Elm

**Please Note:** This game has limited slots, and you must RSVP. If the event is full, please signup for the Waitlist, and you will be moved up as people update their RSVPs. ***Wingspan*** is a competitive, medium-weight, card-driven, engine-building board game from Stonemaier Games. It's designed by Elizabeth Hargrave and features 180 birds illustrated by Natalia Rojas and Ana Maria Martinez. You are bird enthusiasts—researchers, bird watchers, ornithologists, and collectors—seeking to discover and attract the best birds to your network of wildlife preserves. Each bird extends a chain of powerful combinations in one of your habitats (actions). BGG - https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/266192/wingspan Light Refreshments are provided. Limited Guest Parking is available for Free if notified 24hrs in advance. We are right on the NOMA Red Line Metro Stop. Please RSVP so we can account for Snacks.

Let's get together to play some fun BB level Quads 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) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

This moderate hike begins at Meadowbrook Park in Montgomery County, MD. Enjoy the quiet woodland trails and creek views which are a hidden joy in this northern section of DC’s Rock Creek Park. We may see woodpeckers, waterbirds and other wildlife, along with lingering wildflowers as we hike. The path will take us into DC at the boundary bridge and we will travel the Valley trail, then cross over one of the small bridges that span Rock Creek to the Western Ridge trail for our return. This peaceful walk along Rock Creek and through mature woodlands has rolling hills with several ups and downs, and a steam crossing or two. Poles might come in handy for the stream crossings and some of the steeper sections, but are not strictly necessary. Most of the trail is natural surface with some rocks and roots, so please wear appropriate footwear. Please make sure to bring water to drink! And consider sunscreen and insect repellent. There are portable toilets near the start of our hike. (I will check on this–the last time I walked this they had been removed, but typically there are facilities near the playground.) **Time to meet:** Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Contact information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike leader is Nancy 240-498-1034 Call or text if urgent. **Directions to the trailhead:.** The address: 7901 Meadowbrook Lane, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. Go all the way to the end of the road where there is a parking lot near a playground and ballfields. We will meet near the stone building. (You may see signs directing you to Candy Cane City, which is the local name of the playground.) The GPS coordinates: 38.98672981029209, -77.06160880892341 **Elevation Gain**: 348 ft. **Pace:** 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour **Cancellation:** In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting **Notes:** **PLEASE RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THIS HIKE. DO NOT SHOW UP UNREGISTERED!** If YOUR PLANS CHANGE, UPDATE YOUR RSVP BY NOON THE DAY PRIOR TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME TO FILL YOUR SPOT. **SIGNING OUT AFTER NOON WILL BE CONSIDERED A "NO SHOW," AND REPEATED INSTANCES MAY RESULT IN BEING BARRED FROM PARTICIPATING IN FUTURE HIKES.** IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST, PLEASE CHECK YOUR STATUS AFTER 4:00 PM THE DAY BEFORE TO SEE IF YOU HAVE BEEN MOVED TO THE "GOING" LIST. IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST AND NO LONGER WISH TO ATTEND, IT IS IMPORTANT TO SIGN OUT EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT CONFIRMED, OTHERWISE YOU MAY BE MARKED AS A NO SHOW. -A well-trained, leashed Fido is welcome on this hike. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [ click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here.](https://www.patc.net/membership).

**\*\*You must purchase a ticket [here](https://sommcircle.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=650343&item_id=2926832). \*\*** Ever find yourself nodding along at a wine tasting, wishing you knew what to actually say — or even what to look for? This is the evening that changes that. Speak Fluent Wine is a hands-on tasting experience designed to teach you the exact framework wine professionals use to evaluate what's in the glass. You'll go from "I just know what I like" to understanding \*why\* you like it — and having the words to say so. Here's what we'll cover: ?? Sight — What color and clarity reveal before the first sip ?? Nose — How to train your sense of smell and identify aromas with confidence ?? Palate — Decoding what your taste buds are picking up: sweetness, acidity, tannins, body, and finish ?? Structure — How the elements of a wine interact, including how acidity softens sweetness and tames tannins ??? Language — The vocabulary professionals use, demystified and made practical Once we've broken down the framework, Total Wine's expert staff will lead a short guided tasting — putting everything you've just learned directly into practice. Snacks and water will be provided. Cost is $25 No experience necessary. No judgement. Just great wine, a welcoming atmosphere, and the confidence you've been waiting to find. **\*\*You must purchase a ticket [here](https://sommcircle.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=650343&item_id=2926832). \*\***

