) Price TBC 2\. Ambuluwawa Tower \(Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex\) \(need to buy entrance ticket\) Price TBC 3\. Tea Factory & Tea estate \(free entrance\) 4\. Royal Botanical Garden \(need to buy entrance ticket\) Price TBC 5\. Temple of Tooth relic \(need to buy entrance ticket\) Price TBC 6\. The great kandy culture dance show \(need to buy entrance ticket\) Price TBC 7\. Spice garden \(free entrance\) 8\. Gem museum \(free entrance\) 9\. Kandy viewpoint \(free entrance\) **Day 11 (Mon)** **Galle Fort and Jungle Beach Day Trip** Discover Galle Fort’s rich history on a guided day trip. Visit Kalutara Temple, see stilt fishermen, Madu River safari, Hikkaduwa, visit a turtle hatchery, and relax at the Jungle Beach. Includes Guided tour of Galle Fort and surrounding attraction * Exploration of a tsunami village * Tickets for stilt fishermen * Entrance fees to galle fort * Tickets For Jungle beach * Tickets For Fish therapy In maaduriver and crocodile * Entry for all temples to see the culture and traditions. * srilankan king coconut * Taking pictures and holding turtles is free from us * Bottle of water **Additional fees for TBC** * Turtle farm * Maaduriver safari islands **Day 12 (Tues) FREE TIME to enjoy your last day** **Early evening flight back to the UK** **Day 13 (Wed) Arrival Back in the UK** **What's Included** Return flights from Gatwick Luggage allowance * 1 x 7kg cabin bag per person (50 x 37 x 25 cm) * 1 x 23kg hold luggage items B&B (Bed & Breakfast) Return transfers to the airport Tuk tuk city tour Day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla and Safari Tea Factory, Train, and Nine Arch Day Tour Ambuluwawa Tower, Pinnwala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy Temple of Tooth and more Galle Fort and Jungle Beach Day Trip **Not Included** Lunch Dinner Drinks Tips Possible hotel taxes Any thing not mentioned above **Price £2599** Non refundable unless trip is cancelled **(Dated Trip Posted 22/04/2025)** Single supplement (Own Room) £2999 **£100 off if deposit paid by 22nd April** **WITHOUT FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS** Get your own flights and transfers return from the airport £1750 if sharing or own room £2099 **Deposit £300** To be paid ASAP and ongoing payments of £300 per month on the 22nd of each month with the final payments made by the 26th of November 2025. **PLEASE DO NOT RSVP UNLESS YOU HAVE PAID YOUR DEPOSIT, OR YOUR RSVP WILL CHANGE TO NOT GOING** **Funds are non refundable unless trip is cancelled** **Bank account details Please pay to:** Toyin Oke (Personal Account) Barclays Account number 73937305 Sort code: 209467 Ref: Your name Please message me once you have made payments in order for me to confirm. By paying a deposit you will be agreeing to the following cancellation policies: [Click here to see Get A Social Life terms and conditions](http://%5Bhttps//1drv.ms/b/s%5D(https://1drv.ms/b/s)!Atzn1HnSbzbeg7Zw-3vapbIEqr9uDg?e=PrMGma) **My number just in case 07957320516** **PLEASE NOTE THERE MAY BE SOME LAST MINUTE CHANGES IN REGARDS TO EXCURSIONS, WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED.** Hope you are able to join us.

Make sure to **Pre-book** your ticket through [our website](www.ontherocksbarcrawl.com/london/book-now) We're rated number 1 for nightlife on TripAdvisor in Brighton and Barcelona, and 12th in London so you know you'll have a great time ◡̈ People come from LOTS of other channels so please ignore the meetup RSVP number ◡̈ Whether you're new to London or just expanding your social circle, bar crawling is a fantastic way to meet people! Every day our crawl is full of lively people who are just there to meet new friends and have a good time. Guides will take you to at least 5 great bars and clubs in the centre of London. The guides make sure to make everyone feel included, encourage mixing within the group and introduce everyone. This makes it a great activity whether you come alone or with friends. We hope to meet you soon :) INFO: exact meeting point shared once you purchase a ticket (prices vary depending on when you book but start at £19.50) Included is : \- Entry to four bars and a club \- A free shot at each bar \- exclusive reduced drink deals at every venue \- access to the photos that we take with our big fancy camera BRING ID! 18+ years old only (Sorry, it's the law :/ ) Make sure to bring a valid Driving Licence or Passport, other forms of ID (including photocopies of the above) are unlikely to be accepted by the venues that we visit. Make sure to bring ID no matter your age. \*\*\*Please note: Due to previous bad experiences, we are unfortunately no longer able to accept stag/hen dos (or same-sex groups of more than 9) on our main crawl. To book a private crawl with us, please contact london@ontherocksbarcrawl.com\*\*\* Ts&Cs apply: [https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/](https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/)

