Concept Art

Please join us at Hill Center on Thursday, May 21st from 6:30pm-8:30pm for an Opening Reception showcasing new works from amazing local artists who are members of the the Capitol Hill Arts League. Juried by Nicky Cymrot, Director, Hill Center Galleries and Anne Barnes, Artist. There are always nice refreshments here. During the Opening Reception certificates will be presented for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honarable Mention Awards. All pieces of art may be purchased and will be on display throughout our Galleries and [online at Hill Center Galleries](https://www.hillcenterdc.org/artist/chal-2026/). The exhibitions run from May 7th through August 30th.

Today we are Steve's Lab. RSVP and you'll be sent the location. It's in Silver Spring. ***Join us for an evening in an electronics lab where we will attempt to run clean scans of graphene and gold samples, and then clean up that data with post processing.*** This is a high sensitivity experiment, and we do not plan on being successful so early. But we've had promising results lately - so we will be putting in the time. We are NOT meeting at our usual location, but rather at Steve's house/lab. If you RSVP, you will get a DM with the address but it's located in Silver Spring. We will attempt full, clean lab - clean tip repeated scanning tests to see what we can learn and improve. We will experiment with online attendees, but if all possible showing up in person is strongly encouraged. Online join link is: - [https://meet.jit.si/mocomakers](https://meet.jit.si/mocomakers) Our community is building (and documenting for other teams) how to build a scanning tunneling microscope using a mix of common and 3D printed parts. This will allow us to scan and visualize a single atom - an ambitious we are doing over the course of a few months. The MoCo Makers community is one of the most innovative and competent groups in Maryland, and we've done everything from [publishing cancer research](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38136356/), to [launching products](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gotim/cozy-curvy-multi-contour-pillow), [winning grants](https://covidinfocommons.datascience.columbia.edu/awards/2014255), and inspiring thousands. Now our biggest challenge yet has appeared. We are building a Scanning Tunneling Microscope, that will allow us to scan and visualize single atoms. To get a better idea of what we are doing, see our reference project here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7N3OqTEq08g](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7N3OqTEq08g) All starting CAD, code, and reference files should exist. However, let's be the first Maker community to document the build process and share it with learners around the world. We will be publishing our work here -[ https://hackaday.io/project/202816-qt-panda](https://hackaday.io/project/202816-qt-panda) If you need a ride, let us know.

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.

This **no gi class** focuses on **[Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) concepts**, including **takedowns**, **positional drilling**, **submissions**, **transitions**, **situational sparring**, **strategy development**, and **live training**. While the class is scheduled for **90 minutes**, it may run longer depending on content and participation. This class includes both **instruction** as well as [rolling](https://www.howbjjworks.com/bjj-blog/2018/7/29/how-rolling-works-in-bjj) (**sparring**) and a **question-and-answer** section. **Some of the topics covered in this class include:** 🤼 **Wrestling** \-\- Takedowns\, ties\, and controlling the stand\-up game using wrestling fundamentals adapted for no gi BJJ competition and self\-defense\. 🤼 **Catch Wrestling** \-\- A traditional grappling system emphasizing submissions and relentless pressure \-\- [catch wrestling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catch_wrestling) concepts add a ruthlessly practical dimension to no-gi BJJ. 🥋 **Judo adapted to no gi BJJ** \-\- Classical [Judo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judo) throws and **off-balancing principles** translated into a no-gi context, giving grapplers a powerful and often underused takedown arsenal. 🧠 **[Constraints-Led Approach](https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach) (CLA) to learning and games** \-\- A modern\, evidence\-based coaching methodology that uses structured games and constraints to accelerate skill acquisition naturally and intuitively\. 📌 **Pins** \-\- Controlling and maintaining dominant positions on the ground \-\- [pins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pin_(sport_wrestling)) are the foundation of effective ground fighting and set up submissions, transitions, and pressure. 🔒 **Submissions** \-\- Chokes\, arm locks\, and [finishing techniques](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brazilian_jiu-jitsu_techniques#Submissions_(Most_Frequent_in_UFC_%E2%80%93_Sorted_by_Frequency)) applied from dominant positions -- the ultimate objective of BJJ ground fighting. 🦵 **Leg locks** \-\- Heel hooks\, kneebars\, ankle locks\, and toe holds \-\- [lower body submissions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leglock) that are increasingly central to high-level no gi competition. 🔄 **Guard passing and guard retention** \-\- The core positional chess match of BJJ \-\- learning to break through an opponent's guard while protecting your own is fundamental to controlling a match\. ⚖️ **Kuzushi (off-balancing)** \-\- The Japanese principle of [disrupting an opponent's balance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuzushi) before executing a throw or takedown -- a concept borrowed from Judo that dramatically improves takedown success rates. 🔥 **Pressure and cooking opponents** \-\- Using body weight\, positioning\, and [relentless forward pressure](https://bjjfanatics.com/blogs/news/pressure-bjj) to physically and mentally exhaust opponents -- a high percentage strategy at all levels. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).**

Let's explore Kingman Island again. **Route:** * Start at Stadium-Armory Metro station * Walk to Kingman Island and traverse the length of the island * Return to Stadium-Armory Metro station **Millage:** 3.4 mi **Start/End Location:** Stadium - Armory Metro Station **Map:** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/EGo96sJc4HhBbgQq9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/EGo96sJc4HhBbgQq9) **Time:** 6 pm - 8:00 pm **Terrain:** This will be mostly flat, with some trail walking on Kingman Island itself. We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early, because we will leave without you. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. We're always looking for new leaders who can showcase their neighborhood or any cool places they know, so please reach out either at an event or on meetup if you are interested. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group walking (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

Join us for [Muay Thai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai) kickboxing at [OSMA in Herndon, VA](https://www.virginiabjj.com/): an energetic evening class focused on striking technique, conditioning, and controlled sparring. 🔥 This adult (16+) class combines **technical instruction, pad work, partner drills**, and **cardio training** to build real-world **skill** and **endurance** in a **safe**, **structured setting**. Beginners and experienced students alike will learn how to apply the principles of **Muay Thai: *The Art Of Eight Limbs***, through precise **strikes**, **timing**, and **defense**. Classes take place every **Tuesday** and **Thursday** at **7:00 PM**. The **drop-in fee is $20**, payable on-site, and note that we are located in **suite #130**. Come train with us and see why so many in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) choose One Spirit Martial Arts for top-tier martial-arts instruction. **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)** Q: Is this class suitable for someone interested in **boxing**? A: **Yes**! Muay Thai shares many of the same **striking fundamentals** as [boxing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing), including **stance**, **timing**, and **defensive movement**. Students searching for boxing gyms in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) or Northern Virginia train at OSMA to develop **solid punching technique** along with **kicks**, **knees**, and **elbows**.

Starting Thursday, May 21, I'm running a weekly Proxy Cube draft in DC. **Cubes:** * [100 Ornithopters](https://cubecobra.com/cube/about/100-ornithopters?view=primer) : a normal-feeling cube with one twist: the only creatures are 100 copies of Ornithopter. No tokens, no creature lands, and no way to deal damage to your opponent that doesn't somehow involve Ornithopter. * **Modern Cube:** a straightforward Modern-format cube. **Details:** * **What:** Proxy Cube draft (2 cubes to begin with) * **Where:** As You Are, 500 8th St SE, Washington DC * **When:** Thursdays, 6:30 PM, starting May 21 * **Format:** Multiple pods, scales with attendance * **Entry:** $5–$10 suggested donation, with proceeds going to a local community fridge project More info at [capitalcube.club](http://capitalcube.club/) (reserve a spot) All skill levels welcome.

**The Arts of Life with Nancy Burbridge - Discover yourself through art!** **You're Invited to 'Arts of Life'** A meditative journey through art with local artist Nancy Burbridge Join us every third Friday of the month at the Brahma Kumaris-Meditation Museum, Virginia, from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM for creativity, relaxation, and self-discovery. In this interactive session, you will learn how to draw, paint, and explore the beauty within, cultivating the best version of yourself in a serene and supportive environment. Come experience the magic of art and meditation as tools for self-expression and inner growth. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore! We can't wait to see you there! Fri., May.22nd, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris - Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl., Suite 200, Chantilly, VA, 20151. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/NSAKX](https://shorturl.at/NSAKX)

This class will provide instruction into various concepts of **Jiu-Jitsu** as a form of **martial art**. Participants will have the opportunity to **study**, **practice**, and **experiment** with **submission holds** and **strategic fighting controls** that are the hallmark of the now famous methodology of Professional MMA athletes and professional combatives users. This **gi class** is held every **Tuesday** and **Thursday** and includes **one hour of instruction** and **30 minutes** (sometimes longer, TBD) of **open training**. Gis are available if you need one. Drop-in fee for non-members is **$20** which which can be paid on-site. Note that we are in **Suite #130**.