**SHORT NOTICE** **NOTE THE DIFFERENT STARTING TIME!!!!** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride: Eclarions Colonial Village * START LOC: Bluemont Park South Parking, 325 or 329 N Manchester, Arlington, VA * START GPS: [38.868907,-77.1342983](https://www.google.com/maps/place/South+Bluemont+Parking+Area/@38.868907,-77.1342983,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7b50016fd88fd:0x8afb6bdf9318a324!8m2!3d38.8689029!4d-77.1317234!16s%2Fg%2F11xgvpr5kw!5m1!1e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) * START PARKING: Bluemont Park South Parking lot (restroom available) * ARRIVAL: 10:30am * SPEECH: 10:40am ***\*\*you must be present for the speech or no ride for you!\*\**** * ROLLING: 10:45am * LEVEL: Medium * PACE: 11-13 mph (a "social" pace) * DISTANCE: 16.8 miles * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cyclepath * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_KOFFEEK_ECLARION_CV_2026 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55288414](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55288414?privacy_code=cwnivPcAXxrCEI9jmSULVfOPEPIgyOWA) **Notes:** * This ride is organized "lean" * Pump your tires on the morning of the ride, please. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** * **++++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++++** The ride is a 16.8 mile medium level ridden at a social pace (11-13 mph). We will ride the Loop Counter-Clockwise starting from the south Bluemont Park lot and stop for our "Koffee Klatch" at Eclaion on Wilson Blvd in Colonial Village at mile 11.5. We will exit the Triangle/Loop at Scott St (about mile ) and take that to Quinn. After coffee we will ride Wilson to Veitch and reconnect with the Triangle/Loop just after mile 12 after Mom's Organic Market and head on back to Bluemont. You are not required to drink or even like coffee. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** This week's coffee shop is the Ride WITHIN The Ride! [Eclarions](https://www.eclairons.com/) 1737 Wilson Blvd Arlington, VA 22209 **+++++++++++++++++++++** **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. ......................................................................................................................

Join us for another Saturday hike and walk (1 hour each way) we'll go through Dumbarton to Whitehaven trail then pick mulberries from some trees in the national park land (not a farm or anything like that) and then come back. I recommend bringing a trash bag or a tupperwear to put mulberries in. Mulberries on the ground or the juice from touching them can stain things purple. You're not likely to get any stains, but you still shouldn't wear nice shoes or nice clothes to this event. 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+20008/38.9244632,-77.0522577/@38.9188023,-77.0633094,1710m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m26!4m25!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!1m5!1m1!1s0x89b7b631c53f2ccb:0x3632ac6e36066b2!2m2!1d-77.0642404!2d38.9189847!1m0!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDUxMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D **1\. Assumption of Risk and Release of Liability** By attending any event organized by this group, you acknowledge that outdoor activities inherently involve risks, including but not limited to injury, illness, and exposure to natural hazards. You voluntarily assume all such risks and hereby release the organizers and participants from any and all liability for injuries, damages, or losses that may arise in connection with your participation. **2\. Responsibility for Consumption or Handling of Natural Items** Event organizers may identify, discuss, or encourage the tasting or handling of natural items encountered outdoors. Any decision to consume or interact with such items is made solely at your discretion and risk. You accept full responsibility for any injury, illness, allergic reaction, or other consequence resulting from these actions, and the group assumes no liability in relation to them.