**Friday 21st** **Friday E2** **7-9pm** IN PERSON & ONLINE The Garrett Centre 117 Mansford St E2 6LX One of London's only drop-in Long Pose classes, set in our main studio space, providing all the equipment you might need, the format for this class is a single pose for the evening, with three short warm up poses to get you started. We also serve hot vegan food in the break, just as we do on Wednesday, so perfect if you arrive hungry. Expect a calm and relaxing atmosphere, lots of time to explore your drawing practice and tutored support. Real Life Drawing - Long Pose - Every Friday - 7pm: Dear Friends This is our legendary Friday Long Pose class - Each week we work with London's best models, providing you with tuition if you want it, and leaving you in peace if you prefer that. There is food and great company, this is the class for you if you would like to connect with a community of like minded artists. We will make you feel welcome and always have a good word to say about your work, even if you don't. That is what this group is all about, community, friendship and art, come and join us. **£ COST - BOOKING TICKETS & DROPPING IN:** JOIN US IN PERSON OR ONLINE **IN PERSON: £13** This is a drop in class, but buying a ticket means you can simply drop in without needing to worry about paying on the night, use the link bellow to book: https://bookwhen.com/londonlifedrawing_livestream **ONLINE:** **£8** These sessions are streamed via Zoom making it possible for you to join us where ever you are, we have a warm online community and this is the perfect way to keep drawing throughout the week even if you cant make it to a class. You can book to join online by using the same link and selecting **Zoom Online Ticket** https://bookwhen.com/londonlifedrawing_livestream **SCHEDULE & POSE LENGTH:** 6.45 pm > arrival 7.00pm > We start drawing at 7pm with 3 poses of 5mins each and follow this with a single pose for the rest of the evening We have a 15 min break at 8pm and the session ends at 9pm: > > 7pm start > > 3 x 5 min pose > > Long Pose > > 8pm break (15 min) > > Long Pose > > 9.00pm session ends **DRAW MORE PASS:** If you have a Draw More Pass - HOWEVER OLD - please select that ticket option in Bookwhen - this will give you a free booking confirmation - bring a print out or screen shot of the booking to the session along with your Draw More Pass - if you have any difficulties please call Adrian on 07966925723 **BUYING A DRAW MORE PASS :** The Draw More Pass makes our classes the most affordable in London and it's incredibly versatile. The Pass enables you to drop into our classes in person or online, any time you want to. You don't have to come back every week, instead choose your times and just turn up, they never expire - you can buy a Draw More Pass in any class or via our website: [https://www.adriandutton.com/shop](https://www.adriandutton.com/shop) When you buy a pass online you will receive a PDF, simply screen shot this or print it out and bring it to any session and we will exchange this for a PASS, also, as soon as the transaction is made you will be listed to receive our link emails for online sessions: 5 sessions: £52.50 10 sessions: £100 20 sessions: £190 50 Sessions: £400 About the venue. **The venue opens at 6.30pm** our classes take place in the Lower Ground Floor The Garrett Centre - This is fully wheelchair accessible via a ramp to the space and has wheelchair accessible doors and amenities Nearest tube: Bethnal Green (central line). **Directions (see map below):** Tube/train: approx. 8 minutes walk from Bethnal Green Tube (Central Line) and 12 mins. walk from Hoxton & Shoreditch overground stations. Buses: Nrs. 8, 388, D3 - stop Pollard Row. Nrs. 26, 48, 55 - stop Hackney Road. Nrs. 106, 254 - stop Old Ford Road. Nr. 309 - stop York Road. When walking/cycling, there is a footpath behind the Tesco's on Bethnal Green Road that will get you there faster (see highlight on map above). If driving you will need to go via Hackney Road and turn left on Mansford St, follow to the end of the Street where you will see the Garrett Centre on your left. Parking is free after 6.30 in the surrounding streets and directly in front of the centre, however, you should note that the thick white lines denote no parking areas, only use actual parking bays. **Bikes:** please bring your bikes down to the basement, we are currently able to offer secure space in one of the rooms of the centre. To view a BBC film taken at the Bethnal Green Life drawing class, see below: You can watch the BBC film of Rhod Gilbert's Work Experience' made at our life drawing class here: https://vimeo.com/120288888 (http://vimeo.com/ziplinecreative/review/78714935/a64159a7bb) http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/9/1/8/600_434466424.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/5/f/9/600_433149721.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/9/f/3/600_432579411.jpeg

