Mensa

踏入《广论》研讨班，对许多人来说是开启生命转变的契机。或许您也会好奇：在繁忙的工作与生活之余，投入时间研读佛典，究竟能为人生带来哪些实质的成长与收获？ 《广论》研讨班秉持着日常老和尚以心灵提升、圆满生命的目标，提供大众身、心、灵健康的学习环境与循序渐进的佛法课程。学员通过听师父的录音带和研讨交流，对佛法建立整体认识，全面的理解，同时学习如何将佛法智慧运用于生活中，打造幸福人生。 **《菩提道次第广论》简介** 佛法大全，给与您心灵滋养，人生方向 次第井然，引领您脚踏实地，步步向上 心智科学，帮助您认识自己，了解他人 幸福教育，教会您正确取舍，离苦得乐 生命教育，陪伴您创造希望，走向美好

**10 miles, 500" elevation on a paved road closed to cars with a few manageable hills. For Beginner Riders who want to ride with a group and begin to increase their riding distance. Leisurely pace (8 - 10 miles per hour).** **Register here:** **[Beginner Rock Creek Bicycle Ride](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6644529)** $15.00 for non-members, free for members. Have you wanted to ride with a group but you weren't sure you were ready or that you could ride far enough? This is the ride for you! On this social-paced ride, you'll enjoy the beauty of Rock Creek Park as we ride an easy five miles out and five miles back on Beach Drive (approximately 1.25 hours of riding), which is now closed to traffic. Before we start, we'll go over guidance for riding in a group, basic bicycle maintenance and safety tips. (Note: this is not a "how-to-ride class.") This is a no- drop ride, with a leader and a sweep and no one will be left behind. Suitable for all bicycle types. 1. **You must register and pay for this event on our website at this link:** **[Beginner Bicycle Ride in Rock Creek Park](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6644529)** Register early on our website to reserve your spot! 2. ***No further trip details will be provided on Meetup.* Upon completion of registration, trip information will be forwarded by email**. If you do not see confirmation email from Washington Women Outdoors in your in-box, immediately check your spam folder. If you're not ready to register for this event and would like more information, please email: **[bike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org](bike@washintonwomenoutdoors.org)** **Find out about WWO Member benefits [here.](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/Membership)**

Whether you're Deaf, HoH, an interpreter, an ASL student, or just want to learn or practice American Sign Language (ASL), we welcome all levels of signers to come join us for an evening of ASL socializing and practice. This event occurs on the first and third Sundays of every month, in the heart of Fairfax County at the Fairfax Wegman's (corner of Route 29 and Monument Drive). We can be found on the upper level, typically near the stairs. We generally start around 7 pm. ASL beginners are welcome, but you should know the ASL alphabet and some basic signs - this is not an ASL class, but the more experienced signers are generally happy to help beginners learn and improve. There is no better way to develop your signing skills than by joining the conversation with other signers. There is a place for everyone to join, learn and practice. Regardless, we are always welcoming so don’t be discouraged to attend; this is very informal and new folks are always welcome. Note, some attendees arrive early and grab some of Wegman’s food for dinner, so you can combine a shopping trip with the ASL practice.

Looking for a peaceful, inspiring, and social outing? Join us for a beautiful day at the Glenstone Museum - where modern art, stunning architecture, and serene nature all come together. We’ll explore the museum and outdoor trails at a relaxed pace, enjoy conversation along the way, and then head to lunch nearby to unwind, laugh, and share our favorites from the visit. Whether you love art, nature, photography, or just good company - this is the perfect chance to connect and spend a meaningful day with the group. All are welcome to join - especially first-timers!

