Genetics

*Sometimes we invite Neurodivergent District members to join a virtual event from our Constellations community. We’re glad you’re here.* *Just to clarify, attending this event doesn’t include access to the Constellations member portal or membership. If you’d like ongoing access to events like this, along with curated member introductions for friendship or dating, you’re welcome to explore joining [Constellations](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership).* Join us for a gentle, low-pressure walk at Brookside Gardens for women who want to connect in a calm, supportive environment. This is a space designed for ease: • small group, outdoors, and intentionally slower-paced • no pressure to socialize in any particular way We’ll spend time walking, talking (if you want to), and enjoying the gardens together at a relaxed pace. This gathering is created with care for those who are immunocompromised or benefit from a more accessible, lower-stimulation setting. To support participants with sensitivities, we ask that everyone consider arriving fragrance-free. **Please RSVP using the link below (not just Meetup)** so we can share the exact meeting location, route, and any weather updates. Click [here](https://harringtonmatchmaking.as.me/?appointmentType=91926732) to RSVP.

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week beginner\-level Spanish course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of Spanish? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** Spanish Foreigner with Silvia Sundays from 4:00pm - 6:00pm ET April 12th to May 17th, May 24 (No class on April 28th) In-person, Farragut Square DC Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform).** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels) **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no additional tickets will be sold at the door. A repeat of the talk at Penn Social in DC on Monday, May 18 still has tickets available.** [Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“How AI Alters Thinking,”** on dealing with artificial intelligence’s capacity to change and undermine our thought processes, with Eli Alshanetsky, assistant professor of philosophy at Temple University, principal investigator at its Cognitive Integrity Lab, and author of an upcoming book on AI and freedom of thought. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-how-ai-alters](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-how-ai-alters) .] Doctors who give bad advice can be sued for malpractice. Teachers belong to a profession with set standards. When artificial intelligence guides you, however, that guidance comes with a disclaimer: Use at your own risk. Every day millions of people take that risk, and usually AI seems genuinely helpful. But even if AI gives us good answers, might its use over time do bad things to how we think? Explore the relationship between AI and our own minds with Eli Alshanetsky, whose Cognitive Integrity Lab studies how artificial intelligence changes how we think, learn, and build trust. Author of *Articulating a Thought* and the upcoming book F*reedom of Thought in the Age of AI*, he’s on the cutting edge of efforts to answer AI-related questions such as: How can we tell when work is truly our own? How can technology support rather than replace authorship and reflection? What does trust mean when AI mediates our relationships with others and with our own thoughts? To set up his discussion of potential consequences of AI, he’ll describe how social media’s impact on society serves as a preview. Social media didn’t just give people what they wanted to click on, it actually changed what they regarded as click-worthy. It broke attention spans and fueled radicalization across millions of very different people. It left us with people who doom-scroll for hours, who can’t focus, who don’t know what to trust anymore. If you’d shown people this version of themselves ten years ago, would they have chosen it? Artificial intelligence is making a similar deal with us, but the stakes are higher. It isn’t chasing clicks. It’s optimized for giving you the most satisfying response to whatever is on your mind right now. The risk over time isn’t just that you’ll get lazy. More profoundly, even when you think hard, your sense of what counts as good thinking—as well as what sounds like you—will shift to match what AI has been feeding you. We’ll consider what kind of person this produces and whether this is someone we want to be or want children to become. Professor Alshanetsky will lay out a practical framework, which he calls “the interaction layer,” for using AI without letting it replace the thinking it’s supposed to support. He’ll also talk about what AI-related concerns should be the focus of parents and educators. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Illustration by David S. Soriano / Creative Commons.

A low cost, 6-week beginner-level **اللغة العربية** (Arabic) course with the non-profit organization, the Global Language Network. \#\# Arabic Foreigner Language Class **Details:** \#\#\#\# Arabic Foreigner with Nour Sundays from 11:00am - 1:00pm ET Apr 12th to May 10th, May 24th In-person, Farragut Square DC * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels) "\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform) "\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

**Important: you must go to the Poplar Spring website to [register](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) for the race and [join Team VSDC.](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) (It is very helpful to RSVP here on Meetup as well, for communication purposes.)** Join [Team VSDC](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) as we support the [Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary Annual 5K Run for the Animals and 1-Mile Fun Walk ](https://www.animalsanctuary.org/events/)on Sunday, May 17th. All funds raised will go towards [Poplar Spring's](https://www.animalsanctuary.org/) lifesaving work every day. The funds will care for and feed the farm animals who live at Poplar Spring and educate the public about compassion towards all animals. The VSDC has been a participant in this event for many years. Registration Fee for both the Run and Walk by April 5, 2026: $28.00 April 5 – May 16, 2025: $30.00 Race Day: $35 To join the Team VSDC register [here.](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) More[ info on the 5k run and fun walk is here.](https://www.classy.org/event/poplar-spring-animal-sanctuarys-run-for-the-animals-2026/e766174) If you register on this page, be sure to select "Join a Team" and [choose Team VSDC](https://www.classy.org/team/811995)! There is also a virtual race option that takes place anytime during the week of May 17th. For important updates regularly monitor the "comments" section below. 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.**

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week intermediate\-level Portuguese course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of Portuguese? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** Portuguese Frequent Flyer with Ana Sundays from 11:00am - 1:00pm ET Apr 12th to May 17th In-person, Farragut Square DC Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5B%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D)(%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)) "\[\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5B%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D)(%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)) "\[\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

Join Team Rockville Vegan's for the Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary's Run for the Animals 5K!! This annual event is a great way to run in a fully vegan race (that means no worrying about the post race snacks... you can eat ALL of them!) and hang out with local vegans! The race has options for both runners and walkers! There is also a virtual event if you are unable to be there on a Sunday morning. You can join our team here: [https://pro.gofundme.com/team/818034](https://pro.gofundme.com/team/818034) **Please note that you must join the team and register for the race in order to participate.** RSVPing to this event only lets us know that you are interested. **We will not be at the entrance off of Arcola, please make sure you use this address for your GPS:** Wheaton Regional Park 2000 Shorefield Road Wheaton, MD US 20902 (Shorefield Road is off Georgia Avenue.)

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week beginner\-level German course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of German? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** German Foreigner with Rolf Sundays from 9:00am - 11:00am ET Apr 12th to May 17th In-person, Farragut Square DC Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform) "\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels) "\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week beginner\-level Portuguese course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of Portuguese? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** Portuguese Foreigner with Ana Sundays from 9:00am - 11:00am ET Apr 12th to May 17th In-person, Farragut Square DC Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform) "\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels) "\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

April showers bring May flowers! We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, May 17 to learn about nature and remove invasive plants from everyone's favorite urban island. Meet us at the entrance to the bridge (on the parking lot side, look for the sign) at 10:00 and bring your garden gloves and loppers/pruners if you have them. If not, we can provide gloves and tools. Wear long sleeves and pants and don't forget a water bottle. We will have tasks ranging from easy (cutting English ivy and honeysuckle vines from trees) to hard (sawing down bush honeysuckle). Parking at TRI can be tight if it's a pretty day. When the parking lot is full, you can park in Rosslyn and take the trail down. If you can bike or walk or take public transit, that's wonderful. We'll see you there! Erica, Stephanie, and Heidi P.S. If you can't wait until then to RIP (Remove Invasive Plants!), go here to find more volunteer opportunities in Arlington parks: [Volunteer to Restore Native Habitat – Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (armn.org)](https://armn.org/volunteer-opportunities/)

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET At** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix) (Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so the RSVP's shown are just a very small portion attending. We'll have at least 20 registered.) Our last online Bingo Night Party was such a BIG hit, we're doing it again! Do you like to play BINGO or want to just do something different?! Then you will LOVE this event! Here is your opportunity to have some fun playing our Live "Bingo" game. You will also get to socialize and make other friends from the comfort of your home. Prizes included Amazon gift cards, free future events and more! This completely online event will be LIVE and you will be able to see and hear the other participants while playing. You will either need to print or draw out your bingo cards. We will email you with how to get it after registering. You can have more than 1 person on your team as long as they're from your house and use same device. Friends/family around the country can also play. They would just need to also register for a ticket. This event will be held on Zoom which you would access through your computer/webcam, or via your phone/tablet. On day of the event, you will get a secured Zoom link and link to print out Bingo cards. \*RSVPS ON HERE ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF ACTUAL ATTENDANCE as this is a multi group event. Cost: $15-$20 depending on how early you register. **\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET AT -** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix)

We are going to talk about the books we read—any books, from any genre. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, classic literature or something modern, everyone is welcome to share their thoughts, impressions, and favorite passages. It’s a relaxed and friendly conversation where we can discover new ideas and enjoy each other’s perspectives.

**NOTE: THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.** **Details** Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a 5.38 mile hike at Turkey Run. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 456 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate to advanced hikers**. The trail includes shallow stream crossings, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. **Hiking shoes are a must -** the trail is slippery, and the extra grip of hiking shoes is essential for safety. Also, don’t forget your **hiking poles**; they’ll be helpful at the stream crossings. After the hike, join us for a social gathering at \*\**Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse [(6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4250880837db9923fe99316769050373b426a317e7bdf43931605d5b92eba921JmltdHM9MTc3NDkxNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=108cd8d6-7e8f-6b13-174d-ce097fb86ad8&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9NTZ-fkVtYmVkZGVkfkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPUNoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2Umc3M9eXBpZC5ZTjg0NDI0Nzc2MDUyNTc5NzcmcHBvaXM9MzguOTM0NzY4Njc2NzU3ODFfLTc3LjE3OTQzNTcyOTk4MDQ3X0NoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2VfWU44NDQyNDc3NjA1MjU3OTc3fiZjcD0zOC45MzQ3Njl-LTc3LjE3OTQzNiZ2PTImc1Y9MSZGT1JNPU1QU1JQTA)* to unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy time with fellow hikers. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1. **Distance:** 5.38 miles **Elevation Gain:** 456 feet **Difficulty Level:** Intermediate Hike (challenging stream crossings) This hike features moderate inclines and **challenging stream crossings** over slippery rocks. Hiking poles are recommended for added balance and stability. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours This hike is expected to take approximately **3 hours**, which accounts for breaks, stream crossings, and group pace. **Pace:** Moderate Pace A steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Park in Turkey Run’s **Lot C-1,** where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail! **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-367d794?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Bathrooms** There are no bathrooms available on this hike. Please plan accordingly. **Age Requirement:** Children under 18 are not permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** Join us for a casual lunch at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)**. Free parking is available in the garage off Beverly Rd.

Open gaming at Panera! New players welcome. We have many games on hand or you can bring your own. We are happy to teach or learn one of yours.

**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** TBD **YouTube Link** TBD

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

Bring your work or your hobby, hang out, and code with us. Follow @buckeyecocoa for more information.

Free monthly networking for Columbus business owners. Real conversations, real connections, no forced formats. Space is limited. RSVP now. Good marketing starts with good relationships. That is what this event is built around. Networking Night is a free monthly event for local business owners in Columbus who want to build real connections with other serious operators in their market. No structured rotations. No forced elevator pitches. Just a room full of local business owners who are worth knowing, in a space that makes it easy to have an actual conversation. Register here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275)

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days