**Meet people from around the world** in beautiful spaces across London. We mix informal socializing with a few structured activities so you feel safe, relaxed and make new friends! **What is World Citizens?** London's community for new-in-town, expats, travellers and third culture kids who want to meet in a *safe*, *culturally enriching* and *thought-provoking* space. **How to participate?** You *must* enter our ticket lottery at [https://worldcitizenfridays.eventbrite.co.uk](https://worldcitizenfridays.eventbrite.co.uk)! If you're picked, you will receive an invitation email with the secret venue address sometime on Thursday or Friday! **The secret venue address** changes every week, but is very close to the map spot. This week we'll be in Soho on Carnaby Street, just a short walk from Oxford Circus or Piccadilly Circus stations. To receive the full secret venue address you *must* register via Eventbrite lottery. There is no other way. If you received the full secret venue address, please do not share it with anyone! **Why the lottery and secret venue?** We balance quantity and quality, newcomers and regulars, and give everyone a chance to experience safe, diverse and culturally enriching events. Expect *less* attendees than the number of RSVP, but *more* quality time connecting with people in a meaningful way! **What we expect from you:** 1. To be respectful and courteous with everyone. 2. To be present so that others feel listened to. 3. To be mindful of people’s personal space. *These events are for everyone to feel safe, welcome and comfortable; where everyone can be heard; where everyone can maintain boundaries with harmony. Thank you for your cooperation!* **We put women first:** *Over 80% of women in the UK say that nightlife is unsafe ([YouGov Oct 2021 poll](https://www.womensgrid.org.uk/?p=16635)) because of predator men and alcohol/substance abuse. We want to completely change that: World Citizens proactively designs event systems for everyone to enjoy a safe and pleasant evening.* **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers doing this for fun, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, and meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP". **DISCLAIMER:** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Despite careful planning and structure this is a private informal activity, so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any form of harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour. We collaborate with the police if needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our admin decisions may not always be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

Hi everyone, We will be meeting at The European Pub (557-559 Lea Bridge Rd, London E10 7EQ). We can have a meal and drinks and then play some board games. Do feel free to bring your own board games too. So, whether you're new to the group or an old regular, don't hesitate to hit that RSVP button! Come and relive the atmosphere of warmth and friendliness that we always manage to create at our dining events! We are just regular folks who want the same thing as you - have a normal talk, stay in touch, make some new friends... The whole point of this group is to create a little island of sanity in this chaotic world. All too often, one forgets to be grateful for what one has and for the life one is allowed to lead. So let's get together and celebrate Life itself, and our little group in particular! We'll be meeting just outside. If you can't find us, please ring 07961179692.

**Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned master, join Our Chess Enthusiast Group for Social Fun and Friendly Matches** **This is the perfect opportunity to socialise, make new friends, and engage in the intellectually stimulating and entertaining world of chess.** **Our chess group is a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels. We believe that chess is a game that transcends age and gender, uniting people in the pursuit of strategic brilliance and camaraderie. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the ropes or a grandmaster seeking challenging opponents, our group is the ideal place for you.** **When and Where We Meet** **We gather every Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at a convenient and accessible location:** **Venue: 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW** **Our chosen venue is not only a clean and safe space but also secure, ensuring that your chess sessions are enjoyable and worry-free.** **Additionally, there is an indoor cafe on-site, so you can relax with a refreshing beverage and delicious snacks between matches.** **What to Expect** **When you join our chess enthusiast group, you can look forward to a variety of chess-related activities:** 1. **Engage in chess matches with players of varying skill levels, providing a perfect opportunity to improve your game or showcase your expertise.** 2. **Connect with fellow chess enthusiasts who share your passion, fostering new friendships and a sense of community.** 3. **If you're a beginner, our more experienced members are always willing to offer guidance and tips to help you grow as a chess player.** 4. **We occasionally organise chess tournaments and special events, allowing you to challenge yourself and compete for prizes.** **Reserve Your Space** **Due to space limitations, we kindly request that you reserve your spot before attending our chess gatherings. This ensures that we can accommodate everyone and maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all participants. To reserve your space or inquire about the group, please reach out to us via email magdyelalfy@gmail.com** **While we do provide chess sets at our venue, we encourage members to bring their own if they have one. Personalising your chess experience with your preferred set can add a unique touch to your games.** **Join us at 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW, and be a part of a vibrant and engaging chess community. Whether you're in it for the love of the game, the social interactions, or both, our chess enthusiast group offers a fantastic platform to indulge your passion for chess and make new friends along the way. We look forward to welcoming you into our fold and sharing the joy of chess with you.** **For reservations, Click attend on the meetup App.** **Come and make your next move with us – both on the chessboard and in your social circle!**

