Beach Walking

**This jovial jaunt is a** **paved** **3.8mile mostly easy walk with some hidden hills & full of stairs (270 in total). Pace: 3mph.** The trek traverses embassies as well as academic campuses in D.C.'s Van Ness neighborhood... *Can you enumerate all the embassies?* The walk first frolics about the University of D.C. (UDC) with an 'amphitheater ascent' that leads to the [Henderson Sports complex](https://www.udcfirebirds.com/general/2021-22/releases/20220219d185lb), which was named after the "Father of Black Basketball". The circuit then embraces enigmatic embassies that are collectively known as the International Chancery Center [(ICC)](https://www.state.gov/international-chancery-center/). After ambling through alleys the trek pauses parallel to International Park. Latter of the circuit descends a snaky staircase then creeps by an eerie alley of eyes before encircling new & old Howard University (HU) School of Law buildings, including a Kennedy Center look-a-like known as the [Allen Mercer Daniel Library](https://www.tumblr.com/dcsojourn/137654182949/howard-universitys-bizarre-abandoned-allen); enjoy a vacuous vista of D.C. here. Following a gander at a grandiloquent grotto the walk concludes among terracing towers. NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [MAP](https://smartergrowth.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/VanNessMainSt-1.pdf) \| Commuting via Metro advised: alight from Van Ness\- UDC station \(RD line\)\, exit via south/western portal\. \(Paid\-\) parking is available for Cars in [nearby Garages](https://maps.app.goo.gl/TMFv6gAmEzbh8peL8). 2\. Post\- social @TBD\. 3\. Footnote: This is a grand gander\, resist abstaining\! We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description to see if you can manage transportation.

Join us for a training walk on the WO&D. For this initial walk, we'll strive to maintain a 20-21 minute mile pace. The goal is to begin ramping up in order to maintain a 16 minute mile pace with minimal stopping for 90 minutes. **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 6:30 PM near Isaac Newtown square. We'll start at mile marker 17. **Distance:** 4-4.2 miles for this session. **Elevation Gain:** minimal **Difficulty:** slight elevation on paved paths. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 1.5 hours. **Pace:** Brisk (but not powerwalk) Pace We'll walk a brisk pace, but as this is a training walk, we'll make sure people don't fall too far behind. **Parking** Park in the park and ride parking lot. **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! Attestation: By attending, you attest that you can maintain the mentioned past for the duration, and the walk and group leaders are not liable for any injuries or accidents.

Let's get together to play some fun BB level Double games at Bluemont. **Format**: Doubles **COST**: FREE **Court Type**: Outdoor grass **Minimum Skill Requirements**: Intermediate-BB (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 1. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 1. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

If you’ve already learned the basics of volleyball and want to keep improving your skills while having fun, this event is for you! **Skill Level:** Advanced Beginner (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details). **Reminders** 1. Attendance: We’ve noticed that the waitlist is growing, so please make sure your name is on the Going list if you plan to play. Our number of nets is limited so this helps avoid too many rotations. If your name is on the list but you don’t show up, it will count as an absence according to Smiley Social rules. Please update your RSVP at least 12 hours in advance if your plans change. 2. Waitlist: The waitlist is not first come first serve. We prioritize regular attendees, and will fill empty spots with new faces closer to the event date. 3. Injuries: Play safely and be mindful of others on the court. Respect positions and avoid risky moves that could lead to injury. If you’re not sure the ball is yours, call it before going for it to avoid collisions. 4. Game Rules: Let’s follow the basic volleyball rules, especially the three-touch rule so we can play properly and improve as a team! **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

Join us at **Netti's Tavern in Clarendon** to have some adult beverages, nosh on some food, meet new or old dive buddies, and talk about diving. We are visiting a new place this time. Nettie's Tavern is walkable from the Clarendon Metro. We can chat about the Cayman Aggressor Trip, which was excellent!! Hopefully I'll have some video and pics to show by then. We can also chat about our 2 upcomming trips: 1. Bonaire (July 25 - Aug 1): The shore diving capital of the world. The group will do a mix of boat diving and shore diving. 2. Belize Aggressor III (Dec 05 - 12): This hasn't been posted yet, but it will shortly. If you missed our 2024 Belize Aggressor III trip, this is your time to make up for that. The diving here was better than anywhere else in the Caribbean. Come to chat about the details and secure your spot on the boat. As always, I'm looking forward to hear where all y'all want to go, so come down and let me hear your bucket list. See you at Nettie's.

🔥Hey, beach lovers! ☀️🏐 Whether you're a hardcore volleyball player, a beach bum, or just in need of a fun getaway, **this 2/3-day adventure weekend in Ocean City Beach is for YOU!** **📍 Location:** Ocean City, MD **📅 Dates:** Jun 27th \*Staying is optional, you are also welcome to take a 1 day drive. *** ### 🏖️ Weekend Highlights: ✔️ **Beach Volleyball Games** (for those who want to play) ✔️ **Foodie Adventures** – Local eats, seafood shacks, hidden gems, and maybe even a food tour 😋 ✔️ **Sunset/Sunrise Hangouts**🔥 ✔️ **Sightseeing & Exploring** – Boardwalk walks, art installations, views, and more ✔️ **Chill Time** – Beach blankets, music, and soaking up the sun with your new crew ✔️ **Morning Workouts** – Nothing is better than a great beach workout and/or run to get your day started strong. ✔️ **Smiley Olympics** – Smiley Olympics is full of fun games and group activities. Other things that we will do: Play Freeze bee Play Football Play Minigolf Pool Parties Paddle board. Boardwalk Long Walks **Saturday** Arrive around noon for Lunch. We will select a nice place for lunch. Beach walk around our Hotel. Some Beach Volleyball, of course. Dinner at "The Sandbar" Karaoke bar so we can hear some people sing :) *** ### 👋 Who Should Come? * Friends, partners, and plus-ones who just want a great beach weekend * Locals and out-of-towners are ready to meet fun, adventurous people * Anyone who likes the idea of **a beach mini-vacation + new friends** * Anyone who just wants to have some fun and get some sun. *** ### 🎟️ How to Join: \*The host must know you to get an invite. **Q&A:** Why is the Address pointing to Arlington? Because Meetup has a 5 mile radius, if I post the event in OC, only people who live there see this event.

Craving community? Just want to take a walk in nature with others? Want some time in nature? Join folks from Church of the Covenant, a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) church, for a casual walk in nature on the 4th Sunday of each month. We're channeling calmness, community, and connection in hopes that we'll leave the walk feeling refreshed, renewed, and recharged. We call this our "Early Bird Fellowship." We'll meet at the playground at Potomac Overlook Regional Park then take a 30min stroll. All are welcome --- pets, kids, all ages https://covenantchurcharlington.org/ \*\* This is a no pressure gathering for folks who want intentional community.

Guys, we need to do this slow. Mishki gets overheated, so we take breaks from time to time, plus there may be other folks who walk slow. To make everyone feel included in the group experience, we walk slow, we wait and are kind. **Meeting Spot**: We gather at the main parking lot close to the park entrance, under the trees. **Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot: 55th Ave & Berwyn Rd,** College Park, MD 20740 Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

The water lilies and lotuses are blooming at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens! Let's explore the gardens and go for a walk on the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail! ❶ **What we'll do:** * From 9 to 10 am we'll do about 2 miles of unstructured wandering around LBJ Memorial Pond to enjoy and photograph the aquatic plants and the boardwalks to the west. If you arrive later, which is fine, just come on in and join us in the gardens! * At 10 am, we'll reconvene in front of the Visitor Center and go for a 1.9-mile walk on the Anacostia River and back along the Anacostia River Trail. The River Trail is paved and fairly level. * The total walk is about 4 miles. We should finish at around 11:30 am. * Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/kxha6n4a](https://tinyurl.com/kxha6n4a) ❷ **How to get there:** * The parking lot entrance is located at 4505 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington D.C. (The official address is 1550 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington, DC.) From the parking lot, a path through the woods leads to the Visitor Center. The park is accessible by Metro from the Deanwood Metro Stop on the Orange Line. * For detailed directions, see the NPS web site, [http://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm](http://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm) ❸ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired (leashes please). Insect repellent, sunscreen, and maybe an umbrella are recommended. A camera is a handy accessory. ❹ **Weather:** The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 88F, with a 24% chance of showers at start, falling to 14% by noon. Light NW winds. Updates: [https://tinyurl.com/mrtd3muc](https://tinyurl.com/mrtd3muc) ❺ **Advisory:** As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers. ❻ **Administrative stuff:** There are restrooms and drinking fountains at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Visitor Center. ❼ **Notes:** * "Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens," Official National Park Service Website, [http://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](http://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm)

From American State Fair to Capitol Building: Hidden History Walk, June 28! The opening of the Great American State Fair offers a unique opportunity to take in the story of two of the nation's most historic locales: the National Mall and the Capitol Building grounds. Home to the "nation's park" and to the U.S. Congress, justly renowned for its stunning architecture and landscaping. And to two centuries of their often wild, often secret, past! Visit the State Fair before or after the tour! When: Sunday, June 28, 5 pm. What: A walking tour of the Mall and the Capitol’s grounds that covers two centuries of intrigue and scandal, and many uplifting feats as well. Where: Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, 540 Independence Ave S.W., Washington, DC 20202; at the corner of 5th and Indepedence. Price: Starts at $25. Pre-register and Pre-pay via— Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/from-american-state-fair-to-capitol-building-hidden-history-walk-tickets-1992510909768?aff=oddtdtcreator Or PayPal, sending $26 to: paypal.me/EMoser460 Or pay $26 in cash at the start of the tour. Length. About 2 hours. Nearby metro stops: Federal Center S.W., Union Station. Tip: Bring drinking water; use a restroom before the tour (Facilities are scarce). ;) We'll draw from the following episodes of the locales's amazing saga: • When the British entered Washington, D.C.--not to play soccer, but to burn it down! • Eisenhower and Iran, civil rights, and D-Day! • Saving Private Ryan at the Capitol • The near fatal beating of a Senator by a Congressman • The suprising story behind the Capitol's Statue of Freedom • Bootlegged spirits by the legislators of Prohibition • The lovely fountain of Central Park's designer • Where and why Washington fired L'Enfant • The astonishing "autograph" on the U.S. Grant statue • Anne Frank at the Capitol • The amazing backstory to the American Indian museum • Thomas Jefferson's election faceoff with Aaron Burr • The Army veterans vs. MacArthur & Patton • The unusual demise of convicted spies • Where the Father of His Country laid the Capitol's cornerstone • The bombings of the Senate • The Highest Court in the Land • America's Captain Cook • The Founding Father of American architecture And more! Your guide is a former writer for the “Tonight Show”, and ex-White House speechwriter, historian and professional tour guide, and author of 14 books, such as: The Lost History of the Capitol: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress/dp/B09LVXZB8T/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0 And his latest, Femme Fatalité, a Georgetown spy thriller: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 We’re on TripAdvisor!: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html Think history’s boring? Think again!!

Join us for a fun day on some urban trails we visit less often! We will meet at Columbia Island Marina, cross the 14th St. Bridge and make our way thru the Wharf over to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail to our oasis destination, Lake Artemesia! After a snack break and loop around the lake, we will return via Rhode Island Ave Trolley Trail and Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, crossing to the north side of the river, past the Navy Yard, and finally back to Columbia Island Marina for cool drinks and lunch. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Lake Artemesia * START LOC: Columbia Island Marina George Washington Memorial Pkwy, Arlington, VA 22202 * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/gcQe4oH6rWN7Lqy9A](https://goo.gl/maps/gcQe4oH6rWN7Lqy9A) * START PARKING: Near the restroom building. * ARRIVAL: 9:30am * SPEECH: 9:45am * ROLLING: 10:00am * LEVEL: Medium * PACE: 13-15 mph * DISTANCE: 33 miles * TERRAIN: Trail / Street * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_ART_LK_Artemesia * [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55770223](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55770223) **NOTE:** * Check your tire pressure before you arrive, and be sure you have at least one spare tube that fits your tires! * Make sure your bike is in good working condition before you arrive! * Bring a snack and TWO FULL bottles of cold water or hydration fluid. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride : Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Summer is officially here and it is going to be HOT, and the trails will be a mix of shady & sunny stretches. It is very important that you bring a small snack and TWO full water bottles with you (I fill mine to the top with ice and then add water.) * We start at Columbia Island Marina * Cross the 14th St. Bridge * Ride through The Wharf * Stop at the Titanic Memorial (regroup). * Cross the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge * Ride the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail * Regroup @ Bladensburg Waterfront Park, water & restrooms available * Northeast Branch Trail to Lake Artemesia, Rest Stop * Head back to Columbia Island Marina via Rhode Island Ave Trolley Trail & ART on north side of river * RATR at Island Time Bar & Grill @ Columbia Island Marina **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Columbia Island Marina George Washington Memorial Pkwy Arlington, VA 22202 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/gcQe4oH6rWN7Lqy9A](https://goo.gl/maps/gcQe4oH6rWN7Lqy9A) PARKING: Near the restroom building. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Island Time Bar & Grill at Columbia Island Marina **HOURS OF OPERATION** Wednesday – Friday 12:00pm – 7:00pm Saturday – Sunday 11:00am – 7:00pm [https://www.facebook.com/IslandTimeBarGrill/](https://www.facebook.com/IslandTimeBarGrill/) **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!** **Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.** **Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**