Philosophy of Science

This is a single person event for an in-person quantum healing session in Alexandria, VA. If you are interested in visiting a past-life and getting in touch with your higher self, please join me for this free and very intense opportunity. The session is based on Dolores Cannon’s *Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique* and takes about three hours to complete. We have human friendly cats. There are some small activities that should be accomplished prior to the meeting, for a more quality session, so I will be requesting an email address to send instructions to. It is important to let me know prior to the session if you cannot make it to allow someone else to take your space. See you soon!

This Holiday Happy Hour -AND- Film Screening is for creative people and folks who appreciate creativity. Whether you attend, produce, appreciate, or promote, you are welcome to join us on Monday, December 29, 2025 from 5pm-7pm for a Happy Hour -AND- Film Screening at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. We are screening our Make a Movie in a Month films at this Happy Hour, so please join us in supporting our filmmakers and their documentary short films! Come meet, network, and enjoy. Only those ages 21 and up can attend. Happy Hour specials are from 5pm-6pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free. This is a casual event. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour12-29-25.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour12-29-25.eventbrite.com). This event is produced in partnership with[ TIVA](https://www.tivadc.org/) (Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC),[ WIFV](https://www.wifv.org/) (Women in Film & Video),[ Wheaton Film Festival](https://www.wheatonfilmfestival.com/),[ ReelAbilities Film Festival](https://reelabilities.org/greaterwash/),[ Docs in Progress](https://www.docsinprogress.org/), DC Media Makers Group, etc. Sponsored by[ Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC](https://brianfrankel.com/),[ Creative Colony Spaces](https://www.creativecolonyspaces.com/membership/overview), and Adobe Software. Enjoy delicious craft beers, tasty snacks, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to unwind after a long day, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to kick back and relax with us at Silver Branch Brewing Co. Use the QR codes at the table to order food and drinks, and be prepared to mingle. Check out the[ Silver Branch Brewing Company's Menu](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/). PARKING: Paid parking available at the Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron St. See you there on 12/29/25!

**Rockville Science Center Chess Night and Lessons by FIDE Master Luke** **Time/Date: Monday evening, 6:30 to 9:00 PM** Join us as FIDE Master Luke delivers a chess lecture with notes. He begins teaching at 7:15pm. **Location: RSC "Storefront" Location,** 36C, Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850 **Parking:** First two hours free at Parking Garage "A", 20 Maryland Ave #450, Rockville, MD 20850 * Casual Chess - Everyone is welcome. * You do not have to know how to play chess(!!!!) * Chess sets available on a first come - basis. * Wonderful chess sets provided, BYOC (bring your own clock) Host: Howard Lichtman More information about the RSC is at https://www.rockvillesciencecenter.org/

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

Join us in closing out 2025 with a wonderful evening at The Simon in Reston! **NOTE #1: If you wish to try the Duck a la Presse, please send a message in Meetup when you confirm your spot so that we may we notify the restaurant in advance. This dish is $126 and serves 2 people.** **NOTE #2: Restaurant will NOT generate separate checks for our group. Please be prepared to settle up with cash, Paypal / Venmo / Zelle. Thank you in advance for your understanding.** **ABC 7 News:** A taste of France in Virginia: New restaurant offers century-old Duck a la Presse The Duck a la Presse reaches all the way back to France, over a century ago. The French cuisine that originated in the early 1800s in France was once usually enjoyed by France's most elite. "Chefs would take the ducks and carve them tableside, break them down and process them through a duck press to extract the blood and juices to finish the sauce at the table.," Executive Chef Anthony DiGregorio (The Watergate Hotel, Café Boulud Palm Beach) told 7News. However, since gaining popularity over time, the duck dish has made it's way into the states and at The Simon at Reston Station in Reston, Va. "People are bringing back those old school cooking techniques and its the ability to do a table side and bring an experience to the guest," DiGregorio said. The Dry aged Duck a la Presse (for 2) is a Honey lavender glazed Jurgielewicz duck, roasted red beets, foraged mushrooms, red wine poached pear, sauce civet, according to DiGregorio. It is a multi-step process including carving, pressing tableside. The duck, which is raised at a farm in Pennsylvania, is dry-aged for about two weeks, adding flavor, texture and age onto the duck. It is then cooked in a charcoal oven. While the Duck a la Presse has made a comeback, the price for the equipment can be pretty hefty. According to Tasting Table, duck presses, depending on the metal, can range from almost $2,200 to $4,000. For a fancier option, the French maker Ercuis produces a silver-plated Duck Press Grand Hotel that could be yours for a mere €17,600 ($18,700). Two people can enjoy the traditional and historical dish for $126. **Northern Virginia Magazine:** The Simon opened September 16, unveiling a glamorous dining experience that blends global refinement with Mid-Atlantic roots. At the helm are Executive Chef Anthony DiGregorio (The Watergate Hotel, Café Boulud Palm Beach) and Executive Pastry Chef Claus Olsen (Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Mayfair Hotel London), who are reimagining regional cuisine with creativity and flair. Standout dishes include dry-aged duck à la presse infused with lavender from DiGregorio’s garden, Pennsylvania golden chicken with brioche stuffing, and pan-seared local rockfish with sauce vin jaune. Dessert delights with indulgences such as a Virginia chess pie or the almond crunch bar, while a tableside cheese cart presents the largest Murray’s Cheese selection outside of New York. “Every element of The Simon has been designed so our guests can appreciate the best of the region,” DiGregorio said in a release. “We’ve partnered with local farmers, fishers, and artisans who share our respect for the land’s bounty, and pairing that with craftsmanship, service, and storytelling, will make each dining experience memorable.” Next door, the Schar Bar steals the spotlight with the area’s most extensive amaro collection, rare-bourbon program, inventive cocktails, as well as appealing noshes like oysters, caviar, and Appalachian sour corn hushpuppies. Looking forward to sharing this experience with you! ***Check out menus*** Dinner Menu [here](https://www.thesimonrestonstation.com/menus/#dinner) Cocktails Menu [here ](https://www.thesimonrestonstation.com/menus/#cocktails) Wine Menu [here](https://www.thesimonrestonstation.com/menus/#wines) Dessert Menu [here](https://www.thesimonrestonstation.com/menus/#dessert) We ask that ALL folks honor their RSVP. If you are unable to attend after sending in a YES, please update your status so that others may join. In the event our group incurs a fee for no-shows / late cancellations, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding. **WAITLIST:** Meetup does not allow a waitlist for paid events. If this event fills and you are interested in adding your name to the waitlist, please send host a message through the app. \*Note: Event fee is non-refundable\* In the future, we will vary the days of the week and the types of restaurants so that we can attract many different types of diners. Feel free to make suggestions for future meet locations. All diners will pay their own tab. before departing the event. If you are unable to join us in December we hope you'll stay interested and join us for a meal in the future. Looking forward to catching up with you for a year end dinner at The Simon!

