Affordable Housing

learn more about the HPAP Down Payment Assistance Program \- Get up to $202\,000 in funds from the House Assistance Purchase Program \- Learn what the funds can go towards and the timeline to get approved \- Understand how to sign up for HPAP orientation \- Learn the benefits and challenges of HPAP in detail \- Discuss the current market conditions for HPAP buyers\.

Let's play Pour House Trivia at a great venue - Nighthawk Brewery! Besides being able to get some great beer, this place also sells good pizza in two different styles! Nighthawk is conveniently located in the Pentagon Row development in Pentagon City (Arlington). Parking is available at an adjacent garage right near the venue. Nighthawk is also accessible from the Pentagon City Metro station. The game starts at 7:00, but please try to arrive 15 minutes early to find us and get settled in. See you there!

Every Tuesday at 5pm! RSVP at the following link to receive login details: https://www.enggarcia.com/hbstuesday/ * The Districts Best first time home buyer webinar * Learn about the home buying process * How to qualify & what loans are available * Qualifying for DC Open Doors and other programs * Reduced down payment and closing cost opportunities We're looking forward to seeing you soon!

**Join us for an insider's guide to achieving financial freedom through house hacking.** We will share proven strategies for turning your home into a powerful wealth-building tool. Discover multiple methods to successfully house hack your way to financial independence, including how to find the right property, choose the proper strategy, and own for less than renting. Come for the training, stay for the networking! ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ **Did you miss it?** [Watch all GRID Reston event playback on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOTh5kxLLJI1G3VH6Pqhlhu0uTA8yrdpi) ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ **Join the GRID Facebook Community** [Join the online GRID community here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/gridinvestor) to post deals, ask questions, and connect with other investors across the globe.

Twenty years ago, George Mason University professor Zachary Schrag published the definitive history of the Washington Metro: "The Great Society Subway". With the 50th anniversary of the system coming up at the end of March, TEDC founder Will Rice will make a presentation based on the book. Many elements and conflicts combined to create the Metrorail we now enjoy: a trust in big government projects; the battle over urban highways; the emerging D.C. home rule movement; Black-white relations; and the balance of city and suburban interests. Come learn more about it all! Also at the meeting: pick up your pre-ordered Metro 50 t-shirt (for new purchases, an order form is [here](https://transitenthusiastsdc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/t-shirt-order-form.pdf)). And hear the latest news on how we plan to celebrate the system's golden anniversary on March 27!

Join us for Happy Hour and trivia at Caddies on Cordelle in Bethesda. Happy Hour prices last until 10 pm. Trivia starts at 7:30, but we will arrive early to get a table. https://caddiesoncordell.com/event/trivia-night/2025-06-24/

We'll use this time to meet new GRASP members and catch up with those we already know! Look for GRASP table flyers and Eli's GRASP shirt to easily find the group. This restaurant is a fast-casual format meaning it's easy to order and pay individually! Adult beverages are available and you can expect entrees in the $15 range. The [Torchy's Tacos menu is here](https://torchystacos.com/menu/) and they offer a wide variety of tacos, burritos, salads, and excellent sides. In living by their Damn Good mantra, they’re constantly innovating to ensure they’re delivering the tastiest tacos, queso, and margaritas in the game. Their Taco of the Month promotions allow them to provide unique tacos to Taco Junkies year 'round. The ingredients make the meal. That’s why they responsibly and ethically source every single ingredient, down to the jalapeño. From there, they work hard to whip up the best damn tacos, cooked to order, just the way you like 'em.

It's almost spring! That means, it's time for the Firefly House's annual Foundations class series. These classes are meant to provide students the opportunity to learn about the House and about our way of being Pagan. For the first class of our seven-class series, we'll be covering an introduction to the House and its way of being Pagan. Because Wicca is a formative part of our House's foundations, and we honor that foundation, we'll be talking a lot about it during this and the first few classes. But, rest assured, if you're not Wiccan, you're 100% welcome to join us as much as you're able and interested. Additionally, this first class goes over some key terms that we tend to use which, like "Paganism," can have a variety of meanings. Including them in an introductory video helps us to proceed onto the subsequent classes with a shared vocabulary and understanding. When you RSVP for this class, you'll be asked to provide an email address. We'll send you a link to the class video at that address as soon as possible after we receive it. We keep won't share your email with anyone ever. Watch the video before the class date and time, and come to class with any questions you might have. During the class session, we'll be going over anything from the video you wanted to review, and then for the remainder of the time, you can ask us anything you'd like about the House or Paganism in general and we'll do our best to answer. If you're comfortable with it, join us at the MLK Memorial Library in the Room 401-D to join the conversation in-person. Masks will be welcomed, but not provided, for in-person attendees. We will also have the necessary technology to allow folks to join in online via Google Meet if you prefer to attend remotely. Video conferencing information will be sent out the morning of the event. If you're connecting that way, please give us a few minutes past 3:30pm to get the stream online. This class is a part of our [foundations class series](https://docs.google.com/document/d/18-tA9ewEm1YEvY26jlWq07F2DT_-_HKwd-_wnl0l84g/edit?usp=sharing), which is only required if you wish to join the Firefly House as an initiate. If that does not interest you, then feel free to skip classes that you find less important for your journey. If you want to keep your options open with respect to initiation but cannot attend this session at the listed date and time, please contact the event host prior to the session. Keep in mind, you can only miss two of seven sessions in this way. Time spent with initiates of the House and your fellow classmates is an important part of knowing if you want to initiate. If you don't initiate, regardless of the reason, you're still welcome to all of the public events we organize. If you would like to, feel free to [join our Discord](https://discord.gg/RrS9XNzf9X) to chat with others in the Firefly House between sessions. This is also a great place to ask for help if you've lost a link to a video, for example. \*\*\* The Firefly House seeks to provide a friendly, safe environment in which all participants can engage in productive dialogue, sharing, and learning with each other in an atmosphere of mutual respect. We are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for all, regardless of gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body type, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact the host.

Learn more about our Home Buyer Program * get up to $202k in down payment assistance through HPAP * get up to $25K in grants from Maryland Mortgage Program * downpayment assistance options through DC Open Doors * how to qualify and what loans are available * loan application and approval process * repeat home buyer options * purchase price limits * market insight and home buying steps in a competitive market SIGN UP AT THE LINK BELOW: [https://www.enggarcia.com/egpwebinars/](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.enggarcia.com/egpwebinars/&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1705256818169980&usg=AOvVaw0qgqMgQjduPHADDDggU6H6)

Run starts promptly at 9:45 am and follows a 1.5 mile loop around the lake. Do however many loops you like! Run at your own pace. After the run, we'll meet at the Brew House for a beer or coffee and BREAKFAST pretzels! Those cannot be anything but delicious. See you there.

Every Saturday at 11am! RSVP at the following link to receive login details: https://www.enggarcia.com/hbscaphill/ The Districts Best first time home buyer webinar Learn about the home buying process How to qualify & what loans are available Qualifying for DC Open Doors and other programs Reduced down payment and closing cost opportunities We're looking forward to seeing you soon!

Support your blood pressure levels and make mindful, low-sodium choices without sacrificing taste during this cooking demonstration. Learn how to create recipes that are low in added sodium and bursting with flavor! Registration required. All ages welcome; FREE. **Marlow Heights Community Center** **[Register Here](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=cd6K140E0H5U282U3A4Q2K4I5W5Z566P1C5G4C4N6J0C5M4H5D55006U6C5D680D5L4E6C4O1I4O5S505A0B5L4M5N6H19624P6C4S0Y5U3M554V06715U535H1D5H515C&keyword=SPD-SPEC-GA-20260304&keywordoption=Match+One&dayoption=All&beginyear=&location=&display=Detail&module=global&multiselectlist_value=&globalwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

**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)** **RSVP CUTOFF (i.e. Final Change Your Mind if Registered YES)** → **RSVP Cancellation Cutoff for this Event is Saturday 10a, 3/7**. (Late Cancel applies after this, repeat occurrences can impact membership) *** Let's revisit one of my favorite places for Spanish Tapas / small plates. We’re headed to **Boqueria Penn Quarter** in **DC** (Penn Quarter / Chinatown) **FOOD**: Boqueria serves Spanish tapas style food meant for sharing. Menu favorites in late 2025 and early 2026 include pan con tomate, patatas bravas, jamon serrano and cheese boards, Albondigas meatballs, blistered Pimientos de Padrón, and croquetas including jamón and mushroom varieties. The seafood paella and grilled octopus are dishes that many guests highlight. Dessert churros are a popular way to finish the meal. Guests also praise the red sangria and cocktails. Most members spend between 40 and 70 dollars for dinner and drinks. → **Explore Boqueria Penn Quarter's menu: [https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=gmb#tabs_desc_14193_2](https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=gmb#tabs_desc_14193_2)**. **SPACE**: Modern, energetic dining room with bar seating and closely set tables. Expect a lively Saturday crowd and moderate noise. → Visit the restaurant site: [https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter](https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=gmb) +++++++++ ==> Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (see the FAQs for more details). ==> Limited to 8 slots See you there! JoeN \*\*\* **CLOSEST METRO**: * **Gallery Place  / Chinatown** (Red Line, Green, Yellow) is the closest major stop. Exit onto 7th St NW, walk west toward 9th St NW, turn right on 9th St. The walk is about **6–8 minutes**. **Metro Center** (Red, Silver, Orange, Blue) is similarly close. Exit onto 12th St NW, walk south to F St NW, turn left to 9th St NW. Same **6–8 minutes**. * For directions using the Metro, try using the Plan a Trip feature at the WMATA website ([click on your preferred Metro station](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/index.cfm) then at the Station page level click "Plan a Trip". **PARKING**: **Colonial Parking** is the closest and has a discount: [https://www.ecolonial.com/locations/boqueria-parking/](https://www.ecolonial.com/locations/boqueria-parking/) (ensure to use discount code BoqPark). There's not a lack of garages within a few blocks however. Street parking can be limited, especially on weekend evening. *** ***Attendance Notes:*** * **If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up**. With 5,800+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant. * **No-Show / Late Cancel rules apply** (see links below). * **Can’t get a slot?** Join the Waitlist and check back frequently—spots often open up before Noon on the day of the event. You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your 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. * **New Members / 1st Timers**: [Visit our FAQs](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C0GeZMWGwc1akHj63aViQ_5n1YpBqPt_/edit?usp=drivesdk&ouid=107783167750249492259&rtpof=true&sd=true) and [No-Show Policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BU0ZjQNdMwTjIkZVGlOlw8rTIia5xWhE/edit?usp=drivesdk&ouid=107783167750249492259&rtpof=true&sd=true) if you're unfamiliar with how we run things. Looking forward to dining with you! – JoeN

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Porter’s Coffee House. Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

(Note: RSVPing here on meetup does NOT reserve your seat. To do that, you’ll need to register at our website, **[HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=Columbus-in-person-chapter-meeting-Your-2026-Buy-Box-Successful-Rentals-101-14-3-3-2026)**.) Let’s be honest. In 2026, you can’t use 2023 strategies and “hope” a deal works out. Demand for rentals, wholesale deals, retail deals, and even loans has changed, and that means that the most active, experienced investors have changed the way they do deals (and maybe even the kinds of deals they’ll do). Here at COREE, our job is to shortcut your learning curve by introducing you to the people and concepts you need to take the shortest path from here to financial freedom, and we think you’ll agree that this meeting is a no-brainer, if you’re serious about making wealth-building deals this year. Here’s the detailed agenda: From 6:00–7:00 p.m., From 7:30–9:00 p.m., Agenda: 5:00–6:00 p.m. Complimentary Light Dinner & Networking 6:00–7:00 p.m\*\*. New Investor Meeting: Basics of Making Money in Rentals with Vena Jones-Cox\*\*. If you’re planning to buy rentals today, you have to know how to evaluate the REAL income and expenses before you make an offer. If you’re new, you’ll finally understand how rentals really produce profit. If you’ve been around a while, you’ll see how today’s numbers change the math. 7:00 –7:30 **Buy-Sell-Trade (Members Only)** Bring your deals, money, buyer lists, referrals, and requests. Fast-moving. Bring flyers or business cards. Guests get a quick orientation with Executive Director Vena Jones-Cox. 7:30–9:00 p.m. **Main Meeting: Your 2026 Buy Box: What Experienced Investors are Buying in 2026 (and what they won’t touch).** Our panel of active, experienced investors will lay out their 2026 buy boxes. Not hypotheticals. Not “in theory.” What they are actually buying—and what they won’t touch. They’ll share: * What property types investors are actively pursuing * What strategies they’ve stopped using * The exact numbers they require before they say yes * How insurance, taxes, and rates have tightened the buy box * What instantly disqualifies a deal in today’s market * How to define your own 2026 buy box based on capital and risk tolerance Members and non-members at any level of knowledge and experience are welcome—as long as you’re serious about real estate, value experience-based, no B.S. education, and want to give as much as you get. Remember, to actually reserve your seat, you have to go **[HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=Columbus-in-person-chapter-meeting-Your-2026-Buy-Box-Successful-Rentals-101-14-3-3-2026)** and register on our website!

**Understanding the Columbus Housing Market: Let’s Talk Downsizing for Seniors** Understanding the Market to Make Your Best Move Yet Thinking about downsizing or helping a parent prepare for a move? Join us for a friendly, educational seminar designed specifically for seniors in Central Ohio. We’ll break down what’s happening in today’s Columbus housing market, explore timing and planning for downsizing, and discuss easy ways to prepare a longtime home for sale—without overwhelm. You’ll also learn about low‑maintenance housing options, financial considerations, and simple steps to make your next move smooth and stress‑free. This is a relaxed, no‑pressure event where you can ask questions and get practical advice tailored to seniors and their families. Hosted by: Katie McCartney, Broker & Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES)

***THERE ARE BIG SCREENS FOR THE START OF THE WINTER OLYMPICS*** 👍 After being cooped up all week with this snow and cold, it’s a great time to get up out of the house and join us for a fun time at the Pint House!! **Come anytime during 4-8. Stay as long as you want. No set time*** **WE’RE NOW IN A BIGGER AREA!** It’s a chance to meet people in our age group regardless if you’re in your fifties, sixties or seventies! Retired or still working.

This month, we are in-person at GameArena!!! We will also be joined by students and their games from [Shawnee State](https://www.shawnee.edu/game-design-programs)! \-\-\- Join us for our our monthly COGG Prototype and Play event @GameArena! Come to play and showcase your games. We're back in the upper levels of the catwalk mezzanine area. It'll be packed with lots of camaraderie playing your game(s) and other's games on the 2nd floor as well as the 1st floor in the gaming room below the mezzanine. Light snacks and water provided but you can buy food and drinks at the bar (alcoholic drink ID required). [https://www.game-arena.co/menu](https://www.game-arena.co/menu) **Attendees:** Don't have a game to show? Not a problem! All are welcomed and invited from all ages and backgrounds. The more we can have to play test our games the better! **Developers:** Do you have a game that you would like to get critical feedback on? Would you like an excuse to work on a game with other talented artists, programmers, musicians, designers, and writers? Digital, table-top, non-experienced developers, and the like are welcomed! We'll provide signage for your game to help others learn more about your work. Wifi, outlets, tables, and seats (though standing tables also) are available. Come to the Prototype and Play workshop to collaborate and meet local game developers for an evening of epic and raw game play fun! Play works-in-progress, show off your own game, work with others to add polish to a game, or even lend your talents to other fellow developers. Can use South Garage at the Gateway with a $5 voucher on your way out. 75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9) If you have any questions or comments, as always, feel free to reach out to us at [info@thecogg.com!](http://info@thecogg.com!/)

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon