Sunday

Kate welcomes anyone from Singlefaith to drop in at her apartment on Christmas Day. Stay a few minutes, stay an hour, stay longer. Noon to 6:00 PM (I do have one cat, he is friendly, but I can put him in my room if necessary). Kate will provide cookies, cider, hot cocoa and other non-alcoholic beverages. Feel free to bring an appetizer, snack or other finger food item to share. 3909 Lakehouse Road, Apt #4 Beltsville (Calverton), MD 20705 ***Kate will post some signs to direct you*** \- here are written instructions: ***Once you arrive at BUILDING 3909*** \- this number is displayed at the top of the entrance door\. When you enter the building, go down the stairs. At the bottom of the stairwell there is another door. Go through that door. In the hallway will be another door on your left. Go through that door. Kate's apartment (#4) is the first door on your right. ***Please read these PARKING instructions carefully.*** Street Parking is FREE along Beltsville Road, which runs adjacent to Lakehouse Road and the Lighthouse at Twin Lakes apartment complex. Parking in the parking lot for Lighthouse at Twin Lakes requires a fee for guests. The fee is paid with the PANGO App. It is a small fee, between $1.00 and $3.00 depending on how long you stay. There are two rows of parking in front of Kate's building. The first row faces the building (and is for residents only) and the other row faces the street (this is the Pango paid parking for guests.) If you choose to pay to park in the parking lot, download the PANGO App. Each section of parking has different numbers - the number for the lot outside Kate's building door is 70908. Kate will send her phone number via Meetup Messaging to everyone who RSVPs to attend.

• What we'll do Economist William Michael Cunningham on Podbeam Thursdays at 6 pm. https://www.podbean.com/

Celebrate Christmas Eve at Divino with our special Feast of the Seven Pastas, a festive tribute to Northern Italy’s rich culinary traditions. For $70 per person, enjoy a chef-crafted menu featuring seven exquisite pasta dishes, each prepared in-house with seasonal ingredients. From seafood risotto to ricotta cavatelli and comforting agnolotti, every dish showcases the artistry of Italian cuisine. Our dining room will be beautifully decorated for the holiday season, offering a warm and inviting ambiance for gathering with family and friends. Optional wine pairings and festive desserts are available to enhance your evening, making this a truly memorable celebration. Let us take you on a delicious journey through Italian flavors while you create lasting memories with your loved ones. With limited seating for this exclusive event, we encourage you to reserve your table soon. Make this Christmas Eve unforgettable—book your spot at Divino today! For Reservations **[CLICK HERE](https://www.opentable.com/booking/experiences-availability?rid=1390855&restref=1390855&experienceId=609642&utm_source=external&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=shared)** (202) 643-4065 === MENU === **First Course** **LIGURIA** **Trofie con broccolini pesto** **VENETO** **Potato gnocchi, brown butter, sage** **** **Second Course** **LOMBARDY** **Risotto Milanese with seafood** **PUGLIA** **Hand-rolled ricotta cavatelli and pomodoro** **** **Third Course** **PIEMONTE** **Agnolotti del plin, manzo brasato** **LAZIO** **Rigatoni Carbonara, guanciale, pecorino** **** **Fourth Course** **EMILIA ROMAGNA** **Lasagna alla Bolognese** **Dessert** **Chocolate Mousse or Tiramisu**

Join us on this special Christmas Day afternoon walking tour of America’s most park, Lafayette Square, D.C.!! In keeping with the holiday spirit, we’ll focus on fun and uplifting stories about the Square’s many heroes & heroines and inspiring events. (As well as a few villains and femme fatales.) When: Thursday, Dec. 25, 3 pm!. Where: MEET in front of the John A. Wilson Building, DC City Hall, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20006. At 13 1/2 St. and Penn. Ave. PrePay and Pre-Register at: Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/special-christmas-afternoon-tour-of-dcs-heroes-heroines-thurs-dec-25-tickets-1978551995279?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/special-christmas-afternoon-tour-of-dcs-heroes-heroines-thurs-dec-25-tickets-1978551995279?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or, PayPal, sending $22 to [savvyveteran@gmail.com](mailto:savvyveteran@gmail.com) via: [https://www.paypal.com/us/home](https://www.paypal.com/us/home) Or, pay $21 in cash at the start of the tour. The tour will draw on stories from the guide’s book, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: [https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en](https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en) Our fun itinerary will select from: • The capital's newest and most inspiring memorial • How a Congressman averted a civil war, twice • The real-life Indiana Jones • Intriguing tales of the Washington Monument • The “miracle mansion” that saved the Mayor’s sister • The President and the friendly Pirate • How an enslaved grocer founded a family dynasty that ended segregation • How an intrepid First Lady saved the Constitution and the Declaration • Winston Churchill’s Christmas treats • The hilarious political fundraiser that gave us the terms “Big Cheese” and “Mammoth” • How the Marquis de Lafayette saved a President, and how three Presidents saved Lafayette! • The benign, mysterious ghosts of St. John’s Church • The astonishing, friendly bet between a Navy hero and an enemy captain • Where a most famous anthem was written • Where a most famous speech was authored • The city's greatest philanthropist • Camels, bears, and sheep about the Executive Mansion • The First Lady who saved Lafayette Square • Holiday "spirits" • The wildest, most fun Inauguration of them all • A famed author’s moving tribute to his deceased wife • America’s greatest caregiver • How Southerners and Northerners conspired to save Mt. Vernon • How a humble washerwoman helped rebuild the District • Presidential humor And more! Your host is a former Presidential speechwriter and “Tonight Show” writer, and author of such books on history as: Lost History of the Capitol: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q) Femme Fatalite: [https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit](https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit)é-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 America A to Z: [http://www.amazon.com/Patriots-America-Things-American-Should-ebook/dp/B00655SO9S/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1415975803](http://www.amazon.com/Patriots-America-Things-American-Should-ebook/dp/B00655SO9S/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1415975803) We'll wrap up in time for you to get to Christmas dinner. This tour makes for a great holiday gift, and is a sure-fire way to further spice up a festive weekend!

A lovely Christmas Eve service for all.

Join us every Sunday, either in person or online, for our Shin Buddhist service. Dress is casual yet conservative, and everyone is welcome to come listen to the Dharma and learn the Nembutsu, chants and songs associated with our tradition of Shin Buddhism. As long as Fairfax County COVID spread rates remain low, face masks are optional. Our Dharma Discussion Group will meet immediately after the service. To attend the service and Discussion Group virtually, please use [this link](https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUudOiprDwiHtITyC2arOLCYAsAYZfQl4J4) or visit our website at www.ekoji.org.

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

Hello friends!! K has graciously opened her home to host a 6 hour Kirtan and Community Potluck! Come for just a bit, or stay the whole time! Schedule: 2pm - Peter 3pm - Micah 4pm - Rufus 5pm - Open Jam 6pm - Vandya 7pm - Sumer Please come if you feel compelled to lead a chant, play instruments, or request a chant we can learn. Of course, please come to just chant too! That is the most important aspect, after all! I like to describe Kirtan, in simple terms, as a chanting meditation. When you chant in Sanskrit, and repeat the mantra over and over, it vibrates your vocal chords and resonates through your whole body. When everyone in the room is chanting together, that vibration unifies us on a particle level and allows us to access and connect with the Divine within ourselves and each other. It is one of the main practices of Bhakti Yoga, which is another path of Yoga, which unites our mind, body, and spirit. Feel free to bring some food to share or an instrument to play. Any and all are welcome to join! Time: 2pm - 8ish Address: 5914 Johnson Ave. Bethesda, MD 20817 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.

Join us every 4th Sunday of each month for our Young Adult service at Cornerstone Church. It's a great way to meet other Christian young adults in the area from different churches and grow in your walk with Jesus. First time? No problem, we have first timers every week. Can't wait to see you there!

"Healing happens here." Join us Sundays at 10:30am!

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

**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!

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter.y

RSVP here to join us for BRUNCH Before MARTY SUPREME at the Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall! We have a 2pm reservation so meet the group there around 1:55pm! We’ll have a large table reserved for the group but seating is limited. As a courtesy to the restaurant and your movie group friends, PLEASE….. Only RSVP if you plan to attend. Try to avoid last minute cancelations or no shows. If your plans change, please try to update your RSVP by Friday before the event. If there is a waiting list and you’re on it, please be sure to check the morning of the event to see if any space has opened up. ABOUT THE RESTAURANT: The Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall is set in a historic landmark with multiple bars and dining areas, 24 taps and great globally inspired food. Rooted in the historic beauty of Franklin Park, the Beer Hall was built in the late 1800’s and preserves the original masonry and character as an historic landmark. CBC Beer Hall is located next door to the East Market at 200 Kelton Avenue, Columbus, OH! ABOUT THE MENU: Their Brunch Menu features an array of fun apps, fritters, wings, and tons of breakfast options like steak and eggs, cornmeal pancakes & tenders, breakfast tacos (including a vegan version), skillets, French toast, and more! For the vegetarians/vegans in the group, their menu is super veg friendly with vegan sausage and crispy tofu! BRUNCH MENU: https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#brunch-menu-drinks FOOD MENU: https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu BRUNCH PLAN: Brunch at CBC Beer Hall will now be at 1:30pm! Arrive by 1:25 and we should have plenty of time to mix, mingle, and enjoy a fun brunch together before departing for the theater around 3pm. If you can, cash always makes for a quick exit! Also, we had some major shifts in the RSVP list so if you were on the waiting list, there’s a good chance you’re now on the YES list! Be sure to check the RSVP list to see if you made it in! For those still on the Waiting List, recommend checking again on Friday and on Sunday morning in case any space opens up. See separate event listing to check your RSVP or join the waiting list. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan