Agnostic

*Sometimes we invite Neurodivergent District members to join a virtual event from our Constellations community. We’re glad you’re here.* *Just to clarify, attending this event doesn’t include access to the Constellations member portal or membership. If you’d like ongoing access to events like this, along with curated member introductions for friendship or dating, you’re welcome to explore joining [Constellations](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership).* Join us for a low-pressure in-person meetup at [Upside on Moore](https://upsideonmoore.com/) food hall. Located on Level “M2” at 1700 N Moore St, Level M2, Arlington, VA 22209. We’ll be meeting in the back near Ghostburger. If you’re sensitive to crowds or louder environments, this may not be the best fit. Click **[here](https://harringtonmatchmaking.as.me/schedule/0cfadc2d/?appointmentTypeIds[]=92645326)** to RSVP.

Join us for the first gathering of **DC Digital Minds**, a new meetup for people interested in AI, consciousness, digital minds, the human-AI relationship, ethics, policy, and the strange new questions emerging at the frontier. This kickoff will be casual and friendly: no lecture, no homework, no need to arrive with settled views. Come get to know other curious people over Greek food at **Zorba’s Cafe,** share what drew you to the topic, and bring ideas for future meetups. Whether you’re a researcher, technologist, policy person, philosopher, writer, student, or just someone who keeps thinking “wait, what *are* these systems becoming?”, you’re welcome. We’ll use this first gathering to meet each other, compare interests, and start shaping what this group can become. **What to expect:** Informal conversation, introductions, food/drinks available for purchase, and a chance to suggest future topics and formats. **Where to find us:** Your group organizer, Jessie, will be upstairs and to the right as you reach the top of the stairs.

Please join the [Veg Society of DC (VSDC)](http://vsdc.org/) and fellow LGBTQ+ vegans or veg-curious folks to explore the [Smithsonian American Art Museum](https://maps.app.goo.gl/YQAJAkGSUrn5ZzYw7) (SAAM) to see how many [pieces made by queer artists](https://americanart.si.edu/blog/pride-2023-artists) we can find. (Note that the museum is apparently [under renovation](https://americanart.si.edu/exhibition/18th-20th-century-art).) If we happen to move through SAAM quickly, it is connected to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and there are some [portraits of LGBTQ+ persons](https://npg.si.edu/exhibition/struggle-justice) there as well. Because the museums close at 7pm and we won't have that much time to explore, the event will begin promptly at 5:30pm. Around 7pm we will make our way to one of the nearby vegan restaurants (at own expense) like HipCityVeg or Pow Pow, depending on how large the group is and what people are feeling like. We'll enjoy the lively evening city atmosphere as we meander to dinner. Before we head around to look at the art, the host will post a comment about what she is wearing so that latecomers will have an easier time finding the group as we move through the museum(s). She will also attempt to keep the comments updated throughout the evening so folks can find us. In the event of rain, the museum portion will proceed and the group will decide together whether or not to brave the weather to dine together afterward. **Where to Meet:** outside of the entrance to the Smithsonian American Art Museum (8th and G Streets, NW) **Transportation:** The Smithsonian American Art Museum is located at 8th and G Streets NW. It is right by the [Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro stop](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/gallery-place.cfm?y=14) on the Green, Red, and Yellow Metro lines. **When:** May 21 at 5:30pm-7pm at museum and then after 7pm for an optional dinner. **Cost:** Free (outside of optional dinner) ***About the Group*** *Unless noted otherwise, VSDC's LGBTQ+ events are intended for queer/questioning folks who self-identify as LGBTQ+. The events are meant to serve as a safe space to share community with other self-identified queer or questioning LGBTQ+ vegan or vegan-curious people. However, we appreciate our allies and we plan to host "LGBTQ+ & ALLIES" events approximately quarterly - to welcome non-queer allies into our events in order to share community with our fellow vegans/veg curious VSDC participants. If the event is an "& ALLIES" event, it will be clearly identified as such in the name of the event. Any person who participates in an "& ALLIES" event must be supportive of LGBTQ+ persons, their lifestyle, and their gender expression; unsupportive or combative individuals will be removed from events and banned from future VSDC LGBTQ+ events. Please note that any and all questions related to gender/LGBTQ+ issues that may arise during either LGBTQ+ or LGBTQ+ & ALLIES events must be posed ONLY to event host, Susan, and not be asked of any other meetup participants in order to respect their privacy and promote their personal safety.* **Update Your RSVP** Please change your RSVP if you can no longer make it. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

• What we'll do On https://blackecon101.podbean.com/ Thursdays at 6 pm. discussing the economy....

Thursdays at 6:30pm Take 30 minutes at the end of your day to unwind and connect to your potential for inner peace. Suitable for everyone, these meditation classes offer guided meditations and practical advice for improving the quality of our mental peace. **Registration** Each class is available by drop in. **Standard:** $5 **\| [Member Pricing:](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/) Free** [Register Here](https://meditation-dc.org/thursday-night-rest-and-reflect/) Everyone is welcome to attend, no previous experience is required. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

Experience the ultimate relaxation with our 60-minute Yin & Restorative Yoga fusion class. This session combines the deep, meditative stretches of Yin Yoga with the soothing, supportive postures of Restorative Yoga. During this class, you'll explore longer-held poses designed to release tension from deep within the muscles and connective tissues, promoting flexibility and calm. The Restorative elements enhance relaxation by incorporating props to fully support your body in gentle, nurturing positions, allowing for complete surrender and rejuvenation. This practice is ideal for anyone seeking profound relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of inner peace. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to these styles, join us for an hour of blissful tranquility and restoration. **The session is offered InStudio only. Sign up at www.piesfitnessyoga.com required at least two hours before class begins.** 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 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

**Please note that Go Gay DC is listing this exciting event as a community service, but is not running the event. Just go and have a fun time!** The monthly LGBTQ+ Book Club meets @ [Federico](https://www.federicoristoranteitaliano.com/) at 7:30 p.m. Simply ask the manager for the Book Club table. This event is also listed on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lgbtq-book-club-federico-ristorante-italiano-tickets-1982164048026?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. We will discuss [The Guncle](https://www.amazon.com/Guncle-Steven-Rowley/dp/0525542280) by Steven Rowley. Everyone welcome. Please RSVP in advance by emailing lovellsjl@aol.com . If you wish to optionally dine (on separate checks of course), the menu is at [https://www.federicoristoranteitaliano.com/menu/dinner](https://www.federicoristoranteitaliano.com/menu/dinner) The Book Club, hosted by EQUALITY NoVa, is yet another opportunity to engage in a fun and rewarding activity. We meet monthly, usually on the third Thursday of each month, at Federico’s for a lively discussion of that month’s selected book. We don’t discriminate when it comes to genre, we read – from classic literature to best selling novels to biographies to histories to gay fiction! EQUALITY NoVa serves Northern Virginia's LGBTQ+ and Allies and is a strong beacon for equality. It is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit open to all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ) people and straight allies. It provides fun social activities, builds relationships with elected officials, and works with civic groups on community service. For more information, visit [https://www.equalitynova.org](https://www.equalitynova.org) This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Casual attire is fine. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Federico is half a block up 23rd Street on your right. Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets. About 10 LGBTQ+ folk regularly attend. There's no need to print out and show me your Eventbrite ticket. Please be sure to tag any event photos on social with #gogaydc This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for all ages. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies nonbinary non-binary

Come join us for in-depth discussions on topics relating to moral and political philosophy. This is a group for members who are comfortable discussing topics that are often anxiety producing and controversial. *"Aristotle was a realist who believed that reality and knowledge are found in the physical world, accessible through sensory experience and logic. This led to contrasting views on ethics, politics, and the nature of reality itself. Plato emphasized abstract, ideal concepts, while Aristotle prioritized empirical observation and the study of the natural world."* \- Google Gemini Following Aristotle's lead, this group will lean heavily on empirical data to make arguments. The Socratic method is still the preferred way to engage in conversation, and Platonic Idealism is still relevant to the conversation as points of reference.

Zouk's dance move is similar to Salsa. It is a fast tempo style of rhythmic music originating from the Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, popularized by the group Kassav in the 1980s. We will also have Soukous, Kompa, Makossa, Couple, Decale, Cadance, Mbalax, N'dombolo, Cabo and Kizomaba. RSVP is needed to skip the cover charge. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs à moitié prix. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez débutant ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with half-priced appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from beginners to native fluency. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE 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. 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!***

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*** [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k)

**YES! YES!! YES!!!** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [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!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** 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.

LOCATION FOR THIS MONTH - metrobar. We’re here to make new Bi+ friends, and catch up with old ones! This event is monthly; **check the comments day-of for where to meet and how to find us**. We’ll be here, queer, and full of cheer! INHERENT RISK AND LIABILITY: Organizers carefully plan events and check public sources for weather and safety. Common sense dictates that conditions may change and there is inherent risk associated with attendance. Organizers do not accept any liability for accidents/injuries or any other incidences that may occur in connection with the activities published herein or on linked sites.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

**Welcome to Drunken Philosophy** a casual, curious social discussion **Optional topic for this meetup: What's up with all the AI hate?** A recent survey found that 74% of Americans have a negative view of AI, and I want to know why. Come out and debate whether AI is good or bad. My hot take: a labor-saving tool that could potentially help cure cancer gets called dangerous because it might raise unemployment or cause a speculative investment bubble, that tells you a lot more about capitalism and the economic system we live under than it does about the tool itself. As a computer programmer, I think AI is a wonderful tool that has increased my productivity by at least an order of magnitude. I'd go so far as to say Claude Code is the best tool I have ever used. Debate me and name a better one. Is AI potentially dangerous? Yes, but so are a lot of tools. Chainsaws. Steam engines (early ones would occasionally explode and kill everyone in the room). Do you think cavemen sat around debating whether fire could be used as a weapon or for self-harm, and decided not to discover it? I have two friends who hate AI for opposite reasons: one thinks it's a fad and not useful, and the other thinks it's going to take over everything and cause human extinction. Come out tonight, have a friendly debate, and make some friends. No lectures. Friendly crowd. Drop in for one drink and stay if it's fun.

Join us as we get together to see the top-reviewed comedy-drama, I LOVE BOOSTERS! The film comes from writer/director Boots Riley and follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. It is written/directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You) and stars Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore. BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: I Love Boosters was the opening film at this year’s SXSW Festival and premiered to rave reviews! It is currently earning a tremendous 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it, “an unexpected celebration of friendship, community, and solidarity.” Others call the film “an exercise in radical empathy,” a “masterful” and “optimistic” film designed to “provoke discussion” while making the audience laugh. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c) SUMMER OF ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S! Established way back in 1870 in Cincinnati, this historic, family-owned brand is famous for their delicious small batch ice cream and any chocolate chunk flavors! They are currently the only commercial ice cream maker using the French Pot method that they’ve been using since they first opened! Plus, those chocolate chunks, oh my goodness! Vegan options are available. PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but Showtime and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.