Join us for a day filled with laughter and great conversations with friends at The REAL Over 40s meetup group. Unwind with a drink in hand as we enjoy a pit-stop before the next week ahead. This social gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share stories, and create lasting memories. We meet at table 45. See you there 👍 P.S There are always atleast 15 to 20 people show up regardless of rsvp numbers.

Если вы когда-нибудь мечтали увидеть тюленей, греющихся на берегу, то время пришло😍! Мы отправляемся на побережье северного Норфолка, которое славится первозданной природной красотой👍🏻. Возможно, именно поэтому его облюбовали тюлени, обитающие здесь круглый год. Грациозные в воде и немного неуклюжие на суше, с трогательными мордочками, огромные самцы, изящные самочки и крохотные детеныши — весь пляж просто усыпан животными, а воздух наполнен их криками. Вы можете наблюдать за морскими созданиями со специально оборудованных смотровых площадок или отважиться и подойти как можно ближе. Но не стоит забывать, что на суше тюлени чувствуют себя уязвимо, а потому необходимо обращать внимание на обозначения огороженных участков, созданных ради безопасности как людей, так и животных🛑. Нас ждет потрясающее зрелище, которое подарит море впечатлений, эмоций и множество замечательных фотографий! А ещё местечко Horsey Gap прославилось тем, что в 2015 году на его пляже родились первые в мире официально зарегистрированные тюлени-двойняшки! Прекрасным завершением дня после неспешной прогулки станет обед в пабе Nelson Head🍧. *** 📝План поездки: 📍**08:45 Встреча** у отеля **[Ibis London City Hotel](https://goo.gl/maps/ucQmtxqwjZs)**, 5 Commercial St, E1 6BF (рядом со станцией Aldgate East Station) 📍11:00 — 11:30 [St Georges](https://www.englishwhisky.co.uk/), остановка для дегустации/покупки английского виски (без тура по винокурне) 📍12:20 Короткая остановка у ветряной мельницы [Horsey](https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/horsey-windpump) для фотографий 📍12:30 — 14:30 Прогулка вдоль дюн Северного моря (Horsey Gap) в поисках тюленей 📍15:00 — 16:15 Домики с соломенными крышами и обед в деревне Horning на берегу озера 📍16:15 Отправление 📍19:00 London, Aldgate East 👣Продолжительность путешествия зависит от погодных условий и дорожных пробок. *** 🎁Включено в бронирование: ⚜️Аудиогид на русском ⚜️Тур-менеджер, говорящий на русском и английском языках ⚜️Транспорт, организация мероприятия ⚜️Профессиональный водитель с курсами IAM/RoSPA ⚜️Администрация и помощь во время путешествия ⚜️НДС и все налоги, комиссия платежной системы (карта/банк/PayPal) *** 🙅🏼‍♀️Не включено: ❌Питание во время путешествия: индивидуальный выбор ❌Трансфер в место встречи и после завершения поездки ❌Остановки автобуса для посадки/высадки пассажиров по пути следования ❌[Страховка](https://www.coverwise.co.uk/) в случае травм, потери багажа и личных вещей, отмены тура в последнюю минуту ❌[Evebus Club](https://evebus.com/ru/evebus-club/) – привилегии для участников программы, в том числе переносы броней без потерь ❌Экскурсовод: £20 с человека при условии набора группы от 6-ти участников *** 🎒Что взять с собой: ✅Воду/еду по желанию ✅Фотокамеру и зарядку для телефона ✅Хорошее настроение 🙂 ✳️Обо всем остальном мы позаботимся. Поэтому просто явитесь в указанное время и место и наслаждайтесь поездкой😉! 📩Этот тур, как и все путешествия Evebus, может быть организован в частном порядке! Для участия в индивидуальных поездках, пожалуйста, обращайтесь на info@evebus.com с пометкой «Тур на заказ».

