Drama and Comedy Stories

**Marathon edition (2h30) - please check out the schedule below** **Join us for 2h30 of writing!** We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. 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* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 14:00 - Quick introductions 14:15 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 15:15 - Break: let's rest our hands for a minute with a quick chat 15:30 - Timer starts again: write for 1 hour 16:30 - The End: chat, take off, or keep writing **You can come for just one hour (at 14:00 or 15:30) or do the whole session.** OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 16:30. 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 and I look forward to seeing you at the Wereldcafé ! *What Should I Bring?* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the cafe’s overhead music or the occasional conversation by other patrons. There are plugs in the cafe but we may not be seated right next to them, so please charge any device before coming ! *Other Important Details* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- WIFI : the cafe has wifi, the password is written on the menu TRAVEL / PARKING: The cafe is in the center of the city. An uncovered bike rack is available. For more information on parking, please visit https://leuven.be/parkeren SEATING INFORMATION: Please RSVP so I know how many seats to book! GUIDELINES: The Wereldcafé (https://www.wereldcafe.be) is run by volunteers, with the profit given to charities around the world, which is why they require anyone gathering in the cafe to at least purchase one thing. They offer hot and cold drinks, snacks and meals.

**👋 Hey Adventurers !** Are you brave enough to wash away 2025 and start 2026 with a **massive** splash? Join us for the legendary **Nieuwjaarsduik (New Year’s Dive)** in Ostend! Every year, thousands of "Polar Bears" gather on the beach to run into the freezing North Sea. It is crazy, it is freezing, but the adrenaline rush is absolutely unforgettable. ❄️ Do I HAVE to dive? No! If you prefer to stay dry, we need a "Support Squad" to guard the towels, take photos, and have the hot chocolate ready. Whether you are running into the waves or cheering from the sand, you are part of the crew. *** **📅 The Plan (Saturday, Jan 3)** * **11:45 AM:** Meet at **Brussels Central Station** (Main Hall, by the departure board). * **11:56 AM:** Take the train to Ostend together. * **1:15 PM:** Arrive, register, and find our spot on the beach. Time to change (or put on your funny costume!). * **3:00 PM:** **THE DIVE!** We run in, splash around, and run back out (very fast). * **3:30 PM:** Warm up! We’ll grab hot soup, jenever, or hot chocolate (often provided by the event or we buy our own). * **5:00 PM:** A nice group dinner (Fish & Chips or Mussels) in Ostend to warm our bones. * **7:30 PM:** Train back to Brussels. *** **💰 Costs & Membership** * **Organizing Fee:** * **Voyager & Ambassador Members:** FREE * **Explorer Members:** €5 * **Non-Members:** ⚠️ **Important:** You must be a registered member to join this trip. * 👉 **Become a member here:** [https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) * **Ostend Dive Registration:** Approx. €10 (Paid directly to the event organizers online). * **Transport:** Approx. €15 (Weekend Ticket return). *** **🎒 What to Bring** * **For Divers:** Swimwear (already on under clothes helps!), a warm hat, a **large** towel, flip-flops (the sand is cold!), and loose warm clothes for *immediately* after. * **For Everyone:** Warm coat, gloves, scarf. * **Cash/Card:** For the train, registration, and food. *** **⚠️ Important Notes** * **Safety:** The event has lifeguards and medical staff. We stick together! * **Tickets:** Please buy your train ticket *before* meeting us to save time. Get your dive tickets here: https://www.visitoostende.be/en/node/29407 **Let's start 2026 with a story we'll tell for the rest of the year. Who's in? 🥶🌊** **👉 RSVP Now!** *Want to waive the organizing fee? Upgrade to Voyager or Ambassador status on our website: www.sundayvacations.com!* By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

**Cinema Flagey : The Girl in the Snow** 03/01 @ 18h50 One stormy night, Aimée, a young secular republican, arrives in a remote hamlet in the Alps to spend the winter teaching a handful of children. The villagers meet her with cold mistrust, yet she slowly becomes part of the community and remains determined to challenge their obscure beliefs. But as the snow deepens and the mountain grows more isolated, the hamlet’s rituals and legends begin to invade her nights. Louise Hémon’s magnificent debut feature, inspired by her own family stories, premiered at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. [Cinema Flagey](https://www.flagey.be/en/activity/13367-the-girl-in-the-snow-louise-hemon) [L'institut français](https://www.institut-francais.org.uk/cinema/the-girl-in-the-snow/#/) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

Hatha flow & restore is right for you if you're having a stressful time and want to introduce more balance and relaxation into your daily routine. The class blends a smooth, active flow and a sweet dose of restorative finish. Each practice works to uplift and relax you, bringing a nice stretch to your body and serving you an extra boost of energy for the rest of your day. Suitable for all levels. Beginners are welcome! Book and pay through my website: [https://ewalitke.com/yoga/#agenda](https://ewalitke.com/yoga/#agenda) Prices: Drop in 18 EUR 4-class pass: 65 EUR 10-class pass: 160 EUR

Hi everyone, This coffee morning event is @ **Château Moderne**, on Saturday, is 3 January 2025, from 10:00 - 13:00. **Château Moderne is changing its name to Radio Moderne!** 1. The **prime time** of the event is **10:30 - 12:30**. That's when most people will be there. 2. When you enter the place, you will see a long table that is set up for the event. 3. If you intend **to join past 12:00** (high noon), then there is no need to register. Just come and join! 4. **DON'T forget to cancel** if you can't join! 5. **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** **As always, feel free to follow us on INSTAGRAM!** https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== *** **THE STRUCTURE of THE EVENT:** * I post the event on Saturday/Sunday for the following Saturday. * I send out a reminder as an email or a comment on the event page on Thursday/Friday. * There is sometimes a waiting list. * **For everyone on the waiting,** please check your status and messages on Friday evening the latest. I message everyone on the waiting list on Friday. * **Please, move to "not going" AS SOON AS you know that you can't come anymore, that includes everyone who is on the waiting list.** **IMPORTANT:** * When you register yourself, be careful not to register accidentally a +1 guest (unless you bring a guest). It happens very often. * If you have any questions then, message me. *** **A MESSAGE FOR NEWCOMERS:** *In the three years of hosting this coffee group, I have met many people who struggle with anxieties when coming to an event for the first time. Sometimes, it took them more than one attempt before being able to join.* *Occasionally, people reach out to me before the event, and I have always been grateful for that as it offers the opportunity to communicate with each other and to find the best and most gentle way for that person to join the group.* *I would like to encourage everyone who struggles with this to contact me before. It would really be too bad if you can't join us, as it mostly gets better the second or third time you come.* *In addition to that, if you arrive and notice any signs of nervousness or fear, you can always let me know right then.* **THANK YOU AND SEE YOU ALL ON SATURDAY!** **LOCATION:** Château Moderne Mont des Arts 1 1000 Bruxelles

Join us for our January 2026 event "**GaySocial Belgium: Brussels New Year 2026**"! 🌈 **Date:** Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 🕖 **Time**: 8:00 PM - Late 📍 **Location**: To be announced (Central Brussels) We're excited to again bring the together gay men in their 20s to 40s for an evening of fun, laughter, and new connections in the heart of Brussels. With the warmer temperatures now with us, it should be a wonderful evening! **What to expect:** * A warm welcome from your hosts * Chance to meet like-minded individuals in a relaxed setting * Potential for an impromptu bar hop if the group is up for it! **This free event is perfect for:** * Newcomers to Brussels looking to expand their gay social circle * Locals wanting to meet new gay friends * Anyone seeking a fun, judgment-free night out We're all about creating genuine connections and having a great time. Whether you're outgoing or a bit shy, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere here. Space is **limited**, so RSVP early to secure your spot! The exact venue will be announced to confirmed attendees a few days before the event, once we have a headcount. A few days before the event we will send location information to the Events WhatsApp group, please be sure to join this. If you do not have the link, please keep an eye on this events comments nearer the time, or by messaging me for a link. **Remember:** GaySocial Belgium is proudly neurodiversity-friendly and this initial event is focused on socializing, not dating. Come as you are, be yourself, and let's make this first event unforgettable! #GaySocialBelgium #LGBTQBrussels #QueerNightOut *P.S. Have ideas for future events? We'd love to hear them! Share your thoughts when you join us.*

As this will be our first walk of the New Year, we are offering an optional reflection session before the walk. Theme of the reflection: What do we want to let go of? This **pre-walk session is an optional addition**. If you wish to participate, please go directly to the [Maison du Prieur](https://maisonduprieur.be/) (where we usually end our walks) **at 14:00.** I will hold a friendly and safe space for reflection and exchange. **Walk-only option** If you prefer to join only for the walk, Alan will pick you up at Herrmann-Debroux metro station (Loxam side) **at 15:30**. Inspired by the magical atmosphere of our previous daytime-to-dusk walk, we will once again walk silently through the forest for about 1.5 hours. The invitation is to slow down, notice the world around you, and tune into what is happening inside. Many participants experience a deeper connection with nature and with themselves, sometimes accompanied by surprising insights. **Practical information** Distance: approx. 4.5 km Pace: slow, no breaks Please make sure you are fit enough for the full walk If you RSVP, please be on time, either for the **14:00 pre-walk** session or the **15:30 walk-only** meeting point We look forward to seeing you for either part — or both — on Saturday, January 3, 2026. My phone number (Anita) is 0472 92 11 76 in case you need to communicate with me. Phone number Alan: 0474 60 83 70

Réservation obligatoire/compulsory reservation[ via this link](https://www.billetweb.fr/full-moon-gong-bath1) Scroll down for English Lilith & the Full Moon – Gong Bath Lieu : Yoga Studio Brussels Date : Dimanche 4 janvier 2026 Heure : 16h – 17h30 FR La première Pleine Lune de 2026 a lieu le 3 janvier. Le dimanche, nous sommes encore pleinement sous son influence — un moment propice à l’intégration, à la clarté émotionnelle et au lâcher-prise. À cette période, la Lune Noire (Lilith) transite le Sagittaire, mettant en lumière les thèmes de vérité, de liberté et d’authenticité. Cette Pleine Lune nous invite à abandonner les croyances dépassées, à écouter notre intuition et à nous réaligner intérieurement. Ce bain sonore immersif comprend : – un grand gong de 130 cm – quatre gongs planétaires lunaires – un bol chantant rare accordé à la fréquence de Lilith, soutenant la souveraineté intérieure et la vérité émotionnelle Allongez-vous et laissez les vibrations apaiser le système nerveux, libérer les tensions et inviter un repos profond. Tarif 35€ par personne 32€ par personne pour une réservation à deux ou plus Infos & réservations bookings@nirmalkaram.com Aucune expérience nécessaire. ⸻ Lilith & the Full Moon – Gong Bath Location : Yoga Studio Brussels Date : Sunday, January 4, 2026 Time : 16:00 – 17:30 EN The first Full Moon of 2026 rises on January 3rd. On Sunday, we are still fully within its energetic field — a powerful moment for integration, emotional clarity, and release. At this time, Black Moon Lilith is transiting Sagittarius, highlighting themes of truth, freedom, and authenticity. This lunar moment invites us to let go of outdated beliefs, reconnect with intuition, and listen deeply to our inner voice. This immersive gong bath features: – a large 130 cm gong – four Moon planetary gongs – a rare singing bowl tuned to the frequency of Lilith, supporting inner authority and emotional honesty Lie down and receive as sound waves calm the nervous system, clear emotional residue, and guide you into deep rest. Price 35€ per person 32€ per person when booking for two or more Info & bookings bookings@nirmalkaram.com No experience needed.

Welcome to our weekly event in the upstairs room of The Sister Café, rue Chair et Pain 3, one block from the Grand Place. Please get there early enough to order your drink at the bar first. Thank you! After introductions we will collect questions from the group participants, choose one by voting then discuss it for an hour. Then most of us stay for drinks and bizarre conversations. Past questions have been wide and not confined to academic philosophy: What is a genuine friend? Is social media turning us into emotional zombies? Do we lose some of the experience of things by defining them? Are we driven by sex? Is loneliness a personal failure? Is morality relative? **Crucially, be kind and respectful and generous** in your disagreements; remember how much you personally enjoy someone else proving you wrong before celebrating your cutting counterexamples.

Let's meet to write ! Schedule : 11:00 - 11:30 am : Presentation tour. Share briefly with the group about your project and your "goal of the day". 11:30 - 13:30 : Let's write ! 13:30 : Conclusion tour. Did you achieve your goal of the day ? See you soon !

Hi WW's , This Sunday , we shall do a walk from Braine L'Alleud . The walk should look like : https://mapy.com/s/pacogutazu Be prepared for Belgian weather and muddy footpaths ! The walk may be shortened / adapted depending on the weather . Take drinks and snacks to keep you going. We will leave on time , so if you are late you can catch us up by following the route above. The Apres Walk will be in the Deli Traiteur where you can buy the food and drink of your choice , and consume at the tables in the shop. [Delitraiteur Braine l'Alleud Manufacture - Delitraiteur](https://delitraiteur.com/shop/delitraiteur-braine-lalleud-manufacture/) If you have any questions , you can contact me on 0472 613 518. See you on Sunday :-) Rory

Let's continue the tradition and play UNO, everybody is welcome :) If you're on the waitlist please check your messages, especially on Sunday. If people drop off last minute I tend to message people on the waitlist to see who can come. We'll be playing at the lobby of Radisson RED, Brussels. The address of the hotel is: Rue d'Idalie 35, 1050 Bruxelles My number is 0471 45 55 02. Feel free to call if you cannot solve a physics question, cannot find the place or simply need a hug. I have quickly written a set of rules on how we play. It is assumed that the reader has a basic concept of the game. *** Setup: * Each player starts with 6 or 7 cards each (depending on total number of players) * A card is shown in play in the middle of everyone, this is known as the top card. Goal: * The goal of the game for each player is to get rid of all cards in your hand Rules: * Whenever you go from two cards to one card, you have to say "UNO". * Each player takes his turn one by one, initially going in the clock-wise direction * A card may be played if it matches the same colour or same number or same type as the top card in play * The two black cards (Draw 4 and Wild) can be played regardless of the top card in play. * Interruption rule: You may interrupt the general flow of the game (clockwise or counter-clockwise) if you have the EXACT same card as the top card in play. If you manage to play the card prior to the person whose turn it's supposed to be, then the game continues on from you in the same direction it was previously. (Unless the reverse card was interrupted, then the direction changes). * Draw2 or Draw4 cards can be played in accordance to the interruption rule. The following person after the interrupt has to take the accumulated number of cards. If however, cards have already been drawn AND seen by the person who was supposed to take the cards, then only the remainder of cards has to be drawn. * Once someone has no cards remaining in his hand, play stops and we start counting points. Points: * Number cards have the face value as the number of points. i.e. number 6 is worth 6 points, number 0 is worth 0 points, number 4 is worth 4 points. * Skip, reverse and Draw2 are worth 20 points each * Wild and draw4 are worth 50 points each

_IMPORTANT: To RSVP you will also need to register as a member [here.](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership)_ Join Sunday Vacations for a cozy Saturday brunch at **Aksum Coffee House**, one of Brussels’ most beautiful cafés, where rich Ethiopian coffee, fresh Moroccan crêpes, and vibrant international vibes meet in perfect harmony. This is more than just brunch, it’s a relaxed way to start your weekend, meet new people, and enjoy a soulful spot full of stories and flavors. ### 📍 Where? **Aksum Coffee House – Galeries Sainte Hubert (Just a few steps from Grand Place) ### 🕚 When? **Saturday at 11:30 AM** Come hungry, curious, and ready to mingle! ### 🍽️ What’s on the menu? ☕ Fresh-roasted Ethiopian coffee 🥞 Moroccan-style crêpes & artisan pastries 🥚 Tasty brunch dishes (vegetarian options too) 🧾 Everyone pays their own order at the counter. ### 👋 Who’s joining? Expect a mix of international professionals, friendly locals, and Sunday Vacations regulars. Solo? New in town? Come anyway, this is the perfect place to connect. --- 🧡 **Limited spots** – RSVP early to secure your place at the table. By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

Kick off your new year goals with the **Brussels Runners**! Join us for our first Sunday outing of the year—a scenic, social long run through the heart of Woluwe and Etterbeek. Whether you’re sticking to a resolution or just looking for great company, this is the perfect way to start the season. What to Expect: Distance: 13-14 km Pace : 6-6:15 min/km Terrain: A mix of off road and road sections. Good Company: Run with like-minded individuals and make new friends. Post-Run Coffee: Optional gathering at TO MELI for coffee and refreshments. Bag Drop: Available (please arrive by 9:25 AM if you need to drop off a bag or jacket) Meetup: In Front of 'TO MELI' - next to the Schuman Roundabout & Schuman Metro Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability. By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

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!

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!

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

Join us for a top-reviewed comedy-drama and the latest from director Bradley Cooper, IS THIS THING ON! The film is based on a true story follows a middle-aged man in a struggling marriage who seeks in purpose as a stand-up comedian. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: As their marriage quietly unravels, a faces middle age and an impending divorce. He seeks new purpose in the New York comedy scene while trying to navigate co-parenting, identity, and whether or not love can take a new form. The film is directed by Bradley Cooper (A Star Is Born, Maestro) and stars Will Arnett, Laura Dern, Andra Day, Christine Ebersole, Sean Hayes and Bradley Cooper. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4jx0Xgc_Pc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4jx0Xgc_Pc) BUZZ: The film is earning an 89% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which calls it “another terrific relationship study from Bradley Cooper and an ideal platform for Will Arnett's dramatic chops.” Following its world premiere at the NYFF, critics called it “a warm and hilarious comedy-drama” and “one of the most memorable and heartfelt films you’ll see all year!” PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet inside the lobby area about 30 minutes before the show beings. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but be sure to mention you're with the Movie Group for admission and concession discounts. Possible post-show get-together at the nearby Rusty Bucket! Complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

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.

This cutting edge rom-com translates the familiar "love triangle" to the 2025 luxury driven NYC culture. Can our successful matchmaker find true love herself? Watch it and cast your opinion at the group discussion,

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 the second & fourth Wednesday of every month at Two Dollar Radio Headquarters (HQ). 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 around 6:45pm. 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 Two Dollar Radio HQ! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Other customers are welcome at Two Dollar HQ at the time, so please 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. * **ACCESSIBILITY:** Two Dollar Radio HQ's entrance door on Cline Street is wheelchair accessible, they have two gender-neutral bathrooms that are both wheelchair accessible, and their ordering and table-seating area is as well. Working service dogs are allowed. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Two Dollar Radio HQ does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public street parking on all surrounding streets, on both sides of Parsons Ave. You are also welcome to park in the Columbus Metropolitan Library parking lot across the street (1113 Parsons Ave). Two Dollar Radio HQ has a bike rack on the corner of Cline and Parsons, and the library has bike parking (across Parsons). * **FOOD/BEVERAGE:** Two Dollar Radio HQ is a bar and vegan cafe. Their food is 100% vegan and made from scratch, with love. They also serve a range of wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as coffees and teas. If you're able to, please consider thanking our venue by purchasing something!!