This Happy Hour -AND- Film Screening is for creative people and folks who appreciate creativity. Whether you attend, produce, appreciate, or promote, you are welcome to join us on Monday, December 29, 2025 from 5pm-7pm for a Happy Hour -AND- Film Screening at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. We are screening our Make a Movie in a Month films at this Happy Hour, so please join us in supporting our filmmakers and their documentary short films! Come meet, network, and enjoy. Only those ages 21 and up can attend. Happy Hour specials are from 5pm-6pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free. This is a casual event. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour12-29-25.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour12-29-25.eventbrite.com). This event is produced in partnership with[ TIVA](https://www.tivadc.org/) (Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC),[ WIFV](https://www.wifv.org/) (Women in Film & Video),[ Wheaton Film Festival](https://www.wheatonfilmfestival.com/),[ ReelAbilities Film Festival](https://reelabilities.org/greaterwash/),[ Docs in Progress](https://www.docsinprogress.org/), DC Media Makers Group, etc. Sponsored by[ Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC](https://brianfrankel.com/),[ Creative Colony Spaces](https://www.creativecolonyspaces.com/membership/overview), and Adobe Software. Enjoy delicious craft beers, tasty snacks, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to unwind after a long day, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to kick back and relax with us at Silver Branch Brewing Co. Use the QR codes at the table to order food and drinks, and be prepared to mingle. Check out the[ Silver Branch Brewing Company's Menu](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/). PARKING: Paid parking available at the Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron St. See you there on 12/29/25!

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

Good day, tout le monde! Please join us Friday evening, after work (or school or play) at about 5:30 at Tunnicliff's Tavern. The restaurant is at 222 7th Street, S.E., Washington, D.C. If the weather is nice, we will sit outside, and spend some time talking, drinking and eating. If we're not outside, come find us inside! We'll be in the back, so please walk past the bar and you'll find us there. We'll be the fun (and possibly somewhat loud) group of folks enjoying each other's company! NOTE: This is for Intermediate or Advanced speakers. We are a group of very nice folks who love speaking French. And remember, we won't judge you or your French, so please come and stop by, even if just for a bit. It's a great way to kick off your weekend!

• What we'll do On https://blackecon101.podbean.com/ Thursdays at 6 pm. discussing the economy....

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-01-4-iphone-photography Learn to use the iPhone camera and the settings for creative image captures. Join Michael Koren at the National Gallery of Art and learn techniques for exposure, composition and focus. Tap into your creative side through smartphone photography. Using our iPhone cameras, we’ll explore the Museum's offerings from abstract sculptures, colorful paintings and wall hangings, to the architecture of the building as well. We’ll find endless photographic opportunities perfect for iPhone photography. We’ll start with the basics of learning to use the iPhone camera and review the settings for optimal image capture to pro tips and techniques that produce the best results. The number of photography apps available seems endless and can be very confusing when trying to choose what to purchase. Michael will cover one of the most exciting apps for image processing so you can achieve your artistic vision. This class is designed for users of iOS mobile devices. The app info will be included in your confirmation letter (the app is free). Topics include: • Proper techniques and settings for iPhone image capture • Tips and techniques for using the iPhone’s native camera • Learn exciting editing tools • Hands-on capture and editing • Image critique and feedback For more information about the Gallery, visit their website, https://www.nga.gov/index.html Participants will need to bring a fully charged iPhone. A charger is a good idea too as photos quickly drain the batteries. Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com. *** **THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-01-4-iphone-photography

