Winter Blah Buster

Join us for February's Reboot Hour—a feel-good evening celebrating community, connection, and our shared love for the planet. This month, we're embracing the spirit of Valentine's Day by spreading love to the tech that connects us all. What's Reboot Hour? A monthly gathering where anyone and everyone from the DMV can come together—whether you're a DMV professional, startup founder, sustainability advocate, tech community member, or simply someone who wants to meet people and chill. No judgment, no pressure, just genuine connection with people who want to make the world a better place. This Month's Theme: Love Your Tech We're celebrating how the devices we use every day connect us to the people we love and the planet we protect. Learn why electronics circularity matters for people, planet, and country—and discover how you can make an impact by donating just one device (or a whole box!). What to Expect: ✨ Casual, fun atmosphere with real people who care ️ Learn why electronics circularity is so important ♻️ Discover how donating an unused device creates real impact Meet DMV professionals, founders, advocates, and community members Easy lift: bring one device to donate—or bring a box! Event Details: Carpool, Ballston Tuesday, February 24th ⏰ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Drinks & snacks available at a cash bar! We Meet Every Month! Reboot Hour happens monthly, and we also hold collection events with community partners all over the DMV—like at the upcoming DC Tech Meetup in March and during DC Climate Week in April. Learn More & Get Involved: Visit www.eWasteWarriors.org to learn more about our mission, upcoming events, and volunteer opportunities. You can help make an impact in your community—no experience necessary! We are Guardians of technology, protectors of the planet. Relove your tech with us! ️♻️

Let’s get together, have a pint, and talk about all the hiking we’re going to do in the spring!

The rise of practical AI tools is exciting. Right now, tools like ChatGPT and other LLMs are our primary touch points with generative AI. But this doesn't mean we should only be generating content with LLMs (for context we'll also briefly touch on non-LLM probabilistic approaches as well). Since these powerful tools are new to all of us and none of us know the future, we'll explore together other ways of using generative LLMs and how this intersects with automation in general. **About David** David works with organizations in early planning for big transformations of complex suites of websites, applications, and systems. David helps companies set their vision, make key systems architecture decisions, and define how to make these major changes happen. Clients include Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Central Bank of Belize; Mideast Broadcasting Corporation; National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine; and Novartis.

learn more about the HPAP Down Payment Assistance Program \- Get up to $202\,000 in funds from the House Assistance Purchase Program \- Learn what the funds can go towards and the timeline to get approved \- Understand how to sign up for HPAP orientation \- Learn the benefits and challenges of HPAP in detail \- Discuss the current market conditions for HPAP buyers\.

Join us as we do an invigorating outdoor walk and talk in Historic Greenbelt MD. Our goal is to walk twice around the 1.4 mile path. Should take about an hour. Afterward, those of us interested will head to nearby Cedars of Lebanon restaurant for lunch and conversation. The address for GPS is Buddy Attic Lake Park. 555 Crescent Rd. Greenbelt, MD. Meet us in the parking lot. Thank you! .....Ross A.