**Women. Courage. Entrepreneurship with Sister Jenna and Srilekha Palle** Things are moving fast and we need to find inner courage to make ends meet and be ahead of the curve. Join Sister Jenna and Srilekha Palle as they offer steps and tools to guide participants to learn how to take that step of courage to grow and succeed. ***Sister Dr. Jenna*** *is a spiritual mentor, author, radio and TV personality, renowned speaker, and the founder of the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum located in Maryland. She hosted the popular America Meditating Radio Show and is a recipient of the President’s Lifetime National Community Service Award. Sister Dr. Jenna is a member of the Evolutionary Leaders Circle, a group of thought leaders from diverse disciplines in service to conscious evolution and was selected by Empower A Billion Women 2020 as one of 100 most influential leaders of 2015.* *She is the author of “[Meditation: Intimate Experiences with the Divine through Contemplative Practices](https://www.amazon.com/Meditation-Experiences-Contemplative-Practices-Sentience/dp/194502691X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3A4J9WRQ16QAJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.va3qPnUsFjEWH641OraGTqBHm8wDhdhrTu3hpjHufKo.7mA_AgIvDXQuQ9_Uu4ucZgQIOKmCfKb6yBHsIqamhPY&dib_tag=se&keywords=Meditation%3A+Intimate+Experiences+with+the+Divine+through+Contemplative+Practices&qid=1753065633&sprefix=meditation+intimate+experiences+with+the+divine+through+contemplative+practices%2Caps%2C232&sr=8-1 "https://www.amazon.com/Meditation-Experiences-Contemplative-Practices-Sentience/dp/194502691X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3A4J9WRQ16QAJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.va3qPnUsFjEWH641OraGTqBHm8wDhdhrTu3hpjHufKo.7mA_AgIvDXQuQ9_Uu4ucZgQIOKmCfKb6yBHsIqamhPY&dib_tag=se&keywords=Medita"),” a profound compilation featuring insights from over 30 contributing authors and she contributed to “[Mr. President – Interfaith Perspectives on the Historic Presidency of Barack H. Obama,](https://www.amazon.com/Mr-President-Interfaith-Perspectives-Presidency/dp/1939774306/ref=sr_1_1?crid=38LXE3LGDPJ6C&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lSb0fzkCXPXp-Gf4ReVNoA.5hIb1TKNvtmLu65w2R4-l13WjyXAzF-rRFtQzDsRTcg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Mr.+President+%E2%80%93+Interfaith+Perspectives+on+the+Historic+Presidency+of+Barack+H.+Obama%2C&qid=1753065692&sprefix=mr.+president+interfaith+perspectives+on+the+historic+presidency+of+barack+h.+obama%2C%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1 "https://www.amazon.com/Mr-President-Interfaith-Perspectives-Presidency/dp/1939774306/ref=sr_1_1?crid=38LXE3LGDPJ6C&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lSb0fzkCXPXp-Gf4ReVNoA.5hIb1TKNvtmLu65w2R4-l13WjyXAzF-rRFtQzDsRTcg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Mr.+President+%E2%80%93+Interfaith+P")” offering her unique spiritual insights on leadership and unity.* ***Dr. Srilekha Palle*** *is a seasoned Healthcare Executive with an impressive track record of over 23 years in the healthcare industry. She has a proven ability to foster strategic partnerships and collaborations. Her leadership skills, dedication, and strategic foresight have been instrumental in accelerating growth and ensuring the delivery of outstanding patient care.* *Dr. Palle is a firm believer in the power of networking and collaboration and making sound investments for growth.* Sun., April 19th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/PWGCG](https://shorturl.at/PWGCG)

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.

Come join us atthe Pickle & International Food Festival in Sterling, VA. There will be pickle inspired foods, international cuisine, craft beer, and live music. THIS IS NOT A TICKET: Tickets can be found on the link below and general admission is $5 + credit card fee Buy ticket here: https://www.crookedrunfermentation.com/pickle-international-food-festival-2026

After our visit to Glenstone, we’ll be heading to Colony Grill for a relaxed lunch - and everyone is welcome to join, whether you attended the walk or just want to meet up for good food and great company.