It is a pleasure to announce that we have once again been invited to hold a spring event at the German Embassy! The German Wine Society’s Capital Chapter has held several asparagus-themed Spargelfest dinners at the Embassy, but this year’s Spring Gala event will offer something more, combining festive music with the pleasures of wine and food. We are collaborating this year with the International Club of DC to host this event, and so it is possible to register for the event through either organization at the same price. And this year, we are offering not only a dinner including white asparagus and with several German wines at the Embassy House, but also a reception and concert in the Carl Schurz Hall of the main Embassy building before dinner, with a selection of hors d’oeuvres and German sparkling, white and red wines. Guests will have the opportunity to attend just the reception, or the reception and dinner. For both the reception and dinner, cuisine will be provided by the German Embassy’s chef, Mikko Kosenen of Mikko Nordic Fine Foods. Chef Mikko also operates a restaurant in Washington, D.C., and was formerly executive chef for the Ambassador of Finland. Please plan to join us to share our love of German wine paired with white asparagus and other dishes, at the German Embassy where the German Wine Society began - and this year, to enjoy beautiful music and song at the start of our unique event, and to meet members of the International Club as well as those from our own Society! Please join our two groups at the German Embassy on the evening of **Friday, May 29, 2026,** from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Our event will begin with a reception, introductory remarks, concert and wine tasting with hors d’oeuvres at the Carl Schurz Hall of the main Embassy building from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. After this, guests who have also opted to attend the dinner will ascend the stairs to the Embassy House (or use escorted access to the Embassy elevator for those needing assistance) for our buffet dinner and dessert from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Our dinner will feature not only white spargel and an array of other dishes, but also seven fine white and red German wines, including Silvaner, known for its affinity with asparagus. Overall, seven of Germany’s thirteen wine regions will be represented in our reception and dinner, including the Mosel, Rheingau, Nahe, Rheinhessen, Pfalz, Ahr, and Franken. Registration for this event must be received by **Friday, May 22, 2026.** We can accommodate a maximum of 120 guests for the reception in the Carl Schurz Hall, but only 80 for the dinner at the smaller Embassy House. When registering, please decide whether you want to attend either the reception only, or both the reception and dinner (the price of the dinner includes the reception, and attending the dinner without the reception is not an option). For the first two weeks after initial announcement of this event, we are reserving half of the dinner places for those who register through the German Wine Society, at the listed price. After that time, all of the places will be available for purchase by members of either group, and prices will be subject to revision without prior notice. The initial price to attend the Spring Gala for members of the German Wine Society is **$95** for the reception alone, or **$195** for the reception and dinner; for non-members, the initial price will be **$105** for the reception alone, or **$205** for the reception and dinner. Reserve early to avoid disappointment! We anticipate being joined by members of the German Embassy staff, some of whom will provide introductory remarks at the reception. Please take the opportunity to mingle with them and share your interests in German wines and Germany! Here’s what we have planned for our Spring Gala: **5:30 pm: entry to Embassy compound passing through security (plan to enter no later than 6:30 pm); Reception and concert at the German Embassy.** Enter at the main Embassy gate on 4645 Reservoir Road, NW, Washington, DC 20007, and after passing through security, proceed to the Carl Schurz Hall in the main Embassy building. For security purposes, the Embassy requires a list of all attendees in advance; no walk-ins are allowed. Please remember to bring a valid picture ID. There is no parking available on Embassy grounds, but it should not be difficult at this time of day to find parking on the street nearby if you are driving. Be alert, however, to DC parking restrictions. The German Embassy is not near a Metro subway stop, but it is also possible to arrive by Metro bus (D94) or by taxi/ride service. Welcoming menu: hors d’ oeuvres + Sparkling wine served at main Embassy Pretzel bites with beer- cheese dipping sauce German bratwurst pig in blanket with mustard Asparagus-cheese quiche Herring on potato with mustard mayonnaise Duck confit arancinis with cherry sauce These hors d’oeuvres will be accompanied by the following sparkling wine: *Nv Dr. Loosen “Dr. L” Sparkling Riesling, Mosel.* In Germany, sparkling wine is known as “sekt,” and the Loosen estate produces this distinctive dry sekt using the Charmat method, with a specific grape and region rather than a generic blend. Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast. Introductory remarks will begin at 6:00 pm, and the concert will run from about 6:20 pm until 7 pm. The program for our Spring Gala Concert will be a joyous chamber music celebration featuring various German, Austrian and Italian works, performed by the trio Cantabile (violinist Christine Kharazian, cellist Irina Ponomareva, and pianist Nina Willner) and soprano Angela Mariano. Biographies of the performers are listed at the end of this notice. Music will range from the Baroque and other classical pieces, including Bach, Vivaldi, Beethoven, Handel, Schumann, and Mendelssohn, to traditional German songs of the Mosel and Rhine on wine themes. The program will include the famed 17th century German hymn Schönster Herr Jesu (as arranged by Dawson Hull), brought to America in the 19th century by German immigrants, with its references to springtime. During and after the introductory remarks and concert, the following red and white wines will be served as well: *2023 Spreitzer Oestricher Lenchen Riesling Kabinett, Rheingau.* The Rheingau region has long been identified with high-quality Rieslings, and this Kabinett, at the lower end of the scale of sweet wines, provides an off-dry or mildly sweet experience. Rated 92 points by Wine Spectator and Antonio Galloni. *2023 Kühling Gillot Spätburgunder Trocken, Rheinhessen.* The Spätburgunder grape is better known outside Germany as Pinot Noir, and this is a fine example of a dry red from a leading estate. 90 points average critic reviews. Guests attending the dinner after the reception should proceed up the stairway alongside the main Embassy building depicted here to the Embassy House on the upper level, between 7 pm and 7:30 pm after the concert. For those who have difficulty ascending the stairs, escorts from the Embassy staff can bring guests through the Embassy building and up an elevator. Guests not attending the dinner, but only the reception, should exit from the Embassy by 8:00 pm, but may remain after the concert until then to enjoy the white and red wines and hors d’oeuvres. **7:30pm - 9:30 pm Buffet Dinner with Served Wines: inside Embassy House cantina and possibly on patio also if weather permits** Assortment of bread Green salad with lingonberry dressing German style potato salad Pasta Salmon salad Grilled white asparagus with hollandaise sauce Roasted spring vegetables Chicken Schnitzel with lemon and capers Black forest ham Spaetzle with mushrooms, ham Sweets: Apple strudel with vanilla sauce Black forest cake Rice porridge with red berry soup The dinner will be accompanied by the following wines: Served as starters: *2023 Hexamer Helmut Meddersheimer Rheingrafenberg Rieslling Quarzit, Nahe.* A fine example of a barely off-dry Riesling from the Nahe region west of the Rhine, across from the Rheingau. Critic James Suckling rated the previous vintage 92 points. *2022 Rebholz Weissburgunder Trocken, Pfalz.* The Rebholz estate in the Pfalz region is one of Germany’s top producers of dry “Trocken” wines, in this case made from the Weissburgunder grape better known outside Germany as Pinot Blanc. Reviewed at 92 points by critic James Suckling. Served with main buffet course: *2022 Meyer-Näkel Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) Estate, Ahr.* The small Ahr region near Bonn is more heavily focused on producing red wines, especially Spätburgunder, than any other wine region of Germany, with distinctive slate tastes. The Meyer-Näkel estate represents the 5th generation of winemakers. Critics have reviewed at 91 points. *2024 Carl Loewen Longuicher Maximiner Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel.* Grown from vines over 120 years old in Devonian slate soil, and fermented in traditional wooden barrels (fuder). Rated 94 points by critic James Suckling. *2023 Wirsching-Iphöfer Silvaner Trocken, Franken.* A dry Silvaner white wine, served in the fat “bocksbeutel" characteristic of the Franken region, is the classic accompaniment to a spargel (asparagus) dinner. Rated 90 points by Kristen Bieler, Wine Spectator. Served with dessert: *2023 Fritz Haag Braunberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese, Mosel.* Spätlese wines are the next step up the sweetness scale in Germany from Kabinett, the term translating as “late harvest.” From the Sonnenuhr (“sundial”) vineyard., one of the iconic steep-sided vineyards lining the banks of the Mosel river. Rated 92 points in Wine Enthusiast. *2023 Dr. Loosen Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Spätlese, Mosel.* The Mosel region, source of both dessert wines for this event, is one of Germany’s leading regions for the Riesling grape, and exports far more wines to the United States than any other single German wine region. From the Würzgarten (“spice garden”) vineyard in Ürzig. Rated 94 points by Master of Wine Anne Krebiehl, Vinous Media. You can register and pay for this event by registering through the GWS website, [https://germanwinesocietydc.org](https://germanwinesocietydc.org/). Guests can also register independently through the International Club of DC, which has issued its own announcement of the Spring Gala. Simply confirming attendance on meetup is NOT sufficient for a reservation. For this event, we are no longer requiring that guests take special health precautions. We do request that if you contract covid-19 or another communicable illness, or test positive for one, you refrain from attending the event and protect the health of others. We can refund payments for this reason if you notify us that you are not able to attend the event for this reason prior to the day of the event. Otherwise, refunds can only be given if requested before the registration deadline. All GWS members and guests are reminded that alcohol consumption can lead to intoxication. Members and guests should use public transportation to events, rely on a designated driver, or taste the wines rather than finish them. The event coordinator for the Spring Gala, on behalf of the German Wine Society, is Carl Willner, Capital Chapter President and Secretary, and National Vice President and Secretary. Please send any questions to Carl at [carl.willner1@verizon.net](mailto:carl.willner1@verizon.net) . We look forward to seeing you for our Spring Gala!

