Vegan Education

Please join us for our next **Friday gathering** on **April 10, 2026** for an evening of warm fellowship and insightful discussion. We'll start at **7:00 pm** with **refreshments** at the **Alexandria Bahá’í Center**. The discussion will begin at 7:30 p.m. **Education as an Act of Hope - Constructive Response to Suppression.** This is a story about what happens when ordinary people respond to injustice not with despair, but with determination to build something better. Join us for an inspiring evening with **Kamran Farid**, co-founder of the Bahá'í Institute for Higher Education (BIHE), as he shares a powerful story of resilience, courage, and hope. **About the Discussion:** In 1987, when Bahá'í students and professors were expelled from all Iranian universities simply because of their faith, a group of educators made a bold choice: they would create their own university. For nearly four decades, BIHE has operated underground in Iran, offering degree programs to students denied the fundamental right to education. Kamran will explore a compelling question: *How does access to education sustain hope in communities facing systematic oppression—and what happens when that access is denied?* **About Our Speaker:** Kamran Farid holds degrees in electronics and communication engineering. As a BIHE faculty member and administrator, he was arrested in 2011 and imprisoned for five years—his "crime" was teaching. Since his release in 2016, he continues to support BIHE's mission as a consultant, ensuring new generations can pursue their dreams of higher education despite ongoing persecution. **All are welcome.** No background knowledge required—just bring your curiosity and an open heart.

🍻 **Post-Event Happy Hour — Tech Fluent** 📅 April 10 \| 🕠 5:30 PM 📍 Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza After a full day of building, learning, and experimenting with AI, join us for a **casual happy hour** to unwind, connect, and keep the conversations going. This is open to: * Tech Fluent attendees * DC Legal Tech Meetup members * AI-curious professionals who just want to join for drinks + conversation No agenda — just good people, good pizza, and a chance to meet others exploring AI across legal, business, and beyond. *** 💡 **Why come?** * Meet others who are actually *doing* something with AI * Continue conversations from the workshop in a relaxed setting * Join even if you couldn’t attend the full event *** RSVP appreciated for the happy hour.

Compassion is a profoundly peaceful mind that arises when we observe the suffering of others and sincerely wish for them to be free from pain. Authentic compassion never exhausts or discourages us. It transforms our heart, strengthens our inner qualities, and empowers us to respond to suffering with wisdom and courage. When we allow discouragement, anger, or hopelessness to dominate our response to pain in the world, we unintentionally add more suffering to an already difficult situation. Compassion provides a new way to relate: a positive, resilient, and deeply meaningful response that protects our own peace of mind while guiding us to help others effectively. Explore how to cultivate a pure compassion that uplifts rather than overwhelms, and how this inner change becomes the real solution to both personal and collective suffering. Through practical meditations and teachings from the Kadampa tradition, participants will learn how to develop a compassionate heart that brings lasting peace, confidence, and purpose to daily life. Join us to discover why compassion is not a burden, but the source of our greatest inner strength. **COST** $12/Financial Hardship: $6 Members: Free Dinner Included (Donations Appreciated) **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

Let's get together for a New Orleans cuisine inspired dinner at Dauphine's. Dauphine’s utilizes Mid-Atlantic ingredients to prepare classic New Orleans fare while also creating original dishes inspired by the iconic city. Dishes include small plates from $9-$22 and large plates ranging from $24-$38. For details, see **[dinner menu](https://www.dauphinesdc.com/menus/#dinner)**. Take a look at the mouth watering [dessert menu](https://www.dauphinesdc.com/menus/#dessert). And let's not forget the the [drinks menu](https://www.dauphinesdc.com/menus/#beverages). IMPORTANT INFORMATION: * **CASH only.** * **Sign up only if you can commit. Do not sign up if you are a maybe.** * If your plans change, update your RSVP even if you are in the Waitlist. * Individuals that don't show or cancel in the last 24 hours will not be able to join future events organized by me in 2026. * Three days before the event, I will ask everyone in the Going list to confirm they are attending. I will ask everyone to confirm by the end of the day. Individuals that do not respond/confirm will be removed from the list and I will ask who in the Waitlist would like to join. * The organizer reserves the right to change, cancel, and/or manage the event as they see fit. Looking forward to seeing you at Dauphine's!

"Celebrate the return of spring at River Farm! Browse our popular garden marketplace (30 vendors), seek advice from horticultural experts, enjoy delicious food, and tour River Farm’s beautiful gardens and manor house." **$5-Walkers' Fee** **We'll meet first at a Walgreens (Hollin Hall shop. ctr.).** *Then, we'll take two cars & park them in a certain residential neighborhood. From there, walk to River Farm.* **Use this link to buy your ticket:** [Blackbaud](https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/registration-form/?formId=ba63fc80-c17a-4b10-a4e5-c86addb213b2&envId=p-JnbQKmfglEe_obdIa3X7mQ&zone=usa) Please LET ME KNOW that you've BOUGHT your TICKET.

🚀 **Tech Fluent: Build with AI — Hands-On, No Experience Required** 📅 April 10 \| 📍 Washington\, DC \(National Union Building\) If you've been *AI-curious* but haven’t actually built anything yet, this event is for you. This is **not** another sit-and-listen conference. It’s a **hands-on, interactive workshop** designed for professionals (legal, business, consulting, etc.) who want to *actually learn by doing*. 👉 **What to expect:** * AI 101, software basics, and how things actually work (no jargon overload) * Guided, hands-on building session — you’ll create something real * Practical sessions on design, workflows, and the future of work * A mix of professionals across industries (law, finance, architecture, small business, and more) * Wrap-up happy hour to network and show what you built 💡 This is ideal if you: * Use ChatGPT but know you’re only scratching the surface * Want to build simple tools, websites, or workflows * Are *not* a developer (this is specifically designed for you) ⚠️ If you’re already deeply technical, this may be too basic — this is focused on upskilling non-technical professionals. *** 🎟️ **Registration & Details:** [https://varia.law/techfluent](https://varia.law/techfluent) 👉 **Important:** Make sure to note '**DC Legaltech**' in your application form in order to get a $25 discount code. *** 🍻 **Bonus:** Join us afterward for a casual happy hour to connect with others in the DC legal tech + AI community. *** Spots are intentionally limited (roughly 25–40 people), so if you're interested, don’t wait. See you there.

Gently flow to release the week's stresses, then deeply stretch with the yin and restorative yoga in an accepting, calm environment enhanced with candlelight and meditation. Leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, restored and ready for what the weekend has in store for you! **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.

Michelle Waldman, founder of [Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary](https://rosiesfarmsanctuary.org/), will join [Pro-Animals DC](https://proanimaldc.org/) and the [Veg Society of DC](http://www.vsdc.org/) for a deeply personal talk about how heartbreak over animal suffering became the doorway to action. Michele is both the Founder of Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary and a licensed Psychotherapist. She shares how she transformed her grief into a vision for Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary. This talk will explore how grief became a blueprint for healing and real-world change, and how her vision became a reality. Coffee, bagels, and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share. Veg Society of DC is pairing up with Pro-Animals DC to offer occasional educational programs, so watch for more presentations. After registering here, please [register on their site](https://stampede.proanimal.org/event/1764634382939x246683721837576200) as well. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at all of our events. **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Please join us for our fun and friendly monthly VSDC Vegan Potluck in North Bethesda MD, on Sunday, April 12th. It will start at 5 pm and go until 8 pm. There is no charge to attend the event but you will be expected to bring vegan food or drink to share. ***\*\*Note: you must provide your 1st and last name plus your contact email to receive the specific location. If you do not, then you will not be provided the location and allowed to this event - NO EXCEPTIONS.\*\**** **Items to bring to the potluck:** \- Vegan potluck dish \(no animal products of any kind\) to share\. For food quantity\, please bring 4 to 6 times the number of servings times the number in your party\. \- A serving utensil for your dish \- Ingredients list or recipe for your dish \- ***Please print or write it out in advance*** \- Beverage for yourself or one to share \- To help reduce waste\, bring your reusable plate\, cup\, and utensils [VSDC will provide drinking water.] Please Note: \- Be sure to help leave the space clean before leaving the potluck and take the containers and utensils you brought with you\. *\- Vegans do not consume any animal products or byproducts \(no meat\, chicken/poultry\, fish/sea animals\, eggs\, milk or dairy products\, honey\, etc\)\.* **LOCATION** About 0.4 miles from the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro station in North Bethesda MD. The exact location will be provided to Attendees who follow the directions above about 2 days before the event. The host prefers not to make the location public - only for registered attendees. **PARKING** Yes, there is free parking in a lot next to the event space as well as street parking on Sundays in this area. *Please read and follow all parking signs.* **METRO** This location is accessible by public transport. It is about 0.4 miles from the Grosvenor-Strathmore metro station on the Red line. ***Please plan your trip in advance and ask any questions the day prior. The organizers will do their best to answer questions but ones on the day of the event will be difficult for responses.*** Email potluck@vsdc.org for questions or to help plan future potluck events. VSDC Thanks our host for arranging this wonderful space! ***Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*** **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Guest Speaker: Michelle Waldman, founder if Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary A deeply personal talk about how heartbreak over animal suffering became the doorway to action. Michele is both the Founder of Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary and a licensed Psychotherapist. She shares how she transformed her grief into a vision for Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary. This talk will explore ways in which grief became a blueprint for healing and real-world change, and how her vision became a reality. Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

