Group Art

Join us every Sunday at [One Spirit Martial Arts](https://www.virginiabjj.com/) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) for open training in [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu): Research, Review, and Roll! 🥇 This is a **student-driven session** designed to help you explore what matters most to your BJJ development. Whether you want to **research techniques, review material from the week**, or **roll with different partners**, this open format gives you the flexibility to focus on your own goals. An **instructor will be present** to answer questions, offer feedback, and help troubleshoot positions, but the pace and flow of the session are entirely up to you. You can **drill, experiment**, or **get in some live rounds** in a relaxed and supportive environment. Open training is ideal for students who want to **refine their technique, test new ideas, and build confidence** through *consistent practice*. All skill levels are welcome -- come train, learn, and grow with the **[Northern Virginia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community](https://www.meetup.com/northern-virginia-martial-arts-group/)**! **Note:** We are located in **Suite #130**. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20**, payable on-site.

Always nice to get to the National Gallery, especially this time of the year. I heard the Australian Indigenous Art exhibit - **[The Stars We Do Not See](https://www.nga.gov/exhibitions/stars-we-do-not-see?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23225053626&gbraid=0AAAABBBT5I0Pq8aixeDHSLmHS1Txu_KtD)** \- is amazing\, so we might get to that after\. And a late lunch \(or early dinner\) after if folks are interested\. And there's always ice skating\. :\-\) George Cukor’s classic comedy of generational and class differences, *Holiday* stars the legendary Katharine Hepburn (Linda Seton) and Cary Grant (Johnny Case) at their charismatic, bantering best. Following a whirlwind engagement, the acrobatically inclined, free-spirited Johnny literally tumbles into the lives of his fiancée’s aristocratic family, setting up a clash of values with her staid father while firing the rebellious imagination of her brash, black-sheep sister Linda. (George Cukor, 1938, DCP, 95 minutes) **You must [register here](https://www.nga.gov/calendar/vaults/holiday?utm_source=National+Gallery+of+Art&utm_campaign=2ff335950b-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_12_23_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2085ff9475-2ff335950b-343447879&mc_cid=2ff335950b&mc_eid=f372f1b956). It's free and it won't take long.** From a City Paper review last year: Certainly, *Holiday* wears its sadness on its sleeve, but it’s also incredibly fun. No one should dismiss the pleasures of watching two gorgeous people fall in love, especially when it’s based not just on attraction but an actual meeting of the souls. Grant and Hepburn are two of the best at this sort of thing, and they’d do it to more acclaim two years later in *The Philadelphia Story*. We don’t have stars like them anymore, who can make you believe in love again in a tight 95 minutes. Johnny and Linda may sail off to see the world, but the real holiday is ours. The film is a classic and it's free, but you must register.

Discover the path to stress management, life's tranquility, and self-improvement through Heartfulness Meditation. Embrace relaxation, meditation, and emotional detoxification practices to unlock your best self. Join our free sessions every Sunday at 8 AM and Wednesday at 7 / 7:30 PM at various centers in MD and VA. Experience the profound benefits of these simple yet powerful practices. Commit to a few months of meditation and witness the transformative impact firsthand. We eagerly await your presence at these enlightening sessions.

Join us this Sunday to check out the new “Korean Treasures” exhibit (FREE!) at the Smithsonian's Sackler Gallery. This extraordinary collection features masterpieces donated to the Korean nation by the estate of the late Samsung CEO. It is the first time these magnificent pieces are accessible to the public. The works span from ancient times to the present, showcasing paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more from Korea's rich artistic heritage. 📅 When: This Sunday, 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM 📍 Where: We'll start at the museum’s brand new Moongate Cafe (which has been getting rave reviews!) at 2:00 PM, then head to the exhibition together. ☕🍜 About Moongate Cafe: This new pan-Asian cafe overlooks the Smithsonian’s famous Moongate Garden and serves an assortment of dishes, snacks, and beverages, including: • Vietnamese bánh mì • Sesame salmon rice bowls • Tokyo-style hot dogs • Summer rolls • Thai mango sticky rice • Yuzu cheesecake • Vietnamese iced coffee • Specially curated teas Whether you're a Korean art enthusiast or just curious to learn more about Korea's cultural legacy, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience these treasures—accompanied by great food in a serene setting. See you Sunday! ☕🎨 Exhibition Location: Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Galleries 23, 24, 28 1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20013 More info: https://asia.si.edu/whats-on/exhibitions/korean-treasures-collected-cherished-shared/

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

Blast of Silence is a cult classic 1961 film noir, famous for being a gritty, super-low-budget noir set in New York City during Christmastime, featuring hitman Frankie Bono (Allen Baron) navigating holiday chaos while on assignment, offering bleak counter-programming to typical festive cheer with its existential dread and iconic narration. ■ Title — Blast of Silence ■ Director — Allen Baron ■ Cast — Allen Baron, Molly McCarthy, Larry Tucker ■ Rating: Not Rated ■ ©1961 | 1hr 17 mins | Neo-Noir

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.

