70+ and doin' stuff

Let’s get together for hamburgers, hot dogs, socialization, conversation, and just plain fun. I’ll provide the meat, condiments, drinks & tableware and you’ll provide the appetizers, side dishes and desserts. Please indicate in the comments what you’ll be bringing, so I can try to avoid duplication.

Provided drinks will be wine, beer, soda and water. If you have a specific preferred drink, please bring it in addition to your side dishes.

The BBQ will be held on my covered deck and backyard. There will be cornhole and other backyard games to play. In case of inclement weather, we’ll move indoors.

My actual address and additional guidance will be provided via Meetup Messenger. To ensure you get this information, please verify that you have notifications authorizations. If you have questions or need clarification, please ask in the comment section.

Let's learn about "Library Fellow Richard Bell's research project, America’s Birth Certificate: The Declaration of Independence. Bell is continuing research for his upcoming book, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, which reframes America's War of Independence as a transformative international event."

Directions, map, photo, & history: https://www.mountvernon.org/the-estate-gardens/location/george-washington-presidential-library

The United States Government operates 152 National cemeteries in the US and 26 cemeteries overseas. The best known of the 152 in the US is Arlington National Cemetery. The best known overseas cemetery is The American Cemetery in Normandy, France.

One of these “National” Cemeteries is located right here close by in Alexandria, VA. The Alexandria National Cemetery was the FIRST of the 152 cemeteries, established in 1862 (before Arlington National Cemetery). Civil War dead, including members of the US Colored Troops regiment, were the first to be buried here.

Lets visit the Alexandria National Cemetery on Thursday, September 11, 2025, The National Day of Service and Remembrance. We'll be there at 8:30 am to pay our respects to the American veterans interred there AND clean gravestones.

Dress casually, but respectfully, with clothing that can get dirty. Gloves are suggested. I will have pails, soap and rags.

Afterwards, we will take a short 15 minute walk to visit the outdoor table of The Female Stranger. We will learn the fascinating story of a woman who died over 200 years ago in Alexandria’s Gatsby’s Tavern…and whose identity has been lost to history.

We'll meet rain or shine AT THE FLAGPOLE. No pets.

Afterwards, we will walk over to the Executive Diner for brunch and conversation.

Let's first tour the fabulous gardens with an extension Master Gardener docent. You will learn wonderful ideas regarding your fall home landscape. Then, we'll walk over to the 18th-century manor home for a delightful afternoon tea (tea sandwiches, scones & pastries). $42

Call to see if there are spots left from 12:30-4:00 p.m. (M-Sat.) & ASK for Ms. Karen or one of her fellow volunteers. **The # is 703-941-7987 (reservation under Ana Shannon). ***

PLEASE LET ME KNOW THAT YOU PAID BY MAKING A COMMENT BELOW.

Cancellation Policy: Full refund 2 wks. before event. Thereafter, a $15 cancellation fee.