DIY (Do It Yourself)

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.

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 Takoma Park 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 Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park.

Want to mess with some electronics? Or perhaps contribute to HacDC's main group project? HacDC's latest event brings hardware projects to the community. We will focus primarily on the main project (Space Blimp!) but please feel free to bring some of your own projects to show off and work on!

Artistic Artifacts hosts **Open Stitch sessions EVERY Thursday evenings** from 5:30 - 7:30 pm — join us! This is a drop-in, bring your own hand stitching project and the necessary supplies (or you can knit, crochet... whatever needle arts you like). There’s no fee to attend, no instruction nor agenda — just a time to spend with other creatives! Visit our website for all our class & event information: **[https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk](https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk)**

Join Capital Hiking Club for a happy hour and free outdoors gear swap! This event will be hosted at Right Proper Brewery's brand new Kitchen location in the heart of the Brookland Arts Walk ([716 Monroe NE, Washington, DC 20017](https://maps.app.goo.gl/VypMKVrTaPt8CrHg7)), right next to the Brookland-CUA Redline stop! Enjoy $5 beer and discounted food until 7PM! Also, be sure to take advantage of this free opportunity to swap gear with other hikers and outdoors adventurers in the DMV (gear swap organized by [Climate Classes](https://climateclasses.org/)). Please bring quality, well-maintained items, with no or minimal stains. Heavily damaged items will not be accepted for swapping. Items brought to be swapped will be **capped at 20 items**. **Accepted swap items include, but are not limited to**: Clothing * Shirts * Pants * Shorts * Coats, Jackets, and rain ponchos * Scarves/Bandanas * Sweatshirts & Hoodies * Jumpsuits, wet suits, and dry suits * Gloves * Activewear * Boots, trail runners, snow shoes, climbing shoes, sandals * Socks * Gaiters * Spikes and non-slip footwear * Hats, beanies, and head bands * Unused hair ties * Sunglasses and goggles Gear (Inclusive of, but not limited to): * Tents and hammocks * Backpacks/dufflebags (hiking, backpacking, fannypacks, etc.) * Camping utensils and multi-tools (Please clean before swapping!) * Water bottles/Travel mugs (only twist-top, unless the item is brand new) * Sleeping bags and sleeping pads (Please clean before swapping!) * Camping pillows * Tarps * Yoga mats * Camping chairs * Flashlights, headlamps, lanterns * Portable chargers * Helmets and pads * Hiking poles * Camping stoves/ Miniature camping stoves (without fuel) * Climbing harnesses and accessories * Bungee cords * Rope * Unused, unopened, and non-expired dehydrated camping meals * Unused and unopened batteries * Unused sun block and hand sanitizer \*Please note that undergarments (including swimwear), camping fuel, used/ opened batteries, sun block, or hand sanitizer, and used, opened, and expired camping meals will not be accepted for swapping. Additionally, we will not\*\* accept large items at this swap, including bicycles, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, etc... All items that are not swapped will be donated to charities. We are excited to have you join us!

⸻ Important Info 🎯 Please bring your own archery equipment if you have it. I do have a limited amount of beginner-friendly equipment available (enough for about 3 people), but it is first come, first serve. Feel free to bring snacks, drinks, and good vibes—we’re here to have fun, be social, and enjoy the experience together ✨

If you’ve been wanting to get out but not do anything too overwhelming, this is for you. We’re meeting at PlantHouse in Alexandria for a relaxed, low-pressure hangout where you can create your own plant terrarium, sand just enjoy being around other people without it feeling forced. This isn’t a networking event, or anything super structured just a small group of people coming together to do something fun and a little different. You can chat, keep to yourself, or just focus on your plant and vibe. Planthouse has a really cute setup, and the whole experience is pretty beginner-friendly, so no worries if you’ve never done anything like this before. You can reserve your DIY spot ahead of time using their website: [https://workshops.planthouse.us/category/planthouse-alexandria-reservations-46370667303](https://workshops.planthouse.us/category/planthouse-alexandria-reservations-46370667303) .I recommend booking early to make sure you’re able to participate. Please also RSVP on Meetup so I can keep the group organized. **What to expect:** * DIY plant/terrarium experience (you pay for whatever you make) * Chill, no-pressure environment **A couple notes:** * Please only RSVP if you can actually make it * Plan to arrive on time so we can all start together * Budget around $25–$50 depending on what you choose to create If you’ve been looking for something to do without having to show up alone, this is your sign.

Are you noticing the same patterns showing up in your relationships—whether with partners, family, or even yourself? Do you find yourself over giving, overthinking, or feeling stuck in cycles you can’t quite explain? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Join us for a 4-week guided series designed to help you better understand yourself, heal emotional patterns, and build more intentional, fulfilling relationships. This is a small, supportive group experience where we explore the connection between your inner world and your relationships—with compassion, curiosity, and courage. Each session includes: * Guided reflection exercises * Practical tools for real-life situations * Thoughtful discussion (sharing always optional) * A safe, judgment-free space **Weekly Themes** **Week 1: Awareness — Understanding Your Patterns** Identify recurring relationship dynamics, emotional triggers, and attachment styles. **Week 2: Emotional Healing — Meeting Your Inner Self** Reconnect with your emotional needs and begin practicing self-compassion. **Week 3: Boundaries & Communication — Choosing Yourself** Learn how to set boundaries, express needs, and navigate relationships more confidently. **Week 4: Integration — Becoming the Person You Want to Attract** Align your inner growth with the relationships you want to create moving forward. This series may be a good fit if you: * Feel stuck in repeating relationship patterns * Want to better understand your emotions and reactions * Are working on boundaries, self-worth, or communication * Are going through a transition or healing process * Are simply curious about personal growth in a supportive space **A Note on This Space** This is a reflective and supportive group experience, not therapy. Sharing is always optional, and participants are encouraged to engage at their own comfort level. To help create a safe and respectful environment, we ask that all participants honor each other’s privacy and confidentiality. **How to Join** You’re welcome to attend one session or join us for the full series—each session is designed to be valuable on its own. Spots are intentionally limited to 5-7 participants—we’d love to have you join us.

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

DMV adult Lego enthusiast club meeting

We are going to talk about the books we read—any books, from any genre. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, classic literature or something modern, everyone is welcome to share their thoughts, impressions, and favorite passages. It’s a relaxed and friendly conversation where we can discover new ideas and enjoy each other’s perspectives.

It feels like we just saw each other 🤷. Join members of the local design and UX community for our monthly breakfast. For May we’re stopping in for Rooh’s popup breakfast/cafe concept. You know someone is getting the lobster yuzu croissant, and that’s not even the prettiest thing on the menu!.

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

This is an in-person meeting. Would you like to know the Real You, not just a shadow of yourself? Does your life energy feel somehow trapped within? Does your self-confidence get easily shaken? Do you get in the way of your own goals? We will discuss the real source of all this, what holds you back in life, and how to handle it so you can achieve more successful and happier living. Perhaps you get weighed down with negative emotions you can't seem to shrug off. Or find yourself doing strange and irrational things - not really being yourself. We will cover why that is and tools that work to help you unearth your self, your self-confidence and motivation. This meeting will help you learn about how to effectively overcome: -Out-of-control unwanted emotions -Low self-esteem -Anxiety -Negativity -Stress -Irrational fears -Traumatic or painfully emotional incidents -Breakups -Betrayals -Feeling like you're not really yourself -Self-doubt... We will discuss how to unleash the inner you and tap into your true potential. So come to this online meetup! This meeting is sponsored by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio

Come attend a free in-person seminar where you will find out why you: -Feel isolated -Can't express yourself openly -Get nervous or anxious in front of people -Run out of things to say or feel tongue-tied -Feel introverted -Don't feel comfortable in any social setting -Can't make more friends -Are shy and miss opportunities to connect in a meaningful way And we cover what you can do about any one, some or all of the above. This seminar is the weapon against loneliness, isolation and boredom, come join us! COME TO THIS SEMINAR AND LEARN THE SECRETS TODAY This seminar is brought to you by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215