Renewable Energy

Facial recognition technology (FRT) is increasingly deployed across both public and private sectors – from policing, immigration, and administrative enforcement to loss-prevention in the retail industry – under claims of efficiency, objectivity, and technological neutrality. This presentation challenges those claims by advancing the concept of algorithmic racism: the structural embedding of racial hierarchy into ostensibly neutral algorithmic systems through biased data, design choices, institutional incentives, and opaque deployment practices. Drawing on documented wrongful arrests in the United States, Federal Court litigation in Canada involving refugee-status revocations, and the growing use of FRT in commercial settings, the presentation demonstrates how FRT disproportionately misidentifies Black individuals, particularly Black women. The presentation situates the well-documented racial bias in FRT within a longer historical arc, arguing that contemporary FRT mirrors the exclusionary logic of the Jim Crow era – reproducing systemic racial hierarchy through ostensibly neutral technological systems. Framed as a modern continuation of past forms of racialized control, FRT operates not through explicit racial classification but through code, data, and automated decision-making. The presentation contends that, absent robust legal safeguards, transparency, and meaningful accountability, the deployment of facial recognition technologies risks entrenching algorithmic racism across both state and market institutions, underscoring the need for urgent regulatory intervention. Gideon Christian https://profiles.ucalgary.ca/gideon-christian Associate Professor Faculty of Law University of Calgary About the Speaker: My primary research interest is specifically in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and law, and generally in law and technology. My research work sheds light on the intersection of AI and law, from identifying and addressing legal issues arising from the adoption of new and emerging technologies in the justice system to identifying and addressing issues relating to racial bias in AI systems. **\* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \*** This is a talk with audience Q&A presented by the University of Toronto's Centre for Ethics that is free to attend and open to the public. The talk will also be streamed online with live chat here [to be posted]. About the Centre for Ethics (http://ethics.utoronto.ca): The Centre for Ethics is an interdisciplinary centre aimed at advancing research and teaching in the field of ethics, broadly defined. The Centre seeks to bring together the theoretical and practical knowledge of diverse scholars, students, public servants and social leaders in order to increase understanding of the ethical dimensions of individual, social, and political life. In pursuit of its interdisciplinary mission, the Centre fosters lines of inquiry such as (1) foundations of ethics, which encompasses the history of ethics and core concepts in the philosophical study of ethics; (2) ethics in action, which relates theory to practice in key domains of social life, including bioethics, business ethics, and ethics in the public sphere; and (3) ethics in translation, which draws upon the rich multiculturalism of the City of Toronto and addresses the ethics of multicultural societies, ethical discourse across religious and cultural boundaries, and the ethics of international society. The Ethics of A.I. Lab at the Centre For Ethics recently appeared on a list of 10 organizations leading the way in ethical A.I.: https://ocean.sagepub.com/blog/10-organizations-leading-the-way-in-ethical-ai

This time we’re trying something new by exploring authentic Egyptian cuisine at Masrawy Egyptian Kitchen in Mississauga. Here’s what to expect 👇 * We will start at **6:00 PM** to get a table and order food/dinner as we chat. * **Important:** Please be on time so others don't have to wait. * You can check out their menu here 👇 **[Menu 1](https://masrawykitchen.com/MEK-Menu-v4F.pdf)** **[Menu 2](https://maps.app.goo.gl/bTuCebE7QYVtWoAc6)** * Everyone pays for their own meal. The restaurant has confirmed they allow separate bills. * If you have specific allergies or dietary needs, please call the restaurant directly to confirm they can accommodate you. * This restaurant does not offer booking with advance payment, so instead we will show up and grab a table. Wednesday should not be that busy. If it happens to be fully booked, we will simply head to another restaurant in the same compound. * If your plans change, please cancel at least a day before. * Make sure to show up on time, don't be late. This is a relaxed, social evening—come by, meet new people, and enjoy some great food together.

