Social Change

The Third Tuesday of the month is Tuesday TubesDay!! **CLASS BEGINS: Promptly @ 6:00pm (arrive 5:45).** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Tire Demonstration:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * WHEN: February 17th is Tuesday TubesDay!! * WHERE: Shirlington Library, inside in the large meeting room. * ARRIVE: Shoot for 5:45pm * CLASS BEGINS: Promptly @ 6:00pm * CLASS FINISHES: 7:30pm (library closes at 8pm) * Attendance is free * Ride after the Ride is at Samuel Beckett's @ 8:00pm. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Optional:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** If you want to practice on your own tire, please bring the front wheel of your bicycle to the demonstration. If you bring your front wheel, please bring a towel or a sheet or similar to put on the table. This is not necessary if you just want to watch the demonstration. **(WATCH THIS VIDEO FOR HOW TO REMOVE YOUR FRONT WHEEL: [https://youtu.be/UxgneYfegNc](https://youtu.be/UxgneYfegNc)).** **This demonstration covers a range of topics, including:** * Fixing a flat tire / Changing a tire. * Which mobile pump is best. * C02 usage explained (not demonstrated). * Explain what basic tools to carry for various roadside repairs. * Please bring any bike tools or accessories that you already own and we will show you how to use them (don't worry if you don't own any). * I will follow up with an email after the class of the various things we went through and tool suggestion links. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Shirlington Library 4200 Campbell Ave Arlington, VA 22206 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA) **Inside in the large meeting room.** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Samuel Beckett's 2800 S Randolph St #110 Arlington, VA 22206 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/rHx2PvqFicpFRrDZ8](https://goo.gl/maps/rHx2PvqFicpFRrDZ8)

​This gathering brings together women working in or curious about Bitcoin. We'll share real experiences, career paths, and lessons learned. The focus will be on how women contribute to building, securing, and supporting Bitcoin, from technical roles to adjacent fields. If you're already in tech or just starting to explore, join us to learn, connect, and discover what's possible. **👉 Please RSVP on Luma:** [https://luma.com/kn3txa1n](https://luma.com/kn3txa1n) Panelists will speak candidly about navigating the industry, building a career in emerging tech, and what it's really like to work in Bitcoin-focused organizations. The discussion aims to be approachable and insightful, giving women a clear, real-world view of opportunities, challenges, and growth in Bitcoin and related technologies. ​***Please respect the Bitcoin-only focus: We do not discuss, promote, or entertain conversations about altcoins, tokens, ICOs, NFTs, memecoins, or any other cryptocurrency projects. Nothing shared at this meetup is financial advice. Always do your own research!*** ​***🍺 Tell the bartender you're paying with Bitcoin before you close out your tab and get 21% off!*** ​ **Getting There:** * ​🔵🟠⚪ Federal Triangle + 10 min walk * ​🟢🟡 Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter + 2 min walk * ​🔴 Judiciary Square or Metro Center + 8 min walk * ​There is street parking and several nearby paid garages **👉 Please RSVP on Luma:** [https://luma.com/kn3txa1n](https://luma.com/kn3txa1n)

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.

📚 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.

Join us for trivia at Lost Dog Cafe in McLean, Virginia located at 1690 Anderson Rd every Tuesday evening. Trivia begins at 7pm, but please consider joining earlier, around 6:45, since seating’s first-come-first-served. The nearest metro is McLean. **Donation:** Neurodivergent District strives to compensate Neurodivergent District members that volunteer to host our events. Please consider a donation to @katewoodwardcm for hosting. Please specify "donation to trivia host" in the description of your payment. Questions? Text 202-925-0001.

Calling all Crew Members! 🚢 BBaddies On A Track! We will be meeting at 6am to hit the track. We will do a warm up and then a few drills and sprints on the track! We will also have fun and be in community!