This will be a hands-on foraging walk & wild pesto making adventure with Annie-Sophie from the Green Farmacy. Come explore & nibble greens around the land while learning identification and benefits of spring edibles we'll harvest to make wild herbal pesto together! "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." There is an abundance of wild, free food, that doubles as medicine, growing all around us! In this hands-on workshop, we will get to know early spring edible plants that can be found growing locally. We'll discuss how to identify them as well as how to work with them for food and/or medicine. We will take a walk around the land focusing on wild edible & medicinal plants that emerge in early spring. As we nibble our way around, we will be harvesting the plants we meet to make & taste a wild pesto together! Some wild spring edibles we may meet and explore include: purple dead nettle, *Lamium purpureum* violet, *Viola spp.* chickweed, *Stellaria media* dandelion, *Taraxacum officinale* nettle, *Urtica dioica* bittercress, *Cardamine hirsuta* ground ivy, *Glechoma hederacea* onion grass, *Allium vineale* peppergrass, *Lepidium virginicum* garlic mustard, *Alliaria petiolata* henbit, *Lamium amplexicaule* *What to bring:* A notebook and writing utensil if you use them. A harvest basket or bag if you have one; there may be an abundance of plants for participants to take home:) Any snacks you may want to enjoy with the pesto such as crackers, veggies, etc. Limited snacks will be provided, though may not cater to a wide range of dietary restrictions/preferences A small container in case there is enough pesto for folks to take a sample home I look forward to sharing the magic gifts of plants with you, & reveling in spring's beauty & wonder together! 💫 **For First-Time Visitors** * No prior experience is needed. * Please arrive **15 minutes early** to settle in. * You are welcome to walk the grounds or explore our crystal shop before the circle begins. 📍 **Directions** * Address: **15406 Riding Stable Rd.** (property is at the end of a ½ mile driveway into the woods). * You will cross a small stream—drive slowly (under 10 MPH) to keep dust down. * Please be mindful of our neighbors and do not stop to interact with horses along the way. * 💖 **Energy Exchange** To help keep this gathering accessible, we invite an offering of **$15–$25**. If you feel called to contribute in another way, please reach out in advance. With love and gratitude

This will be a hands-on foraging walk & wild pesto making adventure with Annie-Sophie from the Green Farmacy. Come explore & nibble greens around the land while learning identification and benefits of spring edibles we'll harvest to make wild herbal pesto together! "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." There is an abundance of wild, free food, that doubles as medicine, growing all around us! In this hands-on workshop, we will get to know early spring edible plants that can be found growing locally. We'll discuss how to identify them as well as how to work with them for food and/or medicine. We will take a walk around the land focusing on wild edible & medicinal plants that emerge in early spring. As we nibble our way around, we will be harvesting the plants we meet to make & taste a wild pesto together! Some wild spring edibles we may meet and explore include: purple dead nettle, *Lamium purpureum* violet, *Viola spp.* chickweed, *Stellaria media* dandelion, *Taraxacum officinale* nettle, *Urtica dioica* bittercress, *Cardamine hirsuta* ground ivy, *Glechoma hederacea* onion grass, *Allium vineale* peppergrass, *Lepidium virginicum* garlic mustard, *Alliaria petiolata* henbit, *Lamium amplexicaule* *What to bring:* A notebook and writing utensil if you use them. A harvest basket or bag if you have one; there may be an abundance of plants for participants to take home:) Any snacks you may want to enjoy with the pesto such as crackers, veggies, etc. Limited snacks will be provided, though may not cater to a wide range of dietary restrictions/preferences A small container in case there is enough pesto for folks to take a sample home I look forward to sharing the magic gifts of plants with you, & reveling in spring's beauty & wonder together! 💫 **For First-Time Visitors** * No prior experience is needed. * Please arrive **15 minutes early** to settle in. * You are welcome to walk the grounds or explore our crystal shop before the circle begins. 📍 **Directions** * Address: **15406 Riding Stable Rd.** (property is at the end of a ½ mile driveway into the woods). * You will cross a small stream—drive slowly (under 10 MPH) to keep dust down. * Please be mindful of our neighbors and do not stop to interact with horses along the way. * 💖 **Energy Exchange** To help keep this gathering accessible, we invite an offering of **$15–$25**. If you feel called to contribute in another way, please reach out in advance. With love and gratitude

Tormas are traditional ritual food offerings, usually made from marzipan, that are offered to the Buddhas in a variety of ritual practices, including empowerments, retreats, and chanted prayers. By making these offerings, we create powerful causes for spiritual attainments, motivated by compassion and the wish to benefit all living beings. In this hands-on workshop, **Jana Stanley** from KMC Florida, who is skilled in making tormas, will guide us step by step in learning this beautiful and meaningful art. The workshop will be informal, practical, and enjoyable, and is suitable for everyone — whether you are experienced or completely new to torma making. Participants will learn about the different types of tormas and how to make them correctly and confidently according to the New Kadampa Tradition lineage. Everyone is welcome! For anyone interested in helping more with torma making, additional sessions will be held on Sun., April 12 from 3 to 5pm and Tues., April 14 from 6:45 to 8:15pm. **Cost**: $35 Online Plus/General/Friend/Supporter: $17.50 Benefactor/Benefactor Plus: Free

What Happened to the Energy Transition? To land a ship on a moving target, the moon, for example, from a moving object, the earth, requires an enormous attention to facts and a mastery of detail. Getting any of these wrong can lead to disaster. Climate science tells us we must transition to a zero carbon society—and fast. But are climate-deniers the only obstacle to that transition? We will discuss the work of economic historian Jean-Baptise Fressoz who suggests that even as we move to solar panels and electric vehicles, rather than “transitioning” to a zero carbon world we will continue to consume more, and more, and more and produce more carbon dioxide. Is there a way out of here? As harrowing as it sounds, its best to pay attention to the facts and master the details so we can discuss real solutions. Perhaps, a solution that depends on a transition in our ethical thinking. In-person and available on Zoom When: Sunday, April 12, 2026 Coffee available at 10:45 AM, Speaker begins at 11:00 AM Where: Green Hedges School 415 Windover Ave NW, Vienna, VA It's more fun in person (and the coffee is free), but you can participate by Zoom at [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83422695892](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83422695892) Jim Ball and his family are longtime members of Ethical Culture. In his retired life he writes, gardens, and rewilds his small corner of the world with native plants.

**As a proud sponsor of the Fairfax Vegfest,** the [Veg Society of DC ](https://vsdc.org/)(VSDC) encourages our members to attend this free, outdoor, all-vegan event with great speakers and delicious food! It is happening on Sunday, April 19, from 11 am to 5 pm, in Herndon, Virginia. VSDC has scheduled this meetup event to: 1\. publicize the Fairfax Vegfest so more people will attend\. For details, go to the [Vegfest event page here](https://marketspread.com/market/35820/fairfax-vegfest/events/84760/) 2\. encourage volunteers to sign\-up for shifts at the VSDC Table\. RSVP on this page and select which shift you would prefer. 3\. refer people to the Fairfax Vegfest organizers to volunteer with them\. Go to the [Fairfax Vegfest volunteer page here](https://forms.gle/HfNd2WYAbgKAtVVk8) ***We do need volunteers at the VSDC table so PLEASE do sign up. When you RSVP, please provide your first and last name, email, and shift preference (10am-12:30pm, 12-230pm, 2-430pm, 4-6pm, or ANY shift). Only the VSDC organizers will see this info.*** Confirmed speakers include: Neal Barnard MD Gene Baur Milton Mills, MD (many more to come!) **Why you don’t want to miss Fairfax Vegfest:** * **A full day of vegan food, shopping & discovery** Enjoy incredible plant-based eats, local makers, wellness brands, and eco-friendly businesses—all in one place. * **Something for everyone** Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or just love good food and good vibes, Fairfax Vegfest is welcoming and inclusive. * **Family-friendly & community-focused** A fun, positive atmosphere with activities, education, and space to connect with like-minded people. * **Meet the makers behind the brands** Talk directly with chefs, founders, and creators who are passionate about what they do. * **Support small & mission-driven businesses** Every purchase helps support ethical, sustainable, and compassionate businesses. * **Feel-good vibes all day long** Come hungry. Leave inspired. 💚 **Location** Northwest Federal Credit Union (parking lot in the back) 200 Spring St. Herndon VA 20170 A $5 donation per person is requested to help the organizers offset the costs for the event. Parking in the adjacent garage / lot is $5 per car. Join many of your friends from VSDC and our vegan meetup group who will be attending this fun and educational event! **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Let's head to Glenstone - a secretly famous museum in Potomac, MD. This museum has a lot to offer, in their own words: [Glenstone](https://www.glenstone.org/) is a place that seamlessly integrates art, architecture, and nature into a serene and contemplative environment. It is museum of modern and contemporary art and is integrated into nearly 300 acres of gently rolling pasture and unspoiled woodland in Montgomery County, Maryland, less than 15 miles from the heart of Washington, DC. The museum offers hiking/walking trails and we will be hiking 3-4 miles. Additionally it has two cafe's with vegan options. We will be stopping for a bit at one of them for snacks/coffee. Please note that the museum offers both outdoor and indoor exhibits that we will be visiting. **Meeting Point:** [Arrival hall next to Sycamore parking lot](https://maps.app.goo.gl/g4LyTVAKiNUSbdNz9) **Meeting Time:** 10am **Age restrictions:** 12 year and older Dog friendly? No! **No pets please.** Bathroom Facilities/Water: Yes - many. Please review the instructions and more information: * You might be asked at the gate to show tickets. Please let them know that you are part of VSDC group visit. Tickets have already been arranged for our group visit. * [Please check the group visit guide](https://www.glenstone.org/group-visits) for more information about the visit * **Outside food/beverage is not permitted** at Glenstone * [Sample menu of cafe's ](https://www.glenstone.org/dining-bookstore)\- please note that this is indicative menu only **Update Your RSVP** Out of respect for others interested in attending this event, please update your RSVP promptly as your schedule changes. We are restricted to 40 tickets and would not want any to be wasted. Be responsible! **\#\# Alcohol/Smoking/Intoxicants: Use of intoxicants such as alcohol\, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during the event\.** **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Join us for an all plant-based meal at the always popular Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant in Vienna, VA. We've made a reservation for 20 attendees, so don't delay in RSVPing as this will fill up. You can preview Sunflower's menu [here. ](https://www.crystalsunflower.com/menu) Parking is available in the restaurant's lot and the Vienna Metro station is 1.6 miles away. Rides may be available from attendees with cars so please communicate needs/availability in the comments below. Please note that there is no outdoor dining at this venue and that this is an indoor event. **Update Your RSVP** Out of respect for others interested in attending this limited-space event, please update your RSVP promptly as your schedule changes. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Join us for a fun afternoon of games at St. Veg! The hosts will bring a few different games, but if you have any you'd like to bring, please feel free to!

Please join us for an early dinner/hang-out at Sunflower in Vienna, VA! [https://www.crystalsunflower.com/](https://www.crystalsunflower.com/) \*Please note -- there are multiple restaurants with this name. **This event will be in VIENNA, VA,** at 2531 Chain Bridge Road Vienna, VA 22181. \*This event is cross-posted with the DMV Childfree Meetup and the Northern Virginia Childfree Couples and Individuals Meetup; if attending, please RSVP on only one group or the other. \*Feel free to just have something from their "small bites" menu or a non-alcoholic beverage if you're not hungry enough for a full dinner at that time. (LOL, I'll be having a full dinner myself.) \*Sunflower is a **100% vegetarian restaurant with a great selection of VEGAN dishes** that "look and taste like real meat, poultry, and seafood. The menu features Japanese, Chinese, and Continental style dishes." \*\*\*Please note: Fairfax County charges a **4% Food and Beverage Tax** in addition to the 6% sales tax. This restaurant also charges a **3% large-party billing fee** to prepare the checks. And of course the gratuity will be 18-20%. \*I’ll bring nametags. The restaurant said that they could create separate checks for each single or couple.

Are you looking to better understand your child’s mental health beyond behaviors or diagnoses? In this workshop, we’ll explore a holistic, root-cause approach to common challenges like anxiety, ADHD, depression, and PANS/PANDAS. Learn how nutrition, gut health, immune function, infections, and environmental exposures can all influence your child’s mood and behavior. We’ll also introduce how science-based functional lab testing can help uncover underlying imbalances and provide deeper insight into what may be driving symptoms. You’ll leave with practical, realistic strategies you can begin implementing at home, including brain-supportive foods and simple ways to support your child’s body and nervous system. At Golden Health Holistics, we believe in a whole-person approach—because every child is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. **Join us to gain a deeper understanding of your child’s mental health—and walk away with tools you can start using right away.** Spaces are limited. Please sign up by April 10, 2026, to secure your spot. **Event Details** **📅 Date:** April 11, 2026 **⏰ Time:** 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM **📍 Location:** Golden Health Holistics 46161 Westlake Dr, Ste 330, Sterling, VA 20165

[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).