For the event details and registration use the user group event link: [TFPUG Feb 2026 Event - Fabric Real Time Intelligen... - Microsoft Fabric Community](https://community.fabric.microsoft.com/t5/Toronto-Fabric-Power-BI-User/TFPUG-Feb-2026-Event-Fabric-Real-Time-Intelligence/ev-p/4948482) The RSVP here is not considered a registration and it's just to announce the event to the meetup community. TFPUG Team [Toronto Fabric & Power BI User Group | Microsoft Fabric Community](https://community.fabric.microsoft.com/t5/Toronto-Fabric-User-Group/gh-p/TorontoFabricUserGroup) [Toronto Fabric & Power BI User Group | Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/toronto-fabric-user-group/) [Toronto Fabric & Power BI User Group | LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/toronto-fabric-user-group/)

**This in an interest list only post. If you wish to Join a Welland Wednesday Morning 9:30 am to 10:45 am** "Inner Peace" Qigong class with Hae Kwang Sunim - Please message Sunim at 416-797-7553. We need two more people! We need two more people : ) **Location - Merritt & Niagara St. Welland.** **Required:** **Contact Sunim to register (text 416-797-7553 or email to [innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com](mailto:innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com))** **Investment: Only $17.70 + hst ($20.00\*\*)** **Benefits of attending this class** ## 🌅 **Interest List Now Open — Wednesday Morning (9:30 am - 10:45 am) Inner Peace Qigong in Welland** We are forming a **small, weekday morning Inner Peace Qigong class** in Welland (max 7 people). If you’d like to be part of this new circle, please message Sunim to get on the **Interest List**: 📩 **innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com** 📲 **416-797-7553 (DM / Text Sunim)** Once enough participants are confirmed, we will set the start date together. All are welcome — no previous experience required. *** ## ✨ **What You’ll Experience in Each Class** Each 75-minute class includes: * **Soft Inner Peace Qigong** to release tension and emotional stress * **Zen & Heart Practice** (Mind Training) * **Experiential Qi Energy Infusion & Healing Instruction** * **Deep Conversation** * **Lying-down “Still Qigong”** for deep rest & nervous system reset * A peaceful closing that often leaves people feeling as if they are **floating out of class** This class is described by many as an **“ultimate stress reducer.”** *** ## 🌱 **Benefits People Often Notice** * Reduced stress, anxiety, and overwhelm * Deeper, more restorative sleep * Relief of chronic tension and pain * Improved balance, coordination & circulation * Enhanced emotional steadiness * A calmer mind and clearer presence * Stronger energy flow (Qi) and vitality * A deeper sense of inner connection and peace As Dr. Mehmet Oz shared on the Oprah Winfrey Show: **“If you want to be healthy and live to be 100, do Qigong.”** Inner Peace Qigong is a gentle, powerful way to nourish your **body, mind, and heart**. *** ## 📍 **Location** Near Merritt Rd & Niagara St, Welland (Exact address provided upon registration.) *** ## 💸 **Investment** **$17.70 + HST = $20 per class** Small group — **pre-registration required**. *** ## 📲 **How to Join / Interest List** To join the **Wednesday Morning Interest List** or to reserve a place for Tuesday evenings: Text: **416-797-7553** Email: **innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com** You will receive confirmation and directions. *** ## 🧘 **What to Bring** * Yoga mat (we have extras) * Small blanket or pillow if desired * An open heart Chairs, blankets, and mats are available. Please arrive a few minutes early to settle into the space. *** ## 💛 **A Quiet Space for Healing, Presence & Inner Life Training** If you feel called to: * Restore your energy * Quiet your mind * Learn powerful inner tools * Heal deeply * Grow in a small, loving community …this circle is for you. All are welcome — beginners included. *** ## 🕊 A Teaching from Sunim *“When the mind is quieted and trained, the brightness of True Self begins to shine through… the nervous system finally rests, and from this place, the body does not easily fall prey to disease.”* — **Hae Kwang Sunim** **We offer Qigong, Meditation, Zen, Breathwork, and Energy Healing classes designed to support nervous system regulation, stress reduction, emotional balance, and overall well-being. Reach out with any questions. DM Hae Kwang Sunim at 416-797-7553. You are welcome here!** **🌿🌿 Stay connected beyond our gatherings** **Between classes and events, we share reflections, short teachings, inspiration, and gentle reminders to return to presence, balance, and inner peace on Facebook and Instagram.** **You’re warmly invited to join us here:** **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/innerpeaceqigong **Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/inner_peace_qigong What People Are Saying: "Hi Sunim, I hope you are staying warm in this winter weather. Just wanted to say thank you for the teachings yesterday. It’s beautiful how the universe works and provides just what you need. I was really struggling the few days before class. It felt as if I was in an internal tornado but paralyzed at the same time. I went through my tool box/Rolodex of practices but was still struggling to find that space, that space between thoughts. But through the offerings of your teachings and the space created by the community, I was able to add more tools to the tool box and felt guided and supported while doing so. So a heartfelt thank you to you and the community. The knowing that pain/challenges are our greatest professor if we allow it, becomes much more accessible when the light and love from others is shared in support of the journey. With love and gratitude" Tina G \* "I love love love the Qi blankets (practice)! This morning’s class was so beautiful and deep. Thanks Sunim and everyone in our beautiful sangha!" \- Coleen M

Welcome to the 'Government Grants for Small Business and Real Estate Investors' event! We are thrilled to bring an expert to provide valuable insights and guidance on the various government grants available for small business owners and Real Estate professionals. Whether you're starting a new venture or looking to expand your existing business, this event will showcase 14 different grants that can help you achieve your goals. Our expert will walk you through the application process step-by-step, and answer any questions you may have. Get ready to take your business to the next level and take advantage of the opportunities offered by government grants! It's important to note that the government grants we will be showcasing at this event are not loans that need to be repaid. They are funds provided by the government with the aim of supporting small businesses and promoting economic growth. By attending this event, you will learn about various grants that are designed to help you start or grow your business without incurring any debt. This is a unique opportunity to access non-repayable funds that can help you achieve your business goals, and we encourage you to take advantage of it. In addition to the invaluable information and guidance you will receive at this event, we are pleased to offer each attendee a comprehensive booklet containing all the information presented. This booklet will serve as a valuable reference tool that you can use long after the event is over. Additionally, you will have access to sample grant applications and other materials that you can use as a guide when applying for the grants. These resources are designed to help you increase your chances of success and make the grant application process as smooth as possible. We believe that by providing you with these materials, we can give you the best possible chance of securing the funds you need to start or grow your business. **Event is offered at no-cost.** **Agenda** 6:00pm – 6:15pm : General Networking 6:15pm – 8:00pm: Seminar by the Expert RSVP to register, limited sitting In addition to the informative presentations and valuable resources, this event also offers a unique opportunity for business networking. By attending, you will have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are also interested in growing their businesses. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this is an excellent opportunity to build new connections and exchange ideas with others in the business community. We encourage you to bring business cards and be prepared to engage in meaningful conversations with other attendees. The connections you make at this event could prove to be invaluable for your future business endeavors. **About LeaderSHIFT** LeaderSHIFT is a leadership development program for CEOs, Presidents, and business owners who want to discover innovative leadership strategies and capitalize on growth opportunities. The program offers weekly sessions that provide entrepreneurs with top-quality, relevant, and innovative ideas, concepts, techniques, and insider hacks from top business professionals. The program covers critical topics that matter to high-growth entrepreneurs, including Leadership, Finance, Strategy, Innovation, and People. Participants will have the opportunity to work in small group forums, share ideas, and discuss common business experiences with other top entrepreneurs. The program is designed for top entrepreneurs who are ready to shift a thriving enterprise to a whole new level of success. Photography and audio/video recordings are not permitted without prior consent by Amit Kapoor. **Questions or Concerns?** Please feel free to reach out to us at SMS 437-248-7424 if you have any questions or concerns. We are always here to assist you and provide any support that you may need.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

Toptracer Winter Golf League @ The Docks Overview Weekly 9-hole Toptracer Virtual Golf League — runs all winter. Men’s and Women’s divisions. $50 Docks Gift Card to weekly low gross in each division (requires ≥10 entrants; rolls over if not met). $200 monthly Gift Card for ≥25 total entrants (rolls over if not met). All scoring is automatic via Toptracer leaderboard — no manual scorecards. Starting 5 November 2025 17:30 - 9 November 2025 23:59 weekly Wednesday to Sunday Regular Driving range rates apply (rates posted at www.thedocks.com)

Important Register on the [event website](https://www.aicamp.ai/event/eventdetails/W2026021214) (Due to room capacity and building security, you must pre-register at the link for admission) **Description:** Welcome to the AI meetup in Toronto. Join us for deep dive tech talks on AI, GenAI, LLMs and machine learning, food/drink, networking with speakers and fellow developers. **Speakers/Topics:** \- Gleb Otochkin \(Google\) Stay tuned as we are updating speakers and schedules. If you have a keen interest in speaking to our community, we invite you to submit topics for consideration: [Submit Topics](https://forms.gle/JkMt91CZRtoJBSFUA) **Sponsors:** We are actively seeking sponsors to support AI developers community. Whether it is by offering venue spaces, providing food, or cash sponsorship. Sponsors will not only speak at the meetups, receive prominent recognition, but also gain exposure to our extensive membership base of 10,000+ AI developers in Toronto or 500K+ worldwide.

Let's learn Agentic AI! Welcome to our [KSUG.AI Americas](https://us1.ksug.ai) meetup! **Latest promotions** discovered by our community! * **50%** off [Linux Foundation](https://gk.ksug.ai/) EXPIRED, [Get Notified](https://ksug.ai/?notify&ref=meet) for next BIG one! * **20%** off [KubeCon Europe](https://ksug.ai/events/?ref=meet) 2026 using code **KSAI20** * Up to **30%** off popular [Books](https://ksug.ai/books/?ref=meet) and [Events](https://ksug.ai/events/?ref=meet) Stop Babysitting LLMs, Start Shipping. PRs got bigger, not better. Seniors are burning hours on AI bug hunts while *throughput stays flat*. Encode your existing **SDLC** into a gated multi-agent flow so LLMs do the noisy work. Review changes that have already passed **CI**. ## **Swarm Architecture** Encodes a full SDLC loop (**issue** → **spec → plan → PR** → **gate** → **deploy**) in a gated **45-agent swarm** you can explore after the talk. ## **Shift Left** **Mutation-on-diff** and **contract/schema checks** wired into your agentic flow before review. Reduce **review pain** instead of just generating more code. ## **Failure Modes & Guardrails** Hallucinations, reward hacking, process confabulation, and how your architecture catches and fixes them before they reach reviewers. ## **Takeaways** * ✓You'll leave with a working **demo swarm repository** you can clone into your own repos, and a clearer way to decide when to lean on **tokens versus human review**. * ✓For platform and DevEx engineers, tech leads and staff+ developers, and engineering leaders who are tired of wrestling with AI-generated code and **review pain**. * ✓The talk and swarm will be released under **Apache 2.0**. *Come at 5:30 pm have some pizza and chat for a bit. The presentation starts at 6:00 pm.* **Volunteers / Sponsors / Speakers:** [KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meetup) is actively seeking speakers & sponsors to support our KubeSmart & AI community. Whether it is by offering venue spaces, providing food, or financial support. Sponsors will not only speak at our meetups, receive prominent recognition, but also gain exposure to our extensive membership base of 31,000+ Cloud Native + AI enthusiasts globally. [Volunteering](https://volunteer.ksug.ai/), [Submit Topics](https://speaker.ksug.ai/), [Sponsor Us](https://sponsor.ksug.ai/)! 🚀 **Let's be [kubestrong](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kubestrong/)!** 🎉 Please take a note this event is organized by our peers. We thought it's useful to our members. Join **[#Discord](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua)** for latest update 👉 [https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua) 🔖 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬: ☸ **30%** OFF [#CNCF Certs](https://cka.ksug.ai/) \- code **30K8SUG** ☸ **37%** OFF [#KodeKloud plans](https://ksug.ai/kk/?ref=meet) \- code **K8SUGKK** 𝟏𝟖𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ follow **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/discount/?ref=meetup)** 🔥 [linktr.ee/ksug.ai](https://linktr.ee/ksug.ai) ✅ Learn 𝐅𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 ⚡ ✅ Certify 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑 💰 ✅ Grow 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑 💪 [KSUG.AI - KubeSmart & AI User Group](https://linkedin.com/company/k8sug) *By registering, you consent to the management of your personal information in accordance with KSUG.AI Meetup's [Privacy Policy](https://k8sug.ai/privacy). Additionally, you agree that our sponsors may contact you.* **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meetup)** is an independent community and not affiliated with or endorsed by CNCF. Kubernetes, K8s, Kubestronaut are registered trademarks of The Linux Foundation.

Welcome to the most personalized small-group strength class in the city—designed for people who want to lift with confidence, fix nagging pain, and feel strong for life. Whether you've: 
👉 Hurt your back deadlifting
👉 Felt intimidated or insecure in the weight room
👉 Struggled with poor posture, stiff hips, or low energy from sitting at a desk all day
👉 Tried group fitness but felt lost in the crowd... This class was built for you. We work in small groups only so you get individualized attention, coaching on perfect form, and progressive programming that actually delivers results. You’ll learn how to lift safely, move pain-free, and build a body that feels strong, mobile, and injury-resistant—even if you’re a complete beginner. Perfect for: 
✔️ Desk workers and professionals with high-stress, long-hour jobs
✔️ Anyone with low back, hip, shoulder, or knee issues
✔️ People who want to overcome gym anxiety and finally feel at home lifting weights
✔️ Beginners or returners looking to build a solid foundation We train in 6-week progressive blocks, focusing on technique, strength, mobility, and injury prevention. Every movement is coached and adjusted based on your body’s needs. We work with your injuries—not around them. BONUS: Nutritional support is available if you’re ready to dial in your recovery, energy, and fat loss goals. 💡 Details: * First class is FREE to try * Classes are $40 each (packages available) * Spots are very limited — this is an exclusive, high-touch experience * Attend 1–2x/week for best results * DM us for a special first-timer offer (limited to new members only) You don’t need to be fit to start—you just need to start.
Let’s help you move through life stronger, more energized, and pain-free.

This is a ticketed event. Please register at [this link](https://luma.com/1tdy8el7). ​Agent swarms can complete multi-month to year software development tasks. What does this mean for timelines? [Julian Moncarz](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-moncarz/?originalSubdomain=ca) provides an overview of safety risks that emerge when agents work in swarms. ​​​**Event Schedule** 6:00 to 6:30 - Food and introductions 6:30 to 7:30 - Presentation and Q&A 7:30 to 9:00 - Open Discussions ​​​​​​If you can't make it in person, feel free to join the live stream starting at 6:30 pm, via [this link](https://www.youtube.com/@Trajectory-Labs/live). ​​​This is part of our weekly **[AI Safety Thursdays ](https://luma.com/trajectory-labs?k=c)**series. Join us in examining questions like: * ​​​How do we ensure AI systems are aligned with human interests? * ​​​How do we measure and mitigate potential risks from advanced AI systems? * ​​​What does safer AI development look like?

## 🌿 40 Years and Growing! ### **Midweek Healing from Home - Join Us!** *** **What if your midweek didn’t leave you drained… but deeply restored?** We live in a world that constantly pulls us out of rhythm — overstimulated by screens, worn down by stress, and left running on fumes. By Wednesday, many feel foggy, depleted, and disconnected from their breath, body, and spirit. But it doesn’t have to be that way. 🌟 **Join us from home. Come back to your centre.** Most Wednesday at 7 PM Eastern, our virtual Inner Peace Qigong community gathers on Zoom to practice powerful, proven tools that restore balance, build life force (Qi), and bring peace back to the body and mind. Class is 75 minutes. You’ll receive deep care, practical wisdom, and guided Qigong training — in a supportive space that feels like a sacred pause in your week. *** ## ✨ What to Expect Each class is different, but always uplifting. Sessions may include: * **A Guided Inner Peace Qigong Practice** Move, breathe, and restore vital energy * **Science-Backed Insights & Tao Teachings** Calm your stress hormones and reset your inner clock * **Emotional Reset & Nervous System Regulation** Learn techniques to bring the body and mind back into harmony * **Rotating Weekly Themes**, such as: > Zen insights and mindfulness practice > Tools to strengthen your inner life > Tao wisdom and guided meditation > Energy balancing and self-healing > Community sharing and reflection * **A Heart-Centered Community** Grow and evolve together — safely, gently, and with care *** ## 🕖 WHEN ## **Wednesday at 7 PM Eastern Time** (Except the 1st Wednesday of each month — and yes, we do meet on 5th Wednesdays!). ## 💻 WHERE **Online via Zoom** 🔗 [Join Zoom Meeting](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89989419619?pwd=Z0NHQi9sdG5JQ3IxMWlSNThyZzI3Zz09) Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89989419619?pwd=Z0NHQi9sdG5JQ3IxMWlSNThyZzI3Zz09 Meeting ID: **899 8941 9619** Password: **21690** Or email Sunim directly at innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com Pls confirm by email 24 hour in advance before joining your first on line virtual class so you are on the list to click in. *** ## 💸 INVESTMENT **1 Class** * Price before HST: $17.70 * HST (13%): $2.30 * **Total: $20.00 CAD** **Bundle: 2 Classes** * Price before HST: $13.28 x 2 = $26.55 * HST (13%): $3.45 * **Total: $30.00 CAD** *Includes full access and Qigong gems you can revisit again and again.* * Price includes PDFs and emailed home instructions. **U.S. Friends:** You may deduct **25% off Canadian prices** when paying in U.S. dollars via e-transfer. *** ## ✅ How to Join **Step 1:** Before the class.. Send your e-transfer to: 📩 *innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com* **Step 2:** Copy & paste or click the Zoom link 5 minutes before class **Step 3:** Set the tone — create a quiet space with a blanket, cushion, or soft light — and settle in. *** ## 💛 Midweek Calm. Midweek Clarity. Midweek You-Time. You don’t need to push through the week running on empty. Take one powerful hour to **refill your energy**, **reset your nervous system**, and **reconnect with your purpose and peace**. This is your weekly **reset button** — your **sacred pause** — your reminder that healing is always available. 🧘‍♂️ *Join us this Wednesday. We can’t wait to welcome you.* With warmth and respect, **Hae Kwang Sunim** www.innerpeaceqigong.com Questions? Reach out: 📩 *innerpeaceqigong@icloud.com* Or message Sunim at 416-797-7553

Elastic and Toronto Women's Data Group are happy to partner together on a community meetup in Toronto! Hear from two leading data professionals, who will share their insights on the Data/ML field, hard-earned lessons, and what the day-to-day really looks like. Whether you’re looking to learn, considering a pivot or advancing your career, this event is for you! Speakers: \- Ella Chen \- Software Engineer\, Shopify \- Jessica David \- Principal Data Engineer\, Elastic Schedule (subject to change): 6:00 pm - Doors open 6:30 pm - Speaker sessions, Q&A 8:00 pm - Networking/chatting Allies are welcome to attend, with the understanding that these events are focused on spotlighting the career experiences of women. **When:** February 12th 6:00 pm **Location:** 8 Spadina Ave See you there!

We are kicking off **2026** with a relaxed, in person **a11yTO** social focused on connection, reflection, and conversation. This is a casual evening with no formal presentation and no slides. The goal is simply to bring the community together, reconnect with familiar faces, meet new people, and share experiences from the past year. As part of the evening, we will offer optional mini lightning prompts for anyone who would like to participate. These are short, three minute reflections focused on looking back at 2025. You might share one accessibility win from last year that truly made a difference, or one thing that did not work and what it taught you. Listening is just as welcome as sharing, and there is no need to prepare anything in advance. Whether you are new to accessibility or have been working in the space for years, everyone is welcome. Register at: [https://tickets.a11yto.com/e/33/a11yto-february-social-reflecting-on-our-accessibility-journey-in-2025](https://tickets.a11yto.com/e/33/a11yto-february-social-reflecting-on-our-accessibility-journey-in-2025)

**Title**: Powering AI Through Data Modernization: Modernizing ETL with Databricks & Unity Catalog In this session, we will discuss how enterprises are modernizing their data platforms by migrating from legacy ETL tools (such as Informatica and traditional data warehouses) to Databricks Lakehouse architecture, and how Unity Catalog enables enterprise-grade governance, security, and discoverability across data and AI assets. We will start with food and drinks at 6pm and then move into the presentation at 6:30pm. The session will cover: * Why traditional ETL platforms are becoming a bottleneck for scale, cost, and AI adoption * How Databricks changes the data engineering and analytics operating mode * The role of Unity Catalog in centralized governance * How this foundation enables AI and Gene.AI use cases on trusted data * Q&A Our speaker for this event is **Hirenkumar Dholariya**. Hirenkumar Dholariya is a Senior Data Engineering Architect with 18+ years of experience modernizing enterprise data platforms for global Fortune 500 organizations, delivering up to 40% system performance improvement and 20–35% infrastructure cost reduction through large-scale migration from legacy ETL platforms to cloud-native Lakehouse architectures. He specializes in Databricks-based data engineering, Unity Catalog–driven governance, and building scalable, secure, and real-time analytics platforms. He has led multiple enterprise-wide transformations from tools such as Informatica and traditional data warehouses to Databricks, establishing governed data foundations using Unity Catalog and enabling advanced analytics and AI use cases on top of trusted data platforms. His leadership focuses on architecting durable data platforms, enabling teams to move faster with confidence, and translating data and AI investments into measurable business outcomes. *

💗 Live February 16, 2026 Meditation Heart Safe: Nervous System Reset February can stir emotions, memories, and expectations—especially around the heart. This live guided meditation is a gentle space to regulate the nervous system, soften emotional tension, and reconnect with your heart in a way that feels safe and grounded. This is not about fixing yourself or forcing self-love. It’s about creating internal safety, slowing down, and allowing your heart to rest. 🗓 Date: Monday, February 16, 2026 ⏰ Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm 🕯️ Location: Rising Phoenix Holistic Center 9208 D Prince William St. Manassas, Va 💵 Energy Exchange: $22 💚 25% off any Heart Shaped Crystal 💸 Payment Methods: Cash App: $LifeEnergyNikki Venmo: @Nikki-Tanks Zelle: 703-203-9711 Tiffany Tanks Apple Pay: 703-203-9711 Cash

### 📅 Date & Time: **Saturday, February 21, 2025** **1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST** *** ### 📍 Location: **Pots & Plants Garden Center** 10106 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066 (This is an **in-person event**.) *** ### 🌱 About This Event: **Don’t have a backyard? No problem!** This free, in-person workshop will show you how to grow real food — herbs, greens, and more — *inside your home*, using compact hydroponic and soil systems with LED grow lights. Whether you're new to gardening or looking to expand your food-growing skills during winter, this session will cover: ✅ Easy-to-use indoor garden setups ✅ LED lighting and hydroponic tips ✅ Local seedling options to save 30+ days of growing time ✅ Real tools you can use — no backyard required! *** ### 🎁 What You'll Get: * Live demonstration of indoor grow systems * Free digital guides to take home * Invite to join the full Indoor Food Growing Training Program (for free!) * Access to local seedling bundle options *** ### 👥 Who Should Attend: * Gardeners without outdoor space * Houseplant lovers curious about growing food * Local families, foodies, and eco-conscious neighbors * Anyone interested in sustainable food and indoor growing systems *** ### 📝 RSVP Info: **Free to attend – please RSVP to save your spot!** Bring a friend or neighbor along! Thank you, Clift --- Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com

**Reiki I Certification Training: Foundations of Energy Healing** Begin your Reiki journey with a comprehensive **Reiki Level I Certification Training** designed to teach you the fundamentals of energy healing, self-healing, and intuitive development. This introductory Reiki course is ideal for beginners, empaths, wellness practitioners, and anyone seeking deeper spiritual alignment. In this immersive training, you will learn: • What Reiki is and how energy healing works • The history of Reiki and its modern applications • The Three Pillars of Reiki and the Five Reiki Principles • Protection, centering, grounding, and aura-clearing techniques • Understanding the healing crisis and what to expect after attunement • How to use Reiki for self-care and daily energetic support • Reiki grids and the use of a transformative symbol • How to integrate Reiki into your lifestyle for clarity and balance This class includes your **Reiki I attunement**, a guided **self-healing practice**, and all foundational training needed to continue to Reiki II. **What You Will Receive:** • Reiki I Certification • Hands-on instruction and guided practice • Tools for self-healing and energy management • Techniques to support emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being • A clear pathway for advancing to Reiki II and Reiki III **Who Should Attend:** This class is suitable for anyone interested in Reiki, energy work, intuitive development, holistic healing, or beginning a professional wellness path. No prior experience is required. Take your first step into the Reiki healing system and learn how to channel universal life force energy for balance, clarity, and transformation. **Cost: $197** RSVP: https://bit.ly/ReikiI0226 All payments are non refundable and non transferable

Learn how homeowners and real estate investors are using mid-term furnished rentals to earn higher rental income with fewer turnovers than short-term rentals and more flexibility than traditional long-term leases. This seminar covers how to rent your house to traveling professionals, relocating families, insurance placements, and corporate tenants. We’ll break down pricing strategies, tenant demand, furnishing basics, lease structure, insurance considerations, and local rules you need to know. Whether you’re a homeowner with an extra property, an investor looking for better cash flow, or someone moving away from Airbnb, this session will give you a clear, practical framework to get started. Ideal for homeowners, small investors, and anyone interested in flexible rental income, furnished rentals, or corporate housing strategies. **Guest Speakers** *Jess Young* co-founded Tonlé Stays with Joe Hurm, where they invest in and operate short- and mid-term rental properties. With an operator-first mindset, Jess focuses on turning real estate into efficient, scalable hospitality businesses. *Susan Velasco* is the CEO and Founder of Kyma, a nationwide temporary housing provider that helps families displaced by property damage find quality homes fast. She connects landlords with vetted, insurance-backed tenants—so you get reliable income and less vacancy headache. Based in the Washington DC area, she's excited to meet and collaborate with local property owners, furnished rental operators, and those interested in mid-term rentals.

