Firewalls

Title: What Is Progress? Knowledge Aggregation, Living Textbooks, and the Automation of Scientific Discovery Date: June 20 2026 Noon - 14:00 EDT Summary: Our collective knowledge infrastructure — the textbooks, professional training resources, and literature syntheses that define what professionals across disciplines believe to be true — is quietly accruing a structural liability. Compounded confirmation bias, stacked citation-by-citation into the foundations of formal knowledge, means that breakthroughs can take decades to reach the classrooms, clinical workflows, and decision-making frameworks where they matter most. Meanwhile, the deepest friction is rarely acknowledged: before any field can build meaningful consensus on "why" or "how" a phenomenon occurs, it must first establish honest, consolidated agreement on "what" has actually been observed. That prior step is routinely skipped, assumed, or fragmented across siloed literatures that never cross-pollinate. This talk introduces a framework called "Knowledge Aggregation" — with two distinct but complementary ambitions. The first is descriptive transparency: algorithmically mapping what has been said, measured, and documented across a problem space, without imposing causal interpretation or narrative. The second traces the boundary between empirical observation and explanatory claim, building systems that can separate the "what" from the "why/how" — because consensus on mechanism cannot be meaningfully constructed until consensus on phenomenon is first established. Both ambitions are now within reach. By composing tools already at our disposal — large language models, classical NLP pipelines, public data repositories, and engineering-grade automation frameworks — it becomes possible to model knowledge itself, rather than merely imitate individual experts. One concrete expression of this is automating the writing of living textbooks: compressing the lag from bleeding-edge discovery, through replicated evidence, all the way to professional training resources. But the deeper aspiration reaches further — toward automating the discovery of scientific insights that have never previously been conceived, by systematically surfacing hypothesis combinations that no single siloed researcher would have had the cross-disciplinary vantage point to even ask. Drawing on ongoing systems biology and computational research — with ME/CFS research demoed as a use case for what siloed, fragmented knowledge infrastructure costs in practice — this talk maps the conceptual architecture, the real-world friction, and the data science toolkit for building it. Speaker: As a systems biologist at heart, Sam specializes his biomedical research on interactions and connections in biology - rather than just one domain of expertise. He wears many hats and collects skill sets across disciplines, with degree studies and industry experience acquired across Chemical Engineering (BSc), Bioinformatics (MSc), Systems and Synthetic Biology (M2), Biomedical Sciences (MSc), and beyond. Even more important to him than niches or fields of work, comes down to the synergistic approaches that allow us to move beyond reductionism. The notion that a question can only allow for one answer, is inherently reductionist. By resisting many norms in science and engineering which can get overly reductive, his current role as Principal Investigator of Research for DMV Petri Dish (501(c)(3) non-profit local to the DMV region) embraces computational frameworks that aide scale-up and automation - not only around the processes which already exist with established workflows, but also taking a keen interest in attempting and accomplishing ambitions which have never been perceived to be possible previously. Sam carries a passion for the synergy of computational biology - fused with wet lab validation. This way, one can build a beautiful knowledge base in the theoretical sense, and then test to see if said computational prediction might actually be able to stand in the real world with wet lab validation. Translational modeling starts to become possible once biological experiment design can be iteratively looped alongside computational model design, optimization, and analysis - empowering the design of a better wet lab experiment, followed by a better computational model, back and forth until science is done!

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy nature! We meet Saturdays at 10am, by the bike racks and benches 150 feet in front of BUBBLES Hair Salon in Reston, leaving no later than 10:05. Every week we'll walk the Green Trail to Lake Anne Plaza (\~1 mile), pause there for 5-10 minutes (water, bio, and from April-Nov a Farmer's Market), then circle the lake (2 miles) before returning to our starting point. It's roughly 3.5 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to a local restaurant to refuel and relax before tackling the rest of the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels, and both friends and dogs are always welcome! We recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water bottle, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll always walk, rain or shine. By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

**📢 Please RSVP only if you're confident you can attend. This trip requires significant planning and coordination, and attendance numbers affect reservations and logistics. If you RSVP "Yes," please treat it as a commitment to join us. If you fail to show up you may be removed from the group based on the organizers discretion**. Join us for an unforgettable overnight summer getaway filled with beauty, sunshine and charm! This trip is a must for anyone looking to experience Longwood Gardens and Winterthur Museum in the summer month. 🗓 Dates: ●Saturday, June 20th: Longwood Gardens (**meeting at the Visitor center at 1:30pm) and entering at 2pm for our timed ticket!** ●Sunday, June 21st: Winterthur Gardens 📍Address: ●Longwood Gardens: 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348 💰$38 tickets purchase [here](https://visit.longwoodgardens.org/webstore/shop/viewItems.aspx?cg=1&c=59) **~Choose the 2pm timeslot.** ●Winterthur Gardens: 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803 💰$27 tickets - purchase your tickets [here](https://my.winterthur.org/115979/118222) *purchase your tickets ASAP, since tickets do sell out fast* 🏨Lodging: We will be staying in a hotel overnight on Saturday Evening and Checking out of the hotel in the morning on Sunday. The Hotel we have picked for our group is: 🏨DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wilmington Address: 4727 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE, 19803 As of today 5/30 the rate for the stay is $160, please book your room before the price increases! If this hotel does not fit your budget, you are welcome to book another hotel, just keep in mind the distance it will be from Winterthur Gardens since that is the location we will be visiting on Sunday and we will be checking out of the hotel on Sunday. **Itinerary:** 📆Saturday June 20: 1:30 PM – Arrive at Longwood Gardens 🚗 parking available in the huge parking lot. Meet inside the visitor center. 2:00 PM – Enter Longwood Gardens 🌺 Begin our visit and get checked in. 2:15 PM – 3:30 PM – Lunch at the Gardens 🥗 Enjoy lunch and relax before exploring. 3:30 PM – Explore Longwood Gardens 🌸 Stroll through the outdoor gardens 🌿 Visit the Conservatory and indoor displays 📸 Take photos and enjoy the seasonal exhibits 🚶 Explore at a comfortable pace with plenty of free time once we finish the garden we will head to our hotel and Check-In. Time TBD - Group Dinner 🍽️ Enjoy dinner together and unwind after a day in the gardens. 📅 Sunday June 21: 9:30 AM – Hotel Check-Out 10:00 AM – Breakfast ☕ Enjoy a group breakfast at a diner. 12:00 PM – Visit Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library 🏛️ Explore the museum collections 🌳 Walk through the beautiful gardens and grounds 📚 Learn about the history and culture of the estate Head back to DC after our visit. 🌟 Let’s make unforgettable memories together!

**NEW MEMBERS or 1st TIME EVENT GO-ERS** Before attending your first event, please take a moment to understand how our dinners work and what we ask of members. → **[Learn how DC Metro Dining works](https://tinyurl.com/Landing-Page-DC-Metro-Dining)** → **[Ensure Group Notifications are Setup (Announcements + In on Waitlist/Attending List)](https://app.tango.us/app/workflow/Enable-Meetup-Email-Notifications-3a85109614fc4907940503d096331392)** **RSVP CUTOFF (i.e. Final Change Your Mind if Registered YES)** → **RSVP Cancellation Cutoff for this Event is Sunday 10a, 6/6**. (*Late Cancel applies after this, repeat occurrences can impact membership*) I’m reviving the “Under the Radar” dinner series, where we check out restaurants that may not always get the same level of mainstream attention but have built strong reputations with local diners. This event takes us to **Guerra Steakhouse** in Rosslyn, Arlington, created by two former kitchen employees from the legendary Ray's the Steaks, the once highly regarded value steakhouse that built a loyal following across the DC metro region before closing years ago. Guerra continues that approachable steakhouse philosophy with generous portions, strong execution, and pricing that compares favorably against many traditional DC-area steakhouses. **FOOD**: Guerra Steakhouse focuses on classic steakhouse fare with a Latin American influence. Recent diners consistently highlight the ribeye, filet mignon, skirt steak, and steak frites for strong flavor and solid value relative to the DC market. Seafood items and sides are also well reviewed, and several guests note that portions tend to be generous without pushing into overly formal steakhouse pricing territory. Vegetarians have some options on the menu, but it is a steakhouse. The menu supports a range of ordering styles, from lighter dinners with appetizers and drinks to more traditional steakhouse meals with sides and wine. Reviews frequently mention attentive service and good value for Rosslyn dining. Reviews frequently mention attentive service and good value for Rosslyn dining. Most members should expect to spend between 45 and 90 dollars for dinner and drinks after tax and tip, depending on ordering style and alcohol on ordering style & beverage participation. → **Explore Guerra Steakhouse's menu (pdf):** **[https://www.guerrasteakhouse.com/](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/61685c8159b81c42ad566c2a/t/698bcf93c7f47d661a191051/1770770323587/dinner.pdf)** **SPACE:** Comfortable and modern dining room with an upscale casual feel. Expect a lively but manageable atmosphere on a Saturday evening, with moderate noise levels and a neighborhood dinner crowd → **Visit the restaurant sit**e:**[ https://www.guerrasteakhouse.com](https://www.guerrasteakhouse.com/)** - Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (see the FAQs for more details) - Limited to 8 slots See you there Joe **CLOSEST METR**O - **Rosslyn station** (Blue, Orange, Silver) is the closest stop. Exit toward Wilson Blvd and walk west along Wilson Blvd toward N Quinn St. The walk is about 10 - 13 minutes using standard pedestrian routing and traffic signals - For directions using the Metro, try using the Plan a Trip feature at the WMATA website [(click on your preferred Metro statio](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/index.cfm)n then at the Station page level click "Plan a Trip" **PARKING**: Several paid parking garages are available throughout Rosslyn within a short walk of the restaurant, though pricing can vary significantly on weekends. Street parking availability is mixed depending on nearby residential and nightlife traffic. Members may also want to check parking apps such as SpotHero and Parking Panda for discounted garage reservations and advance booking options nearby. Plan accordingly *** Attendance Notes*** - ***If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up****. With 5,400+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant.* - **New Members / 1st Timers: Trying to get a slot? Join** the Waitlist and check back frequently: spots (often open up on the morning of the event). You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your Meetup DMs inbox. - **Billing Reminder - Add 30% for tax and tip to your food and drink total**. This is part of our group’s expectations and helps smooth out service with the restaurant Looking forward to dining with you Joe

For this gathering, we we will not only be tapping into the change of year but the change of day. The first hour will be dedicated to the sun, the second to twilight and the third to the moon. We will be tapping into opening ourselves up to release what we no longer choose to carry to make room for direct intentions. This gathering will include mantras, mudras, guided meditation, movement and ceremony. This is a special opportunity to open our hearts and the power of intention setting... if the weather allows, this event will be outside around the fire. So please dress and place accordingly. Space is limited, so RSVP is required. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. We will start promptly at 630. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome, as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. You are also welcome to walk our grounds or check out our crystal shop. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable Rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile long driveway into the woods. You will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) so as to not stir up any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway, so it’s important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. Suggested Donation: $25. There's a bowl placed out front. Put in what feels right. There are also Venmo and Paypal options. Please reach out for alternative options. With Love and Gratitude

Covid Alert: We will start having classes again at Canal Park on Wednesdays and the dojo on Saturdays. Please bring your own hand sanitizer, and a mask are a must! We'll practice from a safe distance from each other; and progress from there. On Saturdays, class is limited to the first 5 persons to rsvp (until further notice) "DC Kali" is an official training group for FCS Kali. Our curriculum includes knifes, swords, stick-fighting, striking, and grappling; but we place a special emphasis on edged weapons. Please come out and learn some Kali. Our aim is to train hard, learn some sound defense strategies, and make friends along the way. Although FCS Kali is a combat-oriented systems that involves edged weapons, we provide a safe environment for learning w/o sacrificing realism in our training. We teach in small semi-private groups, allowing each individual student to progress as quickly as he or she can absorb the info being taught. Hope to see you all there. Mosi K. Jack, Esq. Training Group Instructor · FCS Manong (under Tuhon Ray Dionaldo) http://www.fcskali.com/ ) Filipino Combat Systems is an organization dedicated the preservation and promotion of all Filipino Martial Arts. Filipino Combat Systems(FCS) is an organization/system with members from around the world. FCS is based on Tuhon Ray Dionaldo's over 35 years of practicing various FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) styles. He's combine elements of each, into one system that's efficient, fast, concise, and logical. FCS members have extremely diverse backgrounds, and Martial Arts systems. We’ve all come together because of our love of the Filipino Martial Arts, and our unwillingness to become involved in the politics that has so often stifled our growth. Please pick one of the following class and fee combos: Drop-In Fee: $25/per class (after 1st free Saturday class) Monthly fees: $80/month (Wednesday park classes included for free), or Quarterly fees: $210/every 3 months (which comes to $70/month; includes the Wednesday park classes), or Wednesday Park only: $50/month • Cash and Paypal are preferred method of payment (online payments via Square are available at: https://squareup.com/market/dc-kali ) • One free trial class is permitted (but must rsvp ahead of class) • Equipment: if you have training knives, rattan sticks, training swords, and/or mma gloves bring them. If not, we may have a few extra. Training Videos http://www.fcskaliphilippines.com/fcs-curriculum-videos.html http://www.bloodnbonesgear.com/id5.html

**External registration required:** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fireflies-and-bats-walk-tickets-1988200824186 Let's get some CCANers together for an event hosted by the Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail! An evening firefly and bat walk near the Alexandria sailing marina. All event details will be posted on the Eventbrite page (see link above). Please register and buy your ticket on Eventbrite to be able to attend the event, and make sure to RSVP here on meetup so we know who from CCAN to look out for!

*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.* [Up to 6 mile fitness and nature hike.] THIS IS A TWO-FER: First we'll start at the Belle Haven picnic area along the paved Mt. Vernon Trail and do a roughly 3.5-mile, moderately paced hike to Jones Point Lighthouse on the Potomac River. After we return to our starting point, we'll head to the Dyke Marsh Preserve and hike slower through the marina and then along the 3/4-mile dirt trail to the end of the boardwalk and back We'll hike at about 2.5 - 3 mph when moving along most of the hike -- but on our return through the preserve, we'll stroll SUPER SLOWLY and stop often to enjoy the bulk of the fireflies in near darkness -- from roughly 9:30 to 10ish p.m. (NOTE: There is NO guarantee that we'll see fireflies but we likely will, according to a well-known naturalist.) **\*MUST-READ\* IMPORTANT NOTES:** PARK CLOSES AT 10 P.M. but there is no gate and the trail is still open to commuters so we don't have to rush to get back to our cars. PRACTICE SAFETY WITH YOUR FLASHLIGHT SINCE WE'LL BE WALKING IN THE DARK! Adults only. Restrooms at start and at the lighthouse. STAY RIGHT ON THE MT. VERNON TRAIL due to the bike and pedestrian traffic for everyone's safety. Adults only. No pets, not even pet fireflies. **WEATHER:** Hike likely be postponed if there is rain. Weather forecast will be posted here on Thursday by 5 p.m. https://www.weather.gov [https://www.weather.gov](https://www.weather.gov) **MEET:** 7 p.m. by the restrooms on the Mt. Vernon Trail near Dyke Marsh Preserve. (Belle Haven picnic area.) Copy these GPS coordinates into Google Maps: 38.780110, -77.052038 **BRING:** MANDATORY FLASHLIGHT (preferably with a RED LIGHT option or cellophane cover so it doesn't interfere with the fireflies) AND MANDATORY WATER, sense of awe, and sense of humor. Optional: bug spray or long pants for mosquitos, fully-charged cell phone, and/or camera. iPhones seem useless for the firefly photos but "real" cameras and some Samsung phones seem equipped to photograph them. **MT. VERNON TRAIL MAP:** [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Mt-Vernon-Trail-map-508-2021.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Mt-Vernon-Trail-map-508-2021.pdf) **DYKE MARSH PRESERVE**: NPS: [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/dykemarsh.htm](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/dykemarsh.htm) Friends group: [https://www.fodm.org](https://www.fodm.org) **DC BOUNDARY STONES:** (We’ll see the first one marking the new District of Columbia. It will disappear someday.) [https://boundarystones.org](https://boundarystones.org) **JONES POINT LIGHTHOUSE:** (One of America's last rivertine lighthouses.) [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/learn/historyculture/jonespointlighthouse.htm](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/learn/historyculture/jonespointlighthouse.htm) **NORTHERN VIRGINIA FIREFLIES:** [https://www.audubonva.org/news/wildlife-sanctuary-almanac-2024-june](https://www.audubonva.org/news/wildlife-sanctuary-almanac-2024-june) **FIREFLY CONSERVATION & RESEARCH:** (I posted this so you can learn more about protecting fireflies. I used this organization's firefly photo but it is not connected to our event.) [https://www.firefly.org](https://www.firefly.org)

**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.

Be there or get chubby. You decide. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/7/2/600_364811122.jpeg RSVPs are required. The reason is that it should increase your own enjoyment. You see, the ideal number of players for a pickup soccer game is perhaps 6x6 - 8x8; some players won't attend if they think the turnout will be low, and others will just assume the game will be cancelled even though we always play. (As a practical matter, smaller games are less fun since the comics won't have the audience they need, but, they do have two hidden benefits: shorter, more intense games/workouts and fewer face kicks/yellow cards. So we play no matter how small or large.) So non-RSVPers are a little short sighted, since they don't seem to want to maximize their own enjoyment in the long run. Rational and sane players who have a good chance of attending RSVP a week early both here and at https://meetup.com/dcsoccer , the parent soccer group.

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

As the Pathfinders slowly regain their footing within the elven nation of Kyonin, Venture-Captain Viore Ciobanu has set his sights on cleaning up what remains of Talhindir Lodge. As such, he's requested a small group of Pathfinders to come and assist him with some minor pest control in the basement library and archives within the lodge, and is happy to reassure them that there's no danger greater than a stubborn rat or hungry centipede. However, when the doors shut behind the agents, it quickly becomes all too clear that sometimes empty lodges aren't always as empty as they seem... A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for 1st- through 4th-level characters, playable in 4-5 hours. Written by John Curtin **Content Note**: This scenario contains themes of involuntary imprisonment, blood, and experiencing death. Before you begin, understand that player consent (including that of the Game Master) is vital to a safe and fun play experience for everyone. You should talk with your players before beginning the adventure and modify descriptions of the narrative as appropriate.

We are bringing Microsoft Build sessions to Columbus Ohio! The Central Ohio Azure Meetup and Central Ohio .NET Developer's Group (CONDG) are coming together to bring some of the labs and breakouts from Microsoft Build to your backyard. In this free, 1 day event, you are going to Build stuff with us! And yes, there will be free food. Please RSVP via [Microsoft Build //localhost:columbus | Microsoft Reactor](https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/reactor/events/27247/).

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

We've moved to guild.host Look for us there. https://guild.host/events/buckeye-cocoaheads-nscoders-tcbrk5

Newly retired or settling into this next chapter and looking to meet people? Join us for our next get-together! This relaxed gathering is for local retirees of all backgrounds—whether you have just stepped away from work or have been enjoying retirement for years and simply want some good company. We will have easy conversation, friendly faces, and plenty of opportunities to chat and connect with others in the neighborhood who are at the same stage of life. - **Cost:** Completely Free! - **Refreshments:** Complimentary tea, coffee, and snacks will be provided to keep the conversation flowing. - **What to bring:** Just yourself, a smile, and a willingness to make new friends! Spaces are limited to keep the gathering warm and welcoming, so please RSVP to secure your spot. We can't wait to meet you! See you there!

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** *Customize the IDE: Building Extensions for Visual Studio Code* Visual Studio Code is one of the most widely used development environments today, and much of its flexibility comes from its extension ecosystem. Extensions allow developers to customize the editor with new features, integrations, and workflow improvements tailored to their needs. In this session, we’ll cover what extensions are and the different types available, including full extensions written in TypeScript or JavaScript, along with lighter-weight extensions such as color themes, language packs, language support, code snippets, and keymaps. We’ll also look at practical reasons a developer might create an extension, from automating repetitive tasks to adding custom tooling. The session includes a hands-on walkthrough of creating a new extension, testing it locally, and understanding the basic project structure. We’ll close with a brief overview of how extensions are packaged and published to the Visual Studio Marketplace and other distribution options. **YouTube Link** TBD

Join us for the best **fireworks** show in the Columbus area, [Dublin Independence Day Celebration](https://www.visitdublinohio.com/event/independence-day-celebration/203/)! **7pm**: *We'll gather at **Urban's Pint House*** to meet n greet for a bit and grab some drinks and eats. **8:30pm**: *Head over the* **Bridge to Old Dublin** and **Getaway Brewing** (*second meetup spot*). **9:30pm**: *walk across the street to secure space on the* **top level of the Library Parking Garage.** **9:50pm**: **FIREWORKS SHOW!** **AFTERPARTY**: traffic is bad for a while so either get in line to exit the parking garage OR hang out at **PINS** (or Roosevelt Room) open til late back at Bridge Park. **PARKING**: the garages all around Bridge Park are free!

Most people still use AI like a search box: type one question, get one answer, repeat. But the next step is AI agents: systems that can take a goal, break it into steps, use tools, remember context, and produce useful work for a human to review. In this beginner-friendly session, we’ll demystify what AI agents actually are — without hype or jargon. We’ll walk through practical examples of how agents can help with research, planning, writing, coding, operations, and personal productivity. We’ll cover: * What makes an AI “agent” instead of just a chatbot * How agents break tasks into steps * Where agents are genuinely useful today * Where they fail, hallucinate, or need human review * How to design simple AI workflows for your own work * A live demo of an AI agent-style workflow from start to finish No coding experience required. This is for anyone who wants to understand where AI tools are going and how to use them more effectively right now. LOGISTICS AND PARKING: The talk starts at 7:00 PM. The first half hour is reserved for everyone to get set up and mingle. Free pizza and drinks! The cheapest parking option is to find street parking, which will only cost you a few bucks. Otherwise, park in the nearby veteran's museum lot for $8. It's highly recommended you avoid the nearby $15 garage parking.