Let’s take DC UW on the road, and do a New York City walk! For this walk we will walk the entire length of Manhattan from Inwood in the north all the way to the Statue of Liberty lookout in the south. We will take a very meandering route through many of the parks and green spaces of Manhattan and hit up some of the top sights/attractions. Disclaimer: This is an all day affair. Expect to be up at or before 4am and not to be home until after midnight. While in NYC we will be walking 20+ miles. That means 8+ hours on our feet walking briskly. I also expect everyone to be self sufficient in navigation in case we are separated (I will be giving out physical maps of the route when we get to NYC). Logistics: We will be taking the train to New York. We will meet in the main hall of Union Station bright and early for the 5:20 AM Northeast Regional 160. Make sure to arrive 15-30 minutes early, also note that the metro does not run this early so you will need your own transportation (uber, walk/bike if you live close, etc.) We will get to NYC Penn Station at roughly 8:45 AM. Once we regroup we will take the subway to Inwood and start our walk. At the end of the day we will take the subway back to Penn Station and the 8:01 PM Northeast Regional 165 back to Union Station, getting back at 11:30 PM. Metro runs until 2 am on Saturday’s so we’ll be able to metro home. Departure Train: Northeast Regional 160 at 5:20 am. WAS -> NYP Return Train: Northeast Regional 165 at 8:01 pm. NYP -> WAS Preparations: Please bring everything you may need to for an all day excursion. That includes a backpack with water, snacks, potential rain gear depending on weather, and potentially a packaged lunch (I haven’t fully decided on the food situation, but I’m hoping we can have a picnic lunch as a group in central park). Start Location: Union Station (main hall) End Location: Union Station Mileage: \~20 Map: https://www.komoot.com/tour/2765159836?share_token=aw4NS31Zmdq5ggP2098zzOCnxoqWtzEt2XqY39KwgXOVUZV1FC&ref=wtd

