Balboa

Let's return to world of Pandora for the third installment of the Avatar series.

Grab a game or bring your own, this event is open play. Whether it is chucking dice, full of traitors, laying tiles, or only cards involved, it doesn't matter; as long as it is a fun game, let's get it to the table and play it. The library will have games available to play but as always, you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own games. So leave a comment about what you are bringing! But be ready to teach your games. The library is located within walking distance of the Silver Spring Metro stop and there is a parking garage across the street. **NTBG** *is a safe environment for all to have fun. Bullying/harassment is not tolerated.*

**Park Map / Trailhead hike – NO BUS** *$5. Long hike: 12½ mi., 2000 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 8 mi., 1400 ascent.* Meet at Cleveland Park Metro (East Side) at 9:00 AM You can be assured of a good hike, and a convenient, in-town opportunity to enjoy nature before the frenzy of Christmas day. The 1,754-acre park – one of the largest urban parks in the world – boasts 32 miles of wooded trails. We’ll walk to the park via the Melvin Hazen Trail, Western Ridge Trail, Valley Trail, and several connecting trails. RESERVATIONS Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number. FIRST-TIME HIKERS If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep at least a 2 mph pace. LIABILITY By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before 12PM the Thursday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. MORE DETAILS -- **[SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](https://www.capitalhikingclub.org/hikes-faqs)**

Standard rally scoring to 15. Skill level should BB and up. See you out there! Only 1 court 135 Crescent Rd greenbelt Md Use St. Hughes Churches parking lot Bring a ball if you have one and water to stay hydrated.

Meeting Place: Navy Yard Metro/Green Line/New Jersey Avenue SE exit street level Meeting Time: 12 noon Hike Description: We’ll take the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail northbound from the Navy Yard Metro Station to Kingman Island and the RFK Stadium site and continue on the Trail into Prince George’s County MD. We’ll stop at the Bladensburg Waterfront Park for a break, where water & bathrooms are available. From Bladensburg we’ll switch over to the Northwest Branch Trail towards the West Hyattsville Metro Station, where we'll finish roughly at 4 p.m. Hike length: about 10 miles, with very little elevation change. Bring beverages, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, layers and the $5 Adventuring trip fee. The trip leader will pay this fee for any financially challenged participant. Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

Charlie Chaplin’s comedic masterwork—which charts a prospector’s search for fortune in the Klondike and his discovery of romance (with the beautiful Georgia Hale)—forever cemented the iconic status of Chaplin and his Little Tramp character. Shot partly on location in the Sierra Nevadas and featuring such timeless gags as the dance of the dinner rolls and the meal of boiled shoe leather, THE GOLD RUSH is an indelible work of heartwarming hilarity. The film will be showing in the East Building Auditorium at the National Gallery of Art. Admission is free but registration is required on their website at https://www.nga.gov/calendar/vaults/gold-rush?evd=202512201900 ■ Title — *The Gold Rush* ■ Director — Charles Chaplin ■ Cast — Charles Chaplin, Georgia Hale, Mack Swain ■ ©1925 | 1hr 35 mins | Silent Comedy

Celebrate the passing of the seasons and the return of the sun on our Annual Sugarloaf Winter Solstice/Poetry Hike, an Adventuring tradition since 1997. This year we're able to do this hike on the actual day of the Solstice--Sunday, December 21, 2025. After varying the routine a bit last year, we will return to our usual 7-mile circuit, with lunch at White Rocks and climbing to the summit near the end. Expect some climbing and a variety of terrain, including some rocks. During our White Rocks lunch, we’ll share favorite poems in honor of the passing of another year. Meet at 9 a.m. at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station. So we can plan accordingly, please answer the Meetup questions about whether you’ll be meeting us at Grosvenor-Strathmore or Sugarloaf, and whether you can be a carpool driver. Those wishing to drive directly to Sugarloaf should contact Chris Craig for directions and time; you can email him directly at [ccraig@laurellodge.com](http://mailto:ccraig@laurellodge.com/). We'll all rendezvous by 10 a.m. in the West View parking lot—the one at the top of the drive. Bring a bag lunch (we will NOT be stopping at a Sheetz on the way), water, sturdy shoes, the $5 Adventuring fee, $5 to reimburse your carpool driver — and most important, a poem to share on the mountaintop (your own or someone else's). \>\> Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

We play a variety of high interaction games with a focus on Euros. Events will start with quick games while people arrive and eat lunch. We will start longer games around 2pm. While the official end time is 5pm, people are welcome to continue playing games afterwards. Western Market closes at 7pm on Sundays. This page has more examples of high interaction Euros: [Old-school German-style Games](https://boardgamegeek.com/guild/view/3948). Here are some games that have been played at past events: High Interaction Euros * [Medici](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/46/medici) * [Catan](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/13/catan) * [Hansa Teutonica](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/43015/hansa-teutonica) * [Puerto Rico](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3076/puerto-rico) * [Concordia](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/124361/concordia) * [Power Grid](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2651/power-grid) * [Brass: Birmingham](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/224517/brass-birmingham) Other high interaction games * [Innovation](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/63888/innovation) * [Imperial](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/24181/imperial) Also, I'm hosting another event for hidden identity and shorter games at Western Market starting at 5pm. There are a variety of food and drink options. Western Market is allowing us to use the space for free. Please reciprocate by purchasing something, even if it is just a soda. Directions If you're taking the Orange, Silver, or Blue lines, exit at the Foggy Bottom metro station and walk two blocks to the east. If you are taking the Red Line, Farragut North is an approximately a 15 minute walk away. There is also free street parking to the north.

Let's enjoy the current warmer weather with a hike this Sunday in DC's Rock Creek park! This one’s for all the car-free DC folks, those who want an short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length (rather than elevation). We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start, and may also be available a few miles into the hike, but please carry a minimum of 1L with you. Start location: we’ll meet at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) Parking: Free and plentiful Transit: Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Bikeshare: the nearest dock is at Colorado Ave & Longfellow St NW per Google. Meet time: We'll meet at 9:30 am at the location noted above and, after intros, start hiking the trail shortly afterwards. There is no official after hike meal planned. For those that which to gather informally, the hike leader recommends Moreland's Tavern, which is an easy walk from our meeting point: [https://morelandstavern.com/](https://morelandstavern.com/lunch/) CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. We look forward to hiking with you! BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model ([http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service ([https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost](https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

This will be a brisk-paced hike with an approximate pace of 2.5-3 mph. This 5.1 mile loop starts from Pitango Cafe (1841 Columbia Rd NW) in Adams Morgan. We will walk Normanstone Parkway in Woodley Park to the National Cathedral and return to ADMO via the Tregaron Conservancy in Cleveland Park. Walking surface will be dirt and asphalt trails and sidewalks. Bring plenty of water and some snacks. Dress in layers, and be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. Brunch in ADMO after the hike is an option. This is a joint hike between the ADMO Hiking Club and the Sierra Club. All hikers will be required to sign the Sierra Club waiver form to participate. Sierra Club Potomac Region Outings (SCPRO) appreciates a voluntary $2 per person donation to support our many volunteer-led activities. Also, you can become a Sierra Club member by clicking "join" on the Virginia Sierra Club website: [http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia) Dupont Circle is the closest Metro stop (.6 miles). Bus routes C51, C53, D70, and D74 are all within a couple blocks of Pitango. There is metered and free street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. Please arrive early so you have enough time to find parking.

Join us for a **fun and social hike** at Rock Creek Park as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center. Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city. This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together! **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike. **Distance:** 5.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 685 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Walk/Hike This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q) With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

$5 MOVIE NIGHT! With avatar fire and Ash, James Cameron takes audiences back to Pandora in an immersive new adventure with marine turned Navi leader Jake Sully. Navi Warrior, Naytiri and the Solly family. The film has a screenplay by James Cameron and Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver. We will see the 6 PM showing and I will post my seat so that we can sit together. We can grab something to eat after if people want and chat to round out the experience. This is a MUST SEE MOVIE for me. I hope you feel the same. I will CANCEL if there are less than 5 RSVPs on the movie date.

######## NEW LOCATION ####### We are going to be at The Forge on Bethel Rd this week and until further notice! The Forge does have a full bar and kitchen. There is no cover charge but they do request all attendees to purchase a minimum of ~$20 per person. Soft drink refills are $1 each. Please support our hosts so we can continue to provide great events for the group! The Forge has a large library of games available for us to enjoy. Hosts and regulars will also provide numerous popular games but please bring any games you would like to teach and/or play. Doors open at 6, and we expect gaming to be rolling by around 630. Please promptly end your games and clear out the space at 10pm when the bar closes. We encourage socializing but do not permit disruptive behavior of any kind. Thank you for your continued commitment to providing a fun and welcoming space to veteran, newbie, and rookie gamers in the Columbus area! Parking can be challenging. There is a parking lot behind the building that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.

Join us as we kick the New Year with a fun Happy Hour and your choice of two fun, new films! Option 1 is the biographical-musical-docu-drama, SONG SUNG BLUE, which stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson in the story about a real-life couple and Neil Diamond Tribute Duo. Option 2 is the comedy-action-adventure ACACONDA, which stars Jack Black and Paul Rudd as part of a group of friends remaking a favorite movie from their youth. Here’s a complete description, trailer and our plan for this event: SONG SUNG BLUE: The film follows Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, who experience success and heartbreak in their musical journey together. Not a tribute to Neil Diamond, but a tribute to a Neil Diamond Tribute Band! The film is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name and is directed by Craig Brewer. It stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, along with Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens and Jim Belushi. Critics call the film, “a crowd-pleaser with a ton of heart!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCM0Ztp3o1o ANACONDA: In this action-thriller-comedy-adventure, a group of friends going through a mid-life crisis head to the jungle to remake a favorite movie from their youth but encounter “unexpected events.” The film is directed by Tom Gormican and stars Jack Black, Paul Rudd, Selton Mello, Daniela Melchior, Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn. The film is a reimagining of the 1997 original. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMsFsfrPNaw PLAN: We’ll kick off the event with a pre-show Happy Hour at nearby Bravo! We’ll confirm the details and exact meeting time once we get the showtimes, but planning for 5 to 5:30pm for the Happy Hour and a 7pm-ish showing of both films. For the movies, we’ll meet inside the lobby area about 20 minutes before showtimes! Once showtimes are announced, advance ticket purchase is advised. Once you have yours, please list your Movie of Choice and seat number in the Comments below. Complete details will be confirmed and announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan