Poetry

Hey Poetry Lovers! This group is on a roll. Here’s the gist: We meet at the **Capital One Café in Chinatown** from **12pm - 2pm** every other week. For enrichment, we start by reading and reflecting on a **“published poem”**, suggested by someone in the group. No advance preparation is necessary. But feel free to check out some of the poems we’ve read [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vSyE_wCLQCPHRrKmN5F9tOIeeRQUZESxjRXGVBoCF2uU8Gm0_d0uECiCBCQXEy6ksxfsBOhtRIOpW3T/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E). Or submit suggestions for future meetings [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexGc2Z2Kp6bZW0D3_hfJ7NUUkfNHf7TXX-43FglCeBd9EF2Q/viewform?usp=send_form). Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Ian / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

We’re going on our annual stroll to tour the winners of this year’s Golden Haiku contest! We’ll be gathering at CapOne cafe right after our Saturday workshop, leaving at 2:10 to go to the metro. Even if you aren’t able to join us for the workshop right before, come join us for this, followed by our usual lunch outing.

Let's do a co-writing session at Panera. Bring whatever you're working on on your laptop or notebook. We're open to all genres - essays, poetry, fiction. (But this is primarily for working on writing projects, not journaling.) Schedule: 3:00 - meet and chat 3:30 - work on your project 4:30 - chat 5:00 - close

Join DC Metro Crafts for a field trip. We'll be at Quill and Crumbs, the cafe at the Shakespeare Folger Library. The Shakespeare Folger Library is about 3 blocks from the Capitol South metro. Head up First as you get out of the station, pass the Library of Congress and the Capitol, turn right on East Capitol, and the Folger is on the right. The entrance is around the side, not through the front of the building. Head upstairs to the cafe and we'll be at the tables at the back. Bring your own cross stitch, knitting, crochet, or other portable craft. We'll be in the back at the group tables.

Spring is finally here! To celebrate, let's visit the tulips at Brookside Gardens before walking through the Seminary Historic District and making our way over to Bethesda. We'll finish off by visiting Max's Best Ice Cream for a sweet treat to end the day https://maps.app.goo.gl/ Part I - Walk to Brookside Gardens (1.6 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2ARZeSKNXob9z8A9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2ARZeSKNXob9z8A9) Part II - Walk around Wheaton Regional Park (2.5 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/czHfnKj81UZdYPf49](https://maps.app.goo.gl/czHfnKj81UZdYPf49) Part III - Walk through Seminary Historic District to Bethesda (9.4 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1qcehvqPrdL6JiU7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1qcehvqPrdL6JiU7) **Mileage:** \~13.0 miles **Start Location:** Glenmont Metro Station **End Location:** Bethesda Metro Station **Time:** 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM **Terrain:** This will be have a solid amount of uphill (\~900 feet) elevation gain) with a mix of paved, gravel, and trail surfaces

Ocho de Bastos first event this year is at the art blooms festival at Mosaic District in Virginia. I know several members of our group, also known as groupies, will not mind crossing the river. I am including a map to help us find the stage. Bring a chair in case you need to pause from dancing. There will be free shuttle buses from the Dunn Loring metro station.

Come practice all the languages of the world - all are welcome! This will be an outdoor event, and the Carillon is a great place to see tulips in full bloom. STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK. We ask attendees to exercise their best judgment and do not attend if they feel unwell. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to an organizer. Fostering an open-minded, safe community is our utmost priority

**[Potomac River Shape Note Singing Convention!](https://www.fsgw.org/shape-note-convention)** All are welcome to the 2026 Potomac River Shape-Note Singing Convention! Singing from the Shenandoah Harmony & the Sacred Harp (1991) -- both books all day, in alternating sessions. Saturday, April 11th, 10:30am-4:00pm; registration begins at 10:00am. Church of the Ascension Silver Spring Parish Hall, 633 Sligo Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910 \*Bonus Saturday Night Sing During Social!\* 7:00-9:00pm from the Valley Pocket Harmonist, in Brentwood, MD. Sunday, April 12th, 10:30am-3:30pm, registration to begin at 9:30am Lacey Woods Park rear picnic shelter, 1200 N George Mason Dr., Arlington, VA 22205 This is an outdoor, covered location. We will sing rain or shine! Learn more - [https://www.fsgw.org/shape-note-convention](https://www.fsgw.org/shape-note-convention)

**Circlesinging Workshop: Discover Your Musical Voice (90 minutes)** **Register here**! [https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257392651156](https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257392651156) Join members of VoiceExchange on April 12 for an introduction to -- or continued practice of -- the art of collaborative vocal improvisation. In this 90-minute workshop, we'll explore the captivating practice of circlesinging—where voices intertwine to create spontaneous, layered musical landscapes without instruments, written music, or rehearsal. **The Workshop Experience** Standing together in a circle, you'll discover your innate capacity to create music with nothing but your voice. We'll guide you through foundational techniques for developing simple musical patterns that blend with others, creating beautiful moments of shared sound. Through focused instruction and guided practice, you'll experience the unique joy of co-creating improvised vocal music. This workshop draws from practices developed by Bobby McFerrin, Rhiannon, and Música do Círculo, introducing you to the essential elements that make collaborative vocal improvisation both accessible and deeply rewarding. **What You'll Learn** * Basic techniques to unlock your personal capacity for musical invention * How to create simple looped musical ideas that combine with others * Foundational skills including listening techniques and basic vocal layering **Who Should Attend** This workshop welcomes anyone comfortable with their singing voice—particularly those who've found themselves naturally harmonizing with songs on the radio or humming improvised melodies. No formal music training or ability to read sheet music required—just bring your curiosity and willingness to explore. **What You'll Take Away** * **First Steps in Musical Discovery:** Begin to uncover your unique musical voice and capacity for spontaneous creation * **Taste of Community Creation:** Experience the connection that forms when voices unite in collaborative musical conversation * **Introduction to Mindful Listening:** Practice attentive listening and responding through sound **Workshop Details** **Date**: Sunday, April 12, 2026 **Time**: 1:00-2:30 PM **Location**: Elwood Smith Community Center, 601 Harrington Rd, Rockville, MD 20852 **Parking**: Available in lot outside the building **Register here**! https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257392651156[https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257392651156](https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257392651156) Presented by members of VoiceExchange, a vocal improvisation ensemble dedicated to exploring and sharing the joy of collaborative vocal creation. **Contact**: [circlesinging.maryland@gmail.com](mailto:circlesinging.maryland@gmail.com) \~\~ This event is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council ([msac.org](https://msac.org/)). \~\~

This meeting will be dedicated to talking about the entirety of "Brideshead Revisited" by Evelyn Waugh We will be meeting in the National Portrait Gallery Atrium. To stay up to date with events and discuss meetings or books, you can join our Whatsapp group. Please message me to get added.

The topic for April is "Water" 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 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 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!

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

**🫶 Detroit Speed Dating – Personality Matched & Hosted on Zoom** For this online speed dating version, the host and the people in the room matter as much as the agenda. The experience is designed to feel guided, welcoming, and social. A straightforward, fun way to meet local singles without stepping out. Each round is a brief one-on-one Zoom chat with a Detroit local paired by age and personality. A host keeps the pace comfortable. **Register under your age group:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=downtown-local-singles-mixer-and-mingle&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=downtown-local-singles-mixer-and-mingle&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=downtown-local-singles-mixer-and-mingle&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - First-timers new to speed dating - 🚀 People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - 🎯 Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings 🧭 **How the session runs** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Join on Zoom** – Click the link, jump on, and the host handles the rest. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Detroit locals. **At a glance** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – hosted and well-structured - **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable – no venue, no travel - **Host:** Experienced host steering the session **Frequently Asked Questions** **Do I need experience?** Not at all. The host walks you through everything. **How long are the chats?** **What's the personality quiz for?** **Is my info private?** --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Detroit locals tonight. 💘 ✨ Compressed version with the essentials only. Built for clarity over length. 🤝 **Community angle** - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum It is meant to feel like the start of ongoing relationships, not just a single session on the calendar.

💓 **Online Speed Dating Built for First Timers – Real Connections, Zero Pressure!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. Limited spots available – register now before they're gone! **📋 Choose Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=55+&face_v=1.0) --- 🤝 Tired of swiping with no results? Try real conversations instead! Online speed dating removes all the awkward parts of traditional dating. A friendly host guides you through each round, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Connect on Zoom** – No setup needed. Just click the link and you're in! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Detroit singles who share your vibe. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Hosted live on Zoom – guided, fun, and stress-free - **Location:** No venue needed – just a comfy seat and a good internet connection - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Detroit singles - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone - **Duration:** About 60–90 minutes of structured, fun conversations **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! --- ✨ The hardest part is clicking register. After that, we make everything easy. See you there! 💘 ✨

Let’s try this popular Italian restaurant in Reynoldsburg. This is the menu: https://scaliristorante.com/#4e468054-0235-43e2-81c2-44e061341e9e

Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in! We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind. If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.