Join us for a calm and cozy afternoon of creating together at Oakton Library. This is a relaxed social art meetup, not a class. No instruction, no pressure. Just time to focus, draw, paint, and connect. We’re keeping this one intentionally small: **Maximum 10 seats** for a more intimate creative space. 🗓 First Saturday of every month 🕐 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM 📍 Oakton Library *** ✨ **What to Expect** This is quiet, focused art time with light conversation. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist, you’re welcome. You’re free to come late or leave early. *** 🖌 **What to Bring** Bring any materials you enjoy working with. Keep setups clean and easy for a shared public space. Suggested items: * Sketchbook or loose paper * Pencils, pens, markers, crayons * Small watercolor or gouache setup * iPad or tablet * Crochet, journaling, calligraphy — any quiet creative work is welcome Please avoid messy materials or anything with strong odors. *** 📌 **Important** Seats are limited to 10. Please RSVP to reserve your spot. If you RSVP and can’t make it, let us know so someone else can join.

The [Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense](https://pedrosaueracademy.com/) (PSA) [Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/kids-jiu-jitsu-herndon-va/) is designed to help children build **confidence**, **coordination**, and **practical [self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense) skills** in a **safe**, **structured**, and **positive environment**. This [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) class is for students **six** to **thirteen** years of age and runs from **5:15 PM** to **6:00 PM**, providing a **focused**, **age-appropriate training session** that fits well into an after-school routine. Located in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia), PSA is easily commutable from Oakton, Reston, Sterling, and [Great Falls](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Falls,_Virginia), as well as other nearby [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) communities. Parents are welcome to **stay and watch** \-\- PSA has a **dedicated seating area** where you can comfortably **observe your child’s progress** during class; parents may also take advantage of the PSA **guest WIFI** if they need an Internet connection. From a parent’s perspective, this class is about more than martial arts: children learn how to **move their bodies with purpose**, **stay calm under pressure**, **follow instructions**, **work with others**, and **build resilience**. Students are taught to apply [Gracie Jiu-Jitsu-based](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) self-defense concepts **responsibly**, with an emphasis on **control**, **safety**, and **respect**. What children will learn in this after-school program: * **Movement** and **coordination** drills * Practical **self-defense techniques** * Standing **takedowns** * **Ground techniques** and **positional awareness** * Position-specific **drilling** * Controlled **sparring** matches (age-appropriate and supervised) * **Games** and **fun activities** to keep kids engaged and motivated Whether your child is new to [martial arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martial_arts) or already active, this program offers a balanced mix of **skill development**, **physical activity**, and **confidence-building** \-\- all in a **supportive environment**. A **[free seven-day trial](https://pedrosaueracademy.com/)** is available for non-members.

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.

Join us at **Hashtag** in Herndon on Thursday, **May 21st** at **6pm**. Adventure and roll dice with this week's **Pathfinder 2 GM: Louis**. **The story:** The Pathfinder Society recently discovered that a rune-encrusted dagger in its vaults is somehow connected to an ancient weapon buried in the remote deserts of Thuvia. The weapon's precise location is unknown, so the Society dispatches a team of agents to explore the desert, using the dagger to guide the way. Unfortunately, the dagger is one of a matched pair, and the Society's enemies have its twin! Can the agents reach the weapon before their enemies do? What other surprises lay in wait? This adventure is the first part of the two-part Calamitous Dagger metaplot arc in the Year of Boundless Wonder. **Scenario tags**: Metaplot (Boundless Wonder), Faction (Grand Archive, Vigilant Seal) \*\*\* If you have any questions, feel free to comment or send a message.

Join our new group’s third meeting. Meet fellow tech enthusiasts west of the beltway. ​Because our group is new, we have a poll for the direction we want to take this new group. ​[https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca](https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca) ​For this event, we will be running a working meetup. ​Our meetings are a great place to work on and show off what you do. We are always welcoming. ​Our format is great for people who have started on but not finished one or several side projects. ​We will start off with basic introductions and what we are working on and what our goals are. We’ll break the rest of the meeting into two working sessions. In between, we’ll do a quick check-in to see how folks are going. If the RSVP is full, come anyway. We'll likely have space.