Bird Watching

We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, May 17 to learn about nature and remove invasive plants from everyone's favorite urban island. Meet us at the entrance to the bridge (on the parking lot side, look for the sign) at 10:00 and bring your garden gloves and loppers/pruners if you have them. If not, we can provide gloves and tools. Wear long sleeves and pants and don't forget a water bottle. We will have tasks ranging from easy (cutting English ivy and honeysuckle vines from trees) to hard (sawing down bush honeysuckle). Parking at TRI can be tight if it's a pretty day. When the parking lot is full, you can park in Rosslyn and take the trail down. If you can bike or walk or take public transit, that's wonderful. We'll see you there! Erica, Stephanie, and Heidi P.S. If you can't wait until then to RIP (Remove Invasive Plants!), go here to find more volunteer opportunities in Arlington parks: [Volunteer to Restore Native Habitat – Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (armn.org)](https://armn.org/volunteer-opportunities/)

**Leader**: Owen , OR owenpepstein@gmail.com **When**: Sunday June 21st, 8:00 AM **Location**: **1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019** **Meet**: Meet in the Parking Lot **Bring**: Your camera gear, a tripod, and a variety of lenses, extra batteries, and good walking shoes. **Tickets**: There is no entrance fee. **Info**: Hardy Water Lilies (Late May – Mid-September): These are the classic impressionist-style flowers that float directly on the water's surface, framed by tight networks of flat lily pads. They open in a vibrant spectrum of white, pink, yellow, and deep purple. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a tremendous site for birding in Washington D.C. Birding is one of many great reasons to visit Anacostia Park and the Aquatic Gardens. Over 250 different species of birds have been spotted at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens! **Breakfast**: @ IHOP , 3601 Bladensburg Rd, Colmar Manor, MD **Tripods**: Tripods are allowed so feel free to bring your tripod or monopod We meet at interesting photogenic sites in the area ranging from DC, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Delaware. You can shoot on your own or team up with a helpful Club member for tips and inspiration. All Are Welcome - Members and Non-Members Are Welcome. If you wish to join the Silver Spring Camera Club Membership remains a very reasonable $50 for individual members, $80 for family and only $35 for students. Guests are always welcome to participate. Please see our group website to become a member at: Silver Spring Camera Club – [https://www.ssccphotography.org/](https://www.ssccphotography.org/) There is NO participation Fee for this Field Trip. Visit us on the web: [http://www.ssccphotography.org/](http://www.ssccphotography.org/)

(Bus hike) The hike explores Corbin Hollow, which features several artifacts by the farmers who once lived in the area, and provides an opportunity to obtain some of the most extensive views in the park. Moderate hikers walk around Robertson Mountain, starting at Nethers and going up the Corbin Hollow Trail and down the Old Rag and Weakley Hollow fire roads. Long hikers ascend the steep Robertson Mtn. Trail to the top, from which they can view the majesty of the mountains. They then descend the Corbin Mtn. and Nicholson Hollow Trails to Nethers. Est.: 11 miles, 2700' elevation and 8.5 miles, 2300' elevation. There are options for both the long and moderate hikers to do shorter hikes. For example, the moderates can climb Robertson Mtn. from Old Rag fire road (about 8.5 miles, over 2000' elevation) or go out and back on Weakley Hollow fire road. PATC Map 10. Fare: $33 plus park fee or pass. VA Hikes * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8 am. * **[Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. **RESERVATIONS** Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible 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 and where you'll be boarding the bus. **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 a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **LIABILITY WAIVER:** Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. **CANCELLATION POLICY** To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before NOON on the Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. **COVID-19, FLU, & RSV PRECAUTIONS** Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. **MORE DETAILS** -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

Join us for a hike at Sugarloaf Mountain on Sunday, June 21st Address: Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot Information about rules and trails may be found here: https://sugarloafmd.com/ Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash at all times. We will hike the scenic Blue Trail, which is about 5 miles and takes 2 hours to hike. We will park at the second parking lot on the mountain, which is between the B1 and B10 trailheads. (See the parking location under Photos) This is called Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot on google maps. Please show up on time as once we start hiking it may be difficult to find us.

