Insects or Entomology

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

**Enjoy the outdoors? Like having fun and meeting new people of all ages? Then come to the annual Ski Dance weekend held in the Laurel Highlands region of western Pennsylvania. SkiDance is a volunteer-led activity sponsored by Sierra Club Potomac Region Outings (SCPRO).** **Not sure how to cross country ski - no worries, free ski instruction is provided for beginners! Do you have two left feet and are not sure how to folk dance? Not a problem - we have two fabulous callers Janine Smith (contras) and Tom Spilsbury (English) leading our dances and they will have you moving to the music provided by the incredible Dave Wiesler and Mat Clark. Lots of fun and prices range from approximately $150 to $575 depending on your accommodations. For more information and registration forms go to [https://www.skidance.org](https://www.skidance.org) or contact the trip leader, Bob Mathis at 240-858-9341 or email [rjmathis62@gmail.com](mailto:rjmathis62@gmail.com) or Jody Blatt, the registrar at [jodyblatt@hotmail.com](mailto:jodyblatt@hotmail.com)** For more information and **registration forms** go to **https://www.skidance.org** or contact the trip leader, Bob Mathis at 240-858-9341 or email rjmathis62@gmail.com or Jody Blatt, the registrar at jodyblatt@hotmail.com You must complete an application in order to confirm attendance at Ski Dance. Applications can be downloaded from [www.skidance.org](http://www.skidance.org/).

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). 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.** http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/3/2/b/600_449154059.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/7/a/600_448335994.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/0/2/6/600_448197382.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/1/7/600_448196599.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/8/e/600_434712942.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/9/a/600_434712954.jpeg

Join us for Galentines Day/ pre Lunar New Year get together at one of DCs hottest new restaurants! We’ll be convening in their bar area known as the ‘lucky bar’ (just look for Chrystalle). And they’re extending their happy hour for our group until 8pm. AND the first dozen attendees will get a special Lunar New Year treat. 😏 They boast an elevated Chinese American menu, the only public Mahjong bar in DC, and have recently been receiving some well deserved flowers from publications like EaterDC & The Washingtonian. Their beer menu may be smaller, but it is *nothing* to sneeze at either (thoughtfully curated by our friend Alyssa). Closest metro stop is Archives- Navy Memorial, just a block away. We really hope you can join us for this one because it’s gonna be a good one! 🍻 Hope to see ya!

Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982407462084?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count. **There is no cover.** Support NoVA's only LGBTQ+ bar! There is no cover. There also is no group tab to worry about; order whatever you want on you own. The Go Gay DC happy hour officially starts at 5:30 p.m. We will gather inside at the purple booth to the left as you enter. Enjoy the happy hour drink specials (which last until 7 p.m.) The dinner menu is at [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu). Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets. This fun happy hour gathering brings LGBTQ+ folk, including Allies, together for conversation. 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 21+. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course. This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](http://www.gogaydc.com)**, Metropolitan Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [http://www.gogaydc.com](http://www.gogaydc.com) At this event you'll be able to meet Go Gay DC's Leader, **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**. Mingle with fabulous LGBTQ+ folk and allies. Bring your friends and meet new people from all over the world. Casual attire is fine. You are welcome regardless of where you live. Guests from DC, Maryland, and Virginia often attend. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. 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) 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=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies

We’re launching 2026 in full motion with a two-day dance takeover at El Rey, and this is just the beginning of an epic year of dance events. **Friday, February 13** Friday Night Fever Our very first monthly dance party kicks off—big energy, nonstop music, and a packed dance floor. **Saturday, February 14** Valentine’s Day Ball A night to celebrate love, friendship, and connection with unforgettable vibes and music that keeps you moving. Two nights. Two massive dance parties. One iconic venue. Come for one night, or go all in for both, and help us set the tone for an unforgettable year. Let’s dance it out at El Rey.