**Hi Everyone,** **I'm deeply sorry, but I am cancelling FUTURE FREE HUGS events until such time that I know what's happening regarding the COVID, FLU and RSV hospitalization data!!** **For FREE HUGS events in the past, I have consulted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine if the hospitalizations for COVID, FLU and RSV were elevated or not.** **However, the Trump administration has restricted what CDC communicates to the public and has purged or stopped recent hospitalization data on the CDC website.** **There have been no updates on the chart since September 27, 2025** **[https://www.cdc.gov/resp-net/dashboard/](https://www.cdc.gov/resp-net/dashboard/)** **As a result, I'm not willing to risk people's health, nor mine, unnecessarily and am cancelling FREE HUGS events until the hospital data become available.** **Lots of Hugs and Much Love,** **Jeff** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **FREE HUGS on National Mall** **"Spreading More Love"** [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** **Lots of Hugs...jeff** 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

## Details - Please read all below before you sign up **Cost:** Free **Court Type:** Outdoor Grass **Level:** BB/A **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the grass. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball/net if you have one. **10 persons per net max** **Host's Philosophy on this event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. This is a space where you won’t be judged for making mistakes, but we do expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this group isn’t intended for total beginners; a basic understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have an issue with this. [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Your Vibe > Skills > \*Your Attendance Ratio > New Members \* If you have 3 events attended and 6 events you dropped off, you may or may not be invited. Anyone with a drop-off level of -.50 or lower. The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event. [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** * Bringing your dog is welcome and encouraged. * *Can I come if I don't know how to play?* No, you may not. The host does teach a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. * *Can I be late or leave late?* The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to come late or leave early, please let the host know ahead of time. * *Can I come even if I am not on the going list?* No, sorry **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/)

We are a real world Martial arts group. \ Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \ Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \ We have been around a while. \ We are donation based. Every week we get together and work technical skills and live pressure testing. \ Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from altercations in the real world to the ring and some still compete in the cage. \ If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \ We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 inside the whetstone rec center in the auditorium, upstairs in classroom B or outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295 Saturday 1pm Wednesday 5:30pm From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \ \ You must have a free leisure card for the rec center and must be registered for our class specifically .\ Wear workout clothing \ Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \ WE HAVE GLOVES. \ Hope to see you soon :-).\ We are run off of donations. \ let me know if you have any questions :)

**Calling all queer crochet enthusiasts;** I am a visual artist located in Columbus that is searching for people who may want to gather while also participating in creating a piece of artwork. My goal is to spend time enjoying one another’s company while making a work of art that will be displayed within our community. I plan to teach people to crochet (if unfamiliar) while also inviting current fiber artists to join us for some much-needed social interaction. There are no expectations from those who attend, materials will be included, and any amount of participation is welcome! If you have a favorite crochet hook or current project you are welcome to bring that along too! The primary goal is to foster a safe space for our community to chat, create and be. For further information please email [landerknits@outlook.com.](http://landerknits@outlook.com.) \*This will be our first meeting, bring friends and make new ones. Come as you are and make along side other like-minded folks.

Step into 2026 with intention, clarity, and a creative practice designed to help you see yourself more clearly. In this special Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore confidence as something you can curate - through the choices you make, the qualities you amplify, and the story you choose to step into. We’ll start with a short guided reflection to surface the traits, habits, and energies you want to nurture in the coming year. Then, using collage materials selected specifically for this workshop, you’ll translate those insights into a visual composition that represents the version of yourself you’re ready to grow toward. This isn’t about resolutions or perfection. It’s about crafting a grounded, imaginative vision of your next chapter - one that feels honest, energizing, and fully yours. All materials are provided. Just bring yourself (and a friend) and a willingness to explore what confidence can look like for you in 2026. **Featured Partner: Columbus Collage Collective** The Columbus Collage Collective was started in August of 2023 by Emily Morgan (aka Lovely But Dead) and Douglas Cuckler (aka Wonder Doug) as a place for collage enthusiasts to gather and create art together. The collective has since become a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to hold free or low-cost collage events across central Ohio. The CCC welcomes all artists of all backgrounds and skill levels and encourages folks to take this time to step away from everyday existence and create art with people who share a love for this dynamic art form. All materials—magazines, scissors, craft knives, glue, paper, cardboard, and more—are provided, so there's no need to bring anything at all (though you're welcome to bring a friend or a favorite tool if you'd like!). We also encourage folks to take home magazines and materials from our events to support continued creativity! Find us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/](https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/) Register or sign up for the newsletter at [https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/](https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/) **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

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!

**In January we will be making vision boards with magazine collage supplies, stickers, paper, and more! All supplies are provided, seats are limited! Come As you are, when you can; hope to see you there!**

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.