Botany

In a world increasingly marked by division and conflict, finding common ground has never been more crucial – and seemingly more difficult. At the same time, if we’re willing to go outside of ourselves, there are a growing number of grassroots efforts – thousands in the US alone! – all exploring various means of depolarization. In this context, might there be a role for spirituality to help guide us towards these aims, towards greater empathy and understanding for one another? More and more it seems like we can each pick and choose the bubbles we want to live in, with many of those bubbles drifting further away from others. And while there can be comfort to be found in this, are we maybe also missing out on an even better world we could be living in? What would an approach to our lives and our communities look like that speaks to our fundamental commonalities instead of our differences? How might we find and strengthen a common ground that unites while respecting our unique perspectives and contributions? What has the unique power to connect each and every one of us, to help us find that common ground, to better understand and express our essential oneness as human beings? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the role of spirituality in navigating polarized communities and bridging divides. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how spirituality can help foster a society strengthened by unity and based on understanding amongst its citizens. *“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.”* – Bahá’í Teachings \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

Guest Speaker: Hunter Raab, Vice President of the DC Bird Alliance presenting "How Artificial Light Impacts Bird Migration...and What You Can Do to Help." Post-PAM Animal Action: DxE Trader Joe’s protest Life has evolved to depend upon light in many ways. Be it migration, circadian rhythms, habitat selection, mating...you name it really, the effects artificial light has on life is vast and unfortunately overlooked. Fortunately however, we already have the tools to help! Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

Higher Grounds – Arlington is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you you (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Arlington who are also seeking deeper conversations. Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions * What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? * When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? * What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles * Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? * What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? * How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human * What human experiences will AI never truly understand? * If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? * What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning * What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? * How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? * What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche * What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? * Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? * What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose * When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? * What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? * How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection * What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? * When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? * What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality * What are you running out of time to say or do? * How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? * What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? Suggested Questions: Society & Culture * What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? * Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? * What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy * What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? * When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out? * What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Join ProductTank Wilmington for an engaging discussion on Product Management across different domains including, but not limited to AI, FinTech, and Healthcare. Whether you're a seasoned product manager or just starting out in the field, this gathering is a fantastic space to learn from the best in the industry and network with like-minded professionals. **NOTE: This is an open invitation to join ProductTank Wilmington and not an event.**

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

This meeting will be dedicated to talking about the entirety of “Sátántangó” by László Krasznahorkai. We will be meeting in the National Portrait Gallery Atrium. To stay up to date with events and discuss meetings or books, you can join our Whatsapp group. Please message me to get added.

Let's get together at bar Garden social to grab a drink and hangout. Cost: Free Parking: Parking lot is available in front of the Garden Socail About the venue: Garden Social is a lively restaurant and bar-style hangout with a relaxed, casual social vibe offering a mix of Asian-inspired street-style dishes, beers, wine, and drinks. For more information about the venue: https://gardensocialva.com/

Candle Making Aromatherapy is a hands-on program designed for millennials to craft their own calming, nature-inspired scented candles. Participants will learn how to blend soothing aromas such as lavender, eucalyptus, and cedarwood into custom candles that promote relaxation and stress relief. This program combines creativity, mindfulness, and aromatherapy to offer a unique wellness experience that helps reduce anxiety and enhance mood. Ages 18 & up; FREE [REGISTER HERE](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=Ao6Z150X6W01284A1H4J2O4B504M5I6B004S5R564Q1K5O4T4Q4X1D5J3Y6I5D1C5P3Q55506P025Y594L73715U61671N5I4L5M5008586756506K6R4H6F5V72055S59&quantity=1&begindate=01%2F20%2F2026&enddate=01%2F20%2F2027&keyword=&keywordoption=Match+One&secondarycode=WBCC-SPEC-GA-20260301&display=Detail&module=PST&multiselectlist_value=&pstwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes) Ticket Code: [WBCC-SPEC-GA-20260301](https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com%2Fwebtrac%2Fweb%2Fsearch.html%3FAction%3DStart%26SubAction%3D%26_csrf_token%3DAo6Z150X6W01284A1H4J2O4B504M5I6B004S5R564Q1K5O4T4Q4X1D5J3Y6I5D1C5P3Q55506P025Y594L73715U61671N5I4L5M5008586756506K6R4H6F5V72055S59%26quantity%3D1%26begindate%3D01%252F20%252F2026%26enddate%3D01%252F20%252F2027%26keyword%3D%26keywordoption%3DMatch%2BOne%26secondarycode%3DWBCC-SPEC-GA-20260301%26display%3DDetail%26module%3DPST%26multiselectlist_value%3D%26pstwebsearch_buttonsearch%3Dyes&data=05%7C02%7CStefanie.Ascherl%40pgparks.com%7C0a29edbb1112482cc63708de74a0f4eb%7Ca9061e0c24ca4c1cbeff039bb8c05816%7C0%7C0%7C639076431831215889%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=WEV2OFOUqBz5yMKU8MU89Tx3eVBwbza%2BFTaNIMsw54Q%3D&reserved=0 "Original URL: https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=Ao6Z150X6W01284A1H4J2O4B504M5I6B004S5R564Q1K5O4T4Q4X1D5J3Y6I5D1C5P3Q55506P025Y594L73715U61671N5I4L5M5008586756506K6R4H6F5V72055S59&quantity=1&begindate=01%2F20%2F2026&enddate=01%2F20%2F2027&keyword=&keywordoption=Match+One&secondarycode=WBCC-SPEC-GA-20260301&display=Detail&module=PST&multiselectlist_value=&pstwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes. Click or tap if you trust this link.")

**The rules are simple:** Take photographs **Each and Every Day** and post your best **ONE** (1) shot of the day - **EACH DAY** for **March**. If you happen to miss a day or two (life happens), it is **OK** to catch up and upload the photos for the days missed or just skip those days. **Please don't post over 2 to 3 at a time**. This is part of the learning process. **DO NOT POST TO THE ALBUM *UNTIL* AFTER 03/01/2026**. Please use a browser like Chrome and the Meetup.com website to post the images, as **the Meetup app does not handle albums very well**. Towards the top-left of the page is a link to **Add Photos** for uploading your photo to the album. **CONFIRM** **that your photo was Added to the correct Album.** Remember to post your **best photo (JUST ONE)** you took every day on that day! **DO NOT POST PHOTOS FROM ANY OTHER TIME!** If you have time to post an older image, you can take a new image and post it. Be creative. Please **add a caption** to know how far you are in the process. After you upload the image you took that day, find your photo at the end of the album, and edit the caption to state the day and total of days in the month like this:?/31. You can add the title of the image if you wish. A good title can make a photo! So, your photo for the **March 1st** caption would be "**1/31: My great photo!**" \*\* Adding a caption helps you keep track of where you are in the month. It does help. The purpose is to have fun and get in the habit of shooting every day. Learn to use your camera. Read your manual and test out a new feature you have never used before. Sometimes picking a theme/project can help focus (pun intended), like flowers, your pet(s), a lens you haven't used in a while, or whatever your passion is. Or try something new... The **end date is 03/31/2026**. Meetup.com does not allow events to be longer than 2 weeks. Other images that were not taken by you will be removed. Please keep the images family-friendly. You need to be a member of the Virginia Beltway Photography Group. I look forward to seeing how far people go and grow as better photographers!

Celebrating our many March Birthdays (including mine!) has become an annual tradition at Slater Run Vineyards. For 300 years, the Slater family has farmed along Goose Creek. In 2010,they added the grapevines and the rest is history. They grow 13 acres of vines on site and specialize in Bordeaux Style Red Blends. Slater Run Vineyards offers a Hunt Country wine experience with sweeping views overlooking the vineyard from a bright and airy tasting room. They allow us to bring our own food so let's have a birthday style celebration feast! March birthday babies, let us know if you will be celebrating with us!

Join us for a **scenic, 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 may be **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!

We will draw together at the National Portrait Gallery next. We will meet in the Kogod Courtyard space which is wonderful and has great light. The museum is full of amazing things to get your creativity going. We will all reconvene at 3:30 to share our drawings if people feel comfortable with that. See you there.

We'll check out Northside Social Falls Church: 205 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046 Please have a picture profile so we can recognize you in the meetup. Please only sign up if you're sure about attending this meetup, and please update your RSVP as soon as possible if you need to cancel, thank you!

A unique worship experience for adults looking to engage their mind, body, spirit, and taste buds! Sundays, 5PM Join us each Sunday for a guided time of stretching, meditation, and mindfulness (think Yoga Church) – followed by a free mocktail and conversation! It’s a great day to end one week – and begin another. No reservations needed; just show up. (Invite a friend!) [https://www.thevineva.org/stretch-sip](https://www.thevineva.org/stretch-sip?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR5PvfHVivaZWvu3F4k-dNoYLoXZ9EkAZKcaOcJ2fBP09QM_svyEG0tkZgIH-w_aem_GVuOBm_3I478NQM3Lkqe0A) 2501 Gallows Road, Dunn Loring, VA 22027

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160

Hosted by Licking Parks District Backyard Conservation: Composting 101 Thursday, March 5, 2026 Join us to learn how to create nutrient-rich compost right at home! Whether you have a small garden, a backyard, or just a few potted plants, this program is perfect for anyone interested in reducing waste and boosting soil health. We will go over what compost is and how to use it, what can and cannot be composted, when to turn and water your compost, and troubleshooting! Free. [Register by March 1. Click here ](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026) 6PM - 7PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) $15 for One Class $20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space.

Hosted by Licking Parks District Planning and Growing a Cut Flower Garden Thursday, March 12, 2026 Are you a plant lover or garden enthusiast who would like to add growing cut flowers to your garden repertoire but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’d like to grow flowers instead of grass to attract pollinators? Whatever your flower dream is, let’s dig in and start here! Join Tracey Barnes of Moon Maiden Flower Farm to learn the basic foundations of growing a cut flower garden, which includes planning, choosing the right varieties, succession planting for continuous blooms, maintenance, harvesting and post harvest care for making bouquets. Whatever your horticulture experience level is, you’ll gain confidence in your decision making, and before you know it, you’ll be slinging flowers and sharing their beauty with others. Register by Mar 11. [Register here for free https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026) 6PM - 7:30PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park