TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

📚 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.

👉 Enroll at **[www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html](http://www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html)** Our ***Beginner Banter Club*** meets online and is available to all Spanish learners at the A1-B1 levels who want to start speaking and build confidence. Each week, we’ll explore vocabulary and cultural themes like holidays, food, and daily life in the Spanish-speaking world. **​**Location: Zoom Day: Mondays, 5pm - 6pm ET ​Price: $27.50 / session or FREE with monthly credits 🎁 **FREE Trial Event Available!** Use code **FREECLUB** when you sign up. 👉 Enroll at **[https://www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html](https://www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html)**

We are teaming up with Mapillary to host the February GeoDC meetup at the Meta DC office. Whether you’re a local Washingtonian, a seasoned OSM contributor, or a GIS professional. Join us for an evening of lightning talks, networking, and amazing conversations about maps and geospatial technology with a focus on street-level imagery. Since this event is being held at the Meta office you must[ RSVP using this form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe35JmapvZlryI3f-uZbpbA-zNFHUGlWO_-8N1yCyFQs00sNQ/viewform) by Friday February 6th. Space is limited so keep an eye out for the event update. Check out the lineup below for details and let us know if you've used Mapillary and would like to talk about your experience. ### The Lineup 18:00 \| Doors Open: Grab a slice\, a drink\, and catch up with fellow mappers\. 18:45 \| Welcome: Quick intros from the GeoDC crew and Mapillary\. 19:00 \| Lightning Talks: Rapid\-fire presentations on GIS\, cartography\, and the power of open imagery\. * Interested in speaking? Reach out! 19:45 \| The Spatial Social: Open networking and informal demos\.

​**Due to the popularity of the event, registration is requested at [https://luma.com/dcmahjongg](https://luma.com/dcmahjongg).** We do not use the RSVP system on Meetup. **A drop-in game every Monday at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Central Library, located at the corner of 9th and G Streets NW.** **==> THESE MONDAY GAMES ARE FOR EXPERIENCED PLAYERS ONLY -- THERE ARE NO INSTRUCTORS ON SITE** <== The Gallery Place Metro station (9th Street entrance) is located across the street. Street parking is available. We play in the Great Hall -- as you enter the library, we are on the right of the room. Games begin at 6:00. Games wrap up at 8:00. **If you own a mah jongg set, we encourage you to bring.**

Hit the pause button for an hour and reduce your stress. You will be compassionately guided through an exploration of intentionally linking your breath with the movement of both dynamic and static stretching and its impact on your (P)hysical, (I)ntellectual, (E)motional, and (S)piritual layers. Then experience the calming practice of restorative yoga which was designed specifically to move you from the fight, flight, or freeze state of the nervous system into the rest and digest state. Leave this all levels, accessible class feeling restored, renewed, and ready for what life has in store for you next. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com.** The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

**Braver Angels holds workshops, debates, and public presentations designed to bridge the political divide we are experiencing in our country.** Our events help conservatives, liberals, and independents get past stereotypes and have civil conversations about current issues, helping open the way to productive problem-solving, mutual respect and understanding. We have an exciting discussion planned for February and we hope you will join us. It’s been only a month in 2026 and it seems that everyday there is some news or the other that sparks more controversy and creates more polarization than ever before. **A Case in Point:** In Minnesota, current events—specifically Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale federal immigration enforcement operation—have sparked a significant constitutional crisis involving the Second Amendment, the rule of law, and freedom of speech. **1\. Second Amendment \(Right to Bear Arms\)** The fatal shootings of Renee Good, a mother of two, and Alex Pretti, a nurse and concealed-carry permit holder, by federal agents in January 2026, has put the role of ICE, Freedom of Speech and Assembly, the Rule of Law and the Second Amendment at the center of the conflict. * **The Conflict:** Administration officials, including FBI Director Kash Patel, argued that carrying a firearm with multiple magazines to a protest implies violent intent and is not a protected right. * **The Backlash:** Gun rights groups like the [National Association for Gun Rights](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=54af438f89&e=500efeae3d) and the [Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=9b87a21916&e=500efeae3d) have condemned these statements, noting that Minnesota law explicitly allows permit holders to carry at protests. They argue that exercising one right (First Amendment protest) does not negate another (Second Amendment self-defense). **2\. Freedom of Speech and Assembly** The [ACLU of Minnesota](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=d306a09b8d&e=500efeae3d) and other advocates allege that federal agents are systematically suppressing dissent through force and targeted arrests. * **Renee Good:** The January 2026 killing of Renee Good by an [ICE agent](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=ddc5885c7c&e=500efeae3d) in Minneapolis raises critical constitutional issues regarding the Fourth Amendment’s prohibition on excessive force and unreasonable seizure. It tests the limits of federal officer immunity, specifically challenging claims of "[absolute immunity](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=55da441d59&e=500efeae3d)" under the [Supremacy Clause](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=90f0fb9009&e=500efeae3d). The case also spotlights the lack of legal mechanisms for holding federal agents accountable for violating civil rights. * **Journalist Arrests:** On January 30, 2026, journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort were arrested on federal charges related to their coverage of an anti-ICE protest at a church. * **A Chilling Effect?** Organizations like [FIRE](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=db63d21e6b&e=500efeae3d) argue that federal investigations and grand jury subpoenas of state officials (including Governor Tim Walz) are intended to "chill" speech and discourage citizens from observing or filming law enforcement. **3\. The Rule of Law** The "rule of law" is currently being tested through a jurisdictional battle between state and federal authorities. * **Federalism and the 10th Amendment:** Minnesota's Attorney General and a coalition of cities have [filed a lawsuit](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=dd3fa783e5&e=500efeae3d) alleging that the federal government is "commandeering" local resources and violating the 10th Amendment by bypassing state authority. * **Accountability:** Groups such as the [Society for the Rule of Law](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=176c834bfb&e=500efeae3d) have criticized the administration for "dismissing core constitutional rights" and failing to provide evidence for claims that protesters are engaging in "riots" to justify the use of force. **Some Crises Make Strange Bedfellows:** The situation in Minnesota has become a notable **crossover issue**, creating an unusual alliance between progressives, libertarians, and mainstream conservatives who are increasingly uncomfortable with the federal government's tactics. Traditionally, gun rights are a conservative priority, but the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents has caused a rift. Groups like the Gun Owners of America and the National Association for Gun Rights joined progressives in criticizing the administration, arguing that a lawful gun owner should not be criminalized for exercising their rights during a protest. Republican governors have joined Democratic counterparts to urge federal accountability, arguing that the operation is a test case for federal "retribution" that could eventually target any state. Both sides have condemned the use of warrantless raids, the arrest of journalists, and the prevention of state investigators from accessing federal crime scenes. Libertarians and progressive legal advocates (like those at the [Public Rights Project](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=6e3eaeaafb&e=500efeae3d)) are unified in the belief that the federal government is "unconstitutionally coercing" local law enforcement and schools to serve a federal immigration agenda. Meanwhile, Republican-leaning pollster [Cygnal](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=e05c097435&e=500efeae3d) reports that deportation and ICE are overwhelmingly supported by voters. So, where do we go from here? While we, as individuals, can exercise our freedom of speech and participate in protests to advocate change, real change will require action from Congress. And we can do our part in telling Congress exactly what we think! **What We Hope to Accomplish this Evening:** After some brief introductions, we will breakout into groups (how many will depend on the number of attendees) to discuss this issue.The groups will be chosen randomly *(as this is a crossover issue)* and will report back to answer this question: ***What would you convey to your Member of Congress about Minneapolis?*** **Time:** * Introductions - 10 minutes * Discussions - 60 minutes * Report Back - 30 minutes * Closeout and Next Steps - 10 minutes **Where and When:** ***Date:*** Tuesday February 10, 2026 ***Time:*** 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30 – snacks and mingling) ***Venue:*** McLean Governmental Center [1437 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=f600773430&e=500efeae3d) For questions, message Jennifer Ibarra or email fairfax-va@braverangels.org. We hope to see you there! If you like you may also register on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-would-you-tell-congress-about-immigration-events-in-minneapolis-registration-1982075915419?aff=oddtdtcreator&discount=BRAVER), though registering on both platforms is not necessary. **[Help us counter division! Click here to make a donation to our local alliance.](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=29336f40c5&e=500efeae3d)**

Come exchange Asian Languages that you speak! ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. We will assign tables for represented languages. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. As you all remember well, this event used to bring out hundreds of people every week. However, it was discontinued last year for obvious reasons and we couldn't gather that many people now, because of restrictions. Hence, we are downsizing and caping the number of attendees. We have super limited spots and advance ticket purchase is required. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. You ought to have register on Meetup for a free entry\. Otherwise\, you will be subject to a cover charge\. 11. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speaker\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. 12.

Let us meet up for a language exchange. We will give out name tags. You write your name and what language you speak and what language you would like to exchange. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speaker\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. ***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

ASL HangOut is a safe fun social All levels D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, Hearing signers, ASL students, ASL interpreter. Hosted by Daniel Berke and his friends Jeremy, Andrew, Nathaniel. and Josh There's always a great mix of people and good conversations We will be meeting at the Tysons Corner Food Court (3rd Floor), Thursday at 7pm! Hope to see you all there! 🙂 Look for a table of ASL signers...don't be shy. 1961 Chain Bridge Rd Tysons Corner, VA 22102 join our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/468631322134694

We will begin our new book "French Short Stories volume 2" by Dylane Moreau for the beginner reader. ISBN-10: 1998024121 and ISBN-13: 978-1998024124. Come join us every Wednesday at 8 PM until sometime in April, 2026. This is a collection of short stories in English and French with questions at the end. Then share your ideas for immersing yourself in the French language whether it's listening to music, watching movies, taking a class, or whatever you do. If interested, please RSVP for the events you would like to join in. I will send out the Zoom link, Meeting ID, and Passcode to everyone who RSVPs either on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, so remember to check your email including the spam folder. We are a casual group, there is no studying or commitment. This is a fun way to practice reading and speaking in French and all levels are welcome.

Join our ASL Brunch on Sundays in Greenbelt! All ASL users and learners are welcome. Brunches are alternately held at two restaurants in Greenbelt, both in the same town plaza. ODD WEEKS: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays, we meet at Cedars of Lebanon, 103 Centerway. EVEN WEEKS: 2nd and 4th Sundays, we meet at New Deal Café,113 Centerway. We are the Greenbelt ASL Community, a group of both Deaf and hearing people who hang out, chat about everyday goings on, trade stories, get to know each other better, and of course, enjoy food together. Many members use ASL as their primary language, several are interpreters or other fluent ASL users, while others are ASL learners who wish to improve their skills while making new friends. Before or after brunch, you can visit the farmer's market and small coop grocery store in the plaza. Please RSVP so we can contact you via email if needed. Our group is on Facebook as Greenbelt ASL Community. Some longtime Brunch attendees don't mark their attendance here, so feel free to stop by even if you don't see others who have RSVP'd on Meet-up.

Greetings from the capital! Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people from all walks of life — students, diplomats, travelers, locals — gather to unwind and connect. [[[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Gf89PPYe3RMAK6Z7SGf5or)]] Our age range is mostly 20s to 30s. If you enjoy discussing culture, politics, travel, or just want to practice a new language, this group is for you. A perfect blend of diversity and dialogue, right in the heart of D.C.

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

We will have lunch at Cap City Diner in Gahanna at 12:00 then walk over to the theater afterwards. The Movie Solo Mio starts at 1:20.It will be posted when tickets available to purchase probably the week before then we’ll post our seat number so we can all sit together 😎

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

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.

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the **Columbus Public Library (Northside Branch)** in **Meeting Room 3** to speak in Italian for 1 hour. \*Note the change in location this week due to no space the Upper Arlington library.\* Keeping Monday for consistency but we can discuss if there are better days/times/locations! Perhaps we can do two times a week as well. TBD.