Let's head to Glenstone - a secretly famous museum in Potomac, MD. This museum has a lot to offer, in their own words: [Glenstone](https://www.glenstone.org/) is a place that seamlessly integrates art, architecture, and nature into a serene and contemplative environment. It is museum of modern and contemporary art and is integrated into nearly 300 acres of gently rolling pasture and unspoiled woodland in Montgomery County, Maryland, less than 15 miles from the heart of Washington, DC. The museum offers hiking/walking trails and we will be hiking 3-4 miles. Additionally it has two cafe's with vegan options. We will be stopping for a bit at one of them for snacks/coffee. Please note that the museum offers both outdoor and indoor exhibits that we will be visiting. **Meeting Point:** [Arrival hall next to Sycamore parking lot](https://maps.app.goo.gl/g4LyTVAKiNUSbdNz9) **Meeting Time:** 10am **Age restrictions:** 12 year and older Dog friendly? No! **No pets please.** Bathroom Facilities/Water: Yes - many. Please review the instructions and more information: * You might be asked at the gate to show tickets. Please let them know that you are part of VSDC group visit. Tickets have already been arranged for our group visit. * [Please check the group visit guide](https://www.glenstone.org/group-visits) for more information about the visit * **Outside food/beverage is not permitted** at Glenstone * [Sample menu of cafe's ](https://www.glenstone.org/dining-bookstore)\- please note that this is indicative menu only **Update Your RSVP** Out of respect for others interested in attending this event, please update your RSVP promptly as your schedule changes. We are restricted to 40 tickets and would not want any to be wasted. Be responsible! **\#\# Alcohol/Smoking/Intoxicants: Use of intoxicants such as alcohol\, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during the event\.** **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Come join us for in-depth discussions on topics relating to moral and political philosophy. This is a group for members who are comfortable discussing topics that are often anxiety producing and controversial. *"Aristotle was a realist who believed that reality and knowledge are found in the physical world, accessible through sensory experience and logic. This led to contrasting views on ethics, politics, and the nature of reality itself. Plato emphasized abstract, ideal concepts, while Aristotle prioritized empirical observation and the study of the natural world."* \- Google Gemini Following Aristotle's lead, this group will lean heavily on empirical data to make arguments. The Socratic method is still the preferred way to engage in conversation, and Platonic Idealism is still relevant to the conversation as points of reference.

**This is for “INTERMEDIATE and ADVANCED PLAYERS””.
We can begin by just hitting the ball around (Dinking and Serving) until you’re comfortable and then start play Pickle Ball.** **Must have your own Pickleball paddle unless you contact me.** **Wind****ridge Winery** **afterwards** **If I happen to not be there, take the court that has the blue pickle ball lines on it to the far entrance to the court.
There is a Porta Johns at this location** **Baseball cap sunglasses and water would be helpful for yourself.**

We've done this event before and it was interesting and fun — and this time we've booked a private group tasting just for us! Tour this small chocolate factory and then taste a spectrum of flavors of (dark) single origin chocolate, with expert guidance very much like a wine tasting! There's also a small chocolate shop of course :) Cost is $25 per person (payable to me, I've reserved for a private group of 4 people and we can add more as we wish). The location is in Chantilly and not convenient to metro (though there is a bus). I am happy to pick up participants at the East Falls Church (if you're riding from downtown) or West Falls Church (if you want to park) metro stations, and it's about a 20-minute drive from there. It's recommended that you bring a bottle of water to cleanse your palate :) Hope you can join!

Join us for a special weekend afternoon edition of mahjong at Whelan’s Beer & Wine. This gathering is all about getting comfortable with the NMJL 2026 card. We will review key updates on the 2026 National Mah Jongg League card, talk strategy shifts, and then transition into open play so you can apply what you learned in real time. Spaces are limited. No instruction other than the NMJL card review will be provided at this event. Reserve your seat here: https://bookwhen.com/thecharlestoncoach

This popular and accomplished Toastmasters club (#4787) is open to everyone, with an average of 25 people per meeting, mainly business professionals from the Reston/Herndon area. Meetings are held on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays of the month from 6pm to 7:15pm at Conference Room #2 of the Reston Community Center: 2310 Colts Neck Rd, Reston, VA 20191. Some of the group's members are accomplished professional speakers, while others are just starting down their path of improved public speaking, including many non-native English speakers. Whether you're just starting out and looking to improve your speaking or overcome some nervousness...or looking to gain connections and sharpen your skills, you'll feel connected with the members of Reston Town Center Toastmasters. Stop by. Check us out! Chances are you'll like us so much that you'll be back! For more information: http://towncentertoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org/

The Mission: Finding Your Strength It’s natural to feel intimidated by the idea of a self-defense class. At Kore, our “First Friday” sessions are designed to replace that hesitation with confidence. This isn’t about traditional “gym moves” or martial arts rituals—it’s about taking agency over your life. Taught by our Certified Female Instructors, this free workshop focuses on practical applications of the Kore Standard. We help you sharpen your natural intuition and provide a toolkit of effective, simple responses to common safety concerns. This is about building the confidence to navigate the world on your own terms.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Doom and Dinosaurs,”** a look at how mass extinctions shaped the dinosaurs and what research on these events tells us about Earth life’s long-term prospects, with Ian Wilenzik, paleontologist and visiting assistant professor of biology at George Washington University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-dino-doom](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-dino-doom) .] Pity the poor dinosaurs. They lacked both scientific research to help deal with potential environmental catastrophes and places where they could have a beer and discuss it. You, on the other hand, have the opportunity to come to Profs and Pints to hear a fascinating talk on the impact of mass extinctions on dinosaur evolution and what research on dinosaurs tells us about biodiversity and Earth’s current biodiversity crisis. Dr. Ian Wilenzik, who has studied and taught courses on dinosaur evolution, population spread, and extinction, will leave you with a greater appreciation of the resilience of life on earth and how we’re both the product and source of biologically catastrophic events. Many of us are familiar with how a big meteor impact about 66 million years ago wiped out the Earth’s dinosaur population, leaving us only with their feathered descendants, birds. Less well known is how the Earth actually has undergone five periods of mass extinction that wiped out nearly all life, and how dinosaurs arose from one and endured another—both caused by volcanic activity—before meeting their match in the third. To ground his discussion, Dr. Wilenzik will talk about how we study mass extinctions by looking for geologic evidence of volcanic activity, meteoric blasts, and other catastrophic activity and of gaps in the fossil record after them. He’ll also discuss what makes a dinosaur a dinosaur, describing their distinct anatomical features. He’ll talk about how they and other forms of life evolved over long periods of time and were affected by extinction events. We’ll look at how the meteor-caused mass extinction that wiped out dinosaurs at the end of the Cretaceous paved the way for the rise of mammals and the emergence of primates, and, eventually, us. Looking ahead to future mass extinctions and what might survive them, we’ll talk about how that plant you forget to water might have the last laugh, as well as why crocodiles might be around a while. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A *Triceratops* mounted skeleton at the Los Angeles Museum of Natural History (Photo by Allie Caulfield / Wikimedia Commons).

Hi everyone, Join us for a relaxed and welcoming conversation about life, money, and everything in between. This group is a space to connect with other women, share experiences, and talk openly about topics we don’t always get to discuss in everyday life—whether that’s financial goals, career transitions, investing, or simply navigating life decisions. There’s no pressure and no preparation needed—just come as you are. We’ll keep things informal and conversational. I’ll guide us through a few light prompts to get the discussion started, and everyone is welcome to share as much or as little as they’d like. 📍 We’ll meet at the Barnes & Noble café in One Loudoun ⏰ 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM I’ll be seated in the café area—look for me wearing something red and a small “Meetup” sign on the table. Feel free to come over and say hello when you arrive. If you’re on the fence, feel free to drop in—even for a short time 😊 Looking forward to meeting you! — Verna

This group was originally started by Chad Keith who created and hosts a podcast by the same name in Charlotte, NC. I am hoping to continue his legacy here in NoVa as I recently moved to this area. This group is all about finding community around self-improvement and exchanging ideas on how to be your best self and get the most out of life. This group is for anyone who is interested in overcoming average in all areas - career, ambitions, relationships, hobbies, health, everything. I am so excited to meet driven individuals in the NoVa area so please reach out if you have any questions at all. EVERYONE is welcome so please sign up for an upcoming meetup!

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.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Twister Talk,”** on tornadoes and advances in our understanding of them, with Jeffrey Halverson, professor of geography and environmental systems at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and author of *An Introduction to Severe Storms and Hazardous Weather.* [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-twister-talk](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-twister-talk) .] Springtime brings tornado outbreaks and devastation across the United States. The good news for those of us who anxiously eye the skies: Tornado science is rapidly evolving and improving, as are the means by which we detect funnel clouds and warn of their approach. Get up to speed with what’s known about tornadoes with the help of Dr. Jeffery Halverson, a severe storm expert with the *Washington Post* Capital Weather Gang who previously has given excellent Profs and Pints talks on hurricanes and snowstorms. He’ll describe how, with the help of research conducted by tornado hunters, meteorologists are using ever more sophisticated computer simulations and datasets to try to “crack the code” when it comes to how and where tornadoes form. We’ll look at how science teams wielding Portable Doppler Radars on small trucks are learning that tornado wind speeds are much stronger than once presumed. We’ll consider how decades of data are changing how we think about “Tornado Alley,” and we’ll review what’s known about the relationship between tornadoes and climate change. Professor Halverson will conclude by discussing the technological strides being made in terms of tornado warning and detection, and how tornado scientists are teaming up with social scientists to gain a better understanding of what leaves us vulnerable to natural hazards. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: An F5 tornado over Elie, Manitoba in June 2007 (Photo by Justin Hobson / Wikimedia Commons).