Whether you are single or not; OR you are pro OR anti Valentine's Day - this party is for you. Cause V Day is all about LOVE. Let us get together and share some love!:) ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL 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. ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR. BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES. WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** **This is also a wicked 'MeRtUp'!** **What is MERTUP?:) Mer + Meetup = Mertup.** **Mer is known as the Meetup guy. He likes to connect people and his fans coined that name for him. So, at his events, everyone will become a Wing Person to everyone:) When you get get there, we will introduce you to someone and you will be responsible to introduce that person to another person. That is MERTUP!** We will have specials, including our usual suspect MERtini:) Dress code : ANYTHING RED. Chic/Elegant/Stylish **DRESS CODE STRICTLY ENFORCED** We ask that you approach your wardrobe deliberately. No Athletic Clothing or excessively baggy clothing. Keep it chic, smart and classy! Jeans are allowed. Acceptable Mens shorts include those with belt loops. Unacceptable Attire: 1. Athletic Clothing: This Includes gym attire, sweatpants, yoga pants, and tracksuits 2. Baggy Clothing: Clothing that is excessively loose-fitting or oversized, such as baggy jeans, sagging sweatpants or oversized t-shirts. 3. Sportswear: Jerseys, team logos, and other sport-specific attire 4. Beachwear: shorts, tank tops, swimwear, and revealing clothing 5. Flip Flops: Open-toe sandals, thong sandals, and flip flops are not allowed 6. Timberlands and Steel Toed Shoes. Event is 21+ * Come one, come all; YOU COULD FLY SOLO TOO:) 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 * Ideal for either you are new in town or not, to make friends and acquaintances * RSVP on Meetup is required. That is how we check you in. * We will have a registration station and check you in. Cover is $20. **But it is FREE with RSVP.** **Fellas, it is hard to pass on this!** **DEETS :** ***\*Registration : 8:00PM-9:00PM*** ***You'll receive your wristband . If you can't make it by 10pm TEXT/EMAIL YOUR QR CODE to a friend, so that they can pick everything up for you.*** ***You can also text us at (202) 368-1878. So that we let you know which club we are at.*** ***But the party and specials continue till 3AM!*** ***\- Celebrate your birthday or your moments \(Graduation\, Anniversary\, Promotion\, Retirement\, Bachelorette/Bridal parties\,\.\.\.\.etc\) in life with us\!*** ***\- For bottle specials\, table reservation and girls night out TEXT 202\-368\-1878\.*** ***\~\~\~\~\~CHECK-IN DETAILS\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~*** ***1\. You need our wristband to get the specials\.*** ***2\. Photo ID: Everyone will be required to have a valid photo ID with them in order to enter\. If you forget your ID\, you will not be allowed in\.*** PARKING INFO Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking, we highly recommend you to get a shared ride or taxi service. DRINK RESPONSIBLY! http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/8/c/0/600_447175488.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/8/c/7/600_447175495.jpeg http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/0/8/2/600_436665186.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/0/8/8/600_436665192.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/e/8/9/600_433120585.jpeg http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/f/a/d/600_433120877.jpeg http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/5/8/7/600_433122375.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/9/9/2/600_438786546.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/3/b/a/600_437953242.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/3/c/f/600_437953263.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/d/0/8/600_438007432.jpeg

Join us at Carpool in Arlington Friday (the 13th!) for food, drinks, and games (pool, darts, and pinball machines). It is also Schiller's birthday celebration! Metro: Ballston Parking: limited street, or nearby garages

