Craftsmanship

Join your fellow cyclists for a grand metric century over the wondrous flatness that is the MD Eastern Shore in Talbot County. This a a super friendly route with great stops, a ferry ride and up to 100 Km of riding in the longest route. There is also a lunch at the end with some adult beverages. The routes will be published soon. The registration link is https://tourdetalbot.org/ I hope to see you there for the ride!

Socrates Café meets twice a month. Though this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, morality, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

If you love musicians who can tell a story, lift a room, and make you feel like you’ve known them forever, come meet Mark Rust. Jessica first heard him in a college coffeehouse in Troy, NY decades ago — now he’s bringing that same magic to our house concert series. Mark Rust sings with strength and clarity, accompanying himself on guitar, piano, banjo, fiddle, mountain and hammered dulcimer. His charismatic personality combined with a delightful blend of wit and humor, creates a clear and consistent image of the world as he wants it to be. His love for his audience is genuinely conveyed and immediately returned. Mark captivates his audience and quickly makes them an integral part of the performance, and in that moment, they become his family. Yet, the songs, the voice, and the instruments, are still not the whole story. Mark infuses his concerts with an infectious sense of fun as he shares his down-home anecdotes and humorous stories. In the end, you have been treated to a voyage through your own experiences during an evening that is both memorable and moving. His music will touch your heart and leave you laughing. **Come make friends at our dessert and drink potluck! Please bring a dessert or beverage to share!** ***Details with our address and other info will be sent to you before June 6th.*** **Doors open at 7:00 pm. Music will begin \~7:45 pm.** **We kindly ask you leave your shoes at the door.** Wear your craziest socks to win a prize! Boring socks are...boring! :) **Suggested donation: $25-30/person (100% of all contributions are given directly to the musician) (Cash or Venmo)** More about Mark: Mark Rust comes from a musical family. His grandmother immigrated to America in the 1920's, and later opened a nightclub called "Swiss Trudy's." Everyone in the family performed in the musical acts. As Mark grew, he joined the family’s entertainment. Over the next many years, the Rust family traveled and performed widely at concerts and festivals. Mark has become a versatile performer on a variety of instruments. He possesses solid proficiency on guitar, piano, banjo, fiddle, mountain dulcimer, and hammered dulcimer.

Develop Communication and Leadership skills in a friendly and fun club! Guests are always welcomed at Leesburg Speakeasies https://leesburgspeakeasies.toastmastersclubs.org/ Visit our website (link above) for more details Leesburg Speakeasies Toastmasters 10:15 AM Rust Library 380 Old Waterford Rd NW, Leesburg, VA 20176 ·

🌎 Spanish & English Language Exchange What's in store: 💬 Guided topics to spark great conversation 🎲 Board games to practice phrases while you play 😌 Open, welcoming space — all levels and opinions welcome 📖 Pick up new words and expressions naturally Crossroads has a great atmosphere and board games ready to go — the perfect backdrop for meeting people and practicing in a fun, low-key way. ¡Todos son bienvenidos! / Everyone is welcome!

***Starting Saturday, May 2nd NextGen will be hosting monthly bird outings on the first Saturday of the month!*** Locations and guides will vary per month. For our next monthly walk, we will visit Ball’s Bluff Battlefield Regional Park for a fun and historic bird outing along the Potomac River. In June, eBird reports show a strong mix of **breeding forest birds, edge species, and river specialists**, including: ### **Breeding Songbirds (Forest & Edge)** Wood Thrush, Red-eyed Vireo, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Acadian Flycatcher, Great Crested Flycatcher, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting, Gray Catbird, Eastern Towhee, and Baltimore Oriole. ### **Warblers (Confirmed Summer Residents)** Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Ovenbird, American Redstart, and Louisiana Waterthrush (especially along streams and the Potomac). *(Note: migration warblers like Black-and-white are far less consistent by June—good correction from your prior version.)* ### **Raptors & Soaring Birds** Bald Eagle (very reliable along the river), Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk (occasionally lingering), and Turkey Vulture. ### **River & Riparian Species** Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, Belted Kingfisher, Wood Duck, Mallard, and Spotted Sandpiper along the shoreline. ### **Woodland & Year-Round Residents** Northern Cardinal, Blue Jay, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Downy Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Pileated Woodpecker. https://www.novaparks.com/parks/balls-bluff-battlefield Please wear shoes suited for rocky/uneven terrain, as there will be some light hiking up and down the bluff to get close to the river.

Join us to drum for rain! The drum circle will be at the Guru Rinpoche statue at the entrance to the Peace Park, across the street from the temple. We will be chanting sacred mantras as we drum, praying for abundant rain to ease the drought. All are welcome! Please bring any percussion instruments you have - the more the merrier! If you don't have any drums, there are typically extra available. Either way, you can chant along with everyone. In the event of inclement weather, we usually drum as long as we can before the storm starts, or wait it out and start a little late. We hold out until the last minute to cancel so if the weather seems iffy, keep an eye on our Facebook page for announcements. The DC region is currently experiencing moderate to severe drought. Many other regions of the world are also experiencing drought conditions. We will dedicate our prayers to bringing life-giving rain to all who need it!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“A Deep Dive into the Declaration of Independence,”** on the origins and impact of America’s founding document, with Denver Brunsman, chairman of George Washington University’s history department, lecturer at Mount Vernon, and noted scholar of early American history and the American Revolution. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-deep-dive-into-declaration](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-deep-dive-into-declaration) .] The celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary will take on much deeper meaning if you take time to fully understand and appreciate the document that declared our independence from England and gave rise to the American experiment. Learn essential lessons about the Declaration of Independence from Denver Brunsman, an incredibly engaging speaker who has built a big following among Profs and Pints fans in and around Washington D.C. Professor Brunsman will start by discussing the Declaration’s background, composition, and philosophical underpinnings. You’ll learn how by 1776 American colonists had resisted British policies for thirteen years and endured open warfare with Britain for more than a year. We’ll look at how this imperial crisis influenced the Declaration’s primary author, Thomas Jefferson, as well as the larger Declaration Committee and the Second Continental Congress. In recent years, scholars have focused particularly on the previously underappreciated grievance section of the Declaration. Rather than simply being an afterthought to the more famous preamble (“all men are created equal”), the grievances followed a logical order that carefully presented the case against King George III and the British Empire for a “candid world” to consider. Professor Brunsman will fill you in on how that list of grievances rallied Americans and other nations to the cause. A document both timeless and of its time, the Declaration quickly soared beyond its humble origins as a committee report to become synonymous with American independence and an inspiration for rebellion elsewhere. Dr. Brunsman will consider the place of the Declaration in American life, from the eighteenth century to today, and how the document helped shape much of American history while influencing “the course of human events” throughout the world. The talk will close with customary toasts from the American revolutionary era. Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah! (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From an idealized Jean Leon Gerome Ferris painting of Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams drafting the Declaration of Independence.

What's better than brunch? Brunch with the LGBTQ+ community, of course! Join the Dulles Triangles at 11:00 AM for a dazzling brunch at **[Amphora Diner](http://amphoragroup.com/amphoras-diner-deluxe/)**, located at **1151 Elden St, Herndon, VA 20170**. This is your chance to catch up with old pals, make some new ones, and bask in the glory of a Sunday well-brunched! Amphora’s menu is as diverse as our community, offering everything from omelets and pancakes to divine bakery treats. Seriously, their pastries are more irresistible than a shirtless Ryan Gosling holding a puppy! **RSVP Required!** Amphora needs a headcount beforehand, and adding seats at the last minute is like trying to squeeze into last year’s pride outfit—tricky! To ensure you get a seat at the brunch extravaganza, RSVP on Meetup or in the Dulles Triangles Facebook group by the day before. Those who RSVP get priority seating, and we promise not to judge if you show up in sequins. Remember to ask for Dulles Triangles when you arrive. Use the links below to RSVP and secure your spot faster than you can say "mimosas." This event is usually held on the first Sunday of each month, but check for updates because we like to keep things as flexible as our dance moves. Keep an eye on the current schedule so you don't miss out!

🍵**Zen & Zest: Japanese Art & Culture Workshops** \*\*Unlock the secrets to perfectly whisked, delicious Matcha!\*\*🍵 👉**Registration** is **Online Only** at: https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6697615 ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 🕒**When:** Sunday, **7 Jun 2026**, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 📍**Where:** Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 **Details:** This immersive class teaches you the precise techniques for brewing, along with proper care for your tools. You'll leave with your very own Matcha set and the knowledge to find peace and flavor at home. While we sip, enjoy quiet mini-discussions on intriguing Japanese cultural mysteries. Master the art of Matcha and bring daily tranquility into your life! This class includes the Kit. Children are welcome but must be registered and accompanied by a parent or guardian if under 12. ⚠️ HOW TO REGISTER An RSVP on Meetup does NOT reserve your spot. **Please register via the link below** to attend. ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 👉https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6697615 Hope to see you there!

**The Bike Lane** in Reston is turning 25—and throwing a summer block party bash to celebrate! Join us at The Bike Lane for a day packed with group rides, live music, cold beer, and delicious food trucks. They’ve got some big party planning happening behind the scenes, and trust me—you won’t want to miss this one. More details to be added as they are announced! Stay up to date on all the details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1272557651680190 **Band Lineup** (exact times coming soon): * **The Stray Dogs** * **Longest Day of the Year** * **Hijynx** Bring a folding chair kick back and enjoy the music. **Food Trucks**: Killer Tomato Pizza, Nordic Knots, + a Surprise Guest! **Breweries**: Eight favorite beer friends will be there (marking 8 years of Bike Lane Brewing): Lake Anne Brewhouse, Jasper Yeast, Lost Rhino Brewing Company, Bitterfruit Brewing, Solace Outpost, Mieza Blendary, Sinistral Brewing Company! Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate 25 years of bikes, community, and good times with The Bike Lane!