A welcoming space for Muslim sisters and brothers in their 20s & 30s around Alexandria (Kingstowne) to connect, build genuine friendships, and support each other, especially during Ramadan and beyond. We’re hoping to meet kind, respectful people who value faith, community, and positive vibes. Activities may include iftars, suhoor meetups, taraweeh, coffee chats, walks, hiking, travel, and wholesome social gatherings. 📍 Exact meetup locations will be shared and decided together. I’ll also be creating a WhatsApp group for easier coordination, if you’d like to join, just let me know and I’ll add you 😊.

Details Location: Crimson Whiskey Bar (Downstairs Bar, Not Rooftop) The purpose of Thinkers and Drinkers is to facilitate casual but meaningful and interesting conversations with other people in a face-to-face setting. The topics cover a wide variety of issues and are different for every meeting. While conversations may get heated at times, we ask that all members be respectful of each other and refrain from personal insults. Topic: Trust in Institutions Across much of the world, trust in major institutions, including government, media, corporations, courts, universities, and science, appears to be shifting. Surveys often show declining confidence in public institutions, while at the same time people continue to rely on them for stability, information, and coordination. Recent years have included disputed elections, misinformation concerns, public health crises, economic disruptions, and rapid technological change. These events have raised difficult questions about credibility, legitimacy, and accountability. Some argue that skepticism toward institutions is healthy in a democracy, encouraging transparency and reform. Others worry that widespread distrust can weaken social cohesion and make collective problem solving nearly impossible. Major surveys and studies on institutional trust include: • Pew Research Center, Public Trust in Government: https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2024/04/30/public-trust-in-government-1958-2024/ • Edelman Trust Barometer (annual global survey): https://www.edelman.com/trust/trust-barometer • Gallup, Confidence in Institutions: https://news.gallup.com/poll/1597/confidence-institutions.aspx • World Values Survey, Trust indicators across countries: https://www.worldvaluessurvey.org Historically, periods of low institutional trust have sometimes preceded major reforms or political realignments, while in other cases they have contributed to instability or authoritarian backlash. Understanding when distrust is justified, and when it becomes dangerous, remains an open question. Questions to Consider • What factors most strongly shape trust in institutions, performance, transparency, shared identity, or something else? • Is declining trust primarily a problem, or can it be a healthy corrective? • Are some institutions, such as courts, science, or local government, more deserving of baseline trust than others? • How should societies respond when large portions of the public lose faith in elections, media, or public health guidance? • Can trust be rebuilt once it is lost, and if so, how? • Does technology, especially social media and AI, strengthen or weaken institutional legitimacy?

Friday nights are better with friends. Come sip, mingle, and explore one of Dupont’s hidden gems: Nero DC. The purpose of this event is to provide an opportunity for casual mingling, hanging with friends, and meeting a new fun and welcoming crowd. **What to Expect** * Private floor access meaning only our group is up there * Cash Bar with an optional wine tasting card (I.e. can sample Nero’s handpicked selection of wines) * Welcoming and friendly crowd **Where to find us** We have the entire third floor booked for us **MOST IMPORTANT RULE**
 Be Respectful. No tolerance for inappropriate behavior. Can and will ban people as needed. 
⸻
 ✅ Come early, fly solo, bring friends - this is your type of social