Hands-on learn how to save life & limb, when mired in the wilderness of an urban disaster zone, travel or rural area far from hospital, or natural area miles from an access point, during the critical minutes or hours before ambulance arrival. Come away with actual do-it-yourself care-giving skill and confidence, and 2-year SOLO certification. Counts as WFR Recertification, too. No prerequisites. YOUR SPOT IS NOT RESERVED UNTIL YOU'VE COMPLETELY REGISTERED AT WWW.SOLOWFA.COM \***Spaces are limited. REGISTER: www.solowfa.com or 434.326.4697** Can't make these dates? Check out more course locations and dates on our website. WHO: Open to the general public, adults & teens with solid attention spans. Know your loved ones are safe wherever they are. WHY: Mired in a disaster zone, travel or rural area far from a hospital, or natural area miles from an access point ... accidents, destructive weather, and terrorism happen, and all-too-often members of a group are not capable of dealing with the emergency. This leads to improper care of the patient, and endangers the entire group. Many recreational accidents are preventable, and improper care of trauma can compound even simple injuries. Very few first aid programs actually address the issues of providing emergency care in a setting where 911 is overwhelmed or not immediately reachable. In this course, classroom instruction and Q&A are interwoven with practical work and problem-solving exercises. Hands-on experience - a most powerful learning tool - during scenarios comprise \~50% of class. TIMING: This is a 2-day class, Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am -7pm each day. Fee: $295 (Earlybird)

