Citizen Journalism

Join the [Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) and [A Fighting Chance Foundation](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about) for a special fundraising event at Lost Rhino Brewing in Ashburn VA on Friday, March 13th. Come out to enjoy a fun Friday night of music, friendship, and great food and drinks, all for two great causes! **Special musical guests** – The Outpatients (Northern VA band well known for their Americana musical mayhem). **Tickets: $10** at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Loudoun Wildlife and A Fighting Chance. Lost Rhino is also graciously donating **10%** of all sales to both organizations. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is a volunteer-powered nonprofit working to protect, preserve, and restore wildlife habitat while shaping a Loudoun where people and wildlife thrive together. Learn more at: [https://www.loudounwildlife.org](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) A Fighting Chance is ensures that all pets are given the best chance possible to recover from a life-threatening medical condition or accident regardless of the financial circumstances of their caregivers. Learn more at: [https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about)

***Please read all and make sure you agree before you sign up.*** **Court Type:** Outdoor Sand **Level:** adv beginners+/intermediate (BB/A) **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the sand courts, behind the courts, and there is garage parking close to the courts. Metro is the Blue and Yellow Lines. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball if you have one. **MAX:** 10 players per net. (1 Net) **Restroom:** Restrooms are across the street in the restaurants. **Host's Philosophy on This Event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. This is a space where you won’t be judged for making mistakes, ***but we do expect you to listen to the organizer if they make suggestions or adjustments***. We also expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this event isn’t intended for total beginners; an understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have issues with this ahead of the event. [https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Smiley Attendance Ratio\* > Skills (BB>B) > New Members The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event. One no-show means you will be removed from the group. See the rules below. **\*The organizers can see the number of times you have attended events vs the times you have dropped out. If your drop rate is more than 50%, you may not be accepted to the going list.** [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** * Bringing your **dog** is welcome and encouraged. * *Can I come if I don't know how to play?* No, you may not. The host teaches a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. * *Can I be late or leave early?* The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to arrive late or leave early, please let the host know in advance. * *Can I come even if I am not on the going list?* No, sorry * Why Max the players at 10 when you can do 6v6? This court is already for 2v2; getting 6 players on each side is overkill. * How can I become a regular if I don't ever get to attend? You can attend my other events on weekdays/weekends. Show me you have good skills and bring good vibes! **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)

Sci-fi convention

What role do the arts play in building strong, vibrant communities? How can creativity bring people together across differences, spark dialogue, and strengthen our shared sense of belonging? Join us for an open, engaging discussion on how visual art, music, theater, literature, film, and public art contribute to community life. Whether you’re an artist, arts supporter, educator, organizer, or simply someone who values culture, this conversation is for you. We’ll explore questions such as: * How do the arts create connection across cultural, generational, and social divides? * Can creative expression help communities heal after conflict or crisis? This is a dialogue — not a lecture — designed to surface diverse perspectives and lived experiences. Expect thoughtful conversation and opportunities to imagine new possibilities together. **All are welcome.**

UPDATE: Here is the CalTopo track (thanks, Vinay!): https://caltopo.com/m/PD2AAFC/SSC7R007HN4A781U Let’s just stay in the “neighborhood” next month. I considered backpacking another segment of West Virginia’s Allegheny Trail, but it is too far to drive and set up a shuttle for an ordinary weekend. I’ll save it for Memorial Day weekend in May. But don’t let the “neighborhood" tag fool you. This 36 mile loop features 3,700 feet of climbing Saturday and 2,400 Sunday. If you’ve been getting soft during these cold winter weeks, you’ll feel this one! (I’ve given this trip the “neighborhood” title because it is in our “backyard” and because it goes over Neighbor Mountain. Ok. I’ve had funnier trip titles . . .) **FRIDAY**: We’ll meet at the Vienna Metro at 5:00 p.m. to park at Thornton Gap. https://maps.app.goo.gl/1wd8gzfJnYSXh2v87DC We’ll hike 1.5 miles north on the Appalachian Trail to camp at the Pass Mtn. Hut. It will be 1.5 miles. **SATURDAY**: We’ll hike north on the AT, turn left on the Neighbor Mtn Trail, turn right on the Jeremy’s Run Trail back to the AT, continuing north to the Gravel Springs Hut. It will be 22 miles. **SUNDAY:** We’ll hike south on the AT to Keyser Run Rd to Pole Link Bridge Trail to Piney Branch Trail to Hull School Trail to Rocky Branch Trail back to the AT south to Thornton Gap. It will be 15 miles. **DC ULers have maps!:** https://store.avenza.com/products/shenandoah-national-park-north-district-patc-map-9-edition-20-potomac-appalachian-trail-club-inc-map?queryID=undefined&objectID=44993907359900 I can also email you a .gpx track if you request. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-**THE IMPORTANT WARNINGS**\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- I’m just a co-participant on this trip, not a guide or an expert. I’ve been hiking with DCUL since 2017 but have no special training, such as organizational, medical, or navigational.
You are officially on the trip if you both RSVP on Meetup, we engage by email, text, or the app, and you meet me at the Metro. Otherwise, you are doing your own trip until you make physical contact with me and I recognize you as a co-participant. I’m open to questions. By RSVPing to this trip or any other DCUL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DCUL's waiver liability terms (https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/) COVID-19 policy: https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/ Dues: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DCUL profile. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15 ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.)

Can’t make it out in person? Join your **DTs friends** for our Weekly Virtual Happy Hour — a relaxed, welcoming space to unwind, chat, and connect from wherever you are. Whether you’re catching up with familiar faces or meeting new people for the first time, Virtual Happy Hour is all about easy conversation, shared laughs, and low-pressure connection. Bring your favorite drink, get comfortable, and drop in when you can. ✨ **No RSVP needed. Just click the link and join.** Come relax, connect, and **find your tribe** with DTs — from anywhere. 💙💻 Join in via Google Meet: [https://meet.google.com/jvc-ajhk-vci](https://meet.google.com/jvc-ajhk-vci)

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

Join us for a cozy, in-person journaling session! Whether you’re new to journaling or a seasoned writer, this meetup is a great opportunity to carve out some intentional time for self-reflection, creativity, and connection with others. Event Outline: • We’ll begin with brief introductions so everyone can get to know each other. • I’ll provide a journaling prompt to help guide your writing. • Afterward, we’ll take about 10 minutes to write quietly. You can use the prompts or go wherever your thoughts take you! • Once we’re finished, we’ll come back together and share (if you feel comfortable). This is a chance to reflect on the process or share insights, but sharing is completely optional. • We'll repeat this process with another prompt or two as time allows. Bring your favorite journal or notebook, and get ready to enjoy some thoughtful, reflective time in a welcoming community. Grab a coffee or tea from the café, settle in, and let’s journal together! Feel free to come as you are—no prior experience necessary. We can’t wait to meet you!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“A Practical Guide to Social Change,”** a research-based look at how communities bring about reform and progress, with Marissa Robinson, founder of Real Health Impact LLC and an adjunct professor at George Washington University who teaches courses focused on public health leadership and social change. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-social-change](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-social-change) .] Systems built on inequality rarely transform without deliberate pressure from the people most committed to justice, because progress takes coordination, conviction and willingness to change what has always been accepted. Real change starts when people choose to move together. Learn what research and experience say about how to make real social progress with Dr. Marissa Robinson, a public health practitioner who previously worked in federal agencies coordinating global and national public health initiatives focused on infectious diseases, HIV, and health equity. Among the key questions she’ll tackle: How do communities overcome barriers to create real change? When should evidence guide decisions and when does context matter more? She’ll discuss established frameworks for moving from intention to measurable progress and talk about the importance of building coalitions that actually work and of making decisions grounded in real data. You’ll learn about the importance of testing ideas on a small scale before going big, as well as how to use rapid feedback loops and continuous improvement cycles to refine approaches and scale what truly works. Dr. Robinson will share stories of ordinary people and communities who refused to accept the status quo and pushed through real barriers to achieve breakthrough results. She’ll talk about practical strategies, usable frameworks, and evidence-based examples that people can apply immediately in their own communities and organizations to support change that lasts. If you have dreamed about bringing about progress in your world, this talk will give you the clarity, direction, and confidence it takes to turn such dreams into reality. ( Door: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

Join us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community. We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **6:45 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **7 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell.* *Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close with tea and informal conversation On **first Sundays**, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

# ✨ Real Founder Lessons for Builders & Career Pivoters (Ashburn) **Saturday, March 14 • 2–4 PM • Ashburn, VA** What if growing your work didn’t have to come with constant exhaustion? This entrepreneur-focused session is a behind-the-scenes conversation about how to build, pivot, and scale **without burning yourself out** — and without chasing work that drains your energy. Whether you’re launching something new, navigating a career pivot, or rebuilding after a layoff, the principles are the same: 👉 protect your energy 👉 make smarter pivots 👉 build momentum that lasts 👉 apply AI practically to support smarter decisions and workflows Over 12 years, I’ve launched **7 startups and side hustles** — alongside **21 years in corporate tech leadership**. The biggest lesson wasn’t scaling tactics… It was learning when to pivot, how to sustain momentum, and how to align what energizes you with what serves your customers — an approach that generated **revenue** in my first full-time year without burnout. A key part of that evolution has been learning how to integrate AI in grounded, practical ways — helping accelerate testing, decision-making, and workflow clarity without adding complexity. During this session, I’ll share real founder insights — including a live screen walkthrough — showing how smart pivots happen and what separates intentional growth from reactive hustle. *** ## What We’ll Explore 1. **How to recognize when to pivot — and when to stay the course** 2. **Building energy-first systems instead of burnout cycles** 3. **Founder decision-making under pressure** 4. **Designing work that supports long-term momentum** 5. **Why sustainable growth outperforms hustle culture** 6. **Using AI strategically to support pivots, experimentation, and smarter workflows** This is not a lecture or pitch — it’s a grounded founder conversation for people who want to grow smarter and build work that lasts. Expect practical thinking, humor, and takeaways you can use immediately. *** ## Event Details 💵 $20 RSVP — includes coffee + snacks 📍 Ashburn, VA (exact address shared after RSVP) 🕑 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM 👥 Max 15 attendees — intentionally small for meaningful conversation Most attendees are professionals, founders, and growth-minded builders navigating reinvention, pivots, or startup ideas. *** ## About the Space — Startup Garage Style Hosted in my early-founder style startup garage — a **bright, spacious, comfortable Ashburn living room** designed for focused conversation and practical learning. These sessions are intentionally intimate — closer to a founder roundtable than a seminar. *** ## Background — Corporate to Founder Journey After **21 years in corporate tech leadership**, including senior director role, I transitioned into full-time entrepreneurship, building on years of startup and side-hustle experience. If you’re exploring a career pivot or next chapter, you’ll find this conversation highly practical. *** ## 🔗 Builder Ecosystem & Resources 🌐 Website: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co) ▶ YouTube (300K+ views): [https://www.youtube.com/@midlife_mindfulness](https://www.youtube.com/@midlife_mindfulness) 💼 LinkedIn (4K+ followers): [https://www.linkedin.com/in/anju-debnath-0061524/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/anju-debnath-0061524/) 🤝 Meetup Community: [https://www.meetup.com/ashburn-transition-meetup-group/](https://www.meetup.com/ashburn-transition-meetup-group/) 📚 Amazon Author Page (2 Books published, more on the way): [https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anju-Debnath/author/B0FFNBVZLQ](https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anju-Debnath/author/B0FFNBVZLQ) Everything shared comes from lived founder experience — not theory. *** **Space is intentionally limited to ensure focused discussion, interactive learning, and practical takeaways you can use immediately.**

\* Please RSVP Only With Confirmed Attendance \* I have reserved timed-entry passes to visit the incredible Glenstone Museum. Parking and entry are free. https://www.glenstone.org/ "We're a museum located just outside Washington, D.C. — a space where you can slow down, be in nature, and engage directly with art. Whether you're visiting for the first or fifth time, Glenstone is here to give you a space for ongoing reflection and contemplation." We will meet @1245 in the welcome center lobby.

Members of the public are invited to view the wonders of the universe through the telescopes of NOVAC volunteers at the Smithsonian's Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. Telescopes will be provided by the Smithsonian and pre-approved members of the NOVAC. No other personal telescopes are permitted at the event. The event will take place on the bus parking lot of the museum. **Please park your vehicle at the south end of the main visitors lot and follow signs and red lights to the observing site. As a reminder, parking during the event is free.** Have a cosmic question? One of NOVAC's astronomers or museum staff will be happy to help you. As the sky gets dark, be prepared to enjoy the wonders of the night sky! Don't forget to dress warmly. Please check the weather forecast. For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (the darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated. Note: This outdoor event is weather-dependent and may be cancelled because of significant cloud cover or precipitation.

We had a great conversation the last time we went here. For everyone attending this was a new find, a cafe tucked away on the upper level, not immediately noticeable by the average visitor to this shopping center. I’ll probably have a matcha, but get whatever you like, and start the weekend off right. (No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

Let’s hang out and journal together, trade stationary and stickers, and have a good time! Please note, we do not have a reservation, so we will do our best to find some good spots when we get there.

**Regular Garden admission and memberships apply.** | Ages 5 & under | Free | | -------------- | ---- | | Age 6 - 17 | $5.00 | | Age 18 - 59 | $9.00 | | Age 60 and over | $5.00 | **We will meet at the visitor center.** **Bring Water, a tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards** **There is no specific route in this park. Folks are free to wander around the trails in the park at their own pace.** **Check out Rob Trek's video from May 16, 2021: [https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y](https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y)** **For lunch, after the field trip around 12:00 PM, we will head to The Virginian Restaurant, 169 Glyndon St SE, Vienna, VA 22180** Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Beauty, conservation, education, and discovery flourish throughout the year at this 95-acre complex of large ornamental display gardens and unique native plant collections. Walking trails, lakes, more than twenty varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms, and foliage create a sanctuary of beauty and nature. https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/ By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

Join us for another optional writing session! Feel free to bring a project you're already working on or start something new with us. If anything interesting comes up while you're writing, you can share it with the group, but no pressure!