Classic Books

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **"Eugenics Then and Now,”** on a dangerous movement in science and its lessons for current research, with Carlo Quintanilla, molecular biologist and health science policy analyst at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-eugenics](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-eugenics) .] Global concerns about the return of eugenic thinking were reignited by Chinese scientist He Jiankui’s 2018 announcement of the first gene-edited babies, Lulu and Nana. He was quickly condemned by the scientific community and jailed for illegal medical practice, but he and others around the world continue experiments with goals echoing eugenic ambitions. As genetic technologies advance at extraordinary speed, society faces a new set of ethical questions about shaping the traits of future generations. Are we entering a new era of eugenics? If so, how should we respond? Hear such questions tackled by Carlo Quintanilla, who studied rare genetic mutations in human disease as a graduate research scientist and instructor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and now works at the intersection of genomic medicine, science, and society. Dr. Quintanilla will begin by discussing the origins and history of eugenics, tracing its development in the 19th and 20th centuries as an idea, a scientific movement, and a set of policies. He’ll examine the rise of Social Darwinism in the U.K., forced sterilization programs in the United States, and the atrocities committed by the Third Reich in the name of “racial hygiene.” From there, he’ll explore how our ability to shape human health and heredity have been transformed by modern reproductive and genetic technologies such as in vitro fertilization, prenatal and embryo screening, and genome editing. You’ll learn how these tools hold enormous promise when it comes to the prevention and cure of rare and debilitating genetic conditions, yet also raise profound questions related to their potential enablement of a new, technologically driven form of eugenics. Dr. Quintanilla will then delve into the ongoing debate among scientists, bioethicists, and policymakers over what should be classified as eugenics today. He’ll highlight recent controversial uses of genetic and reproductive technologies that are pushing ethical boundaries faster than society can define them, from embryo selection for traits like IQ and height to speculative military interest in genetically enhanced soldiers. These examples raise urgent questions: Where should society draw ethical boundaries? Who gets to decide? And is the term “eugenics” still useful for guiding policy and public debate? We’ll close by examining the social, political, and regulatory forces that will determine the future, considering whether they will restrain the push toward further genetic control or accelerate it. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: The frontispiece of the 1883 book *Inquiries into Human Faculty and Its Development,* by pioneering eugenicist Francis Galton (Wikimedia Commons / Metropolitan Museum of Art).

[Book Your Ticket Here on our Website](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/). This Class is for anyone who's taking some beginner classes and is considering leveling up. When?: Tuesday Level 2 Salsa Group Classes 7:00PM to 8:30PM. Do I need Partner? NO Is it a Series? No. But we review similar materials on the consistent basic. So having a good basic foundation in those dances will go a long way for you here. Cost: $25 Per Person for 90 minutes class Can I drop-in? Yes. Membership & Class pass available for your better growth and progress. www.crowndancestudio.com

Do you play mandolin, mandola, mandocello, guitar, or bass? Would you like to? The Mandoleers are looking for musicians to join us. We play a variety of music genres, from classical and semi-classical to jazz, contemporary and a wide range of folks from around the world. **Rehearsal Details**: There is no requirement to audition. Reading music is helpful, but if you don't read music, bring a recording device. We rehearse (almost) every Tuesday evening from **7:30 to 9:30 PM** at: Clarendon United Methodist Church, 606 N. Irving Street, Arlington, VA 22201 **Please RSVP if you plan to attend!** The door to the church is *locked*, so we will need to come let you in. If you are not sure what instrument to play, assuming you play multiple stringed/fretted instruments, our Conductor will assist you to decide. Please go to our [contact page](https://mandoleers.org/contact-us) to inquire!

This presentation will offer a few historical firsts of public transit in the U.S., starting from its origins in 1630, before turning to some oddities and strange beginnings of public transit from across the globe. Part history, part trivia, this examination will also provide some analysis of what these various public transit beginnings and curious cases suggest about the forces and patterns that govern public transportation.

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Rockville with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Rockville, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Rockville.

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

This meeting will be dedicated to talking about the entirety of "Brideshead Revisited" by Evelyn Waugh We will be meeting in the National Portrait Gallery Atrium. To stay up to date with events and discuss meetings or books, you can join our Whatsapp group. Please message me to get added.

**Join us for a unique experience of combining the healing energy of Reiki with the artistic expression of handbuilding clay. This workshop will delve into the ancient practice of Reiki, promoting holistic health and wellness through energy healing. Participants will learn the basics of handbuilding clay while immersing themselves in a spiritual and creative environment. This event is perfect for those interested in exploring the connections between art, spirituality, and energy healing. Come and indulge in an afternoon of self-care, mindfulness, and craft as we mold clay with intention and positive energy. Whether you are a seasoned Reiki practitioner or new to both Reiki and Crafts, this workshop welcomes all who seek a harmonious blend of creativity and healing.** **We Will be meeting at 101 Haven Wellness Center in Rockville.** **101 N Adams St Rockville, MD 20850** for quick sign up follow the link below [Haven 101](https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/ws?studioid=5739753&stype=-8&sTG=36&sVT=40&sView=day&sLoc=1&sTrn=100000055) **Bring an apron if you have one. If not, don’t wear your best shirt! :)**

L'Exil et le Royaume d'Albert Camus est un recueil de six nouvelles explorant la condition humaine entre l'exil (solitude, absurdité, séparation, déréliction) et le royaume (sérénité, communion avec le monde). Exile and the Kingdom is Albert Camus' fine collection of six short stories which explores the human condition between exile (solitude, absuridity, apartness, abandonment) and the kingdom (peace, communion with the world). L'Exil et le Royaume, published in 1957, was the last work of fiction Camus produced before his tragic early death in 1960. Si vous allez lire l'Exil en français, il faut commander via Schoehof's avant 14h (Heure de l'Est) pour accélérer le traitement de votre commande. https://www.schoenhofs.com/LExil-et-le-royaume-by-Albert-Camus_p_27096.html (le titre est jadis disponible pour notre club chez Schoenhof's). If you wish to read Camus' Exile and the Kingdom in English, please order this translation. This book is also available in Kindle. https://www.amazon.com/Exile-Kingdom-Albert-Camus/dp/0307278581/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1IK180GYU1NRD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.HYa3dT5939PqR2K7w4j6X5gJkSDn0f426cxnZVL9YAraHj2BRcyv07scTR5j5IvKzOydAejAKfRNTHuXvYhfdwGGaopnnsgsMURJOxX4_qr9sK5PM9_88VlaarklT3s9prurTIf74-lqbpfvePF2IdFUDCpyjS3Cj5XFcQhG4GiLNO_GUgQUKmK5fKsnYyFyXm0OR83xe7W5800A_Z5i7O9s-UHquxUi_PJvKHMKkUQ.9jHxrNWQYBVXudvpzigRn-ZFp1ZbY_XPpBI1nBxuNmU&dib_tag=se&keywords=albert+camus+exile+and+the+kingdom&qid=1771453214&sprefix=albert+camus+exile+%2Caps%2C103& Zoom Link: Alphonse-Louis Vinh vous invite à une réunion Zoom programmée. Sujet: Albert Camus. L'Exil et le Royaume. Exile and the Kingdom. Heure: 8 avr. 2026 07:30 PM Heure de l’Est (États-Unis et Canada) Participer à la réunion Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85713264534?pwd=M1bYWG304M2AhmlCCWMwQRbD1KUj7D.1 Voir des infos sur les réunions avec Zoom AI Companion https://us02web.zoom.us/launch/edl?muid=6f4e4c42-8cf7-4e20-b504-ce61b2f59244 ID de réunion: 857 1326 4534 Code secret: 783261 \-\-\- Une seule pression sur l’appareil mobile +13017158592,,85713264534#,,,,\*783261# États-Unis (Washington DC) +13092053325,,85713264534#,,,,\*783261# États-Unis Instructions pour participer https://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/85713264534/invitations?signature=IcipPLTlTlv6M_MjN_LQlBX01BeQm6AAlXqQDjy55os

We will meet outside as long as the weather is nice. If not, we will move inside. Look out for a comment the morning of each meeting with our exact location. As we are meeting in person, please remember to bring something to read as we usually spend some time sharing our current reads and/or reading when meeting in person. As a reminder, there is no assigned reading; please bring whatever you are currently working on. This group is super casual, sometimes we read and sometimes we talk the whole time. **** NO SHOW POLICY: Due to the high number of members on the waitlist recently we are having to reinstate our no-show policy. If you sign up and no-show to 2 events you will be removed from the group. Reminders are provided weekly to change your RSVP to allow those on the waitlist a chance to come to the meet-up, no 3rd chances with be given. Please be considerate to your fellow members. Thank you! I look forward to reading you!

* We meet inside Zazzy * Bring something to read, as we often take some time at the beginning telling each other about what we're currently reading. * I have a favor to ask of you. To offset the cost of Meetup fees (\~$200 a year), I kindly request that you consider a small donation to my my [Pledge account](https://www.meetup.com/a-different-type-of-book-club-arlington/#pledge). 😊 **NOTE: NO DISCUSSION OF POLITICS: 12/31/21 UPDATE** For the sake of polite company, moving forward, we will avoid the discussion of politics at meetings of the book club. Please let me know if you have any questions. **NON-ATTENDANCE / NO-SHOW POLICY** If you have said that you will attend this event, but no longer are able to attend, please kindly update your status to "Not Attending" so that someone on the waitlist is able to RSVP. **Because this Meetup group is popular, and typically has a waitlist, effective immediately, I'm instituting a two-event no-show policy. If you RSVP as "Attending" but do not show at two events, you will be removed from this Meetup group.** We look forward to seeing you! Best, Jay

Join is to read Arabella by Georgette Heyer, the queen of regency romance! We will be meeting at the Ballston Quarter food court,

We will meeting at a **New Location: GameOn** which is at 1330 U St. If taking the metro go to U St station take the 13th St exit and walk half a block. The bar is on U St between 13th and 14th. We will be sitting at the upstairs nook by the Mario Bros mural. We will be reading "We Are Legion (We Are Bob)" by Dennis E. Taylor. [We Are Legion (We Are Bob) (Bobiverse, #1) by Dennis E. Taylor | Goodreads](We%20Are%20Bob) As per usual we are crowd sourcing book ideas and voting on the top books. We encourage you to add votes to the books [DC Science Fiction Book Club Suggestions - Google Sheets](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mprXaa6bcEW5EL_uprN16-RBcetO6pbqA4vHDTjtowI/edit?gid=0#gid=0)

This Month's Book: *On A Sunbeam* by Tillie Walden Join us for discussion at the Granville Public Library from 6 to 7pm. Follow us on Instagram: @granvillepridebookclub

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

* Second ever book club! April meet up. All are welcome. * The book will be Play Nice by Rachel Harrison (determined by votes from March Book Club. Let me know if you’d like a free digital copy of the book) * This event will be at the main library, meeting room 1B, the location will not be changed for this event due to the number of people attending, we will just add more chairs if needed! * Feel free to come whether or not you’ve started or finished the book ◡̈ * Small snacks will be provided. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks & drinks too! Starting in June I will try to keep future book clubs at the Dublin Library. Now that I understand their reservation system, I will be on top of it with booking that location as soon as the date is released for the month. Thanks for your understanding with the varying locations in the meantime.

Semi in honor of March being International Women's Month Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3454709](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3454709) Location: SOW Plated Menu: [https://www.sowplated.com/menu-brunch/](https://www.sowplated.com/menu-brunch/) Book summary: In 2006 Julia Lerner is living in Moscow, a recent university graduate in computer science, when she's recruited by Russia's largest intelligence agency. By 2018 she's in Silicon Valley as COO of Tangerine, one of America's most famous technology companies. In between her executive management (make offers to promising startups, crush them and copy their features if they refuse); self promotion (check out her latest op-ed in the WSJ, on Work/Life Balance 2.0); and work in gender equality (transfer the most annoying females from her team), she funnels intelligence back to the motherland. But now Russia's asking for more, and Julia's getting nervous. Alice Lu is a first generation Chinese American whose parents are delighted she's working at Tangerine (such a successful company!). Too bad she's slogging away in the lower echelons, recently dumped, and now sharing her expensive two-bedroom apartment with her cousin Cheri, a perennial "founder's girlfriend". One afternoon, while performing a server check, Alice discovers some unusual activity, and now she's burdened with two powerful but distressing suspicions: Tangerine's privacy settings aren't as rigorous as the company claims they are, and the person abusing this loophole might be Julia Lerner herself. The closer Alice gets to Julia, the more Julia questions her own loyalties. Russia may have placed her in the Valley, but she's the one who built her career; isn't she entitled to protect the lifestyle she's earned?

Let's bedazzle some books while we discuss our April pick: Bloodguard by Cecy Robson! Book description: One hundred years. Tens of thousands of gladiators. And today, only one will rise… Everything in the Kingdom of Arrow is a lie. Leith of Grey thought coming to this new land and volunteering to fight in the gladiator arena—vicious, bloodthirsty tournaments where only the strongest survive—would earn him enough gold to save his dying sister. He thought there was nothing left to lose. He was wrong—and they took everything. His hope. His freedom. His very humanity. All Leith has left is his battle-scarred body, fueled by rage and hardened from years of fighting for the right to live another day. Then Leith meets Maeve, an elven royal who is everything he despises. Everything he should hate. Until the alluring princess offers him the one thing he needs most: a chance to win the coveted title of Bloodguard—and his freedom. But in a kingdom built on secrets and lies, hope doesn’t come cheap. Nor will his ultimate revenge… Event: Please bring your own book, journal, bookmarks, etc to bedazzle. If you have bedazzling supplies, please bring them as well. I will supply gems, glue, and picker tools, but if you have certain colors in mind, you may want to bring your own.

This month we’ll be reading Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb. Feel free to come even if you don’t finish the book!

Calling all founders, CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to join our special *Founder Edition* of Sip & Read meetup event. Let's sip on fine wine and discuss our first book **The 5AM Club- Own Your Morning Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma**. We will pair this book with our favorite wine at **Wine on High** and engage in thought-provoking discussions on startup businesses and entrepreneurship, and network with like-minded individuals in a cozy book club setting. Come prepared to discuss this month's book. At the end of each book club meeting, we will take next book and venue suggestions from the participants for the next meeting. Whether you are a book lover, women entrepreneur, or a content creator, this event is perfect for sharing ideas and insights with other funders and founders in the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Sign up now to reserve your spot! *Fun fact! This meetup was established in 2015 and had over 1,000 members. I had to shut down operations while attending law school, but we're back!!*