D.C.’s healthcare system, like the rest of the U.S., is profit-driven and structurally racist. Black residents—especially those east of the Anacostia River—suffer from higher rates of chronic illness and maternal mortality and life expectancy gaps of over 15 years compared to white residents. On Sunday February 22nd Pan-African Community Action (PACA) will launch a revolutionary survival program to provide practical services while building political power. The **[People’s Pan-African Wellness Front (PPWF)](https://pacapower.org/our-work/programs/ppwf/)** is a community-based grassroots program led by PACA to confront the health disparities impacting African/Black working-class communities in Southeast Washington, D.C. Inspired by revolutionary legacies like the Black Panther Party’s People’s Free Medical Clinics and the Cuban healthcare model, this program seeks to deliver immediate relief while organizing toward long-term self-determination and community control of health. **The PPWF will provide:** * Free high blood pressure screenings * Free glucose tests (diabetes screening) * Free hygiene products and medical supplies, * Free health information and guidance for preventative care As well as political education on community control of health and radical health programs, including the Black Panther Party’s Free Medical Clinics and the Lincoln Detox Center. Medical professionals will also be available to answer health-related questions. Come out February 22nd either to receive services and/or to learn how to come involved with later phases of the program to scale up services, expand into more neighborhoods, and anchor broader campaigns around community control. This effort is part of PACA’s broader strategy to build forums for participatory democracy and build a mass movement for power. *This is more than a health program—it’s a step toward Black self-determination. We welcome healthcare workers, students, community members, and all who are ready to organize, learn, and build power*.

Friday nights are better with friends. Come sip, mingle, and explore one of Dupont’s hidden gems: Nero DC. The purpose of this event is to provide an opportunity for casual mingling, hanging with friends, and meeting a new fun and welcoming crowd. **RSVP FOR FREE ON EVENTBRITE** [RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dc-sip-social-friday-night-social-nero-free-with-rsvp-tickets-1981681874833?aff=oddtdtcreator) **What to Expect** * Private floor access meaning only our group is up there * Cash Bar with an optional wine tasting card (I.e. can sample Nero’s handpicked selection of wines) * Welcoming and friendly crowd **Where to find us** We have the entire third floor booked for us **MOST IMPORTANT RULE**
 Be Respectful. No tolerance for inappropriate behavior. Can and will ban people as needed. ⸻
 ✅ Come early, fly solo, bring friends - this is your type of social

**Hi Everyone,** **I'm deeply sorry, but I am cancelling FUTURE FREE HUGS events until such time that I know what's happening regarding the COVID, FLU and RSV hospitalization data!!** **For FREE HUGS events in the past, I have consulted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine if the hospitalizations for COVID, FLU and RSV were elevated or not.** **However, the Trump administration has restricted what CDC communicates to the public and has purged or stopped recent hospitalization data on the CDC website.** **There have been no updates on the chart since September 27, 2025** **[https://www.cdc.gov/resp-net/dashboard/](https://www.cdc.gov/resp-net/dashboard/)** **As a result, I'm not willing to risk people's health, nor mine, unnecessarily and am cancelling FREE HUGS events until the hospital data become available.** **Lots of Hugs and Much Love,** **Jeff** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **FREE HUGS on National Mall** **"Spreading More Love"** [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** **Lots of Hugs...jeff** 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

Sunday, February 22, 2026 - Luncheon at 2 pm; Lecture at 3 pm **Recent Top Stories in Biblical Archaeology** What stories are making headlines in the world of biblical archaeology? What exciting discoveries in Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and beyond are changing the ways that archaeologists and textual scholars view the biblical past? In this lecture, Glenn Corbett, Editor-in-Chief of Biblical Archaeology Review magazine, reviews some of the top biblical archaeology finds and stories from the past few years, from groundbreaking new discoveries about Jerusalem in the time of the biblical kings to dramatic breakthroughs in our understanding of the history and writing of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Find out which discovery tops the list AND get a sneak peek at some of the fascinating and thought-provoking articles being prepared for BAR this coming year! This event will be held at Nameste Jalsa Restaurant: 1504 King Street / Alexandria, VA 2231 Reservations are required. Please register.at: [https://basonova.org/next-lecture-reservation.html](https://basonova.org/next-lecture-reservation.html)

**In March we will be making protest signs form carboard, paper, thick markers, and more! All supplies are provided, seats are limited! Come As you are, when you can; hope to see you there!**

