Santeria

A lawyer walks out of a plush Beverly Hills office and into a government agency tasked with everything between war and diplomacy. That pivot sets up a gripping journey through foreign aid’s hidden front lines: a month in Eritrea trying to give away 20 million and getting told no, audits that can overturn streetlights after floods, and market experiments that turn onions in Honduras into livelihoods for thousands. Rita and I sit down with **Clifford Brown** to unpack what USAID actually did—and why it mattered. From training judges and modernizing commercial codes after the Soviet collapse to stitching wildlife corridors across Central America, the work was practical, technical, and often invisible. Clifford explains how procurement rules, waivers, and sanctions shape action in the field, and why the right legal call still has to pass a skeptical auditor. He shares wins and limits: building export crops, coordinating regional energy grids, backing anti‑apartheid defenders in South Africa, and the stubborn math that made cacao no match for coca in Colombia’s high valleys. Not every story is easy. Clifford brings rare clarity to bride kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan and the brutal economics of human and organ trafficking moving along global shipping and charter flight routes. Through it all runs a constant theme: people are more alike than different, and languages open doors that policies alone can’t. He credits ethics work with helping Central American agencies adopt gift bans and asset disclosures, and mourns the career‑ending shockwaves from USAID’s dismantling that left dedicated partners worldwide adrift. Come for the field stories; stay for the hard truths about borders, power, and what USAID can and cannot do. If this conversation challenged how you think about foreign assistance, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review telling us the one rule you’d rewrite first. [https://youtu.be/Of6YUhJtEZE?si=lNsTpuho_5f28gz5](https://youtu.be/Of6YUhJtEZE?si=lNsTpuho_5f28gz5) (video) [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1988087/episodes/18814347-try-to-give-away-20-million-dollars-it-s-harder-than-you-think.mp3?download=true](https://www.buzzsprout.com/1988087/episodes/18814347-try-to-give-away-20-million-dollars-it-s-harder-than-you-think.mp3?download=true) (audio) #blackpodcasts, [#podcast](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=podcast&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7149757776108425216), [#podcastshow](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=podcastshow&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7149757776108425216), [#podcastinterview](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=podcastinterview&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7149757776108425216), [#toronto](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=toronto&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7149757776108425216), #supportblackpodcasts, #newpodcast, #speakupinternational,

Holy ESL This group is an advanced and intermediate English learners who are interested to learn English language as a second language (ESL) using the Bible. Holy ESL is free and you DO NOT NEED to be a Christian. All and any faith is welcome, so come ready to engage in thought provoking conversations and deeping your understanding of both language and faith. Light refreshments are provided.

**What we are About:** *If Sufism is defined as mystical or the way of the mystic, then its message addresses all peoples, not just the followers of one religion.* If you feel drawn toward deeper connection—within yourself, in your relationships, or along your spiritual path. The ‘School of Sufi Teaching’ extends a warm welcome with humility, and love to all seekers of truth who feel drawn toward inner awakening and the timeless wisdom of the Sufi tradition. Our introductory gatherings offer an opportunity to experience the gentle blessings of traditional, time‑honored meditation practices passed down through an unbroken lineage. Some Sufis practice whirling, while others chant loud recitation (Zikr). At Sufi School we follow the classical practice of silent, contemplative meditation. Seated together as a group, we direct our hearts toward the Holy Essence, cultivating an atmosphere of stillness, inward reflection, and subtle spiritual presence. **Event details** (bi-weekly sessions): 7:00 - 7.15 pm Introduction for beginners 7:15 - 7:45 pm ‘Silent Meditation’ (Muraqabah) 7:45 - 8:10 pm Q&A **Location:** Mississauga Valley Community Centre (Frank Bean Lounge). This group is led by dedicated volunteers, and all sessions are offered at no cost. By choosing to attend, you acknowledge that participation is completely voluntary and at your own risk. For more details please email us at- [faraz@sufischool.org](mailto:canada@sufischool.org) For more information about the School of Sufi Teaching, Sufism and our practices please visit- [www.sufischool.org](http://www.sufischool.org) Kindly, Organizing team

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

**When:** Tuesdays, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Winter/Spring 2026 **Where:** 792 Glencairn Ave., Toronto, ON **Attend online via Zoom:** https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89671983431?pwd=hoYVrQG1EF4ibvIieyTnavmXxWcy5h.1 **Main Text:** [Deity, Cosmos and Man](https://www.theosophy.world/sites/default/files/ebooks/DeityCosmosAndMan_GFarthing.pdf) by Geoffrey Farthing If the above link is broken, paste this into bar for free PDF: https://www.theosophy.world/sites/default/files/ebooks/DeityCosmosAndMan_GFarthing.pdf This third part of our **Intro to Theosophy** series turns to *Deity, Cosmos and Man* by Geoffrey Farthing, a clear and reliable guide to the foundational teachings of Theosophy as originally presented by **Helena Petrovna Blavatsky** and her Adept teachers. This study explores a living, intelligent universe governed by unity, law, and vast evolutionary cycles, and examines how the human being reflects these same cosmic principles within their own inner constitution. Emphasis is placed on Theosophy not as a belief system, but as a coherent body of knowledge—offering insight into consciousness, post-death states, hierarchies of beings, and the deeper purpose of human evolution. Alongside discussion and reflection, the group will explore guided experiential exercises designed to support awareness, perception, and integration. The intention is to: * Develop a clear understanding of core Theosophical principles * Explore the relationship between cosmos, consciousness, and the human constitution * Encourage experiential insight alongside study and dialogue * Support inner balance, discernment, and conscious self-development This class is suitable for: * Students continuing from Parts 1 and 2 of the Intro to Theosophy series * Those interested in Theosophy, cosmology, and human evolution * Participants seeking a grounded, psychologically oriented approach to spiritual study * Anyone curious about consciousness, meditation, and the deeper structure of reality No prior experience with Theosophy, yoga, or meditation is required—only curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore thoughtfully.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

Practice and improve your English through conversation at St. Andrew Centre (73 Simcoe St, downtown Toronto), while making new friends! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- How to Get to the Event: By TTC, exit at St. Andrew Station. Walk west on King St. West to Simcoe St. Do not enter through the church building; the large church front doors will be closed. At the corner of Simcoe St. and King St. West, turn south and walk on Simcoe St. Enter through St. Andrew Centre, which will be behind the church building.

**Join us for an awesome Dinner, Karaoke and Dancing** **Fun friendly group**

**The Garifuna Collective** has been a driving force in bringing the rich cultural heritage and music of the Garifuna people to a global audience for the last 20 years. Hailing from Belize in Central America, The Garifuna Collective has had a lasting impact in the Garifuna community and on the world music stage. **Ticket link is below. Use the 15%** off promo code I've included. Their work has been critical in preserving and evolving the Garifuna musical traditions, while also highlighting the ongoing struggles and triumphs of the Garifuna people. This exceptional group of musicians has played to audiences in over 30 countries, making them one of the most important cultural ambassadors in the region. The band’s energetic and evocative live shows draw from their extensive repertoire, mixing traditional Garifuna rhythms with contemporary world music grooves. https://www.garifunacollective.com/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garifuna ***Opening for Garifuna Collective will be***: Singer/songwriter and percussionist **Blandine Kaniki**, winner of an African Entertainment Award 2015 as Best Female Voice, blends the soul of **rhumba** with urban music. The Congolese Canadian singer’s 2019 album *L’Antidote* featured a powerful collaboration with the legend of Congolese music Nyboma and lead guitarist Lokassa Ya M'Bongo. *Presented in association with Batuki Music Society* **Ticket link here:** https://www.rcmusic.com/events-and-performances/the-garifuna-collective Use this code for 15% ticket price ISCULTURE15 (manually type this in) Promo works for all tickets (**except** the purple seats) I have a ticket First Balcony/Centre

Pottery Night at Orkid Gallery! All tools included. No experience needed—just come create, connect & sip tea with us! 3-hour workshop.

## Details **NO MUSICAL EXPERIENCE REQUIRED** **About Drum & Soul** The only intention behind Drum & Soul is to help create vibrant, healthier, and more united communities – together. We believe art is the best channel for that purpose. This is more than a drumming circle. It is a practical space where we do two things at once: we develop useful skills and cultivate inner qualities, and we help others grow those same qualities. Through rhythms from many cultures, collective singing and meaningful conversation around a focused theme, we practise skills that strengthen both the individual and the community. **Why come** If you want to expand your expressive capacity, practise listening with depth, learning to lead or join others who take community wellbeing to heart, Drum & Soul is for you. This is a place to try courageously, to learn deeply, and to contribute authentically. Everyone is welcome regardless of background or musical experience. If you feel shy in groups, that is completely natural and we got you. A few of us will gently hover around newcomers like butterflies, offering a warm welcome and quiet space so nobody feels out of place. Many people tell us they arrived nervous but soon felt as if they had stepped into a family home. **How it works** At the start of each session we centre with a short breathing exercise, followed by a demonstration of simple rhythms, then break into small groups for guided conversation. Then we’ll have a potluck meal and continuing our conversation and connection over a break. Finally we move into collective jamming and improvisation. **Typical meeting flow** 1. 🫱🏽‍🫲🏻 Arrival & social time – 15 min 2. 🙋🏻‍♀️ Welcome, check in and centring – 15 min 3. 🪘 Call & Respond **Drumming & demo** – 15 min 4. 💬 Facilitated **Discussion** on the Theme (groups of five-or so) – 20 min 5. 🦋 Potluck **dinner** & social time afterwards – 40 min 6. 🕺🏽 Open **Jamming** with multiple instruments – 30 min *This outline is flexible and may shift to suit the group and the space.* **Logistics & what to bring** We meet in a large beautiful space. Drums are available on a first come first served basis. We also provide plenty of small percussion instruments so every hand can play. You are welcome to bring your own drum or instrument. After our time of drumming and dialogue, we share a simple potluck dinner, an extension of our circle where conversation continue to flourish over nourishing food. Feel free to bring whatever you love to share. **Cost & contributions** This is a free event. As a community we are encouraged to contribute even a small snack to share with everyone, or pay what or if you can, to cover the costs of refreshments and material, by E-transfer to: \*\*[hooshmandnyc@gmail.com**](http://hooshmandnyc@gmail.com**) – Contributions are optional. **Helpful notes** No prep needed. Doors open at 3:45 p.m. Please arrive by then so we can start at 4:00 p.m. sharp and keep the flow. Location and any last minute updates are posted on Meetup and in our WhatsApp group. We recommend joining the WhatsApp group (ask us for the link at the venue) for quick notices. **Why this matters** The world is ill, and is aching for a lasting remedy. We believe our sacred mission is to nurture one another, define our roles in service to our fellow humans, and become living temples of unity. A meaning growth unfolds through both self‑discovery and collective effort, and one cannot truly flourish without the other. Come open and prepared to learn, to offer your gifts, and to be strengthened by the power of community. *This ad is also posted in other groups* 📷 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/artsoultoronto/) 🎥 [A glimpse from one of our sessions](https://youtu.be/ejfeV1PF-0k)

7.30pm-10.30pm Social Dance Usually more than 50 people join us for a fun Salsa/Bachata night. The best way to end the weekend! You don't need to have a partner or be an experienced dancer. We provide two classes for beginner level and intermediate level. ◾When You Arrive ◾ - Sanitize your hands before entering the dance studio & in between dances, please - Do not come to dance if you show any symptoms of cold/flu ◾ Drop in : $15 ◾ * Every Sunday * 📍39 Glen Cameron Road, unit #1 Thornhill, Ontario From: 7.30 - 10.30 pm Cover fee: $15 at the door We will also be hosting two free salsa lessons and a bachata lesson: (it's included) *6.30pm-7.30pm Bachata L1 by Estephan [small room] *6.30pm-7.30pm Salsa by David [large dance studio] *7.30pm-10.30pm Sunday Social Dancing [large dance studio] * Music: Mostly Salsa & Bachata, some Merengue and a few Cha Cha and Kizomba. Come out and enjoy the night away! * Usually, more than 50 people are attending this social, and people switch partners, so you don't need to bring a partner. 647-504-9876

Practice English with Boardgame! $5! (Fees help us keep the event running.) Join Japanish for a fun mix of language, board games, and new networking opportunities—all in a friendly, supportive environment! Perfect for anyone eager to practice English and build a new community. ボードゲームで楽しむ英語の練習！ 参加費は5ドルだけ！（イベント運営に使います。） Japanish では、英語をメインにボードゲーム、新しいネットワーキングの機会を楽しみながら、英語を学びたい人を繋げます！新しいコミュニティを作りたい方はぜひご参加ください！ 注) 連絡無しのドタキャンをされた方はブラックリストに載ります。 Note: Those who cancel last-minute without contact will be added to the blacklist.

Best way to get a hold of us is on our [WhatsApp chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KpFOsXEuXRWB7uOYorJNPU), also great way to join a community of amazing like-minded people :) Canada SBK brings you a Saturday afternoon salsa social in the heart of Toronto at the warm and cozy space of Trinity St. Paul church. Admission includes: DJ Geronimo's top Salsa, Bachata & Cha cha Latin hits. It's an excellent opportunity to practice and improve your dance to the tunes of world Salsa music by DJ Geronimo and guest DJs. Have a favourite song ? We're also accepting music requests Atmosphere: Friendly and Laid back. Dancers of all levels are welcome for social (No partner required) Door: $10 FREE LESSON (with admission to social dancing) 3:30pm SOCIAL DANCING 4:30pm-7:30pm \*Please check calendar as in some rare occasions time changes slightly Please check calendar as in some rare occasions time changes slightly Social dancing Venue: Trinity St. Paul Church, Bloor St. W, Toronto Bring your own beverage and snacks Everyone is welcome! Join our WhatsApp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kj63TzHIqYL5hPrRJolhyD](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KpFOsXEuXRWB7uOYorJNPU) Hosts: Maya & Gary Canada SBK (Formerly TSF)

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

We will have our certified mediums available and you can receive 3 10-minute readings for $20. To keep you safe, we will be following all CDC and Health Dept. guidelines at our psychic fair today. Sitters and readers required to wear a mask. We will maintain a minimum of 6 foot physical distance during readings. Please, if you can, bring your own portable chair to use during your readings. Please note that we are at our wonderful new home at Unity of Columbus, 4211 Maize Road, Columbus, OH

**Caller: Kim Thompson** **Band: Full Moon Country Dance Orchestra** **Clinton Heights Lutheran Church** **15 Clinton Heights Ave, Columbus, OH 43202** 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.

Need more solid referrals for new clients? Join us for lunch and meet our networking group - we act as a sales team for each other. Bring your business cards and tell us your story. We have passed over $2.7 million dollars to each other! Our speaker this week is Deb Dolbow, doTerra Wellness Advocate. Deb is extremely knowledgeable in the natural ways to stay healthy and vibrant. Her presentation always let's us know about what we are doing right and what and how we can improve our health and well-being. Visitors are welcome every week. All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.