Survival Training

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.

Let's enjoy a hike on this next-to-last Sunday of spring in DC's Rock Creek Park! This one’s for car-free DC folks, those who want a short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of the region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length, though there is not much elevation gain. We’ll move at a steady 2–3 mph pace, with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start. Please bring 2 liters of water with you. **Start location and time:** We’ll meet at 9 am at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) We'll gather at covered picnic table shown in the image below. I'll have a large blue hiking backpack. Note: We plan to start hiking promptly after our meeting time, but I'll allow a grace period of up to 10 minutes for late arrivals. Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) **Transportation Options:** Driving or rideshare (Lyft/Uber): Yes! the meeting point is easy to get to and parking is free and plentiful. Buses: Indeed! Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Please allow a little extra time if taking the bus, given variability in arrival times. Bikeshares - Of course! There are stations close by. CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. We look forward to hiking with you! **Background Info About LMH:** Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model (https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

Having secured a secret entrance to the Wreck of the Returned, the Starfinder Society is finally ready to launch a rescue mission into the Wreck, to liberate the lost Starfinder Zizenzi and the countless other citizens of Akiton who’ve been abducted by the Functionary’s forces and await forced conversion into mindless servitors of the Wreck. While numerous teams prepare to enter the conversion facility, First Seeker Sarmak has tasked one special team with breaching the conversion facility’s central control room and dispatching the cure to conversion through the ventilation system. If successful, all the converted innocents within the Wreck will regain their autonomy and break free from the Wreck’s control. Unfortunately, the central control is sure to be heavily guarded… Prepare for battle, Starfinders! A Starfinder Society Scenario designed for 3rd through 4th-level characters, playable in 2-3 hours. This is an adventure in the ongoing Invasion's Edge metaplot. Written by Matt Morris.

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

June 12-14 is Sails on the Potomac in Alexandria. ([https://www.va250.org/event-detail/?id=24316](https://www.va250.org/event-detail/?id=24316)). Fireworks at the Alexandria Waterfront at 9:00 PM on Saturday, June 13th. From the website: As a Sail 250 Virginia 2026 Affiliate Harbor, Alexandria will be hosting the largest tall ship event in the DC Metro region - Sails on the Potomac! This three-day event June 12-14, 2026 will highlight Alexandria's unique role in the birth of our new nation and its impact on today. Join us as we commemorate America's Story with music, family activities, exhibits, tours, public art, educational programs, and more! Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET At** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix) (Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so the RSVP's shown are just a very small portion attending. We'll have at least 20 registered.) Our last online Bingo Night Party was such a BIG hit, we're doing it again! Do you like to play BINGO or want to just do something different?! Then you will LOVE this event! Here is your opportunity to have some fun playing our Live "Bingo" game. You will also get to socialize and make other friends from the comfort of your home. Prizes included Amazon gift cards, free future events and more! This completely online event will be LIVE and you will be able to see and hear the other participants while playing. You will either need to print or draw out your bingo cards. We will email you with how to get it after registering. You can have more than 1 person on your team as long as they're from your house and use same device. Friends/family around the country can also play. They would just need to also register for a ticket. This event will be held on Zoom which you would access through your computer/webcam, or via your phone/tablet. On day of the event, you will get a secured Zoom link and link to print out Bingo cards. \*RSVPS ON HERE ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF ACTUAL ATTENDANCE as this is a multi group event. Cost: $15-$20 depending on how early you register. **\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET AT -** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix)

We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route. Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.

Join us for a relaxed Sunday morning walk around one of Prince George's County's most beautiful urban lakes, followed by an optional brunch nearby. 📅 When: Sunday ⏰ Start Time: 9:00 AM 📍 Meeting Point: College Park Metro Station The Hike We'll begin at College Park Metro and walk through the Paint Branch Trail system to scenic Lake Artemesia. The lake is surrounded by paved and gravel paths, wetlands, open water views, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. We'll make a full loop around the lake before returning toward College Park. The route follows mostly flat, well-maintained trails with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Distance: Approximately 4–5 miles round trip Difficulty: Easy Pace: Moderate social pace with opportunities for photos and nature observation What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Sun protection Weather-appropriate clothing Optional Brunch After the Hike Those interested can join for brunch after we return to College Park. Possible options include: Board & Brew Vigilante Coffee The Hall CP Bagels 'n Grinds Marathon Deli Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start walking at 9:00 AM. Looking forward to a morning of nature, conversation, and good food!

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. **9 miles with 600 feet elevation gain.** **Fee Free Day!** ***Join us in celebrating Flag Day*** ***for a nice hike along the scenic Potomac River and adjoining forests of C&O Canal National Historical Park, Great Falls, Maryland.*** **Description:** We'll start our hike traveling to the Ford Mine Trail. Once completing that trail, we will then reconnect to the towpath and head to the Potomac Overlook on Olmsted Island for some great views of the falls and cascading water. After reconnecting on the towpath for a short distance, we will connect to the Gold Mine loop trail in the forest and Gold Mine Overlook and return to our cars. There are a couple of short hills while in the forest but they are small, otherwise the route is mostly level. There are a few small stream crossings on Ford Mine trail that are easily crossed. We may include the River Trail which runs along the shore of the Potomac, depending on the water level conditions. **Participants will have the option to do as much of the hike as they desire.** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. **Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots in the forest. Restrooms are open near the Tavern visitor center. May want to also bring some insect repellent and sunscreen. **Meet:** We will meet on the sidewalk in front of the old refreshment snack bar on the right side of the parking lot before you get to the restrooms and Tavern visitor center. The snack bar is currently closed but it is under the tree canopy. Look for me by the fence anxiously awaiting your arrival. Please plan on being there at 8:45am so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time. **Dogs are welcome. Dog Policy** [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) ***Please note that dogs are not allowed on the Olmsted Island boardwalk, so if you bring your dog, you will have to wait for us at the entrance to Olmsted Island*** **Park Fee**: ***Park Fees waived on Flag Day.*** If you haven't hiked with me before, please provide your name, contact number and emergency contact number. You can text me the info of direct message me on Meetup. Do not pose in comments. Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland: [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf) **Directions to Park:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm) **GPS: 39.00223, -77.24697** Any questions, please message me on Meetup or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

Looking for a fun way to spend a day outdoors, meet great people, and enjoy some of Arlington's most scenic views? Join us for a relaxed group walk and picnic adventure! 📍 Where We'll Meet: We'll gather at Gravelly Point, (one of the best spots in the area to watch planes take off and land). There is a parking lot there for you to park your vehicles. 🚶 Our Route: From Gravelly Point, we'll stroll along the Potomac River trail toward Theodore Roosevelt Island, enjoying the scenery, conversation, and fresh air along the way. Once we get to the Roosevelt area parking lot, we will loop back around, and then head back to Gravelly Point. This is a social, easygoing walk—not a race! We'll take our time, chat, meet new people, and enjoy the journey. 🧺 Picnic Time: Once we're back at Gravelly Point, we'll spread out on the grass and enjoy a relaxing picnic together. Please bring: Your own lunch or snacks A blanket or lawn chair Water and any beverages you'd like Sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat if desired Your positive energy and good vibes! 🌞 What to Expect Beautiful waterfront views Airplane spotting Friendly conversations Light exercise New connections A relaxing picnic on the grass Whether you're new to the area or a longtime local, this is a great opportunity to get outside, meet people, and enjoy one of Arlington's best walking routes. Hope to see you all there! 😉

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/