**To confirm attendance, please register on Luma:** [https://luma.com/88h45iky](https://luma.com/88h45iky) One of the truths we most regularly forget is that if we are at war with ourselves, we can’t feel love and connection with our world. This talk looks at the genesis of the “Trance of Unworthiness” and how the wings of mindfulness and heartfulness can dissolve the trance and reveal the loving awareness that is our essence Being. **Please watch this 55-min video (try 1.25X speed) before joining the discussion:** [https://youtu.be/vFr_zQCUMD4?si=0bf7DttQV9NxBY3m](https://youtu.be/vFr_zQCUMD4?si=0bf7DttQV9NxBY3m) If more than 10 people join the discussion, we will break out into smaller groups. **(max 10 people per group)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 1. **Feeling "not enough" often pulls us away from the beauty of now. How can we help each other remember that we are already worthy?** 2. **We often hide our true selves behind busy schedules or social masks. What great things might happen if we felt safe enough to be authentic?** 3. **Pausing before we react helps us choose wisdom over impulse. How can we make more space for these quiet moments in our fast-paced lives?** 4. **Real change only happens once we accept ourselves as we are right now. How does being kind to ourselves help us grow together?** 5. **Naming a difficult feeling helps us manage it with more ease. How might acknowledging our shared hurdles make us a stronger community?** 6. **Looking past our defenses helps us see the goodness in everyone. How can we better celebrate the shared humanity in those around us?** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events: 1. Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question) 2. Listen to understand, not to respond. 3. Be open-minded and value differences.

**Welcome New / Beginning Players**: No need to bring anything but a good attitude. **This is an adventure in the ongoing Invasion's Edge metaplot.** If the event is full, **please join the waitlist**. It will help us to know if we need to recruit more GMs. [DMV Paizo Org Play on Discord](https://discord.gg/jYQv8FnFnW) [Pathfinder Starfinder Society of Maryland on Warhorn.net](https://warhorn.net/events/pathfinder-starfinder-society-of-maryland) First Seeker Sarmak has called on the scientist Dr. Heldin Sevaille to create an inoculation for a process known as “conversion” which is transforming wildlife and residents of the Sloughscar Hills into monsters in the service of the Wreck of the Returned. The final ingredient Dr. Sevaille requires is found in a remote forest called Ste Xinnith on Marata, one of Bretheda’s moons. Dr. Sevaille dispatches a team of Starfinders to collect samples of this rare plant with the aid of a few local scientists. But trouble is brewing in Ste Xinnith… Frozen Trove, a Triaxian biotech corporation notorious for unethical and illegal methods that damage environments to maximize profits, has established a laboratory in the area, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. With the entire ecosystem at risk, it’s time for the Starfinders to take a stand. Written by Sara Jeffers.

* **What are the benefits of developing a spiritual practice?** * **Can you remember a special time your spiritual practice enhanced your life?** **Join us as we explore this topic at our next ECK Light and Sound Service. You will have the opportunity to learn what Sri Doug Kunin has to say about spiritual practices and also hear some truly heart-opening music. Please attend in person or on Zoom. People of all faiths are warmly welcome; feel free to invite friends and family. We look forward to seeing you there.** **Attend in person at:** **The Maryland Eckankar Center** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **Join Zoom Meeting:** **[The ECK Light and Sound Service](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83425712995?pwd=GoEk28Hlj95P5PPbmoCem6GP7tHqlm.1)** **Meeting ID: 834 2571 2995** **Passcode: 403417** **Dial-In: 301-715-8592** **For more information:** **Call or text: (301) 439-2120** **[MEC@eckankarmaryland.org](mailto:MEC@eckankarmaryland.org)** **"Sing HU, and this may help you open your heart to God's love. Then you will find the miracles happening in your life too.”** **—Harold Klemp, The Sound of Soul, p 13.** **Presented by the Maryland & D.C. Satsang Societies, Inc., chartered affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2026 ECKANKAR. Terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOULTRAVEL, and VARAIGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 USA.**

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.

**3rd Annual Great Chili Cook Off**: Calling All Cooks! This is your shot at dethroning our 2-time repeat Chili Champion and claim the 1st place Chef's Cap and Apron for yourself. Second and Third place winners will also receive a cap and apron. This is often one of our more well-attended events so please RSVP early and come hungry. Members will be given a ticket to vote for their favorite chili. No campaigning this year please. Let the chili speak for itself (no, not like that. I know what you are thinking. Stop that.) **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

We will be having an open discussion of the book "the Soul of an Octopus" by Sy Montgomery. [this is the amazon link for this book](https://a.co/d/1bRn8h4)