Let's go backpacking on a barrier island! I have wanted to do this trip since I missed it last year. \-\-\- below mostly copied from last time\-\-\- Assateague Island is a 37-mile long barrier island. It is known for its undeveloped beaches, wild horses, waterfowl, and the Assateague Lighthouse. This stretch of beach walking is some of the most pristine anywhere, at times veering into an almost meditative quality as you walk along the sand. And, oddly, even though it is essentially flat and a straight line, walking in sand is not exactly easy. You'll find yourself aiming for firm footing, and your feet (and everything else) will be sandy. Best to avoid heavy footwear here. Caveat; I've never done this trail before Updated 2/5: Trip rank is tentatively MO W1. It may be warm by end of Feb or it may still be cold as hell. If it looks like another W2 type of weekend, I will give up on the trip for the year lol. You can read more about trip ranks [here.](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/tripranks/) **Plan (Updated 2/5)** We have postponed again due to bad weather on 7th. Hoping to have better luck on Feb 28th (fingers crossed) \-\-\- Here's what got so far (special thanks to Andrew for tips): We are planning to do a key swap shuttle. Looks like we have enough drivers at this point. I will rent a car if necessary. For now we'll assume all of the DC based car pool crew will meet at the Greenbelt Metro Station at \~7:45-8am. This may change as we figure out car pool configurations closer to the hike and/or if folks self-organize in comments. All drivers will then meet at Maryland District Ranger Station/Campground Office. **We need the entire group assembled here before noon to pull the permit.** **\- Located** in the Maryland District of Assateague Island on west side of Bayberry Drive, after the entrance station. The GPS address is 6633 Bayberry Drive, Berlin, Maryland 21811. * https://maps.app.goo.gl/k5JNnJBgsP2Q1jUFA We'll get our permits, \- Note that the park service won't issue the permit in case of bad weather\. Will call if it seems necessary\. Half group will stay and start in MD (SOBOs). The other half of hikers will go to the VA side (NOBOs, preferably the faster hikers). We can do the swapped leg up front. After pulling the permit, NOBOs will drive SOBOs’ cars to the VA southern terminus to stage them. When the groups meet at the campsite, we’ll swap keys. That way each person finishes at their terminus with their own car + keys. Parking: \- For those starting in Maryland\, park at North Beach \(not far from ranger station\); \- For those starting in Virginia\, go to Herbert H\. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center\. Staff will provide parking information\. Vehicles must display parking tag obtained with permit\. https://maps\.app\.goo\.gl/scc77myoRAD5nBzM8 * Side note: Tom's Cover visitor center in VA is permanently closed (Nov 2025). Will be demolished We'll do splits of about 14 / 14. There is no freshwater on the island so plan to start will all the water you'll need for the trip. Depending on wind, we'll either camp at Stateline (on the beach side) or Pope Bay (on the bay side). Expect the camp ground to be sand. **Resources** Caltopo TBD (this is 99% walking in a straight line but I'll probably still make one) Locations: [Greenbelt Metro](https://maps.app.goo.gl/FWTMyBM5Qpy1CNLe6) [Ranger Station for Permit and MD Parking](https://maps.app.goo.gl/k5JNnJBgsP2Q1jUFA) [Herbert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center (for those starting in VA)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/scc77myoRAD5nBzM8) Past trips: \- https://dculbackpacking\.com/2022/03/29/trip\-report\-hiking\-on\-the\-beach\-in\-winter\-assateague/ \- https://www\.meetup\.com/dc\-ul\-backpacking/events/304254668/?eventOrigin=group_events_list Weather - [NOAA](https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?w0=t&w1=td&w2=wc&w3=sfcwind&w3u=1&w4=sky&w5=pop&w6=rh&w7=rain&w8=thunder&w9=snow&w10=fzg&w11=sleet&w13u=0&w14u=1&w15u=1&AheadHour=48&FcstType=graphical&textField1=37.94&textField2=-75.36&site=all&unit=0&dd=&bw=&AheadDay.x=58&AheadDay.y=12) - [Accuweather](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/assateague-state-park/21842/daily-weather-forecast/19678_poi?day=7) From NPS: \- https://www\.nps\.gov/asis/planyourvisit/backcountry\-camping\.htm **The Fine Print** * By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to DC UL's liability waiver terms. ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/#more-110)) * If you are a member, don't forget to pay your annual $10 dues. You can check to see if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip with the group. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15) * All non-drivers should expect to pay $0.10 per mile to their driver, in accordance with the DC UL carpool policy.

Join the Ski and Sports Club of Washington DC (SCWDC) on the slopes this season. Show your interest or solicit roommates here on Meetup. **However, [TRIP REGISTRATION IS ON THE SCWDC WEBSITE](https://scwdc.wildapricot.org/Ski-Flight-Trips)**. Trips are open to paid SCWDC members ([see all club benefits on the SCWDC website](https://scwdc.wildapricot.org/membership)), or Blue Ridge Ski Council (BRSC) members. **ASK QUESTIONS directly to the TRIP LEAD on ea SCWDC TRIP page** Trip Prices Include: -**Planning and logistics handled by Trip Leaders** -All trips supported by experienced committee members and club leaders -Club founded in 1936 **-Group roundtrip air travel & ground transportation to the slopes** -Grocery stop, may be included -Ground transportation only (book your own flights), may be available **-All posted prices, Double Occupancy** -Specify preferred roommate during registration, if identified -Trip Lead assigns a same gender roommate if none specified -Private rooms available with the additional single supplement (SS) price **-Pre-Trip DMV social meet/greet, may be included** **-During trip daily social meet/greet, may be included** **-Discount lift tickets, at additional costs, from third-parties may be included**

**Goombay Winter Hike 3-Pohick Bay Regional Park** Bundle up and hit the trail with the Goombay family for Winter Hike 3 at Pohick Bay Regional Park! This scenic waterfront hike will take us along peaceful wooded trails with beautiful views of the bay, crisp winter air, and plenty of great photo ops. Whether you’re looking to stay active, connect with good people, or challenge yourself in the cold, this hike is all about fresh air, positive vibes, and community. **SIGN UP AT [WWW.GOOMBAY.NET](http://www.goombay.net/)** **Saturday\, Feb\. 28th \| 10am\-12:30pm** This is a Intermediate Level hike which is open to beginners and advance hikers. The terrain will involve moderate inclines with beautiful views. This trail is 4.5 miles. **Pohick Bay Regional Park-10:00am** 6501 Pohick Bay Dr. Lorton, VA 22079 *\* We will meet in the big parking lot by the Disc Golf Course* **Post Hike Social - Glory Days Grill-1:30pm** 9459 Lorton Market St. Lorton, VA 22079 *\* We will meet immediately after the hike* **HIKE AGENDA:** 9:45am: Hikers meet at the main parking lot. You will see the group assembling in the parking lot. 10:00am: Hikers assemble for welcome announcement 10:15am: Hike begins 12:30pm: Hike ends 1:00pm: Arrive at Glory Days Grill **SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST** * Day Pack with hydration pack or water bottles * Trekking Poles (optional) * Sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers * Small First Aid Kit (optional) * Weather-appropriate clothing (think moisture-wicking and layers) * Hat or scarf * Trail snacks & plenty of water * Wipes/Toilet Paper * Hand Warmers * Cell phone with back up battery * Crampons for snowy trails **FAQ** **WHAT LEVEL IS THIS HIKE:** This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate to inclines and flat terrain. **CAN BEGINNERS ATTEND THIS HIKE:** Yes, we welcome beginners to attend this hike. The terrain is mostly rolling hills with flat terrain. **WHAT IS THE PACE OF THE GROUP:** The group will start off at the same time and during the hike three distinct pace groups may form. We will have hike leaders mixed within the group and we will stop periodically for water and rest. **WHAT TYPE OF HIKE IS THIS:** This is a loop trail hike and will start and end at the same location **WHAT SHOULD I WEAR:** A good rule of thumb is to dress comfortably and in layers. Dressing in layers will allow you to stay warm when your cold and as you warm up, you can take off layers and not over heat. It's going to be cool to cold so we strongly suggest warm clothing, moisture wicking under garments, a hat, sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers (your choice), wool socks, a small day back, trekking poles (optional) and plenty of water. **ARE PETS ALLOWED:** YES ***If you have any questions please contact Butch at 202.210-1957***

Come kick back with the Black Code Collective! We'll be on the second floor by the main entrance in the mall!

This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the International Affairs and Development community, to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other International Affairs professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in International Affairs and Development careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global development. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented INDUSTRIES/SECTORS/SPECIALIZATIONS and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All industries are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular field, you would like to exchange experience. PLEASE BRING YOUR SOFT/HARD COPY BUSINESS CARDS. Rules to abide : 1\. Event is 21\+ \(bring ID\)\. 2\. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well\. 3\. We all specialize in one or two fields and be willing to engage others and try to accommodate as much as possible\. 4\. If you don't specialize in the other person's required discipline\, LEAVE THEM ALONE\. 5\. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion\. 6\. This is a face\-to\-face 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 greet you and take you to your respective group\. 10\. Don't be shy of your specializations\. We have diplomates assigned to different countries\, who would love to learn more from your experience\. 11. ***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!*** ***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/)).***

Hey everyone! This is a winter social dinner that’s low key where we can just hang out and chill together! Come out and make new friends! Can’t wait to see you there! :)

Wallyball Tuesday Event is for players that know or learn how to play Wallyball positions. Have skills in pass, set, spike. No shows will be tracked and players will be removed.

**Welcome to the inaugural meeting of the International Relations / Foreign Policy Group Columbus!** This group brings together students, professionals, academics, and anyone interested in global affairs, diplomacy, and geopolitics. Our first meetup will be an informal discussion focused on current international developments and global trends. This is a great opportunity to: • Meet others interested in international relations and foreign policy • Discuss current global events and geopolitical developments • Exchange perspectives and ideas in a respectful environment • Build a network of globally minded individuals in Central Ohio (Columbus and periphery) **Discussion topics may include:** * Strategic planning for the group and the way forward * US foreign policy priorities in 2026 * Major geopolitical developments (Europe, Asia, Middle East) * Global security and strategic competition * International economic and diplomatic trends No prior expertise is required—everyone is welcome, whether you're a student, professional, or simply interested in world affairs. **This will be a casual, friendly, and intellectually engaging conversation.** I look forward to meeting everyone and building a strong international relations / foreign policy community in Central Ohio.

**Caller: Frank Buschelmann** **Band: The Rosenthorns** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)