To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884)). RSVPing only on the Meetup page, doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED. ABOUT THE EVENT Love and friendship are in the air, Cupid's arrow is everywhere. Whether you are single or taken, this crawl is for you! All the love birds out there looking for their soul mates. No need to wander anymore for a lover's spot, as we organize this auspicious hoping, from bar to bar. Never shall you find such an awesome moment as we invite you to join us at this romantic celebration. Get ready for All-Day Food & Drink Specials, Epic Costume Contest , DJs, Photos, Giveaways and Free Entry to the most Popular Bars in Dupont Circle. Registration : (2PM - 4:00PM) CAN'T MAKE IT BY 4:00 PM? If you have friends who are participating in the event, you may text/email them your QR Code and they can pick up your event wristband and party favors for you. **There will be a lot of people. Use the comment box of the Meetup to coordinate amongst the group.** **This is also a wicked 'MeRtUp' with a saving!** **What is MERTUP?:) Mer + Meetup = Mertup.** **Mer is known as the Meetup guy. He likes to connect people and his fans coined that name for him. So, at his events, everyone will become a Wing Person to everyone:) When you get get there, we will introduce you to someone and you will be responsible to introduce that person to another person. That is MERTUP!** **Enter the Promo Code 'MERTUP' to redeem your 20% discount!** ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884)) FAQs REGISTRATION Registration is from 2PM-4PM. You'll receive your wristband and swags . If you can't make it by 4pm text/email your QR Code to a friend. They can present your ticket and pick everything up for you. But the party continues till 10PM! TICKETS You MUST print a copy of your ticket or have with you or on your phone. Tickets are transferable and not refundable. You can give your ticket to a friend to use if you cannot attend the event. ROUTE You’re able to go to any of the participating bars at your leisure after you register! A map will be sent to all participants the day of the event. DRESS CODE Anything which expresses love. It could be Love Bug Costume, Cut Outs, Torn & Restored Heart,.....etc ID Government issued ID is required! It will be checked at every participating bar that you choose to go to. All participants must be 21 years old or older. WEATHER Event goes on rain, snow or shine! STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? Reach out to info@merevents.com HAPPY CRAWLINGS!!! You must be over 21 years of age to participate. Please don't drink and drive! Take public transportation or Ride Share or call a cab. Payment Instructions : 1\. Login to see the 'Get Tickets' button\, after RSVPing\. Then hit the button\. 2\. Verify correct dollar amount for number of people you're paying for\. ***3.* If you don't have a Paypal account, proceed to the next page and scroll down to see "Pay with a Debit or Credit Card". Then turn off the button 'Save The Info and Create Your Paypal Account'** 4\. If you have a Paypal account\, simply log in\, and pay as you normally would via Paypal\. **How to Unblock the Pop-up Blocker on Your Phone** Many of our patrons advised us that they have a Pop-up Blocker on their iPhones and it hinders them from buying tickets. To unblock, please follow the following steps : For Safari Users : 1\. Go to Settings\. 2\. Scroll down to Safari and click on it\. 3\. Select Block Pop\-ups and turn it off\. For Google Chrome Users : 1\. Open Google Chrome\. 2\. Click on the three dots and you will see many options\. 3\. Click on Settings\. 4\. Scroll down to content settings\. 5\. Select Block Pop\-ups and turn it off\. Ticket Refund and Resell Policy All sales are final. We only refund the full amount, if the event is canceled. If it is rescheduled, we will send an email to thicket holders advising that. A full refund will be given to those that let us know within 2 calendar days of the update email, if you are unable to make it on the new date. No refunds will be given after that time. However, you can sell your ticket to someone else if you are unable to attend. Please, feel free to post in the comment box for the event, that you have a ticket for sale. Work out payment between yourselves, and have the seller only send the organizer a message letting us know the full name of the person taking your spot. You must let us know two hours before the RSVP close time, on the day of the event. **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITE LINK AND PURCHASE TICKET. IT RULES.**

We’re launching 2026 in full motion with a two-day dance takeover at El Rey, and this is just the beginning of an epic year of dance events. **Friday, February 13** Friday Night Fever Our very first monthly dance party kicks off—big energy, nonstop music, and a packed dance floor. **Saturday, February 14** Valentine’s Day Ball A night to celebrate love, friendship, and connection with unforgettable vibes and music that keeps you moving. Two nights. Two massive dance parties. One iconic venue. Come for one night, or go all in for both, and help us set the tone for an unforgettable year. Let’s dance it out at El Rey.

Whether you're new to Insight meditation or an advanced practitioner looking for like-minded people to sit with, you're welcome to join us at our Sunday morning drop-in group, sponsored by the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. Insight meditation cultivates our natural wisdom and compassion. Meditation practice develops concentration, which allows us to calm and steady the mind. This class includes a 30-minute lightly-guided meditation, followed by a short talk and time for questions and discussion. The size of the group usually runs somewhere between 25-40 people in-person and between 12-25 online. Chairs are provided, or you may bring a sitting cushion or bench. You may also use the blankets and bolsters offered by the yoga studio. **We offer both in-person and online attendance.** To learn more about our topics and teachers, view our videos or **get the Zoom link**, visit our [class page](https://imcw.org/event/?eventId=735&utm_source=MeetUp&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=vienna-drop-in).

It's supposed to warm up a little heading into the Valentine's Day weekend so it's perfect weather to weed a park. We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, February 15 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/)

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160

**NEW LOCATION: Improving Office in Franklinton** Physical location: Improving Office 330 Rush Alley Suite #150 Columbus, OH 43215 Schedule: * 6:00 p.m.: Socialize, eat, and drink. Improving will be providing pizza and beverages. * 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Main meeting and presentation(s). See the handy Parking Map - we recommend street parking. [Street Parking Map](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1u2A4fLNlxwLJn0KA_hKc8bnFlFHLvsHBDh-_8wzX_tk/edit?usp=sharing) We meet on the last Monday of each Month. Presentations are given by members and friends of this group. If you would like to do a presentation (small or large) on a python topic, please contact centralohpython@gmail.com

CONNECTED – Grove City A casual, people-first networking gathering. CONNECTED – Grove City is a casual, people-first networking gathering. Join us for a relaxed, low-pressure space to meet new people, build real relationships, and have meaningful conversations — no sales pitches required. From 7:30–8:30 AM every 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Grove City Business Center. Coffee & baked goods available for purchase at Pick ’Em Up Joe's. Free street & public lot parking behind the building. Free to attend & open to all!

This meeting will be an open discussion about the book "an Immense World" by Ed Yong