EcoVillages

Walk about 6+ miles on a variety of trails and some streets in NW DC to discover where SCPRO helped save a park, a trail that may be threatened by construction, the place where the UN was started, a Memorial to a Lebanese poet, and a lively Greek Festival at St. Sophia Cathedral where the hike will officially end – about a mile from the trailhead. There will be some elevation changes and one stream crossing. More information about the Festival here: [https://www.dcgreeks.com/event_display.asp?EventID=2026051502](https://www.dcgreeks.com/event_display.asp?EventID=2026051502). Wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear, bring water, sunscreen and bug repellent and money to purchase some wonderful food at the Festival (and to give a $2 cash voluntary donation to the local Sierra Club). A positive attitude is also recommended!

Socrates Cafés are gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the Socratic Method; the idea that we learn more when we question, and question with others. Although this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Those attending decide upon the questions of the night. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, moral issues, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

Join us for another Saturday hike and walk (1 hour each way) we'll go through Dumbarton to Whitehaven trail then to the Greek Festival at Saint Sophia Cathedral for 30 min to an hour where there will be Gyros and other food. Do bring shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, and a water bottle is recommended. As always, we will endeavor to leave no trace other than footprints on the trail. Approximate Walking Route:https://www.google.com/maps/dir/38.9244706,-77.0522358/38.9171098,-77.0644749/37+Observatory+Cir+NW,+Washington,+DC+20008/Saint+Sophia+Greek+Orthodox+Cathedral%E2%9B%AA,+2815+36th+St+NW,+Washington,+DC+20007/38.9244632,-77.0522577/@38.9219614,-77.0650686,1523m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m42!4m41!1m15!3m4!1m2!1d-77.0632681!2d38.9139032!3s0x89b7b636b9b3d853:0x667ead2e55983b0b!3m4!1m2!1d-77.0641764!2d38.9140647!3s0x89b7b636c5152b8b:0xf68298e530b0e180!3m4!1m2!1d-77.0626497!2d38.9160048!3s0x89b7b6316d606a19:0xe8f29402898ae5c9!1m0!1m10!1m1!1s0x89b7b631c53f2ccb:0x3632ac6e36066b2!2m2!1d-77.0642404!2d38.9189847!3m4!1m2!1d-77.0589367!2d38.9210956!3s0x89b7b62d0f440b9f:0x2cbd86778a74be04!1m10!1m1!1s0x89b7b626f5680289:0xc12486a0907574c2!2m2!1d-77.0707104!2d38.9272144!3m4!1m2!1d-77.0560177!2d38.9192695!3s0x89b7b7d2b47e0a07:0xcd3a38369314d730!1m0!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDUxMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D

Expect a fun afternoon of drawing and socializing with like-minded artists! Although each Session is 3 hours, feel free to drop in as your schedule permits. This is a casual gathering, and we know that people might only be able to stay a little while -- drop in, and stay, as long as you are having fun, and as your day allows. **Note: about RSVP's, please respect the RSVP process. If you RSVP YES, you are commited and we are all looking to seeing you. If your plans change however, that's OK, but please be courteous and change your RSVP to NO. We are reaching the headcount limit regularly now and it is rude to take a spot and not relinquish it if your plans change... Respect others; don't be rude. Thank you for your cooperation**. All skill levels are welcome -- this is not a competition. This Group and all its Events are intended to be in equal parts, Drawing/Art AND Socializing. As such, conversation is expected and encouraged. ***However, in all cases, please refrain from discussion of Political topics.*** Our goal is enjoyment, in the form of drawing together while socializing, and political conversation is too polarizing for that to happen. We are looking forward to seeing you there! **Note (in parting): Be aware, and keep in mind that our group, meeting as it does at Starbucks, depends on this business's generosity for the space it allows us. As such, please make a point of purchasing something from the business to express our appreciation as a group using their facility. If you are experiencing hardship and can't afford a modest purchase, get my attention discreetly, and arrangements will be made with no judgment whatsoever. Thank you for your understanding... Michael (your host)**

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54635719 20.6 miles; mostly paved trail; some designated bike lanes and relatively calm neighborhood streets. Toilet facilities at beginning and middle of the ride. Lunch at Fletcher's Cove, 13 miles into the ride. On this ride we explore two local gems: Rock Creek Trail/Beach Drive and the Capital Crescent Trail. Rock Creek Park is a national treasure and affords magnificent nature views. We'll ride on the trail and on sections of Beach Drive that have been closed to motor vehicle traffic. Feel free to stop for photos at Peirce Mill and the adjacent waterfall. We continue south past the National Zoo on the Zoo Loop and down into Georgetown. At the Georgetown waterfront, we'll make an optional stop at mile 0 of the C&O Canal. You may also choose to stop and explore the Georgetown Waterfront Park and its terrific views of the Potomac. From Georgetown we go west on the Capital Crescent Trail. After our lunch stop at Fletcher's Cove, we head further north to Bethesda then east through well-sculpted Chevy Chase neighborhoods before finishing the ride. **Please charge your battery, pump your tires, and check your brakes. Consider packing a spare tire tube. The ride is on paved trail and asphalt roads, but there are a few hilly segments. As usual, analog bike riders are most welcome.** **We highly recommend that you download the Ride With GPS route map.** https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54635719 **About Peirce Mill** Peirce Mill was built on Rock Creek in 1829 at the behest of Isaac Peirce. Using the moving water as a power source, the mill ground corn, wheat, and rye. Succeeding generations further developed the mill, sawmill, orchard, and tree nursery. In 1890, an act of Congress incorporated the mill and 350 acres of the property into Rock Creek Park. **About Fletcher's Cove** Fletcher's Cove, called by many customers "Fletcher's Boathouse," has been in this location since the 1850s and is renowned as a fishing and recreational area. The nearby Abner Cloud House is the oldest building on the canal, dating back to 1802. After 145 years of business, the fourth generation of the Fletcher family retired in 2004, and a National Park Service concessionaire assumed responsibility for the operation of the boat rental and fishing tackle/bait operation. The area surrounding the boathouse was then officially named Fletcher's Cove, though most people still call it Fletcher's Boat House. **About the C&O Canal** The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal operated from 1831 until 1924 along the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland. The canal's principal cargo was coal from the Allegheny Mountains. The canal’s roots begin with George Washington’s dream of a waterway trade route. 74 locks were built. The full canal towpath is 184 miles long. See our September calendar for 4-day adventure on the towpath. **About the Capital Crescent Trail** The Capital Crescent Trail follows an abandoned Georgetown Branch railroad right of way and extends 11 miles from Georgetown, in the District of Columbia, to Bethesda, MD. It will eventually link to Silver Spring. The trail, one of 500 rail-to-trail projects in the nation, traverses’ park land and neighborhoods and includes stretches along the Potomac River. We'll cross a railroad trestle at Arizona Avenue and ride through the Dalecarlia Tunnel near the DC/MD border. **Free Ride With GPS for E-Bike Lovers** The Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) generates sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN](https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN) **More information about using GPS files:** [https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/](https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/) **More information about e-bike ranges:** [https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/](https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/) Did you know that E-bike Lovers is an Amazon Affiliate? [https://ebikelovers.com/reviews](https://ebikelovers.com/reviews) For the E-Bike Lovers group to be successful, we need to grow our membership carefully. Please feel free to invite other E-Bike lovers spread the word, and let’s have fun! **When you register for this ride, you are agreeing to the terms of the disclaimer below.** **DISCLAIMER** LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, RICHARD CAMER, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for full disclaimer: [https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer](https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer)

Join us for a fun afternoon of board games, card games, etc! Bring your favorites or play a game that someone else brings. You are welcome to bring snacks (for yourself or to share) and non-alcoholic beverages. RSVP will remain open until the start of the event!

### **Wash away stress and ignite inner peace.** **This sound bath is an opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a soothing environment where you can recharge and reconnect with your true self. The soothing vibrations of various instruments will guide you on a sound journey of healing, helping to release built-up tension and emotional weight.** ***What is sound healing? During a sound healing experience also known as a sound bath participants lie down comfortably, allowing their bodies to relax and open to the healing frequencies from the soothing vibrational sounds filling the space. The session will feature an array of instruments, including crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, gentle chimes, gongs, and other vibrational instruments, each chosen for their unique resonant qualities. The soundscape will be carefully crafted to guide participants through a journey of deep relaxation and inner exploration, promoting emotional release and mental clarity. As the session unfolds, the sounds will recalibrate every cell in your body, creating a nurturing environment where you can connect to your innerself. The experience will make you feel refreshed, aligned and rejuvenated.*** **What you may experience during this session:** * Stress Relief and deep relaxation * Ability to connect to your higher self, Ancestors and the divine * Relief physical pain * Release anxiety * Improve emotional balance * Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace * Ability to create self-love and improve relationships **What to bring:** * Your own water bottle * A Yoga mat (or use one at the studio) * A blanket ( or use one at the studio) * Eye mask (if you have one) * Comfortable clothes to lay down * If you are very sensitive to sound you may wear earplugs for this session **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a Full Time Curandera Shamanic Healer born into the Curanderismo tradition that utilizes Traditional Curanderismo Shamanic Healing modalities past down from previous generations. Her core values are to LIVE IN HARMONY with great spirit, the elements, nature, animals and people. DO NO HARM TO OTHER PEOPLE, PLANTS OR ANIMALS. In the traditional Curanderismo that Jenny practices the foundation is LOVE AND RESPECT to the spirit world, towards animals,plants, people,free will and the elders who guard the curanderismo tradition (Los Abulitos de la tradicion). Private bookings are available for ancestral healings,energy clearing , energy balancing and tarot readings. If you would like to book a private energy session or tarot reading before/after the sound healing session send an email to healing@curanderasheart.com or text (703)531-7046 ( Visit our site for more information on our upcoming ancestral healing ceremonies, trauma release ceremonies, cacao ceremonies, full moon ceremonies, women circles, breathwork sessions and energy clearing ceremonies to bring balance to mind, body and spirit) Stay connected via IG @curanderasheart Curanderas Heart is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA . 5852 Washington Blvd unit 5 Arlington VA at a walkable neighborhood with food options and street parking. Space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe. Due to limited space pre registration and arriving on time is very important. **DATE: SATURDAY** **TIME: 5pm-6pm Doors will open 30 minutes early ARRIVE ON TIME TO SET UP YOUR SPOT. DON'T KNOCK ON THE DOOR OR DISTURB THE SESSION. ONCE THE DOOR IS CLOSED IT MEANS SESSION IS ALREADY IN PROCESS AND IT WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL THE SESSION IS OVER.** **Energy Exchange: $45** **Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit5 Arlington VA 22205** **Info: WWW.CURANDERASHEART.COM** **healing@curanderasheart.com** **703\. 531\.7046 call or text** \*\*What you may experience during this session:\*\*Stress Relief and deep relaxationAbility to connect to your higher self, Ancestors and the divineRelief physical painRelease anxietyImprove emotional balanceIncreased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peaceAbility to create self-love and improve relationships **\*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed, canceled reservations or if you arrive after session has already started\*\*\*\***

**Important: you must go to the Poplar Spring website to [register](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) for the race and [join Team VSDC.](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) (It is very helpful to RSVP here on Meetup as well, for communication purposes.)** Join [Team VSDC](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) as we support the [Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary Annual 5K Run for the Animals and 1-Mile Fun Walk ](https://www.animalsanctuary.org/events/)on Sunday, May 17th. All funds raised will go towards [Poplar Spring's](https://www.animalsanctuary.org/) lifesaving work every day. The funds will care for and feed the farm animals who live at Poplar Spring and educate the public about compassion towards all animals. The VSDC has been a participant in this event for many years. Registration Fee for both the Run and Walk by April 5, 2026: $28.00 April 5 – May 16, 2025: $30.00 Race Day: $35 To join the Team VSDC register [here.](https://www.classy.org/team/811995) More[ info on the 5k run and fun walk is here.](https://www.classy.org/event/poplar-spring-animal-sanctuarys-run-for-the-animals-2026/e766174) If you register on this page, be sure to select "Join a Team" and [choose Team VSDC](https://www.classy.org/team/811995)! There is also a virtual race option that takes place anytime during the week of May 17th. For important updates regularly monitor the "comments" section below. Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Join Team Rockville Vegan's for the Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary's Run for the Animals 5K!! This annual event is a great way to run in a fully vegan race (that means no worrying about the post race snacks... you can eat ALL of them!) and hang out with local vegans! The race has options for both runners and walkers! There is also a virtual event if you are unable to be there on a Sunday morning. You can join our team here: [https://pro.gofundme.com/team/818034](https://pro.gofundme.com/team/818034) **Please note that you must join the team and register for the race in order to participate.** RSVPing to this event only lets us know that you are interested. **We will not be at the entrance off of Arcola, please make sure you use this address for your GPS:** Wheaton Regional Park 2000 Shorefield Road Wheaton, MD US 20902 (Shorefield Road is off Georgia Avenue.)

