Mexican Culture

Ocho de Bastos first event this year is at the art blooms festival at Mosaic District in Virginia. I know several members of our group, also known as groupies, will not mind crossing the river. I am including a map to help us find the stage. Bring a chair in case you need to pause from dancing. There will be free shuttle buses from the Dunn Loring metro station.

## 🥞 **Special Note – April Brunch Update** **Please note:** Our April brunch has been moved to **Sunday, April 12** (instead of April 5) due to Easter. We hope this makes it easier for more of our community to join us — and we look forward to seeing you there! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 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!

This will be our second (and possibly last) meeting on *Nature's God: The Heretical Origins of the American Republic*, by Matthew Stewart. For this meeting, please try to read chapters 4 and 6. (You can skim chapter 5, which is particularly confusing). **Where did the ideas come from that became the cornerstone of American democracy?** America’s founders intended to liberate us not just from one king but from the ghostly tyranny of supernatural religion. Drawing deeply on the study of European philosophy, Matthew Stewart brilliantly tracks the ancient, pagan, and continental ideas from which America’s revolutionaries drew their inspiration. In the writings of Spinoza, Lucretius, and other great philosophers, Stewart recovers the true meanings of “Nature’s God,” “the pursuit of happiness,” and the radical political theory with which the American experiment in self-government began. [LINK](https://a.co/d/bkTWJNb) This book is not always an easy read. You may want to make use of AI tools such as ChatGPT. You can ask it questions like: "What does Matthew Stewart say about happiness in his book Nature's God?" OR: What does Matthew Stewart say about Spinoza? This may be our last meeting on this book. If you want to have a third meeting later, on the last two chapters, let me know. I hope to see you there! Fred

**Leave behind the rushed pace of traditional speed dating and embrace a more relaxed approach to meeting new people, facilitated by a [Dating Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) with prepared Conversation Icebreakers.** **💕** All ages! 💕Different sections for different age groups. Must[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1657502206719?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983894912087?aff=oddtdtcreator)** (Event is posted on multiple platforms, attendees displayed here doesn't reflect the actual number) * Easy going greet and meet to socially warm up * Prepared questions to facilitate meaningful conversations to assess compatibility * Engaging discussions in small groups * Opportunity to talk to every single person present * Stress free matchmaking by the coach after the event (no need to ask for contact info on the spot, you will get it after the event) Whether you are an introvert or an extravert, welcoming and easy-going environment is guaranteed. You won't have to sweat the small talk, and event will be structured and organized to make connecting effortless. **Cost:** $30 (Pay through[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1299434316019?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983894912087?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)or **Venmo** to @Irena-Polyakova (1469)-include your email address if using Venmo) **Location**: Uncle Jalapeno Restaurant in Herndon, VA **Time**: 4:30 pm \~ Irena *\*Once ticket is purchased and the event has started, there will be no refunds after. No guarantee is given on the number or gender ratio of attendees.*

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“What Digital Detectives Find,”** on the afterlife of your digital data and the methods of those who investigate it, with Jim Jones, associate professor at George Mason University and cyber security and digital forensics expert. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-digital-detectives](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-digital-detectives) .] What happens when you delete digital data such as a picture, video, or email message? The truth is that “deleted” doesn't mean “gone,” and digital forensic investigators can extract and make sense of the residual fragments left over from data often assumed to be gone forever. Learn about the field of digital forensics—and the lessons it offers those who worry about sensitive data being exposed—with Jim Jones, who has been a cyber security and digital forensics practitioner, researcher, and educator for more than 30 years. You’ll learn how all investigations today, criminal and otherwise, to some degree involve digital forensics, an interdisciplinary field that draws from computer engineering, computer science, information technology, law, and ethics. Digital forensics doesn’t just respond to specific incidents, but also seeks out threats within organizations, analyzes malware, and buttresses cyber security. Much of the work of Dr. Jones, his colleagues, and students involves examining digital systems of all types to understand how data persists and decays and how it can be found and recovered. Dr. Jones will discuss how what happens to the digital data that you deleted depends on the type of device you are using, along with a host of other factors. You'll learn how digital data is stored on different devices and what does and doesn’t happen when you delete that data. You'll see examples of data extracted from different devices, demonstrations of what can be inferred from these remnants, and how investigators can tell if such remnants are genuine or not. Finally, you'll learn about strategies to mitigate the risk of exposing sensitive data. Dr. Jones will sort those that work from those that don’t. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A digital forensics examiner works with evidence in the FBI’s New Jersey Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (FBI photo).

