Poetry

**Goombay Ugly Sweater Glow Party** **Saturday, December 27th • 5 PM – 10 PM** **The Consortium at 201 • 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington, DC** Get ready to kick off the holiday season Goombay-style! Join the entire Goombay family, friends, and fans for our annual **Ugly Sweater Glow Party**—a festive night packed with good music, good people, and glowing holiday vibes. **$25 EARLY BIRD TICKETS \| $35 TICKETS AT THE DOOR** **$150 TABLE OF 4 \| $225 TABLE OF 6** **\*FREE PARKING DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET** **\*CASH BAR \| FOOD SOLD \| TABLES & BOTTLE SERVICE AVAILBLE** \*\*[Purchase Tickets HERE](https://posh.vip/e/goombay-ugly-sweater-glow-party) OR Go to [www.Goombay.net**](http://www.Goombay.net**) Come in your ugliest, brightest, or most creative holiday sweater and get ready for an evening of dancing, laughter, games, and unforgettable memories. The lights will be low, the glow gear will be bright, and the energy will be high as we celebrate another amazing year together. Whether you’re a longtime Goombay member or brand new to the crew, this is the one event that brings everyone under one roof for pure holiday fun. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RESERVE YOUR TABLE & BAR SERVICE CALL/TEXT BUTCH AT (202)210-1957

Join us for an exciting introduction to Capoeira, a unique Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. This event is perfect for beginners who are looking to learn the basics of Capoeira in a fun and supportive environment. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the fundamentals of this dynamic art form, teaching you kicks, spins, and defensive movements that are essential to Capoeira practice. No prior experience is required to participate in this event, so whether you're a total beginner or have some background in MMA mixed martial arts, you're welcome to come and try something new. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Brazil as you learn about the history and traditions of Capoeira. Discover the beauty and power of this martial art as you develop your strength, flexibility, and coordination. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with others who share your interest in Capoeira and embark on a journey of self-discovery through movement and music.

The grave sites at Arlington National Cemetery are marked with wreaths to honor our Nation's heroes for their service and sacrifice. Let's visit and pay our respects. ❶ **What we'll do:** * After passing through security at the Welcome Center, we'll take a walk through the cemetery, observing the 1 pm changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns and visiting some of the more notable memorials and grave sites. * The walk is about 3.5 miles and should take about 2 hours at a slow to moderate pace, including the stop to watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns. The path is paved but hilly, with steps in places. * Map with site notes and photos: [https://tinyurl.com/35snmhhv](https://tinyurl.com/35snmhhv) ❷ **How to get there:** * Metro: The Arlington Cemetery Metro Station is on the Blue Line. From the exit, walk 0.1 miles WSW along Memorial Drive to the meetup point in the Visitor's Center. See [https://www.wmata.com/service/status/](https://www.wmata.com/service/status/) for the latest status and alerts. * Driving: Arlington National Cemetery is located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. at the end of Memorial Avenue, the parkway which extends from Memorial Bridge, near the Lincoln Memorial. Along this parkway is the rotary intersection with the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway. Arlington is accessible from the major roadways in the D.C. area like Interstate 95, the Capital Beltway (I-495), the George Washington Memorial Parkway and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (I-295). See [http://tinyurl.com/zba488c](http://tinyurl.com/zba488c) ❸ **Weather:** The forecast is mostly cloudy and a high of 52F, with light SE winds and a 10-12% chace of showers. Updates here: [https://tinyurl.com/84wet7am](https://tinyurl.com/84wet7am) ❹ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and the layered look. Sorry, only service animals are allowed in the cemetery. We will be passing through a security checkpoint, so please bring minimal to no bags to expedite the screening process. Depending on the security posture, all visitors 18 years of age and older, including individual members of tour groups, may be asked to provide a valid U.S. state or federal government-issued photo identification upon entering the cemetery. Weapons of any kind are prohibited. See [http://tinyurl.com/zcgmw3w](http://tinyurl.com/zcgmw3w) for a list of restrictions. ❺ **Advisories:** * As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers. * This is a cemetery, not a park, so our usual jocularity must be curtailed. The standards of conduct required of all visitors are listed here: [http://tinyurl.com/jf6ljk3](http://tinyurl.com/jf6ljk3) ❻ **Cost:** Parking is $3 per hour, up to a maximum of $12 per day. See [http://tinyurl.com/hen3c5t](http://tinyurl.com/hen3c5t) ❼ **Administrative stuff:** There are public restrooms and drinking fountains at the Visitor Center and at the Tomb of the Unknowns. ❽ **Notes:** * Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211, +1 877-977-8585. [http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/](http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/) * ANC Explorer: [https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Find-a-Grave](https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Find-a-Grave)