Come along to Sprechstunde in our ventilated offices to practice your German over some tea and coffee. Meet fellow German learners and grow your confidence. Please RSVP, we try to accommodate walk ins but numbers are limited to 10 participants. Light refreshments are available, please advice if you have any dietary requirements.

The topic for January is "Chemistry" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 7:00 pm, show starts at 7:30 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

I don't usually pick romance but I really wanted to do a Hanukkah book. It's a bit on the longer side but hopefully a quick read. The library only has 5 audiobooks so please try to remember to "release it" when you're done. Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3503238](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3503238) Location: The Goat Riversouth [219 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215](https://www.google.com/maps?q=219%20South%20High%20Street%2C%20Columbus%2C%20Ohio%2043215%2C%20United%20States) [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: Rachel Rubenstein-Goldblatt is a nice Jewish girl with a shameful secret: she loves Christmas. For a decade she’s hidden her career as a Christmas romance novelist from her family. Her talent has made her a bestseller even as her chronic illness has always kept the kind of love she writes about out of reach. But when her diversity-conscious publisher insists she write a Hanukkah romance, her well of inspiration suddenly runs dry. Hanukkah’s not magical. It’s not merry. It’s not *Christmas*. Desperate not to lose her contract, Rachel’s determined to find her muse at the Matzah Ball, a Jewish music celebration on the last night of Hanukkah, even if it means working with her summer camp archenemy—Jacob Greenberg. Though Rachel and Jacob haven’t seen each other since they were kids, their grudge still glows brighter than a menorah. But as they spend more time together, Rachel finds herself drawn to Hanukkah—and Jacob—in a way she never expected. Maybe this holiday of lights will be the spark she needed to set her heart ablaze.

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

MCKS PRANIC HEALING® Level I In PRANIC HEALING® Level 1, you learn the basics of working with your energy aura, including learning to "scan," or feel the energy, to "sweep," or clean away congested energy, and to "energize," or supplement areas in your aura that have a pranic deficiency. PRANIC HEALING® has been taught to doctors, nurses, massage therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, shiatsu practitioners, and many others in the healing field. It has allowed them to heal confidently and consistently in the shortest learning time possible. These professionals find PRANIC HEALING® very effective and easy to apply. Other topics covered in PRANIC HEALING® Level 1: Energetic anatomy: You will learn to work with the network of chakras, meridians and auras to accelerate the healing processes of your body. Preventive healing: You will learn to remove the negative energetic patterns of a disease to prevent it from fully manifesting as a physical ailment. Self-Pranic healing: You will learn to apply these healing techniques to accelerate your own healing. Step-by-step techniques for ailments related to your: respiratory system, e.g., asthma,; circulatory system, e.g., heart ailments; gastrointestinal system, e.g., irritable bowel syndrome; musculoskeletal system, e.g., arthritis and back pain; reproductive system, e.g., menstrual problems. You'll also learn how to address common problems as migraines and sinusitis. Additionally, you'll learn to apply distant healing to loved ones who are not present in the room with you. All PRANIC HEALING® courses are "experiential," which means that you learn by actually performing the techniques and exercises in class - on yourself and those around you. During class, all the principles will be explained thoroughly and you will practice the techniques exhaustively so you will be confident in your ability to produce positive results when you finish the course. This is Day 2 of 2 Attendance at day one is required to attend day 2. The Course text book is Choa Kok Sui, "Miracles through Pranic Healing" Please bring this with you to class. PRANIC HEALING® Level 1 is a prerequisite to all other GMCKS courses. For those interested to review the class...Review fee is only $75!! LOOK AT THIS!! Review for FREE when you bring a new student to class with you.

As we prepare to enter a new year, the Burning Bowl Ceremony offers a powerful and heartfelt opportunity to let go of what no longer serves us and make space for new beginnings. You are warmly invited to join us for this sacred and reflective ritual. The Burning Bowl Ceremony is a beloved Unity tradition—an empowering moment where we release old patterns, worries, or limiting beliefs by writing them down and symbolically releasing them into the flame. This act of letting go opens the door to clarity, peace, and transformation.

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

You are invited to participate in one of Unity’s most meaningful and empowering traditions—the **White Stone Ceremony**. As we enter a new year, this sacred ritual gives you the opportunity to listen within, connect with Spirit, and claim a new name or intention for your life. In ancient times, receiving a white stone symbolized freedom, new identity, and fresh possibility. Today, we continue that tradition by holding a smooth white stone, entering a quiet meditation, and allowing Spirit to reveal a word, name, or message that reflects who you are becoming.