Jujutsu

Welcome to all who identify as women—those in their wisdom years and those journeying toward them, embracing cycles of growth, transformation, and deepening self-awareness. This space honors women celebrating the strength, creativity, and wisdom that unfold through each season of the feminine path. In this circle, a crone is not defined by age but by attitude - someone who carries or seeks the wisdom, courage, and self-knowledge that comes with lived experience. You are invited to join the Crone’s circle of women coming together to share wisdom, experience, and inspiration. This gathering offers a welcoming space for reflection, storytelling, and meaningful conversation about life’s journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Whether you seek connection, personal growth, or simply a moment of peace among kindred spirits, this meeting is an opportunity to nurture your inner strength and celebrate the wisdom within us all. Come as you are. To guide and enrich our time together, we will be using books and other creative means—such as rituals ceremonies, journaling, art, and shared activities—to spark insight, deepen connection, and inspire personal growth. Naming of the group will be done in circle. Please bring a journal for our journey. Books can be bought through Sticks and Stones. The first book will be: The Crone Zone: How to Get Older with Style, Nerve, and a Little Bit of Magic by Nina G. Bargiel Host: Cat Entrance cost: $15 Cat Cat began her spiritual journey in her late twenties, drawn to the transformative power of self-discovery and holistic healing. Trained in meditation, earth-based spirituality, yoga, massage, and energy work, she weaves together practices that nurture balance and connection. Her creative spirit finds expression through continued learning, ceremony, rituals, movement, art, crafts, and journaling, which she uses as tools for reflection and transformation. Deeply committed to creating community, Cat fosters spaces where individuals can share, heal, and grow together. Through her work, she continues to explore the harmony between energy, creativity, and the natural world.

In today’s fast-paced world, many are asking deeper questions: Am I truly fulfilled? Does my life have meaning beyond the daily grind? Amid constant demands and distractions, it’s easy to lose touch with what really matters. Join Sister Jenna for a heart-opening workshop that invites you to pause, reflect, and reconnect with your true purpose. Through insightful guidance and practical wisdom, discover how to align your values, choices, and inner voice to create a life of meaning, impact, and inner satisfaction. Because a life that matters isn’t measured by how much you do—but by how deeply you live. **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,” 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,” offering her unique spiritual insights on leadership and unity. Sunday, Apr 12th, 1:00pm - 2:30pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum - Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl. Suite 200 2nd floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event.

This is an in-person event hosted by Sahaja Yoga meditation. We offer free meditation sessions and everyone is welcome to join and experience the peace within!

**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.**

**Sellkirk paddles will be available for all who attend to try and hopefully learn the game. if you’re interested, you can buy one.** **This is INSTRUCTION PICKLEBALL for** **Beginners.** **Note $5 fee for wear and tear on paddles and replacement of pickle balls.** **Reminder this is for beginners maybe you’ve taken two or three of the classes before. The idea is to give others a chance to learn the game** **so you could be put on the waitlist.** 
**
We can begin by just hitting the ball around (Dinking and Serving) until you’re comfortable and then start the introduction to Pickle Ball.** **Please study the rules of Pickleball. There will be a quiz. ** **https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/fitness/a41889595/pickleball-rules/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_md_dsa_prog_org_us_a41889595&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADA2MEqo78AlxWw25v72aAqTYZy2o&gclid=CjwKCAiAtYy9BhBcEiwANWQQLzWcA4GRJ5dNAtBpRG0nMJqvUlr67XGuB8hSrEaEZmWioeNiorM6jRoC0BkQAvD_BwE** **If I am late 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** **Bring a baseball cap, sunglasses and water**

Four-time Latin Grammy Award winner Eliades Ochoa is one of the most celebrated soneros of all time, known for his masterful guitar playing, gravel-edged voice, and signature black hat. Often called “Cuba’s Johnny Cash,” his music draws from rural traditions and storytelling of the Cuban countryside. A founding member of the legendary Buena Vista Social Club, Ochoa rose to fame through the group's Grammy-winning album and Oscar-nominated documentary. His latest release, Guajiro, is a powerful testament to a lifelong musical journey, deeply rooted in Cuban tradition, yet resonating with universal appeal.

Natalia Lafourcade Cancionera tour live at Strathmore.

The Ultimate Holi Festival Experience **🎉 Band Baaja & Maps Entertainment Present 🎉** ### **RANG – The Ultimate Outdoor Holi Carnival** Celebrate the magic of Holi like never before! **🗓 Sunday, April 26, 2026** \| ⏰ **11:00 AM – 5:00 PM** **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** **🎟 Tickets: (Available on Eventbrite & Sulekha)** **$7 Per Person** \| 👶 ***Kids Under 5 – FREE*** $ 24 Family of 4 People \| $50 Group of 10 People \-\-\-\-\-\> https://holirang\.eventbrite\.com **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** ### **📍 Venue:** **Droumavalla Farm (Outdoor Patio)** \- 15066 Limestone School Rd\, Leesburg\, VA **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** ### **✨ Get Ready For a Power-Packed Day of Fun:** 🎨 Color Play 🍔 Delicious Food 🎶 Music & Dance 🛍 Shopping Stalls 👨‍👩‍👧 Kids Zone 🍦 Ice Cream Treats 🥁 Live Performances & Dhol 🔥 High-Energy DJ Vibes **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** ### **🎧 Music Lineup:** **Celebrity DJ SVP** with **DJ Sena & DJ Bhavin** Spinning the best of Bollywood • Tollywood • Bhangra • English • International Hits 🎵 **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** ### 📞 For Vendor Booths, Sponsorships & Tickets: **Saumil: 240-505-7285** **Akash: 571-345-5002** 🚫 *Outside colors, food, & drinks are not allowed*

🍵**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-6616428](https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6616428) ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 🕒**When:** Sunday, **19 Apr 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-6616428](https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6616428) Hope to see you there!

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

Regular boba tea meetup for people to meet, make new friends, or enjoy general conversations. Great for those who are new in town or find new activities to do! We will meet inside Ben Gong’s, and afterwards, at 9 pm, we’ll go next door to Taco Chinoz for dinner. Those who attend can join us for dinner if they like.