**Pizza Hut – Herndon** **1061 Elden St, Herndon, VA 20170** Miss your friends between the holidays? We’ve got you covered! Join us for a cozy midday hangout filled with great food, laughter, and the joyful chaos of our annual White Elephant Gift Exchange. We’ve arranged a generous menu and a single flat price — $25 per person, covering all food, unlimited soft drinks, tax, and tip. Just arrive, relax, and enjoy. Pay cash at the door, or pay by credit card using this link: [BuyPizza!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/holiday-hangout-and-white-elephant-gift-exchange) 🎁 **White Elephant Gift Exchange** Feeling festive (or mischievous)? Bring one wrapped gift that is: * $25 or less, or * A regift (the funnier, stranger, or more unexpected, the better!) **How it works:** * Everyone selects either a wrapped gift from the pile or a gift that someone has already opened * If you take an opened gift, it counts as a “steal” * Each gift can be stolen twice * The first person to choose a gift gets the final steal at the end * Participation is optional — everyone is welcome whether you bring a gift or not. 🍕 **Our Holiday Menu** A festive, family-style Pizza Hut spread including: **Pizzas** An assortment of the classics, like Cheese, Meat Lover’s, Pepperoni, Veggie Lover’s, Sausage & Mushroom, and Pepperoni & Sausage. If you need gluten free, just let us know when you arrive — we’ll order your favorite in glorious gluten free! **Appetizers** Breadsticks, Cheese sticks, Fried mozzarella sticks **Desserts** Warm apple pies and the Ultimate chocolate chip cookie. Maybe chocolate brownies if we’re feeling it. **Drinks** Unlimited soft drinks (sorry, darlings — they are not serving alcohol right now) 🥳 **Why Attend?** * See your favorite people during that magical lull between holidays * Holidays can be… a lot. Spend some time with your chosen family, unwind, laugh, and recover with carbs * Enjoy a hearty pizza party with no separate checks or fuss * Laugh your way through the gift-swapping mayhem * Share warmth, silliness, and joy with your DT family RSVP on Facebook and Meetup so we can get an accurate headcount. We can’t wait to spend this cozy holiday afternoon with you!

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez intermédiaire/avancé ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with a glass of wine, appetizers and drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from intermediate to native fluency. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers. It is not as such to learn a language. Beginners, if you want to learn a language, reach out to us ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

Greetings, For those still in the area for the holiday, let's meet again at **Union Market in NE DC** **for coffee and conversation** regarding various topics to include team building, purpose, partnerships, and advocacy project collaborations with those who share similar values **(readers feel free to bring books; several indoor/outdoor restaurants, bars, lounges, stores, and coffee shops in the market area)**. Also, for those interested, District Running Collective (DRC) meets at this location (Union Market curbside) nearly every Wednesday evening (at 6:30pm) and Saturday mornings (at 7:00am for 6 to 10mile runners; 8:00am for 3 mile runners). Updates can be sent regarding any location changes/run rescheduling. Three miles takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on fitness level). Great opportunity for novice or more experienced runners to jumpstart their holistic health journey (e.g., sleep, diet, exercise, mental resilience) with others who share similar personal development goals (see DRC information link below). **If you are not interested in the the morning run, feel free to RSVP for the coffee and conversation only.** If there are any questions, comments, or concerns regarding this meeting feel free to call or message. Updates may also be added to the event chat/comment section at anytime, thank you. Link for District Running Collective (DRC) * https://www.districtrunningcollective.com/ Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday December, 7th, 2025 1:15pm

Namaste and Blessings! We welcome you to join us for a House Kirtan Concert on **Sunday, Dec 28** in **Silver Spring MD** (address below) ***4:00 - 6:00 pm. (****mask optional)* ***We chant the Hanuman Chalisa at 4 pm – after which there is a break and regular chanting begins at 4:30 pm*** \~\~***Doors open at 3:45 pm - come early to get settled*** \~\~ **Please note:** This kirtan will be live-streamed using **Facebook Live** on this page: Bhakti Chant Kirtan (from 4 to 6 pm) **So about kirtan in Silver Spring** \- this is a private residence \- open to the public \- all are welcome \- bring a friend\, the family\, the kids\, the parents\, the spouse \- comfortable setting\. If you want to sit on the floor, it might be wise to bring something to sit on - Zafu or pillow or the like. *This is chanting with meditation* - we chant in Sanskrit and English, mantras and bhajans, honoring the many aspects of the Divine. ***Feel free to bring a percussion instrument***, if you are moved to do so. (This will be percussion by committee!) 
***Donation***: Suggested $10-20 (no one turned away) **On Paypal:** [paypal.me/RufusJuskus](http://paypal.me/RufusJuskus) **On Venmo**: Rufus-Juskus \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Snacks afterwards!** 

Many thanks -- peace and blessings to all! -Rufus Juskus **Address:** **9516 Pin Oak Drive** **Silver Spring MD 20910** The event page for this event on Facebook is here: https://www.facebook.com/share/14RJgZD5ZB6/

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

Capoeira (capo-way-ra) is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that is unlike any other martial art. Capoeira incorporates flowing movements with kicks, dodges, and some acrobatics. It is often mistaken for a dance for those reasons. Since it’s origins in the 17th century, it has evolved from a secret fighting practice into an art emphasizing self-expression and community celebration. It is great for the body and mind! In addition to gaining strength and flexibility in class, students learn about Brazilian culture, history, and language (Portuguese). On November 26, 2014 capoeira was granted a special protected status as "intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. No need to have a Capoeira background to join this class, just an open mind to try out a new way to move! Beginners welcome. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Let's take this traditional Adventuring winter hike (previously nicknamed The Ice Hike). Not just waterfalls and more waterfalls, these will be some of Shenandoah’s most iconic. This hike is part of the Hike All the Named Waterfalls in SNP series (number 4). If you’re into waterfalls, this is surely the best hike in all of Shenandoah National Park. If the falls are iced over, then this hike upgrades to transcendent. There will be nine waterfalls in all, ranging from a series of gorgeous cascades to the spectacular Upper and Lower Whiteoak Canyon Falls. For the water to fall so dramatically, the terrain must be steep; we will be ascending and descending next to where the water is falling. We'll take plenty of short stops to savor the views (to catch our breath and to take those all-important selfies). With its 8.5 miles length, and 2306 feet of elevation gain, this circuit route is very strenuous. Also, be prepared for two shallow stream crossings on the return leg along Cedar Run, so leaving a pair of dry sox and street shoes in the car is recommended. Bring lunch, 3 liters of water, and sunscreen, and be sure to wear waterproof hiking boots with good treads (the path is steep and rocky and those rocks can be slippery). Dressing in layers is essential. You will be peeling them off and adding them back on throughout the day. Packing a set of ice traction cleats or crampons is suggested, but not required. This ice gear must not be worn on wet rocks, where it becomes a hazard. If you carpool, transportation and trip fees will be $20, which includes the $5 Adventuring fee (paid by all) and $15 for your driver. Also factor in the cost of our restaurant stop on the return. This is a full day hike. We'll meet for forming our carpools at 8:30 a.m. at the East Falls Church Metro Kiss & Ride parking lot. We will make a convenience pit stop half way to the trailhead (Sheetz). We may return as late as 9 p.m. Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

A unique worship experience for adults looking to engage their mind, body, spirit, and taste buds! Sundays, 5PM Join us each Sunday for a guided time of stretching, meditation, and mindfulness (think Yoga Church) – followed by a free mocktail and conversation! It’s a great day to end one week – and begin another. No reservations needed; just show up. (Invite a friend!) [https://www.thevineva.org/stretch-sip](https://www.thevineva.org/stretch-sip?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR5PvfHVivaZWvu3F4k-dNoYLoXZ9EkAZKcaOcJ2fBP09QM_svyEG0tkZgIH-w_aem_GVuOBm_3I478NQM3Lkqe0A) 2501 Gallows Road, Dunn Loring, VA 22027

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

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!

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do 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 noon on Sundays. 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: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. 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, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

Start the New Year off right! Join us as we get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event to distribute food at the Champion Food Pantry! We’ve created a great little community of Movie Group friends! Rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve people in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: CHAMPION FOOD PANTRY: The Champion Food Pantry provides needed food to neighbors experiencing food insecurity. For this event, we’ll be volunteering to help with Food Distribution during client pick up times. Our group will receive on-the-spot training from some of their seasoned regular volunteers. PLAN FOR CHAMPION FOOD PANTRY: Please arrive by 2:45pm. Our volunteer time will be from 3:00 to 6:00pm. LOCATION & PARKING: The Champion Food Pantry is located at 1460 S. Champion Ave in Columbus. Parking is located in the lot on Frebis across from the pantry. Please enter through the door marked "Volunteers enter here” on Frebis Ave. A map has been uploaded to the photos. IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing the majority of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. No shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will mak you ineligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. LINKS & INFO: Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: • Champion Food Pantry Civil Rights Training: Attached file. • Champion Food Pantry Parking and Entrance: Attached file. • Champion Food Pantry Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0wI-AwOYLY • Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/foodpantrieschampion THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others in our community! But the benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering can provide a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Thanks for your help and look forward to seeing you there, Dan