Our next club meeting is on Sunday will start at 2:15, please join early. if you're coming in-person, parking is free and usually ample at the Community College on Sundays, and most of us park where the spaces are designated for staff and have never had a problem. 👉 Everyone is welcome to join our meeting, participate and practice. You'll get a chance to hear our club members speak and then have an opportunity to play the table topics game. **Agenda for the Meeting:** 1. Warm Up 2. Prepared Speeches (By club members) 3. Table Topics Game (Learn to think on your feet) 4. Feedback **Online - Join us via Zoom** https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86218205188 If you haven't used Zoom before, watch this short video on how to join our meeting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=45&v=vFhAEoCF7jg **In-Person** **\- Join us at Montgomery Community College** Meet us at Science Building, room SC 152. The room is located on the ground floor. The exact building address is https://goo.gl/maps/ZEgQH7bKLvzdqtSQ9 For help, please text or call, 301-917-4202.

The Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary 5k (& 1 miler) for runners or walkers will be in-person with a virtual option (run or walk on your own). Please join us either to participate or to cheer! **Date/Time:** Sunday May 17th/8:00AM 5k (8:10ish 1 mile start time) **Place:** Wheaton Regional Park 2000 Shorefield Road Wheaton, MD 20902 (**Shorefield Road is off Georgia Avenue. It is NOT the park entrance off Arcola Avenue.)** (OR for virtual-run wherever you want!) **Register:** Register [online](https://www.classy.org/event/poplar-spring-animal-sanctuarys-run-for-the-animals-2026/e766174/register/new/select-tickets) OR as early as 6:30am at registration table at the event (\*\*make sure to choose team vegan-powered when you register\*\*). I recommend registering online. **Price/Donation:** $28 through 4/4, $30 4/5-5/16, $35 on 5/17 (race day) [Team Website](https://www.classy.org/team/812481) This is for runners AND walkers of all levels (actually you can do absolutely nothing if you sign up virtually and we won't even know!) In all seriousness, this is a great way to get motivated. You're improving your fitness and supporting a good cause while meeting some great people! We have had a Vegan-Powered team for many years. I re-posted a past Poplar Spring pic as the featured photo. All donations and entry fees go to the Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary, which rescues and rehabilitates abused and neglected animals. Even if you can't attend, you can still donate. They rely 100% on public funds. This is an amazing event with amazing people and the funds raised go to an amazing cause! **MATCHING DONATIONS** Poplar Spring was given $15,000 in matching donations. DOUBLING your donation! Please share this with your family and friends. Your involvement is critical to Poplar Spring’s success. Click [HERE](https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/7076844) to donate. By the way, the food provided afterwards is all vegan! This is rare and definitely very appreciated! Schedule (optional for everyone!) 7:55 meet in front of start line for "pre" group picture (make sure to indicate Vegan-powered as your team when you sign up!) 8:00 5k start time (after your finish meet near finish line to cheer on others & check your posted run time for accuracy & that they included you on VP team.) 9ish Meet at food table then walk to Poplar Spring sign for group picture then walk over together to listen to awards announcements Come on out and we'll have a great time, while supporting a worthy cause in the process...Hope you can make it! Stephanie PS-Are you interested in training for the 5k together and/or an accountability group? If so, please mention this in the comments. PSS-I created a VP Strava Group, join for free [HERE](https://www.strava.com/clubs/1116318) PSSS-Check out the [Vegan Powered Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/VeganPowered)

Join us on the potluck with fellow SCPRO leaders, followed by the presentation by Didi Bild from Beyond Plastics MoCoMD. The Spring general meeting will start following the conclusion of the presentation, **Cost:** Free, but we encourage everyone to become members of the Sierra Club, the nations largest environmental organization. **Bring:** If attending the potluck (noon to 1PM), please bring a food item to share and eating & drinking utensils to minimize waste. But if you're not able to bring these, come anyway. **Additional Directions:** If there is no one to greet you at the entrance, call 240-370-7011 or 703-946-8111. **Carpool:** There are no organized carpools, but the meeting location is within walking distance of the Union Station Metro station, or you may organize your own carpool. Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

April showers bring May flowers! 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/)

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)

Community Backyards Workshop .Community Backyards Workshop - Westerville Join us for the Westerville Community Backyards workshop! This is a FREE class on how you can protect our waterways and environment with small changes in your gardening habits. We will discuss rain barrels, rain gardens, composting, and native plants. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but not required. * Location: Westerville Community Center, 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082 * Date and time: Sat, May 30, 2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM * Organizer: Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/h2w5ms8 **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days