Have you ever wondered what goes into a tea blend that not only tastes delicious, but also nourishes the body, mind, and soul? Did you know that herbs have long been connected to the rhythms of the seasons, astrological signs, and chakras? Join Sonja in this interactive workshop where you will craft your own tea blend infused with both the quiet wisdom of the winter season and a personal intention for the new year. The workshop will begin with Freya’s Sacred Wintering Blend—a thoughtfully chosen mixture of herbs designed to gently nourish the body and calm the mind during winter’s stillness. Participants will mix the herbs themselves as Sonja explains the energetic and supportive qualities of each plant and why it was selected for this blend. You will be able to add an (optional) herb from a selection of 3 additional herbs, allowing each participant to further personalize their tea and intention. Sonja’s approach to herbalism is deeply rooted in lived experience. Raised in a household where natural remedies were honored, she carried these traditions into her own family as she raised her children. As her connection to plant medicine continued to deepen, Sonja pursued formal training in herbalism with renowned herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. Today, sharing this knowledge has become a heartfelt passion—guiding others to reconnect with nature as a source of nourishment, balance, and gentle healing. Workshop Experience 1. Seasonal Herbal Wisdom & Energetics A guided exploration of three carefully chosen herbs whose energetic, spiritual, and wellness qualities align with February’s themes of rest, reflection, and intentional recalibration. We will observe how plants, like humans, are conserving nutrients and storing energy beneath the surface—preparing quietly for the growth and expression of spring. 2. Intuitive Tea Blending Ritual Participants will be able to create, with Sonja’s assistance, a personalized tea blend using four seasonal herbs. With 3 pre-chosen herbs that embody nourishment, strength, and gentle activation and a fourth herb chosen by participants to reflect personal intention, weaving individual purpose into the collective energy of preparation and renewal. 3. Freya’s Teas Intention Ceremony Through a guided tea ceremony, we will consciously infuse our blends with intention—honoring the plant allies, the season, and the inner work of rooting dreams before they emerge. This ritual invites presence, gratitude, and embodied connection with the medicine we have created. 4. Meditation & Integration The gathering will close with a grounding meditation to anchor intentions into the physical and energetic body. This final integration offers space to reflect, receive, and gently call in the path unfolding ahead as we move toward the returning light of spring. This workshop includes herbal instruction by Sonja and printed instructions to take home, supplies to make your own tea blend, tea ceremony, and guided meditation. Each participant will take home their own tea blend pouch with 15 servings (a $12.50 value). Please note that this event has limit of 8 spaces in order to ensure a more intimate experience and requires prior prepayment registration to allow Sonja to gather the ingredients and supplies. Early Bird Discount!! If you register by Monday February 16th, it's only $44 per person, after that it goes up to $50. See links below to register! Paypal: https://www.paypal.me/SonjaKline Venmo: https://venmo.com/code?user_id=3567792959784992657&created=1770002983 Zelle: 2675359775 (Sonja Kline) SPECIAL OFFER!!! If you want to continue to ground your healing and intentions further, consider staying for a relaxing Sound Bath immediately folllowing this workshop! Save even more with the lowest price of $70 for both events! See link below: [https://www.meetup.com/raising-your-vibrations/events/313219974](https://www.meetup.com/raising-your-vibrations/events/313219974/?eventOrigin=group_events_list)/

Join our partners Watermark Woods Native Plants, Loudoun County Public Library (LCPL), and Birch Tree Bookstore for the Read! Plant! Grow! Book Club, which focuses on native plants, sponsored by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and LCPL. At this meeting we’ll discuss the book Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. Both memoir and journalistic investigation, this book explores how the Kingsolver family took on a new challenge: to spend a year on a locally -produced diet, paying close attention to the provenance of all they consume. Concerned about the environmental, social, and physical costs of American food culture, they hoped to recover what Kingsolver considers our nation’’s lost appreciation for farms and the natural processes of food production. You can either buy the book from Birch Tree Bookstore or contact Allison Forbes at [Allison.forbes@loudoun.gov](mailto:Allison.forbes@loudoun.gov) to borrow a copy of the book at the library. There are two ways to participate: attend the event online via the library website or [sign up to participate in person at Birch Tree Bookstore](https://www.birchtreebookstore.com/event-details/read-plant-grow-2026-02-24-18-30). ***Questions:*** *Contact [info@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:info@loudounwildlife.org)*.