Pedagogy

DC iOS returns to the Capital One campus for another meetup! And not only just DC iOS, we are collaborating with [iOSoHo](https://www.meetup.com/iosoho/), [DC Android](https://www.meetup.com/dcandroid/), [New York Android](https://www.meetup.com/new-york-android-engineers/) and the Dallas iOS Developers Group for a big combined meetup! Come and meet with fellow Apple AND Android developers in the DC Area, enjoy some food, networking, and a great tech talk! PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU WILL BE ATTENDING IN PERSON OR OVER ZOOM. **Agenda (NOTE THE LATER START TIME):** • 6:00 PM - Doors Open (in-person attendees). **Don't forget your ID!** • 6:30 PM - Welcome (in-person and Zoom attendees) • 6:35 PM - **First Talk: From Shared Logic to Shared Pixels: A KMP & CMP Deep Dive** (Live from DC) • 7:05 PM - Community Announcements • 7:15 PM - **Second Talk: Swift on Android** (Virtually from NYC) • 7:45 PM - Networking **First Talk Description:** • From Shared Logic to Shared Pixels: A KMP & CMP Deep Dive Clinton Teegarden Explore the complete lifecycle of Kotlin and Compose Multiplatform, tracing the journey from compiler mechanics down to the practical day-to-day developer experience. By building a Flappy Bird-style game, we'll unpack how shared UI rendering actually works while navigating the realities of iOS interoperability and common architectural gotchas. You'll leave with a clear roadmap for seamlessly translating shared business logic into performant, cross-platform pixels. Clinton is a Distinguished Engineer at Capital One with a focus on Mobile and AI core platforms **Second Talk Description:** • Swift on Android Marc Prud'hommeaux The release of Swift 6.3 features official support for the Android platform. This is the culmination of over 10 years of effort to bring the Swift language to Android, first through a series of independent and uncoordinated projects and then eventually coalescing into an official Android Workgroup under the umbrella of the Swift project. The result is the Swift SDK for Android, a cross-compilation Swift SDK that can be used on macOS and Linux to compile Swift code into the various Android architectures as a native library. But what can you actually do with Swift on Android? Far from being limited to just libraries for sharing business logic between Android and iOS, you can, in fact, use it to build and distribute entire apps. This talk will discuss the various ways in which the Swift SDK for Android can be used to create applications, from the lowest-level manual native interaction with the Android NDK and SDK, to synthesizing Java bindings generated with the nascent swift-java project, all the way up to creating full Jetpack Compose powered apps using [Skip.dev.](http://Skip.dev.) Swift is now a contender among the languages that can be used to build applications for both iOS and Android. While it is a newer entrant compared to the established players like Dart, JavaScript, and Kotlin, it features some distinct advantages that make it worth considering for your next app project. Marc Prud'hommeaux has been developing apps for iOS and Android since 2008, and was the author of the very first ebook reader for the iPhone: Stanza. He has worked in a variety of roles over the years, designing and building apps for giants like Amazon, Bose, and the New York Times. In 2022 he started [Skip.dev](http://Skip.dev) ([https://skip.dev](https://skip.dev/)) with the vision of bringing Swift and SwiftUI application development to Android, and is one of the founding members of the Swift Android Workgroup. He is also the founder of the non-profit App Fair Project ([https://appfair.org](https://appfair.org/)) and an advocate for software freedom. Zoom Link: [https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86441046804?pwd=l2Thmnyi92YAQmCd1iqbUuo9GRRl1R.1](https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86441046804?pwd=l2Thmnyi92YAQmCd1iqbUuo9GRRl1R.1) **Location:** Capital One, C2 Building 1680 Capital One Drive, Mclean VA, 22102 100A Visitor parking is either in the garage attached to 1680 Capital One Drive, or the open lot next to 1600 Capital One Drive. After that you will walk over to the main entrance of 1680 Capital One drive, and then walk around the right to the corner to room 100A For the metro, take the Silver Line to the McLean metro stop, then walk into main campus (about a 5 minute walk). From there, walk to the main entrance of 1680 and then go to room 100A **What you need to bring:** ID **When to arrive (NOTE LATER THAN USUAL START TIME):** Doors open at 6:00pm ET Event will start at 6:30 pm ET **Will food and drinks be provided?** Yep! **Will there be rapid testing provided?** No **Will masks be required?** No

