Retail Professionals
Meet other local independent retailers to talk strategy and trade tips.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out retail professionals events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the retail professionals events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Retail Professionals Events Today
Join in-person Retail Professionals events happening right now
Bitcoin Book Club: The Price of Tomorrow
Join the Bitcoin District Book Club! We meet every month to explore new and exciting rabbit holes by reading books that are popular with bitcoiners.
Join us for a deep dive into Jeff Booth’s The Price of Tomorrow: Why Deflation Is the Key to an Abundant Future. In this eye-opening session, we'll explore the collision between exponential technological growth and our aging economic systems.
Booth argues that while technology is naturally deflationary—making things cheaper and more abundant—our current financial world is built on a requirement for inflation and ever-increasing debt. We’ll discuss how this "clash of worlds" creates social polarization and why embracing a new economic framework is the only way to ensure a peaceful, prosperous future. Whether you are interested in the mechanics of technology or the future of sound money, this book provides a vital roadmap for the era of Bitcoin.
Buy the book on [Amazon](https://a.co/d/0iNJamvq)
**Event Notes:**
* Discussion Starters: We'll have a few key questions to kick us off regarding technology and debt, but feel free to come with your own insights.
* Future Reads: Let us know if you have recommendations for future book club selections! We’ll add them to the list posted on our website.
* Afterwards: Feel free to join us at Pubkey after the meeting ends to hang out and grab some food!
**Getting There:**
* 🔴🟢🟡 Gallery Place/Chinatown + 2 min walk
* Parking: Street & garage parking available nearby
LGBTQ+ Book Club @ Federico Ristorante Italiano
**Please note that Go Gay DC is listing this exciting event as a community service, but is not running the event. Just go and have a fun time!**
The monthly LGBTQ+ Book Club meets @ [Federico](https://www.federicoristoranteitaliano.com/) at 7:30 p.m. Simply ask the manager for the Book Club table. This event is also listed on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982163649835?aff=oddtdtcreator)**.
We will discuss [Running with Scissors](https://www.amazon.com/Running-Scissors-Memoir-Augusten-Burroughs/dp/031242227X "https://www.amazon.com/Running-Scissors-Memoir-Augusten-Burroughs/dp/031242227X") by Augusten Burroughs.
Everyone welcome. Please RSVP in advance by emailing lovellsjl@aol.com . If you wish to optionally dine (on separate checks of course), the menu is at [https://www.federicoristoranteitaliano.com/menu/dinner](https://www.federicoristoranteitaliano.com/menu/dinner)
The Book Club, hosted by EQUALITY NoVa, is yet another opportunity to engage in a fun and rewarding activity. We meet monthly, usually on the third Thursday of each month, at Federico’s for a lively discussion of that month’s selected book. We don’t discriminate when it comes to genre, we read – from classic literature to best selling novels to biographies to histories to gay fiction!
EQUALITY NoVa serves Northern Virginia's LGBTQ+ and Allies and is a strong beacon for equality. It is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit open to all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ) people and straight allies. It provides fun social activities, builds relationships with elected officials, and works with civic groups on community service. For more information, visit [https://www.equalitynova.org](https://www.equalitynova.org)
This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/)
Casual attire is fine.
**Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Federico is half a block up 23rd Street on your right.
Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets.
About 10 LGBTQ+ folk regularly attend.
There's no need to print out and show me your Eventbrite ticket.
Please be sure to tag any event photos on social with #gogaydc
This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for all ages. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course.
Go Gay DC is on social media:
Join the Facebook Group
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC)
Like the Facebook Page
[https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/)
Follow on Threads
[https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw)
Follow on Bluesky
[https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/)
Follow on X
[https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC)
Watch on YouTube
[https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC)
LinkedIn
[https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5wn7CoNkDnzZk1J8PGqEXSOaiVTjajzIpsVdNeg2WI7X_BJ5MeR6ierA9SUg_aem_YJJoTeXOh5HTjDXienXIZQ)
Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies nonbinary non-binary
LGBTQ+ Uniformed Services Happy Hour @ Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant
**Please note that Go Gay DC is listing this exciting event as a community service, but is not running the event. Just go and have a fun time!**
Reserve a spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lgbtq-uniformed-services-happy-hour-freddies-beach-bar-restaurant-tickets-1979533130882?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count.
Be at ease and enjoy a happy hour with Uniformed Services personnel on the third Thursday of every month. It officially starts at 5 p.m. but come early and enjoy the happy hour drink specials.
If you plan to dine, please call ahead for table reservations at (703) 685-0555 or reserve a table **[online](https://www.yelp.com/biz/freddies-beach-bar-and-restaurant-arlington)**.
The menu is at [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu)
Ask your server about the happy hour drink specials (which last until 7 p.m.).
Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets.
This fun monthly gathering brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including Allies, together for conversation. About 25 usually attend. **This event is inclusive, meaning those who support Uniformed Services personnel are welcome too.**
This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/)
Go Gay DC's leader is[ ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**.
Casual attire is fine.
Feel free to invite all your friends to join you there.
**Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Freddie's is up 23rd Street just a block. Just look for the rainbow flags on the right side of the street!
Freddie's was voted the Best Virginia Bar by *Washington Blade* readers. Don't like a smoky bar? You are covered: Freddie's is a smoke-free establishment. (Ashtrays are provided in back of the building if smoking is 'your thing').
Freddie's is an LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar. It offers Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/)
Arrive at any time that's convenient for you.
There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket.
This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for all ages. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course.
Go Gay DC is on social media:
Join the Facebook Group
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC)
Like the Facebook Page
[https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/)
Follow on Threads
[https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw)
Follow on Bluesky
[https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/)
Follow on X
[https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC)
Watch on YouTube
[https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC)
LinkedIn
[https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5wn7CoNkDnzZk1J8PGqEXSOaiVTjajzIpsVdNeg2WI7X_BJ5MeR6ierA9SUg_aem_YJJoTeXOh5HTjDXienXIZQ)
Search tags: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies non-binary
Authentic Relating- Unintentional Gaslighting: What to Say Instead
Sometimes we unintentionally invalidate the people we care about.
Phrases like *“You’re overreacting,” “That’s not what happened,”* or *“You’re too sensitive”* may seem small — yet they can quietly erode trust and connection. In the long term, this behavior can cause relationships to fall apart.
In this Authentic Relating workshop, we’ll explore how unintentional gaslighting shows up in everyday communication — and more importantly, what to say instead.
Through embodied exercises, real-time relational games, and guided practice, you’ll learn how to:
* Recognize subtle invalidation patterns
* Stay regulated when someone’s emotions feel intense
* Respond with empathy without abandoning your own truth
* Repair when harm has already happened
This is a space for growth, not blame — for learning how to create connection instead of confusion.
Come practice turning defensiveness into curiosity and disconnection into understanding.
**Who would benefit from this practice:** partners, family members, those who want help connecting with others (friendships), professionals who have trouble working with team members, and team leaders who are trying to make an impact.
**About the instructor:** Mike is a certified Authentic Relating facilitator, trained through ART International, with ongoing training in Nonviolent Communication, and other heart-centered communication modalities. He is passionate about creating spaces where people can slow down, connect deeply, and experience meaningful connection. Mike facilitates Authentic Relating exercises with the intention of making a real and lasting impact in people’s lives.
There is no mana exchange but donations are appreciated.
Business Oriented Toastmasters
Business Oriented Toastmasters (BOTM) is an exceptionally strong Toastmasters club in Rockville, MD. Our club has earned President's Distinguished Club status for the last thirteen years in a row.
We are dedicated to helping each of our members achieve their personal public speaking and leadership goals in a friendly, supportive environment. We pride ourselves on having organized, professional meetings with strong evaluations, while having fun at the same time. Guests are always welcome and no notice is necessary. Just show up and plan to have fun. See how BOTM can help you achieve your goals.
We are a diverse club with both seasoned and new Toastmasters, and all ethnic and professional backgrounds. For more information, please visit our website at botm.toastmastersclubs.org or contact us at contact-2279@toastmastersclubs.org
Meeting locations:
1st Wednesday of every month in person at Faith United Methodist Church, 6810 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD
3rd Wednesday of every month via Zoom
AWS Imagine for Nonprofits
Registration & full details at: https://aws.amazon.com/government-education/nonprofits/imagine-nonprofit/
This is an informational post, you must register directly with amazon. It's a free event. It's also in person at the MGM National Harbor. Yes, there's a parking garage at the venue.
Presented by Amazon Web Services (AWS), Imagine for Nonprofits unites visionary leaders, technologists, and changemakers who are driving social and environmental impact through technology.
This in-person event combines thought-provoking discussions, interactive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities that explore how advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and intentional innovation are transforming the nonprofit sector.
Together, we're building a future where technology amplifies humanity's capacity for good, guided by data, driven by purpose, and grounded in responsibility.
Retail Professionals Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Cocktails & Coloring @ Ballston Market food market, Basement level
Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome.
You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers).
Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :)
I look forward to seeing and meeting you there!
***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.
FRIDAY Professionals Networking HourS
Grow your professional network across industries, swap ideas, and unwind in a friendly, collaborative vibe, ideal for career-minded pros seeking connections.
All professionals in the DMV and MidAtlantic area are invited!
This event is to every and each professional in different industry, sector and specialization to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment, to meet other professionals, to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global professionalism.
***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.***
We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
HOW IT WORKS : We will give out name tags and you write your name and your industry/sector/specialization. However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that area. DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARD.
Rules to abide :
1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID).
2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well.
3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible.
4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE.
5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion.
6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message.
7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box.
8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](mailto:info@merevents.com)).
9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group.
10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.***
***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***
\- Come one\, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\!
\- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member\.
\- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\.
***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).***
**FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITELINK. IT RULES.**
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(Del Ray) Sunday 1st Shift: Customer Service Help (12pm-2pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
Embassy of Austria Viennese Ball
To attend, register at:
[https://www.eventbrite.com/e/embassy-of-austria-viennese-ball-tickets-1983834697985](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/embassy-of-austria-viennese-ball-tickets-1983834697985)
***A Viennese Ball Celebrating the End of Winter COMBINED with a Karneval Celebration!***
A Celebration of 250 Years of American-Austrian Relations!
March 20th signifies the end of winter! Celebrate in a multi-faceted evening that combines the elegance of the Austrian Winter Season, including their Viennese Balls, and the festive excitement of the Karneval Season!
Tonight’s elegant event features Austrian Food, Open Bar, Ballroom Dancing, Live Music, Late Night DJ, and Dancing, Film and More!
VIP Options Available.
**PROGRAM:**
**PART ONE: VIENNESE BALL**
A) **DIPLOMATIC GREETING**
Kick off the evening with a greeting by members of the embassy!
B) **BALLROOM DANCING**
Waltz to the Blue Danube and other classics on Austrian Soil as we celebrate the end of the Winter Ball Season!
C) **BALLROOM DANCE LESSONS**
Optional ballroom dance lessons will be offered by a master local instructor.
D) **THE** "**RADETZKY MARCH”**
Experience Strauss’ famous Ballroom March. Together, with our master instructors, you are invited to partake in Austria’s most beloved dances and marches.
**PART TWO: KARNEVAL**
A) LIVE AUTHENTIC AUSTRIAN KARNEVAL BAND:
As if you were dancing in near the Prater’s Roller Coaster in Vienna, or on the Streets of Salzburg, celebrate the season with live musicians! One last chance to experience the Mardi Gras and Fasching Music before Winter Ends.
B) KARNEVAL COSTUME CONTEST:
If you arrive in masquerade, costume, or otherwise Karneval wear, a special costume contest will be held – with Austrian judges! Prizes awarded! Then, all costumed attendees will take part in a parade through the embassy hall.
(Note: Costumes of a salacious, political, historically controversial nature, or any that contain weapons will not be permitted on embassy grounds. If you have concerns or questions, please reach out to [events@thingstodoDC.com](mailto:events@thingstodoDC.com) for pre-approval.
**C)** **THE CORONATION OF THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF KARNEVAL**
In addition to the Costume Contest, a series of fun challenges will help us determine the ultimate Prince and Princess of Karneval. Prizes Awarded!
**PART THREE: LATE NIGHT 21st CENTURY AUSTRIAN NIGHTLIFE**
For the last hour of the event, one of Washington’s greatest DJs takes us via music to the hottest nightclubs of Berlin, Munich and Cologne - playing European and U.S. Retro, Modern High Energy, and Top 40 Dance hits!
**FOOD:**
AUSTRIAN BUFFET (VIP Option Below will Full Menu Options)
If you ever strolled through an Austrian marketplace and looked in the store windows you can't help but be tempted by those delectable desserts. We'll have them for you to enjoy tonight as well: Linzer tortes, hazelnut tortes, Viennese apple tarts, Austrian white and dark chocolate Florentines, and bittersweet Austrian chocolate squares dusted with confectioner's sugar. Enjoy an evening buffet of these tantalizing Austrian delights, all as if picked from the best pastry shops in Austria.
**VIP OPTION: For a little extra royalty this evening, you will get:**
\- Early Admission to the Gala \(7:30 PM\);
\- Private Champagne Reception;
\- Special Early Austrian Carnival Dinner Menu \(TBA\)
NOTE: Any concern or information request on the event MUST be addressed through our organization directly. Please do not contact the embassy with any specific questions.
**NOTE**: This event is a lively, active celebration with limited seating. Plan for a lot of dancing, laughter and very active celebration - as they do in Austria
To attend, register at:
[https://www.eventbrite.com/e/embassy-of-austria-viennese-ball-tickets-1983834697985](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/embassy-of-austria-viennese-ball-tickets-1983834697985)
(Del Ray) Sunday 2nd Shift: Customer Service Help (2pm-4pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
Professionals Networking HourS
All professionals in the DMV and MidAtlantic area are invited!
This event is to every and each professional in different industry, sector and specialization to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment, to meet other professionals, to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global professionalism.
***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.***
We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
HOW IT WORKS : We will give out name tags and you write your name and your industry/sector/specialization. However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that area. DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARD.
Rules to abide :
1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID).
2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well.
3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible.
4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE.
5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion.
6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message.
7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box.
8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](mailto:info@merevents.com)).
9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group.
10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.***
***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***
\- Come one\, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\!
\- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member\.
\- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\.
***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).***
**FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITELINK. IT RULES.**
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http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg
(Del Ray) Saturday 1st Shift: Customer Service Help (10am-1pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
Retail Professionals Events Near You
Connect with your local Retail Professionals community
Building a Voice Over Business
Join Voice Over Pros Of Ohio for an exciting morning of networking, and exploring opportunities in the world of voice acting. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event is perfect for expanding your network, learning how to start a VO business, and for honing your skills. Connect with fellow voice actors and VO experts, that will help you succeed in your voice over business.
This event will feature discussions on professional development, entrepreneurship in the voice over industry, with tips for navigating the world of voice acting. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from others, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and take your voice over career to the next level. Join us Saturday, March 28, from 10am - 12pm and learn how to start or grow your voice over business. Let your voice be heard! The $10 fee covers refreshments and door prizes.
Drop-In-Person Coaching (In-Person)
Have a small business? Ever wish you could just ask some questions around how to grow your business, get more customers or just know what the freak you are doing with sales?
Now is your chance!! Every month we are hosting the "Ask an Expert" at the Columbus Metro Library, Main campus. I will be there to answer your Sales related questions.
Drop-in for sales coaching designed to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals sharpen their sales approach. Whether you have questions on how to refine your pitch, are looking to close deals more quickly, or are working on building better client relationships, Smashing Your Sales Goals Coaches are here to help.
Drop-in to get expert insights, actionable strategies and real-time solutions to grow your business and generate higher profits.
Drop-In Sales Coaching is FREE + OPEN to the public. No appointment needed. First come, first served.
EPIC Learning created. Accelerate Columbus supported.
From Idea to Working App in Minutes: The Agentic Development with Amazon Kiro
Discover Kiro, AWS’s innovative development environment that adapts to your workflow. Whether you prefer specification-driven development or a more intuitive, vibe-based approach, Kiro empowers you to build applications your way.
In this session, speakers will explore Kiro’s core functionality and its evolution through re:Invent 2025, along with demonstrations of prompts used to create APIs, hooks, and steering documents.
In the latter part of the session, watch as we build a complete example from scratch, showcasing Kiro’s agentic AI workflow in action for spec-driven development and vibe coding.
What You'll Learn - Core Kiro concepts and development philosophy
Feature evolution: pre and post re:Invent 2025
Practical examples: API creation, hooks, and steering docs
Live coding demonstration with real-time problem solving
Who Should Attend - Developers, solutions architects, and technical leaders interested in modern AWS development tools and AI-assisted coding workflows.
**Speakers Bio:**
Matthew Jorat: Matthew Jorat is a Customer Solutions Manager at AWS with nearly three decades of expertise in AI, cloud transformation, migration, modernization, IT, technology, and business. His career spans infrastructure engineer, solutions architect, security auditor, customer success director, support and services director, and operations officer. He was an early adopter of AWS services as a customer, and his current role at AWS uniquely blends his technical and business skills as he partners with executive teams to translate strategic priorities into measurable business outcomes through cloud adoption, AI implementation, and operational excellence. Matt leads end-to-end AI initiatives for enterprise customers, identifying high-impact use cases and maintaining relentless focus on measurable ROI. He holds eight AWS certifications and serves as Adjunct Professor at Franklin University teaching cloud computing and AWS architecture. His expertise encompasses GenAI, agentic AI systems, migration, modernization, and optimization strategies that drive transformation at scale.
[https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/)
Girish Bhatia: Girish Bhatia is a seasoned technology delivery leader with deep expertise in cross-domain program management. He holds multiple AWS certifications, including AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, and AWS Generative AI Practitioner, and is also an AWS Community Builder. Girish brings over two decades of experience in the information technology industry.
Throughout his career, Girish has led major technology-driven business transformation from modernizing on-premises applications to driving large-scale cloud migrations. His work includes API-based integration platforms, data-center and mainframe modernization, and enterprise cloud adoption initiatives.
Based in Columbus, Ohio, Girish works at a tech-forward fintech company. He is passionate about AWS serverless architectures, Generative AI and emerging cloud technologies. An avid learner and builder, he continues to explore and apply the latest innovations in AWS to help organizations accelerate their digital transformation.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/[https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/)
**THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/
**DIRECTIONS**
Franklin University
Fisher Hall
300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8
Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map.
NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct.
**Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?**
Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com
Lunch and Shop!
😍🫶🏼😋🛍️🛒🤑
Let’s do it again! 😍
12:30 Lunch- First Watch
6547 Artesian Run,Delaware
Shop after lunch at:
Painted Tree Boutique
(over 100 indoor vendors)
59 Meadow Park Ave.,
Lewis Center
The Clawwww
OpenClaw, NemoClaw, personal assistants, 24/7 agents. What does it all mean? How does it all work and what should we know about it?
Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus.
Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services)






