[Social Softball 2026 - Calendar - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=686961&item_id=2871538&actr=3) CSC Softball is a competitive but friendly co-ed league. This is CSC’s largest activity with over 200 participants. Each team typically consists of 6 men and 6 women players. Some teams also have a Non-Playing Assistant (NPA) who helps keep score and organize cookouts. **2026 Regular Season:** Thursdays April 30th - July 30th 6:15pm/7:15pm \*No games the week of July 4th\* **End of Season Tournament:** August 8th-August 9th (All Day) \*5 Game Min., 7 Game Max\* **Location:** Anheuser Busch Fields 4990 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43214 **Ratings Clinic:** March 14th or March 21st 10:30am - 11:30am @ Busch Fields \*All New Players must attend 1 of the clinics\* **Team Accouncements:** April 3rd 6:00pm @ Coaches Bar & Grill **Team Practice Dates:** April 16th & April 23rd **Fees:** Coach/Player - $72 Sponsor - $310 Non Playing Assistant/Party Coordinator/Base Coach - $25

Join us for a vibrant gathering that honors the heart and hustle of local entrepreneurs. It Takes a Village is more than an event it’s a movement to uplift and spotlight small business owners who pour passion into their craft and creativity into our community. From authors and bakers to jewelry makers, t-shirt designers, candle crafters, and beyond. This is your chance to meet the makers, support their work and celebrate the spirit of collaboration. **_Expect_** * Local vendors showcasing handmade goods * Live demos and storytelling from featured creators * Food, music, and community vibes * Opportunities to shop, connect and be inspired * Celebrate the power of small businesses and we all rise

**When:** Saturday\, February 21 \| 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM **Where:** [1124 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206](https://twodollarradiohq.com/about-us) Looking for a night of meaningful connection and great vegan food? Join us at [Two Dollar Radio Headquarters](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11fkn49_yq&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj14_nkjsWSAxVt4ckDHdRCH4oQqdYPegYIAQgFEAI) for a special community gathering! **What’s on the menu?** While [2$R](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11fkn49_yq&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj14_nkjsWSAxVt4ckDHdRCH4oQqdYPegYIAQgGEAI) typically serves a selection of [house-made sandwiches](https://twodollarradiohq.com/weekly-food) and vegan pastries, they are creating a **special menu** specifically for our event. You can also grab a coffee, tea, or a drink from their [full bar](https://twodollarradiohq.com/) of cocktails and beer. **The Main Event:** * **Play:** Bring a favorite game from home to share or dive into the ones available at the shop. * **Connect:** Meet new and old friends in a space that values independent culture and plant-based living. * **Support:** Help us champion a local, family-owned vegan business that doubles as a powerhouse [indie book publisher](https://twodollarradio.com/pages/headquarters). **Parking Instructions:** * **Street Parking:** There is free public street parking available on both sides of Parsons Avenue and on the surrounding residential side streets. * **Lot Parking:** The [Columbus Metropolitan Library](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/126262ks5&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj14_nkjsWSAxVt4ckDHdRCH4oQqdYPegYIAQgKEAM) lot (1113 Parsons Ave) is located directly across the street and is available for guest use **only after the library has closed**. On Saturdays, the lot is typically available starting at 6:00 PM. * **Bike Parking:** For those cycling, there is a bike rack conveniently located at the corner of Cline and Parsons.

November Book Club: Birding to Change the World by Trish O’Kane This is a book about finding healing, purpose, and a path to activism through birdwatching after the trauma of Hurricane Katrina. The memoir follows O'Kane, a former investigative journalist, as she transitions from a life focused on human rights to becoming a passionate birder and environmental educator, weaving together personal narrative, the science of bird life, and grassroots community organizing to save a local par

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! For this event, we’ll help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents, wash dishes and clean surfaces at Fath Mission – Grant Kitchen. We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. Our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:15am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1, indicated in the attached map. On-site and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: \* LSS Volunteer Guidelines: Uploaded to photos. \* Parking Map Info: Uploaded to photos. \* LSS Faith Mission Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp46_6ay6iA \* Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/faith-mission-grant-kitchen-2025 IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing the all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With very few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others! Benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering provides a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan