Astronomy

**Wind down and let go!** Join us for a rejuvenating **FREE** Moonlight Stretch and Relaxing Yoga session at the peaceful **Eternal Wellness Yoga Studio**. This is your perfect opportunity to **transform** the end of your day from stressed and busy to calm, relaxed, and restored. Book your session now: [WhatsApp Us](https://wa.me/971543837625) *Note: MONDAY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY \- ONLY LADIES \| TUESDAY THURSDAY & SATURDAY \- MEN ALSO WELCOME* **[1st Session will be FREE]**

Are you looking for a platform to improve your communication and leadership skills? Please join us as a guest to learn more

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

Springdales School, Al Quoz Strivers Badminton Coaching in small groups: Fridays 7-9pm, Mondays 7-9pm and Wednesday 8-10pm Before joining first time please inform us your interest joining to the group coaching by sending Whatsapp tel. +971 52 255 4849. Also please feel free to enquire other coaching times or private coaching. Join the Strivers Badminton Club for an intensive coaching session designed to elevate your badminton skills to the next level. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player seeking advanced techniques, our expert coaches will provide personalized guidance to help you improve your game with affordable cost. This coaching will cover various aspects of badminton, including footwork, strokes, strategy, and match tactics. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your game and connect with fellow badminton enthusiasts in a friendly and supportive environment.

This is an event for deep thinkers who enjoy deep discussions. No prior knowledge of philosophy is required. In the first segment of this event, we shall have a group discussion on randomly selected topics. In the second segment of the event, we shall discuss a short philosophical article after reading it. Please note that this event has a fee of AED 30.

**Conquer Your Fear of Public Speaking — Join the upcoming meeting of Barsha Toastmasters!** Did you know that **public speaking is one of the biggest fears worldwide**? For many, the idea of speaking in front of a crowd is more terrifying than anything else! A few years ago, that was me. I had ideas, thoughts, and stories to share—but the moment I stood before an audience, my mind went blank. Then one day, I stumbled upon a quote that changed everything: **"Do the thing you fear most and the death of fear is certain." – Mark Twain** That’s when I walked into a **Barsha Toastmasters Club** meeting—and my life took a new turn. Over time, what was once fear gave way to **confidence, clarity, and connection**. Today, I speak with ease, have won multiple speech awards, and—most importantly—I enjoy doing it. **Are you looking to:** • Speak confidently in front of any audience? • Become the speaker you've always aspired to be? • Strengthen your leadership and communication skills? Then we invite you to **visit Barsha Toastmasters Club**—a vibrant, supportive community where learning and growth happen together. At each meeting, you'll experience: 🎤 Prepared Speeches 🎯 Impromptu Speaking (Table Topics) 🧠 Constructive Evaluations 🤝 Leadership Roles & Mentoring 💰 **Guest Fee:** AED 30 per person ☕ Includes light refreshments (tea, coffee, cookies) 🚗 Free Parking – just inform hotel security you’re attending Toastmasters 📞 RSVP or Questions? Call/WhatsApp: Mr. Nihal , +971 529715054 Interested in membership? Contact: Ms. Silja, +971 554426561 Come witness the journey of members transforming into confident, impactful speakers—and **take your first step today**. **We can’t wait to welcome you!** – *President, Barsha Toastmasters Club*

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

**Day 1: Al Quaa aka the “Milky Way spot” - Stargazing, BBQ, games, telescope & camp** We will leave Dubai at 1 pm and head on a beautiful 2-3 hours road trip to Al Quaa, a secluded Abu Dhabi spot that offers out-of-this-world views of a sky full of stars. We will then enjoy stargazing at the darkest place in the UAE with stellar views of the galaxy, constellations, planets and shooting starts. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, card games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Day 2: Sunrise, Bites, and Back to the City** In the morning, we will take a morning walk and watch the sunrise over the dunes. We will then return to camp for breakfast. Once we have finished breakfast and packing, we will leave for Dubai. *Note: Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a whatsapp group before the trip.* *(2 days with camping)* **Price without transport**: 550aed **Price with transport**: 750aed **Including:** * A total of 2 meals, including the famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, vegan burger, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) and breakfast. * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water). * Accommodation in private tents (1 person per tent or 2 persons per tent for couples). * Camp equipment (Chairs, lights, private tents, mattresses, Fire pit & wood for bonfire). * A guided stargazing session with access to a Celestron 12096 NexStar Evolution 8 HD telescope for observing planets and celestial objects. * Portable Toilet & Privacy Tent Setup. * Campfire games. * Transportation from regular vehicles to the inside of the desert via dunes off-roading with 4x4 vehicle. **Excluding:** * A sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is 5 degrees less than the expected lowest temperature or a heavy comforter is required, we recommend to buy a high quality one from Adventure HQ to have a good night sleep or you can rent one from us for 50aed * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back (Available optionally for AED 200 if you choose the option with transport) Notes: * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: [https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae.](https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae) RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **Physical rating:** Beginner level - Light physical activities are included. * **Meeting point & time:** * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:45pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available i f you want to come with your car. * Abu Dhabi at 4:15pm: [ADNOC Service Station | Shawamekh-(South West) (755) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9). There is no parking at this petrol station, so please meet us in a taxi. * **If not**: [Arabian Wanderers – Al Quaa Stargazing & Camping - https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6) at 6:00pm. Any car can reach the meeting point in Al Quaa where you can leave your car by the side of the road free of charge. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle as you will join one of our 4x4 vehicles to go to the camp. * **Restroom Facilities:** A portable toilet with a privacy tent will be available. * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Pet-friendly:** You're welcome to bring your pet on the trip, provided everyone on the tour is comfortable with it. You can confirm this via the WhatsApp group created for all booked participants. * **Note:** Visibility may be affected by weather conditions (e.g., clouds, rain). Event cancellation will only occur in the case of severe weather (heavy rain or very strong winds), not due to clouds or light rain. * **Mobile Coverage:** e& has inconsistent internet and phone coverage. du has inconsistent phone coverage and no internet coverage. * **Important Note:** Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 14 days of the trip. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Disclaimer:** Even though Al Quaa is the best place in the UAE for stargazing, don't expect it to look like the photos online. While you can see more stars than in most other locations and will definitely be amazed, the photos you see online are taken with professional cameras or high-quality phones that capture low light better than the naked eye. * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on Instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) For any questions that are not on the booking link, you can WhatsApp us by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](http://+971522067219/)

**Billionaire Club Meetup – September 26th** Join us this Friday for an exclusive gathering of visionaries and high achievers. Our theme: *“Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff”* — a powerful reminder to focus on what truly matters. Let’s hear the insights of **TM Annu Promod,** a visionary leader with a clear mission, as she shares her perspective on this powerful theme. Expect sharp insights, bold conversations, and meaningful connections. Let’s elevate together. Join us for another exciting Billionaire Toastmasters event where we will focus on mastering the art of public speaking. Whether you are a seasoned public speaker or someone looking to improve their communication skills, this event is for you. Come prepared to participate in engaging activities, impromptu speaking sessions, and receive constructive feedback from our supportive group. Network with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights to boost your confidence and elevate your public speaking abilities. Don't miss this opportunity to become a more powerful communicator and unlock your true potential with Billionaire Toastmasters!

Southwest Kazakhstan, called **Mangystau, is a land of vast, wind-whipped deserts and stunning limestone mountains** that form the bottom of deep depression basins. The area boasts an unparalleled variety of desert landscapes and geological wonders, making it a hidden surprise of a **truly extraterrestrial character,** **in a remote Kazakh corner.** At first glance, it may appear as a remote desert wilderness, but take a closer look and you’ll see something more profound: a vast, **natural geometry curved by time**, offering a journey not just across space, but deep into Earth’s prehistoric past. **Here, the nature played an inspired architect** and created colorful canyons, peaks and towers, which are translated today into rainbow castles, yurt mountains or tiramisu valleys. The northern part of the peninsula is covered by fields of limestone concretions and fossils of ancient sea creatures. These fossils provide evidence of the region's connection to the prehistoric sea, housing remnants of fish, sponges, corals, and even whales. You are standing at the shores of Sarmatian Sea, remnants of the prehistoric Tethys Ocean, and the Paratethys, that 250 to 50 million years ago covered the Caspian and Black Seas, to the Aral Lake. **Mangystau is also known for its sacred places**, making it famous in the region. What sets the local mosques apart is that they don't resemble typical Muslim temples with domed roofs and minarets. Instead, their facades are predominantly shaped by nature, showing little evidence of human interference. Today, standing on the ancient seabed under a wide Kazakh sky, **it’s hard not to feel both humbled and awed**. Where forms has been sculpted into infinity, there is no need for sound. **Desert speaks directly to your soul, through its vast and timeless geometry.** [See the clip here](https://vimeo.com/1015662135?share=copy) **Let’s go!** **DAY 1 // Tuesday** Direct flight to Aktau. Arrival, immigration clearance and check-in to hotel. Rest of the evening at leisure. **Day 2 // Wednesday** We will kick start our 4WD expedition into wilderness with **Kapamsay Canyon** \- chalk oasis of white cliffs standing against the azure sky\. In fact it’s a bottom of a dry riverbed\, an amazing hideout with rare but resilient plants\. Further on we continue to **Shakpaktysai Canyon** where will visit first the underground mosque Shakpak-Ata. The underground mosque is carved into a chalky rock mountain. It is known that Sufis who once lived in this cave practiced healing rituals. They helped people who came here seeking a cure for their illnesses. To do this, the sick person was left in the cave overnight. It was believed that during the night, a benevolent spirit would visit the sick person and drive the illness away. Even today, people continue to come here with the hope of being healed. On our list of curiosities of the day, next one is **Valley of Balls** in Torysh. The stone formations of Torysh stretch for hundreds of kilometers on both sides of the hills, creating a unique landscape. Where the rock layers were broken vertically, long ridges made of stones of different sizes were formed. Where the layers were broken horizontally, the stones formed fields filled with round shapes that look like balls, eggs, mushrooms, UFOs, cylinders, nesting dolls, and even animals. Such unusual and imaginative stone fields can be found in the area of Torysh. We continue to **Sherkala rock**, which was once a fortress of the eldest son of Genghis Khan, Jochi. This legendary place was built in the Middle Ages, to secure the paths of Great Silk Way. “Sherkala” – by the translation from Turkmen language means “lion fortress” (“sher” – lion, “kala” – fortress). Time to wrap up and head to our camp for a night in yurts. **DAY 3 // Thursday** Today we are set to explore **Sor Tuzbair, salt flats desert** with chalky hills and limestone cliffs. After rain the salt flats transform into a reflective surface mirroring the sky and the nearby dazzling white cliffs. This sight will stun even those who are not easily impressed. Here you ll learn the names of belemnite and ammonite, while if you re lucky you may come across fossilized prehistoric shark teeth. First we head to **Airakty Mountains,** which look like a magical castle, with spires, towers, columns, and fortress-like walls. The main sights of the valley include mysterious grottos, unusual caves, and formations that resemble palaces with colonnades, temples with domes, and Gothic-style spires. A winding trail, formed by wild horses, leads up one of the mountains. From the top, there is a stunning viewing platform overlooking the distant Aktau Mountains and the fairy-tale castles of Airakty. Next, we’ll stop in **Shetpe village**, where we’ll visit a modern caravanserai and taste local food. From here we continue to **Tuzbair**, a breathtaking natural wonder. This salt flat is a place of pure beauty, defined by just two colors: the brilliant white of the salt and limestone, and the deep blue of the sky on clear days. Approaching Tuzbair from the west offers spectacular views, with three major viewpoints along the way. Today we sleep in **Bozzhira canyon**, where we set up our camp and spend a night under the stars. **DAY 4 // Friday** On the last day of our expedition, its time for well-deserved dessert in the desert! First Tiramisu layers start appearing at **Mt. Bokhty**, which in fact in Kazak means “a pie”. The road passes along the picturesque Ustyurt Plateau. Mount Bokty lies at the bottom of a dry salt flat, bordered on the north by the small hill of Golbanshe, through which a graded road leads to the Becket Ata Mosque. Bokty Mountain is remarkable for its changing appearance. From different angles, it looks completely different — from one side, it resembles a giant ship turned upside down, while from the south, it looks like a wide, multicolored pyramid stretching across the horizon. Further on, **Kyzylkup will not leave any doubts to tiramisu lovers!** Gentle layers continue their horizontal alignment as far as your eye can reach. A last stop at **Karagiye depression (-132 MUSL)** which is one of the deepest places in the world. Its time to head back to the city for farewell dinner and last overnight in the hotel. **DAY 5 // Departure** Its time to head to airport for our return back home. Bye, bye Mangystau! **Level:** Easy with limited facilities. **Activities:** off-roading, striking sightseeing, trekking, yurt and desert camping 2 nights. **Accommodation & meals:** Hotel (dbl sharing) and desert camping. Local meals included, except meals on transfers (in Aktau). **Cost: AED 4,720 all incl**. **direct** **flights until MAR 05.** **Specifically excluded:** Visas, meals during transfers (in Aktau). **Visas:** cost not included in trip budget: **At the time of writing 60 nationalities are visa free:** EU, GCC, UK, USA, AUS Argentina, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Russia, Saudi Singapore, Turkey, Ukraine. Visa support available through third party. *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination.* See yah at Mangystau x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) // Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**At Billionaire Toastmasters, we don’t just practice public speaking — we empower voices, build leaders, and shape futures.** Whether you're stepping onto the stage for the first time or you're a seasoned speaker aiming for excellence, our club provides a supportive, growth-focused environment where you can truly thrive. As part of the globally respected Toastmasters International network, we offer far more than weekly speeches. Here, you'll: * **Sharpen your communication skills** through structured pathways designed to elevate your confidence, clarity, and presence. * **Take on leadership roles** that challenge you to grow — from leading meetings to organizing events and mentoring others. * **Connect with District 127 leaders** and fellow Toastmasters from diverse industries — expanding your network and learning directly from those who’ve achieved remarkable success. * **Develop habits of high achievers**, by learning from those who lead by example — whether in business, public service, or entrepreneurship. If you are **ambitious**, curious, and ready to invest in yourself, Billionaire Toastmasters is a platform where your potential meets possibility. With us, **opportunities are vast and limitless** — all you need is the drive to speak up and step forward. Join us. Speak. Lead. Succeed.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in an unforgettable evening under the dazzling sky at our Desert BBQ Night! 🌌 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **🌟 Set Up Under the Starry Desert Sky** Picture-perfect moments await as we transform the serene desert landscape into a haven of warmth and laughter, all beneath the mesmerizing blanket of stars. Let the natural beauty of the desert enhance your experience as you gather around for an unforgettable night. **🎤 Karaoke, Music, and Dancing** Unleash your inner superstar with exhilarating karaoke sessions, or simply groove to the beats of live music under the starlit sky. Dance the night away with friends, old and new, as you create unforgettable memories in this magical setting. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** 🔥 **BYOF (Bring Your Own BBQ) Experience** Bring your own BBQ food to grill to perfection! We provide all the necessary grilling equipment and fire-ready setups, ensuring that your culinary creations are cooked to perfection under the starry desert sky. Whether it's marinated meats, fresh vegetables, or tantalizing skewers, unleash your inner grill master and savor the satisfaction of cooking your favorite dishes in the heart of the Dubai desert. **🔥 Bonfire Bliss** Gather around the crackling bonfire and bask in its warm glow as you share stories, laughter, and moments of pure joy with your fellow desert adventurers. Let the flickering flames ignite a sense of camaraderie that will warm your heart throughout the night. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **🍔 Eating and Drinking All Night Long** Indulge your taste buds with a delectable feast of BBQ delights and refreshing beverages that will tantalize your senses throughout the night. Savor every bite and sip as you enjoy the flavors of the desert under the starlit sky. **🎲 Fun Games and Board Games** Get ready for some friendly competition and laughter with a variety of fun games and board games. Challenge your friends or make new ones as you engage in lively activities that will keep the energy high throughout the night. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **💆 Relaxing and Storytelling:** Wind down from the excitement of the night with moments of relaxation and reflection. Gather around for captivating storytelling sessions that will transport you to distant lands and inspire your imagination. **What to expect?** * Set up under the starry desert sky. * BBQ your favourite meal. * Grilling equipment and fire-ready setup. * Bonfire, relaxing, storytelling, socializing & fun games. * Music, chilling, karaoke and dancing. * Soft drinks, coffee and tea. *Don't miss out on this extraordinary Desert BBQ Night! Join us for an evening of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories in the heart of the Dubai desert.* **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Book your tickets now and get ready for an extraordinary night under the stars! 🌌🔥* *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

Join us at the JVT Dubai Toastmasters club for an interactive session on mastering public speaking techniques. Whether you are a beginner looking to overcome stage fright or an experienced speaker wanting to polish your skills, this event is designed for everyone. Learn the art of storytelling, vocal variety, body language, and engaging the audience from our seasoned speakers. Get personalized feedback and tips to improve your confidence and delivery. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your public speaking skills in a supportive and friendly environment. Sign up now and unleash your full potential on stage!

**Quick gmail login, no app, all web, 2 seconds to make your instagram searchable!** [https://eseek.app/discover](https://eseek.app/discover) 📝 **Guys** create detailed, full-page text description about themselves. 🔍 **Ladies** search for what they’re looking for using simple prompts. **Men** you can just list your instagram, but women less likely to find it. Things you can try, list your profession, income, nationality, age, hobbies, places you want to travel. **Women** the AI can provide a summary why it thinks a profile is a good match based on what you are looking for. **You can list your account as social, business, dating.** People can search and discover your instagram and message you. It's up to you what you want to share. We simply ask for gmail login. If you want to provide instagram handle and description optional. **Follow us at** [https://www.instagram.com/eseek_travel_app/](https://www.instagram.com/eseek_travel_app/) **whatsapp group** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2xOAwT29rul521?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2xOAwT29rul521?mode=gi_t)

Members of the public are invited to view the wonders of the universe through the telescopes of NOVAC volunteers at the Smithsonian's Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. Telescopes will be provided by the Smithsonian and pre-approved members of the NOVAC. No other personal telescopes are permitted at the event. The event will take place on the bus parking lot of the museum. **Please park your vehicle at the south end of the main visitors lot and follow signs and red lights to the observing site. As a reminder, parking during the event is free.** Have a cosmic question? One of NOVAC's astronomers or museum staff will be happy to help you. As the sky gets dark, be prepared to enjoy the wonders of the night sky! Don't forget to dress warmly. Please check the weather forecast. For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (the darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated. Note: This outdoor event is weather-dependent and may be cancelled because of significant cloud cover or precipitation.

Earth and Sky Adventures at Sweet Run State Park generally begins with a short evening hike along with family friendly activities in the Education Building (Red barn). This is followed by astronomical viewing led by members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club. See link below for scheduled times, and contact Jim Crowley at [uuplink@aol.com](mailto:uuplink@aol.com) for any questions. [Sweet Run State Park](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sweet-run)

**It’s St. Paddy’s Day and you KNOW we’re not staying home... especially if Collective is on stage!!! Join us at Rai’s Rendezvous for a night of green drinks, great music, and dancing. Wear your green. Bring your lucky charm. And let’s turn Rai’s into the luckiest party in town.💚🍻🎶**

Sky Meadows and NOVAC invite you to enjoy an evening under the stars. Our evenings begin with a half-hour children's "Junior Astronomer" program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in astronomy. Visitors should bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Next, get oriented to the celestial skies with a brief sky tour. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the beautiful night sky. Join Northern Virginia Astronomy Club members in viewing the night sky. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration. The event's programs will take place rain or shine. Important note: The incoming park gate is locked one hour after event start time. Please plan to arrive before then. Details: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Secrets of Runes,”** on the origins, development, and interpretation of the runic script, with Lilla Kopár, runologist and a professor of medieval literature and culture at Catholic University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-rune-secrets](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-rune-secrets) .] The fame of runes outshines that of any other ancient script. They can be found not just on Viking Age rune stones, but on Bilbo’s door and as the Bluetooth logo on your cell phone. Runic script is commonly associated with magic, used by modern practitioners of neopaganism, and in recent decades has captured the imagination of filmmakers and video game designers. Yet most of us know little about the historical origins of runes and have no clue how to read or use them. Come to Crooked Run Fermentation in Sterling, Va., to get schooled on runic script with the help of Lilla Kopár, a veteran scholar of runes who has earned a following among Profs and Pints fans by giving fantastic talks on medieval monsters and Norse mythology. As someone who has carried out extensive field research on runes, published several articles on runic objects, and even appeared on the History Channel commenting on runes in America, she’s exceptionally qualified to introduce you to runology and the fascinating things that runes tell us. Dr Kopár will discuss the development of runic script from its humble origins on the borders of the Roman Empire in the first or second century CE, through its popularity in the Viking world, to its use and misuse in modern times. She’ll discuss how runes are a set of related alphabets that underwent changes over time and she’ll describe what inspired changes in this writing system and where and how runes were used in the medieval period. Her richly illustrated talk will highlight some of the most intriguing objects with runic inscriptions, from humble bone fragments to impressive rune stones, and offer insight into the scholarly methods of deciphering and interpreting runic inscriptions. We’ll also look at the function of the runic script from simple practical notes and memorial inscriptions to cipher-runes and magic. The most fun might be the in-class assignment, which will involve reading a few runic inscriptions and writing your name and other words in runes. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Part of Codex runicus, a rune manuscript written on animal skin and dating to about 1300 (University of Copenhagen / Wikimedia Commons).

Toast of Oakton is currently meeting in-person at Oakton Library. We also have a virtual link to the meeting which is available when you click "Attend" in the Toast of Oakton Meeting Online Information event. We welcome you to join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. For questions, further information or to contact us visit our website - https://too.toastmastersclubs.org/ Meet and greet - 6:45pm Meeting begins - 7:00pm

**NEW DETAILS! SEE BELOW FOR LUNCH PLANS AND MOVIE TIME!** **Monday, March 24** Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – One Loudoun 20575 East Hampton Plaza, Ashburn, VA 20147 Can’t make the **March 16 early screening**? No worries — the universe has provided a **second launch window**. Join Liane and your DTs friends for another opportunity to see *Project Hail Mary*, this time at **Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in One Loudoun** — with lunch beforehand! ### Lunch **Matchbox – One Loudoun** 44720 Thorndike Street, Ashburn **12:30 PM** [https://www.matchboxrestaurants.com/one-loudoun](https://www.matchboxrestaurants.com/one-loudoun) We’ll gather for lunch before heading over to the theater. Matchbox offers wood-fired pizzas, salads, sandwiches, and more — a perfect place to fuel up before our mission. ### Movie **Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – One Loudoun** 20575 Easthampton Plaza, Ashburn **2:10 PM showing** [https://drafthouse.com/theater/one-loudoun](https://drafthouse.com/theater/one-loudoun) Tickets are **discounted on Tuesdays — just $7**. You may purchase tickets in advance or buy them at the theater to avoid the online convenience fee. Participants are welcome to join us for **lunch, the movie, or both**. Whether you missed the first launch or just want another trip into deep space, here’s your chance to gather with your tribe and help save the universe.