Jujutsu

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. This is a 7 mile hike with 900’ elevation gain in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. This is not your usual Harpers Ferry hike, for a some of the hike we will be on paved roads and streets. We will cover the historic Amory and trail, battlefields and surrounding streets stopping for lunch at a beautiful overlook. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) [Rating: C](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) Carpools: Meet at the Dulles Transit Park and Ride at 7:45am, GPS Coordinates: 38.976317, -77.433659, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/5VB71QdWsy9KjGZi8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5VB71QdWsy9KjGZi8). Go to the end of Pacific Blvd and turn left into the Park and Ride lot. Suggested carpool fee is $7. The leader will be at the carpool location. Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~1 hour. If you are going to the trailhead, meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station at 9:00am hike starts at 9:15am, GPS coordinates: 39.324540, -77.731047 [https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7](https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7) Parking Fee at Train Station: $20 (The only way to pay is scan the QR code on your phone) or free with National Park pass. If you have a pass please display it with signature side up on your vehicle's dashboard, where it can clearly be seen through the windshield. Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/harpers-ferry-armory-canal-75a05b5?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/harpers-ferry-armory-canal-75a05b5?u=i&sh=7cs7ov) **You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain.**

**Join us for an evening of crafting at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library!** ✂️🎨 Bring a project you’re currently working on (or start a new one) and enjoy a relaxed, creative space to craft alongside others from 6:30–8:30 PM. All forms of art and craft are welcome—knitting, crocheting, embroidery, drawing, jewelry making, paper crafts, and more. This is a casual, bring-your-own-project meetup with no formal instruction—just a chance to unwind, get inspired, and connect with fellow creatives. All skill levels are welcome. Come as you are and craft with us! *If the event is waitlisted, feel free to still join us.* [https://librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/16648515](https://librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/16648515)

🔥 **Wood Burning: Craft Your Own Personalized Wooden Spoons** 🔥Ignite your creativity and personalize your kitchenware! 👉**Registration** is **Online Only** at: https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6697653 ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 🕒**When:** Sunday, **14 Jun 2026**, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 📍**Where:** Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 **Details:** Join us for a hands-on project class where you'll learn the beautiful art of wood burning. We will guide you through the basics as you permanently etch your own unique designs onto a wooden spoon. Whether you’re looking to create a decorative addition to your kitchen or a thoughtful, handmade gift, this class is the perfect way to make a custom keepsake! ⚠️ HOW TO REGISTER An RSVP on Meetup does NOT reserve your spot. **Please register via the link below** to attend. ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 👉https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6697653 Hope to see you there!

**Register Here:** https://reg.experiences.redhat.com/flow/redhat/4102500/rhexpressregistrationapp/page/expressregistration?sc_cid=RHCTN1260000485001 **Automate at the speed of mission** Today’s landscape demands a shift in strategy. One where automation isn’t just a tool, but the engine driving modernization for your organization or agency. Join Red Hat experts and your peers at **[Ansible Automates in Washington, DC](https://reg.experiences.redhat.com/flow/redhat/4102500/rhexpressregistrationapp/page/expressregistration?sc_cid=RHCTN1260000485001)** for a full day of conversation on building an automation strategy that scales. We’re moving beyond isolated tasks to focus on the topics that define modern IT: * **Operational velocity and scale:** Deploy faster and eliminate manual bottlenecks by standardizing on Red Hat® Ansible® Automation Platform as the backbone of your IT estate. * **Continuous compliance and resilience:** Trade audit anxiety for automated governance, stay ahead of configuration drift, and minimize human error to ensure mission continuity. * **AI-driven operations:** Put data and intelligence into automated action with the latest advancements in Ansible Lightspeed and gen AI. **What you'll walk away with** You'll leave with real, applicable insight from technical experts, peer practitioners, and Red Hat product leadership, including a 1st-look at what's new in AAP 2.7. **Who should attend?** **#AnsibleAutomates2026** is for IT business leaders and their teams: * CIOs, CTOs, and IT Directors * Enterprise and Network Architects * IT Operations and DevOps Leads * Security and Compliance Professionals * Automation Architects shaping AI and modernization strategy * Anyone interested in Automation - no matter where you are in your journey **[Event Details](https://reg.experiences.redhat.com/flow/redhat/4102500/rhexpressregistrationapp/page/expressregistration?sc_cid=RHCTN1260000485001)** * **Location:** Marriott Marquis\, DC \| 901 Massachusetts Ave NW\, Washington\, DC 20001 * **Date:** Wednesday, June 24, 2026 * **Time:** 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM ET **Note:** Please register using your business email address. Questions? Contact us at infrastructure@redhat.com

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 MILE loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles and we will be hiking about 22 minutes per mile - just under 3 miles per hour. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21. We do start on time so please plan accordingly. Meet in front of the bathrooms by the parking lot. Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

REQUIRED: You must read the following information http://nvhc.com/CovidDocument.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. LENGTH: Minimal (A few yards) DESCRIPTION: We will visit a winery and sample their offerings. We will then buy a bottle or two of their wine, some cheese, and crackers, and enjoy them on their patio outdoors. We will then drive a short distance to a blueberry patch and pick some blueberries before heading back. CARPOOLING: Leader will be at the carpool location. The suggested carpool fee is $10. NOTE: Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants, and they participate at their own risk. Group size limited due to the limits imposed by wineries.