This one is for the soul. Let's visit Saint Anselm's Abbey and spend some time exploring a living Benedictine monastery. This is not a guided tour or a typical social meetup. The idea is simply to experience this, spend time on our own: walking quietly, sitting, reflecting, and taking in the atmosphere. Please respect any signs, restricted areas, services in progress, and the privacy of the monastic community Saint Anselm's is home to a community of Benedictine monks who follow a rhythm of prayer, work, study, and community life rooted in the Rule of St. Benedict, written nearly 1,500 years ago. Visiting offers a glimpse into a tradition that has endured across centuries and continues today. Things you may appreciate: : The abbey church and its atmosphere of silence and prayer. : The opportunity to hear the monks chant or participate in the liturgy, if one is taking place. : The contrast between the monastery's quiet setting and the surrounding city. : The simplicity, beauty, and contemplative spirit of monastic life. Format : We will keep the group small (around 10 people), but we wont be walking together, or talking. : Please explore independently and maintain a respectful, quiet presence. : This is not a group tour, discussion circle, or networking event. : I will be there, but I won't be leading the visit or guiding anyone through the grounds. : Afterward, those who wish can gather outside the monastery or at a nearby café to discuss what they noticed and experienced. : The intention is simply to create space to slow down, observe, and encounter a place devoted to prayer, contemplation, and community life.

*You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.* [Up to 6 mile fitness and nature hike.] THIS IS A TWO-FER: First we'll start at the Belle Haven picnic area along the paved Mt. Vernon Trail and do a roughly 3.5-mile, moderately paced hike to Jones Point Lighthouse on the Potomac River. After we return to our starting point, we'll head to the Dyke Marsh Preserve and hike slower through the marina and then along the 3/4-mile dirt trail to the end of the boardwalk and back We'll hike at about 2.5 - 3 mph when moving along most of the hike -- but on our return through the preserve, we'll stroll SUPER SLOWLY and stop often to enjoy the bulk of the fireflies in near darkness -- from roughly 9:30 to 10ish p.m. (NOTE: There is NO guarantee that we'll see fireflies but we likely will, according to a well-known naturalist.) **\*MUST-READ\* IMPORTANT NOTES:** PARK CLOSES AT 10 P.M. but there is no gate and the trail is still open to commuters so we don't have to rush to get back to our cars. PRACTICE SAFETY WITH YOUR FLASHLIGHT SINCE WE'LL BE WALKING IN THE DARK! Adults only. Restrooms at start and at the lighthouse. STAY RIGHT ON THE MT. VERNON TRAIL due to the bike and pedestrian traffic for everyone's safety. Adults only. No pets, not even pet fireflies. **WEATHER:** Hike likely be postponed if there is rain. Weather forecast will be posted here on Thursday by 5 p.m. https://www.weather.gov [https://www.weather.gov](https://www.weather.gov) **MEET:** 7 p.m. by the restrooms on the Mt. Vernon Trail near Dyke Marsh Preserve. (Belle Haven picnic area.) Copy these GPS coordinates into Google Maps: 38.780110, -77.052038 **BRING:** MANDATORY FLASHLIGHT (preferably with a RED LIGHT option or cellophane cover so it doesn't interfere with the fireflies) AND MANDATORY WATER, sense of awe, and sense of humor. Optional: bug spray or long pants for mosquitos, fully-charged cell phone, and/or camera. iPhones seem useless for the firefly photos but "real" cameras and some Samsung phones seem equipped to photograph them. **MT. VERNON TRAIL MAP:** [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Mt-Vernon-Trail-map-508-2021.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Mt-Vernon-Trail-map-508-2021.pdf) **DYKE MARSH PRESERVE**: NPS: [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/dykemarsh.htm](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/dykemarsh.htm) Friends group: [https://www.fodm.org](https://www.fodm.org) **DC BOUNDARY STONES:** (We’ll see the first one marking the new District of Columbia. It will disappear someday.) [https://boundarystones.org](https://boundarystones.org) **JONES POINT LIGHTHOUSE:** (One of America's last rivertine lighthouses.) [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/learn/historyculture/jonespointlighthouse.htm](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/learn/historyculture/jonespointlighthouse.htm) **NORTHERN VIRGINIA FIREFLIES:** [https://www.audubonva.org/news/wildlife-sanctuary-almanac-2024-june](https://www.audubonva.org/news/wildlife-sanctuary-almanac-2024-june) **FIREFLY CONSERVATION & RESEARCH:** (I posted this so you can learn more about protecting fireflies. I used this organization's firefly photo but it is not connected to our event.) [https://www.firefly.org](https://www.firefly.org)

**Happy DC Pride!!! Come meet us at the pride festival (Sunday) and see what's on our schedule for this summer. We have hikes, kayaking, and much more!** **Do you have have an outdoor activity you would like to share with us? We're always looking for new trip ideas and trip leaders We hope to see you there! Our table is located in the Red Zone - R113**

Join Sarah and Willow for a walk at the Arboretum! We will meet at the Visitor Center Parking at 9:00am and plan to go for an hour or so depending on how hot it is. We will mainly do the trails in the woods, with some short stretches in full sun. We will do a big loop to end up back at the Capital Columns. Time: 9:00am - 10:30ish. Plan on getting there a little early so we can be ready to go on time. Location: Visitor Center Parking lot by R street entrance What to expect: This walk will be on leash. Don't forget to bring water for you and your dog. The walking surface will be a mix of paved road and grass/dirt. More info and directions here: https://usna.usda.gov/visit/hours-and-directions/

The Alexandria Brunch Club is a long running brunch event. We're a friendly bunch of people of different backgrounds, who enjoy a nice morning brunch and fun conversations. As has been the tradition, La Madeleine's in Old Town Alexandria is our place for brunching on a Sunday of every month. I find that a Sunday brunch is nice way to socialize and to just get myself out of the house. Afterward, Old Town, the Potomac and the myriad of parks are nice places for strolling after breakfast. BEST PARKING IN OLD TOWN Courthouse Square Parking lot 111 S Pitt St - Same side as La Madeliene, Two Doors Down Usually $1/hour Weekends and after 5pm, Weekdays For any questions and such feel free to message me. I am the main organizer. My best to all! Phil Matera

Celebrate the start of summer with the Zoo's free, family‑friendly Science Solstice Sunday, part of the Smithsonian’s annual Solstice Weekend! Follow animal clues in an interactive scavenger hunt across the Zoo for a chance to win a prize, enjoy special animal demonstrations, and explore hands-on activity stations from Smithsonian scientists, researchers, and experts working around the world to protect wildlife and study nature, including: * Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, which works with tropical ecosystems and studies wildlife in Panama * Smithsonian STARS program, which connects rural classrooms to the cosmos through telescopes, educational programs, and more * Wildlife Health Sciences, which supports veterinary care and health * EEHV Lab, a worldwide resource of disease information, testing and research for the global elephant community * Department of Nutrition, which creates diets for the animals * Center for Population Ecology, which works to improve Zoo reproduction outcomes * Center for Conservation Genomics, which uses advanced genetic tools and DNA testing to manage endangered species * And more! YOU MUST GO TO THE ZOO SITE AND RESERVE A FREE TICKET TO ATTEND I have not been to the Zoo, I'll get there early so stay tuned in the messages for exact meeting spot.

It's time for another luncheon get together. If you have got a passport full of stamps, a bucket list a mile or block long, or just a love of or passion of exploring the world, come on out and join us for lunch. We will exchange travel stories, dream destinations and hidden gem recommendations with fellow travel enthusiasts. Check out the menu here: [Arlington, VA | Ruthie's All Day | Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant in Arlington, VA](https://www.ruthiesallday.com/arlington-va/) Ruthies All Day 3411 5th Street Arlington, VA 22204 703-888-2841

Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which. Cost: Free Level: Beginners What we will be doing: 1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone! 2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace. Please: 1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks. 2. Please be on time, class will start on time. 3. Wear comfy clothes. 4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF. 5. UnRSVP if you can't make it. Disclaimer: Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! 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. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. 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. For this event, 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 DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm 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 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing 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 try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With 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. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!

Join us as we get together for a CAPA Summer Movie event to see the romantic, funny, heartwarming, feel-good classic, PRETTY WOMAN! Julia Roberts and Richard Gere star in this modern-day fairy-tale romance! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A wealthy corporate raider hires a Hollywood escort as his date for a week of high-society business events. But what starts as a business transaction blossoms into genuine love, challenging both of their lives and leading to an unexpected romance. The film is directed by Garry Marshall and stars Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Héctor Elizondo, Ralph Bellamy (in his final performance), Laura San Giacomo and Jason Alexander. MINI TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc) SHORT BONUS CLIP #1 - DIRECTOR GARRY MARSHALL Recalls Famous Scenes from the Film: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs) SHORT BONUS CLIP #2 - RICHARD GERE on the Film’s Impact all these years later: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8) SHORT BONUS CLIP #3 - JULIA ROBERTS Remembers a Gift from Director Garry Marshall: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA) BUZZ & ACCLAIM: A huge box office hit at the time of its release, PRETTY WOMAN has since gone on to become a modern-day classic! The film catapulted Julia Roberts to superstardom and earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress and her first Oscar nomination! Critics praise Julia Roberts’ star-making performance, the undeniable chemistry between her and Richard Gere, and its warm, funny feel-good story about kindness, self-worth and transformation! The film’s “intelligence and wit,” “first-class performances” and “sharp, funny script” have made Pretty Woman a classic and truly “something special!” THE OHIO THEATRE: The Ohio Theatre is located at 39 E. State Street, between 3rd and High Streets, across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. From classical music to modern dance, yearly family traditions to hot concerts, the world’s best artists come to the 2,791-seat, historic Ohio Theatre. The breathtaking details (including the 21-foot-high chandelier!) of its opulent, Spanish-Baroque architecture make any night at the Ohio Theater an event to remember! PRE-SHOW ENTERTAINMENT: Now celebrating his 33rd year as featured organist for the CAPA Summer Movie Series, Clark Wilson will again provide pre-show entertainment at the keyboards and controls of the Ohio Theatre’s treasured “Mighty Morton” theatre organ 30 minutes prior to each screening. PARKING: Parking is available at Columbus Commons Parking Garage off 3rd or Rich Streets or in Statehouse Parking Garage off 3rd Street. You can find out more about parking in Downtown Columbus by visiting the Downtown Columbus website. PLAN: Purchase your ticket for the 7:30pm showing and we’ll meet outside the theater between 6:50 and 7:00pm. We’ll head in at 7pm to get good seats and enjoy the pre-show organ music! TICKETS: Tickets just $6 adult / $5 senior! Parking is available under the Capital building, in the nearby garage, or on the nearby streets. You can purchase your ticket at the box office on the day of the event or online here: [https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/](https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/) Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**Pagans on the Patio! Summer/Fall Series** A casual gathering the first Thursday of each month. Time to relax, meet new people, and reconnect with old friends. There is no charge for the event itself and all are welcome but there are a few guidelines: 1. **You are expected to purchase food and/or drink to compensate the Cantina and our server.** 2. **No soliciting. Do not bring samples of your wares or brochures of your services.** 3. **Please respect the spiritual and political views of others that are present. No disruption of the peace.** In case of inclement weather, we will find seating indoors. I hope to see you there. Blessed be! \~ Cynthia ❤️---