DeafPlusAdvocate is hosting our monthly ASL Social event in the DMV. Join us for a late spring ASL Social at Garden Social. Also, enjoy Hawaiian cuisine and great outdoor and indoor space. .If you are Deaf/hearing, interested in socializing, or looking for practice with American Sign Language (ASL), join us! All ASL levels are welcome! This is the perfect place for you! We will host ASL Social on Saturday, May 30th, at the L&L Hawaiian Barbecue from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. The address is: 4363 John Marr Dr, Annandale, VA 22003. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the DeafPlusAdvocate team.

Brisk-paced (2.5-3 mph) hike--6.4 mile loop starting from Fleet Feet (1841 Columbia Rd NW) in Adams Morgan. We will be walking to Glover Archbold Park via Normanstone Parkway. We will hike through Whitehaven and Dumbarton Parks on our way back to ADMO. Along the way, we will take in community gardens, streams, and waterfalls. There are several hills on this hike. Walking surface will be dirt and asphalt trails and sidewalks. The planned bathroom break will not be until after 4.5 miles. Please plan accordingly. Bring plenty of water and some snacks. Dress in layers, and be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. Brunch in ADMO after the hike is an option. Dupont Circle is the closest Metro stop (.6 miles). Bus routes C51, C53, D70, D27 and D74 are all within a couple blocks of Pitango. There is metered and free street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. But please arrive early so you have enough time to find the parking. This is a joint hike between the ADMO Hiking Club and the Sierra Club. All hikers will be required to sign the Sierra Club waiver form to participate. Sierra Club Potomac Region Outings (SCPRO) appreciates a voluntary $2 per person donation to support our many volunteer-led activities. Also, you can become a Sierra Club member by clicking "join" on the Virginia Sierra Club website: [http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia)

The number of ticks and tick diseases in Ohio have quickly multiplied over the last 10 years. Dean Kreager discusses tick species, tick pathogens, tick-borne diseases, tick bite prevention, and proper tick removal. Kreager is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator with OSU Extension in Licking County * Lakewood Public Library (in Hebron)- May 26 at 7pm [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621) * Johnstown public library at 7:00 pm June 8 [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622) Free to attend, no RSVP needed

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

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

Garden to the Max Join the Inniswood Garden Society for their annual meeting and garden reception. Featured speaker, Teresa Woodard, will discuss maximalist gardening Having a maximalist garden is a bold aesthetic choice—yet it also brings vitality back to the earth, in an abundant expression of more. Garden to the Max celebrates gardens across the US that embrace maximalism through joy and wonder, nonstop blooms, and abundant layers 06/07/2026 Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Days: Sun Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S Hempstead Rd Westerville, OH, 43081 (614)508-8111 Location Map: Innis House.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

Hi Ladies , Let's Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park . We will meet at the nature center parking lot. Hiking about 4 miles completing the blendon woods loop and the sugarbush trail . Wear appropriate footwear and bring water for hydration .