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week beginner\-level Turkish course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of Turkish? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** Turkish Tourist with Ilhan Tuesdays from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ET April 7th to May 12th Hybrid - In-person, Farragut Square DC and Online Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform).** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels) **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no door tickets will be available.** [Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Course of the Appalachian Trail,”** on the fascinating past and uncertain future of a beloved wilderness trail and national park, with Mills Kelly, emeritus professor of history at George Mason University and author of *A Hiker’s History of the Appalachian Trail.* [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees, available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/appalachian-trail](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/appalachian-trail) .] Spring brings people flocking back to the Appalachian Trail, which for more than 100 years has provided opportunities to spend anywhere from a few hours to six months traversing the Appalachian Mountains. Stretching more than 2,000 miles across 14 states, from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, it ranks among the most iconic long-distance hiking trails in the world. It and its associated national park are annually visited by nearly 17 million. Gear up for Earth Day—and perhaps some time on the trail yourself—by spending an evening with Mills Kelly, an expert on all things Appalachian Trail and is the author of two books and numerous articles on the trail’s history. We’ll start our scholarly journey by looking at the trail’s origins. First proposed by Benton MacKaye, a forester, in 1921 as a place for urban workers to get some fresh air and sunshine, the trail took 16 years to scout, map, and carve out of the mountains. The first version was woven together mostly from abandoned mountain roads, Indigenous people's paths, and highways. Drawing on research in archives up and down the length of the trail, Professor Mills will show us archival photographs and video clips spread across the decades of the trail’s history, and he'll let the voices of hikers themselves describe how the experience of hiking has changed over the decades. You’ll earn what hikers ate before the advent of freeze-dried backpacker meals and when and why thru-hiking became a thing. More profoundly, we’ll examine how innovations in gear changed the experiences of women on the trail, and how changing attitudes about race transformed the hiking community. Professor Mills will describe how the trail is maintained entirely by 33 volunteer clubs, including the D.C. area’s Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, founded in 1927 to help build it. Looking ahead, he’ll discuss how the trail’s long-term health as a recreational resources is being affected by declining federal support, overuse in some sections, and climate change. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A 1928 photo of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club taking a break from its work (National Park Service / Public Domain).

A low cost, 6-week tourist-level አማርኛ (Amharic) course with the non-profit organization, the Global Language Network. \#\# Amharic Tourist Language Class ሀሎ ! Ready to dive into the world of Amharic? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details:** \#\#\#\# Amharic Tourist with Shambel Tuesdays from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ET Apr 12th to May 17th In-person, Farragut Square DC * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels) "\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform) "\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

A low cost, 6-week beginner-level **فارسی** (Farsi) course with the non-profit organization, the Global Language Network. \#\# Farsi Foreigner Language Class **Details:** \#\#\#\# Farsi Foreigner with Nargis Tuesdays from 6:00pm - 8:00 pm ET Apr 7th to May 12th In-person, Farragut Square DC or Online * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5B%5B%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D)(%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D))(%5B%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D)(%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)))) Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5B%5B%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D)(%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D))(%5B%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D)(%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)))).** **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

Do you want to get better at playing with others in open-ended jam situations? Tired of playing things the same way every time? Join us as we open the door to freedom of expression using improvisation. On the 3rd Monday of every month guitarist, teacher and artful improviser Luke Chohany takes students a deep dive into spontaneous music-making. This class is about listening, finding the pocket, managing space, improvising, and playing well together. Students will have an opportunity to play with others on a variety of instruments and learn how those instruments can fit together successfully in a cooperative and supportive setting. Each month Luke will bring new techniques and concepts in improvisation to help students develop their own style and expand their improvisational language. This class is best for players with basic proficiency on their instruments. All instruments and backgrounds are welcome. Ages 14+ Register Here: [https://square.link/u/LLZz9qoR](https://square.link/u/LLZz9qoR?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdExoYVhtMDE5enJzUzBhbHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6jts8WI-Ddr1uEzSy7VK9SdOruYx-pldaIMYedFGGvJ1TexMeq5VFhsMrlTQ_aem_B73lIWwVccNMk1NoMHWZSg)

**\*\*\* NOTE change of library space - We're meeting at Dolley Madison Library in McLean VA for this meeting \*\*\*** *theme:* **Lacan 3 Orders, freeing desire & the Id** **\| DIY Classical Psychoanalysis** *Making psychoanalysis accessible to the masses!* Psychoanalysis "unlocks the past, informs the present, and expands the future. video clips: **Psychoanalytic theory in 3 minutes** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucB1b6f750k](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucB1b6f750k) **Psychoanalysis A Curiosity about the mind 6min** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcmVjQBF4MQ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcmVjQBF4MQ) Psychoanalysis = a theory and practice treating symptoms and personality as **disguised compromises** around unconscious conflicts, using a structured relationship (transference) to make those patterns visible so you can **repeat less blindly** and **choose a bit more freely**. "Until you ***make the unconscious conscious***, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." Carl Jung \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Interpersonal Process Group** **Psychodynamic shared exploration, learning and growth** Interpersonal process groups focus on the interactions and dynamics between group members to facilitate personal growth and learning. These groups provide a courageous space for individuals to explore their interpersonal patterns, receive feedback, and develop more effective social skills. **The core principle is that the group itself becomes a microcosm of a member's real-life relationships, allowing for insights and behavioral changes.** Key aspects of interpersonal process groups: * **Exploration of Interpersonal Dynamics:** Members examine their communication styles, relationship patterns, and how they relate to others within the group. * **Feedback and Self-Awareness:** The group provides a platform for members to receive feedback on their behaviors and develop greater self-awareness. * **Development of Social Skills:** Members practice new ways of relating, communicating, and collaborating within the group, leading to improved social skills. * **Microcosm of Relationships:** The group mirrors real-life relationships, allowing members to observe and analyze their patterns in a safe and controlled setting. * **Personal Growth and Well-being:** Through these processes, individuals can experience significant personal growth and enhanced well-being. Benefits of participating in an interpersonal process group: * **Increased self-awareness:** Understanding one's own behavior and its impact on others. * **Improved communication skills:** Learning to communicate more effectively and assertively. * **Stronger relationships:** Developing more fulfilling and meaningful relationships. * **Reduced anxiety and stress:** Finding support and coping mechanisms for social challenges. * **Enhanced empathy and understanding:** Learning to see situations from others' perspectives. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for an exciting meeting of personal growth as we delve deep into the realm of self-development. This meetup is designed for personal growth addicts like you who are eager to unlock their hidden potential and take charge of their lives. Don't miss this chance to meet fellow personal growth enthusiasts, share experiences, and learn from one another. Step into a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and transformation. Come prepared to engage in provocative conversations, share your opinions, wrestle with challenging ideas, and leave with a renewed sense of deeper meaning and learning. **Tentative Agenda:** 1:00pm Social, Setup & Introductions, guidelines, terminology; 1:15pm Interactive open dialogue conversation & sharing; 2:45pm debrief, summary, debrief 3:00pm finish Light snacks, candy & water provided. Dolley Madison Library is in McLean, VA near I-495 beltway exits 44, 45 or 46. **Conference Room** is 1st door on immediate left after entering\.Repressions vs Narrative Integration \| Classical Psychoanalysis DIY

🚨REGISTER NOW - link in comments 🚨 Join us for our 2026 Cycling Season Blessing! We’re coming together for a powerful day of Worship, Prayer, and Community, followed by a 10 or 30 mile celebratory ride on Sunday, April 26th—presented in partnership with our sponsor, First Baptist Church of Glenarden International. Important things to know: • Bikes will be secured during service • Come as you are—cycling kits encouraged! • Blessing + ride immediately after noon service (Push’N at 2PM sharp) • Ride supported by PG Park Police • Helmets required | Adult riders only Route Details: 10 mile Route: 10-12 AMS https://ridewithgps.com/trips/275583717 30 mile Route: 16+ AMS https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54198803 Bring your crew, represent your club, and let’s ride into the season covered and connected 💛🖤

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Facing Fascism,”** on the history, hallmarks, and lingering power of a deadly ideology, with Kevin Matthews, professor of history at George Mason University and teacher of courses on early 20th century European history. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-facing-fascism](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-facing-fascism) .] Few political movements have aroused as much anger and fear as fascism. But despite its legacy of violence, persecution, and genocide, fascism continues to hold a strange attraction to many. Join historian Kevin Matthews for an in-depth look at an ideology that brought death to millions in Europe and yet continues to deeply influence our politics and culture. Dr. Matthews will start by discussing how the ideology of fascism arose in the aftermath of the First World War and took hold in Europe in the 1920s and 1930s. To give you a better grasp of what exactly fascism is, he’ll discuss its central themes: Anti-democracy. Extreme nationalism and anti-communism. The use, or threat, of violence in politics. Rejection of established values such as scientific objectivity. Denial of equal rights, especially for women. The assertion of power where a power vacuum exists. We’ll examine the rise and fall of two notorious fascist dictators, Adolf Hitler of Germany and Benito Mussolini of Italy. For a time it was believed that fascism died in the ashes of the Second World War, but it clearly didn’t, and we’ll look at where it remains a political force today. Finally, we’ll examine how fascism continues to permeate popular culture in ways that trivialize it, popping up in music from punk to Madonna, with its latent eroticism making it the subject of films such as *The Night Porter.* Having been called “the most self-consciously visual of all political forms,” it enlisted fashion leaders to produce uniforms and continues today to inspire a look known as “Nazi chic.” Dr. Matthews previously has given fantastic Profs and Pints talks on Ireland’s fight for independence and on World War II German submarine attacks off our coasts. He’s sure to leave you with a much better understanding of fascism and a recognition that is has hardly gone away. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler during Mussolini's 1940 visit in Munich (photographer unknown / public domain).

**Real connection with fellow Catholics who are eager to grow in Faith and friendship!** This 3 year--- 45min deep dive into the Catholic faith is a great way to spend your Sunday rest day. When you are ready to dig deeper and live the faith more fully this is an optimal opportunity. Talk yourself into this! You may start whenever and can come as often or as little as you desire. Coffee is served w/ small donation. It is taught by the priest and/or OCIA director at St Louis Parish who are ALL fabulous- faithful educators filled with theologically inspired knowledge. You can ask questions at the end, which I love. It is just a wonderful experience to grow. Afterwards if you wish, you can also find your way over to the Little Way Cafe Coffee shop across the parking lot to stay for more community time or read some of the excellent books that line the shelves throughout. If you are new to the community of Alexandria and want to meet like minded folks or a veteran of it, this is a special and unique opportunity and did I mention it is free? :) Hard to believe! Please join me every Sunday at 945 am.

Danceintime runs Cuban Salsa Classes & Social Dancing Every Saturday, all year-long. Come at 1:15 pm to sign in. Stay till 4 pm. Some of us go out for coffee or a bite to eat afterwards and everyone is welcome! $15/person. Cash, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, or Card accepted. Chevy Chase Baptist Church; 5671 Western Ave. NW; Washington DC 20015. NOTE: Enter through back corner door of the church. Danceintime classes are great fun. The dance moves are beautiful, fun, and our class creates a bonded community... Check it out! Class will be held every Saturday in December....celebrate the holidays with dance! For more info: danceintime.com/classes Questions? Contact Barbbernsteintalks@gmail.com

**☕ Code & Coffee \| Black Code Collective** Pull up, plug in, and enjoy some good company. Join us for a chill Sunday coworking session — bring your laptop and your current project (or no project at all). All skill levels welcome. **Free to attend. Coffee & treats provided. Just show up.** 📅 **Sunday, April 26** 🕙 **10:30 AM – 12:30 PM** 📍 **Falls Church, VA** Please note that we would be located on the 5th floor with the listed address below. 105 W Broad St, Suite #410 · Falls Church, VA 22046

[Profs and Pints DC](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/dc-doom-and-dinosaurs](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-doom-and-dinosaurs) .] 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).

We will be meeting at Starbucks to learn together. Come with an online class you're already going through or an interest and we will try to connect you with a course where you can learn it. Already have a skill you want to contribute to a Kaggle Datascience competition? We will work on these too! Laptop required :)

This is one of our regularly occurring drop-in sessions. We need a minimum of 4 players for this event to occur. Curious about Dungeons & Dragons but never played before? Learn how to play classic Dungeons & Dragons with other newbies and go on perilous adventures in a dark fairytale world called Dolmenwood. This will be a beginner-oriented introductory session involving exploration, strange monsters, clever problem-solving, and some intrigue. You do not need to know the rules ahead of time and you do not need to bring anything, as I have dice, pencils, and premade character sheets for all players. Just show up, jump in, and see if it is your thing! This will be a one-off adventure, with potential to continue on if everyone is interested. I will send the exact location to you once you are signed up.

What does it look like when ideas come to life? Join NOVA Scribes and MAFN for a full-day, in-person open house where the public is invited to step inside the world of facilitation. This is a come-and-go experience designed for curiosity, exploration, and conversation. Whether you are new to facilitation groups, you are welcome. The space will be set up as a "theater in the round," (see the image) with facilitators working live around the room. Throughout the day, you will see different techniques, styles, and modalities demonstrated in real time, from visual templates, facilitation tools, and decision-support methods. You can observe, ask questions, and engage directly with the practitioners as the work unfolds. **What you can expect** * Live demonstrations of facilitation techniques * Multiple practitioners working simultaneously, each with their own approach and style * Short, informal demos and tiny teaches that explain how and why specific techniques are used * Opportunities to talk one-on-one with experienced facilitators * A chance to see how facilitation can support sensemaking, alignment, and group dialogue **What you might explore** * Methods and templates for planning, strategy, and reflection * Facilitation methods that support participation and decision making * Tools, materials, and setup considerations for live work This open house is designed to be accessible, hands-on, and inspiring. You do not need to stay all day. Come for 20 minutes or stay for hours. Watch ideas take shape. Notice how facilitation can change the energy in the room. Ask the questions you have always wanted to ask. If you have ever been curious about how facilitation works and supports groups, this is your chance to experience it up close. **Open to the general public. No prior experience required.** We’re not charging for this workshop, but we will be asking for donations!

**🪷 Cost:** There is no fee for this event. **🚲 Description:** Join us for a scenic midweek cycling adventure along the C&O Canal Towpath! The route follows peaceful views of the Potomac River, and a canopy of trees. Come enjoy the gentle rhythm of biking through nature. This ride is perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to connect—with both the outdoors and fellow cyclists. **🌿 What we'll do:** We’ll pedal from Point of Rocks, towards Monocacy Aqueduct, adjusting the turnaround spot to suit the group. The total distance will be 12-14 miles, and we’ll stop along the way to enjoy nature and at the aqueduct, we’ll take time to explore its fascinating history, admire the stonework, and soak in views of the Potomac river. **👋🏼 Meeting Point:** **Meet at 9:50 AM** in the parking lot that is across the railroad tracks, close to the boat launch parking. We start at 10:00 AM. **🚙 Parking:** [Point of Rocks C & O Canal Parking Lot](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Parking+lot,+3703+Canal+Rd,+Point+of+Rocks,+MD+21777/@39.2718605,-77.5414292,659m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b6203592f1023d:0xfceb78e45fe23212!2sChesapeake+%26+Ohio+Canal!8m2!3d39.273112!4d-77.539852!16s%2Fg%2F1tdpbhdm!3m5!1s0x89b62035b96f6345:0x32e2304103d3634d!8m2!3d39.2729566!4d-77.5408937!16s%2Fg%2F11c603wnzf?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDgwNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) **🚻 Miscellaneous:** Restrooms available at the start point. **🎒 PREPARATION:** * Helmet (required) * Tune up your bike, including inflating your tires * Water (lots of water!) * Snack if desired * Sunblock * Bug spray * Bike lock (optional for breaks) **🪷 COST:** There is no fee for this event. **🌐 NEWSLETTER:** [Click here](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/fuAJnw5/imagine) to join Imagine Well Being’s mailing list to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events. **⭐️ LIABILITY RELEASE:** **With my RSVP, I hereby stipulate that I am physically sound to participate in this event.** I understand and agree that all events, gatherings, and retreats are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care and assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine events, gatherings, and retreats.**

[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).

Here's a wonderful opportunity to visit the Galapagos Islands and see those huge tortoises, blue-footed boobies (birds) and the great frigate birds whose red pouches from the males get inflated like a balloon when they court! #### Independent Package Includes: * Round trip flights Miami-Quito, Quito-Miami * All intra-flights: Quito-Baltra & Baltra-Quito * 6 nights accommodations * 3 nights Quito * 3 nights Galapagos Islands * Hotel taxes, fees & service charges * All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† * 9 meals: 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches * Services of English-speaking local guides * Services of English-speaking naturalist guides in the Galapagos * Shore excursions * Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services * Galapagos National Park fee of $200 * Galapagos Transit Control Card fee of $20 **Special Features** * Embark on a journey to the beginning of time in the Galapagos Archipelago of volcanic islands * Tour the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about their preservation goals * View the iconic Pinnacle Rock, a towering lava structure on Bartolomé Island * Explore areas with blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and sea lions †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked with the tour company. **Not Included:** Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified). #### Is This Trip Right for You? #### **Uniqueness of Destination:** The Galapagos Islands' power grid is supplied by a mix of diesel generators and renewable sources, which can lead to inconsistent air conditioning during periods of high heat and humidity. #### **Things to Consider:** There are multiple early mornings. Getting to the Galapagos requires a flight from Quito to the Island of Baltra, where you will transfer to the Baltra Seaport and travel by boat to Santa Cruz Island. In the Galapagos, it takes approximately two hours on foot to get to and from the areas populated with wildlife. Small boats require agility to embark and disembark. This tour includes animal-related activities which carry inherent risks, as animal behavior can be unpredictable. You may choose not to participate. This tour visits areas of high elevations in Quito (9,300 feet), which may be a consideration for those who have heart conditions or are otherwise affected by height. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. #### **Transportation:** Modes of travel will include a boat and a panga (dinghy). #### **Pace:** Expect 3-4 hours of walking on included sightseeing days, as well as considerable time standing. #### **Terrain:** On this tour, you may need to walk on rough, rocky trails and challenging terrain, navigate steep steps or slopes, and encounter cobblestone streets. You will experience wet landings in water, on sand, rocks, and dry landings on wooden docks. #### **Travel Style:** **This is an independent program and does not include the services of a tour manager.** **CHECK VISA REQUIREMENTS**: www.cibtvisas.com (You are under no obligation to use this vendor; do your own research; this is just to check to see if a visa is needed) COST: From $2399/pp Land & Air fr. Miami: From $3009/pp; Airfare out of all Washington DC airports are the same price as of today 1/19/26. Single Supplement $450 Non-Refundable Deposit: $300/pp Final Payment Date: 2/8/26 **HOW TO GET BOOKED AS PART OF OUR GROUP:** Email me the following information for each passenger to [Supra1214@aol.com:](http://Supra1214@aol.com/) 1. Your full name as it appears in your passport 2. Your mailing address 3. Your telephone number 4. Your email address 5. Your date of birth 6. Your passport number & expiration dates 7. Your emergency contact info (Name and phone number) 8. Type of cabin needed (single or double; interior, oceanview or balcony). If double, provide the same information for your roommate. 9. Signed credit card authorization (will email upon receipt of items 1-8) **PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT** Participants in this event should note the Liability Waiver in the PAGES section of this Meetup group. Please read it carefully. Members of this group are expected to conduct themselves in a way that is mindful and considerate of the health, safety, and welfare of themselves and other participants in any Active Friends Travel With Friends of the World Meetup activity. It is understood that you have voluntarily chosen to participate in this activity of your own free will. By joining this group and this activity, you agree to the Liability Waiver in the Pages section of this Meetup group.

[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).