Elm

**WAIVER REQUIRED:** You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. **HIKE:** A 6-mile urban hike will take us through the Lubber Run Park, Bon Air Rose garden, Bluemont and Glen Carlyn parks, and Arlington neighborhood streets. We will be on natural trails for less than a mile; the rest of the time we will be on paved bike trails and sidewalks. We'll have a snack/restroom break part way through. There will be a few hills and some stairs. Along the way, we'll see a beautiful stream, a large rose garden, and other gardens in bloom. **WHERE TO MEET:** We will meet \*inside\* the Lubber Run Community Center, near the vending machines/restrooms (there is a large lobby area near the information desk). There is a garage with free parking (up to 4 hours). **DISTANCE:** 6 miles **ELEVATION GAIN:** 400 feet **PACE:** Our average moving pace will be between 2.5 and 3.0 miles per hour. **DOGS:** Dogs on a leash are welcome in accordance with NVHC pet policy ([https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)). (If you plan to have a dog, let me know; we may need to meet you outside.)

Farmers Market in the College Park Mom's Organic Parking lot. Address: 9801 Rhode Island Ave, College Park, MD 20740 Time: 10 am to 2 pm.

Join the House for it's Litha celebration! We'll gather around 3pm and our ceremony will begin no later than 3:30 to allow for some setup time and folks to arrive, since Rock Creek Park can be a little difficult to navigate to and within. This year, to celebrate the solstice, we'll be using some flower metaphors, specifically sunflowers, naturally. In addition to that celebration, Litha is also when we have traditionally held our Initiations into the House and, newly, rededications for existing House members. After the ceremony, we'll have a feast! Well, usually more like a pot luck snack. We would love for you to bring something to share. It doesn't have to be homemade (though homemade is great!); you can just stop at the store on your way and grab something if that's easier for you. To help us plan, please add your food offering to our [Pot Luck menu](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_4PqdDpY30-_agIT59AQvHldQX3CH6gL0W7Ud3PLfNY/edit?usp=sharing). And, since Rock Creek doesn't have a convenient metro station, we ask both drivers and passengers to add their information to our [Carpooling Signup sheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1u2dDXtFHJcfinalWouCJL4Yr1NnLn3TyiqVlWGl-J7A/edit?usp=sharing). There are some busses that will get you close to our location, too. Specifically, [bus stop #1002927](https://buseta.wmata.com/m/index?q=1002927) and [bus stop #1002894](https://buseta.wmata.com/m/index?q=1002894) are at the intersection of 16th and Aspen. Then, if you walk down Sherril Drive NW into the park, our grove is about 4/10ths of a mile from there. If you have any questions, post here or [join our Discord](https://discord.gg/RrS9XNzf9X) and drop us a line there. See you soon! \*\*\* Photo by [Jonathan Petersson](https://www.pexels.com/@grizzlybear/) from [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/photo/sunray-across-green-grass-field-1237107/). \*\*\* The Firefly House seeks to provide a friendly, safe environment in which all participants can engage in productive dialogue, sharing, and learning with each other in an atmosphere of mutual respect. We are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for all, regardless of gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body type, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact the host.

**NEW MEMBERS or 1st TIME EVENT GO-ERS** Before attending your first event, please take a moment to understand how our dinners work and what we ask of members. → **[Learn how DC Metro Dining works](https://tinyurl.com/Landing-Page-DC-Metro-Dining)** → **[Ensure Group Notifications are Setup (Announcements + In on Waitlist/Attending List)](https://app.tango.us/app/workflow/Enable-Meetup-Email-Notifications-3a85109614fc4907940503d096331392)** **RSVP CUTOFF (i.e. Final Change Your Mind if Registered YES)** → **RSVP Cancellation Cutoff for this Event is Sunday 10a, 6/27**. (*Late Cancel applies after this; repeat occurrences can impact membership*) We are heading to **ALA** in **Dupont Circle**. This modern Eastern Mediterranean restaurant has built a strong reputation for mezze-style dining, wood-fired cooking, and refined presentations without becoming overly formal. **FOOD:** ALA focuses on MODERN Eastern Mediterranean and Levantine-inspired cuisine built around mezze, grilled meats, vegetables, and seafood. Ala themselves describe their food as "ala serves Levantine cuisine with a modern twist. We do not serve anything traditional". Recent diners consistently highlight the whipped feta, muhammara, halloumi, lamb preparations, and kebabs, as well as several vegetable-focused plates that balance smoke, acidity, and spice well. The menu supports both lighter shared dining and more traditional entrée-style ordering. There is also an **optional fixed priced shared mezze format available** where the table may choose a fixed-price selection of hot and cold mezze dishes. We would **ONLY consider this if the ENTIRE group unanimously agrees** once attendance is finalized, since the restaurant requires full participation. Otherwise, members are free to order individually from the regular menu. Cocktails, wine, and Mediterranean-inspired beverages are also well reviewed and tend to pair naturally with the smaller plate format Most members should expect to spend between 45 and 90 dollars for dinner and drinks after tax and tip, depending on ordering style and alcohol on ordering style & beverage participation → **Explore ALA Dupont Circles's menu** **[https://www.ala-dc.com/menu](https://www.ala-dc.com/menu)** **SPACE**: Comfortable and modern dining room with an upscale casual feel. Expect a lively but manageable atmosphere on a Saturday evening, with moderate noise levels and a neighborhood dinner crowd → **Visit the restaurant site**: **[https://www.ala-dc.com/](https://www.ala-dc.com/)** * Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (see the FAQs for more details) * Limited to 8 slots See you there Joe **CLOSEST METRO** * **Dupont Circle station** (Red) is the closest stop. Exit toward Connecticut Ave NW and walk south toward N Street NW, then west toward 19th St NW. The walk is about 8–10 minutes using standard pedestrian routing and traffic signals. * For directions using the Metro, try using the Plan a Trip feature at the WMATA website [(click on your preferred Metro statio](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/index.cfm)n then at the Station page level click "Plan a Trip" **PARKING**: Street parking in Dupont Circle can be difficult on weekend evenings. Several paid parking garages are located within a few blocks of the restaurant, though pricing varies depending on demand. Members may also want to check parking apps such as SpotHero and Parking Panda for discounted garage reservations and advance booking options nearby. Plan accordingly. \**\*\* Attendance Notes \*\*\** **If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing u**p. With 5,400+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant. * New Members / 1st Timer*s*: Trying to get a slot?\*\* Join the Waitlist and check back frequently: spots *(often open up before Noon on the day of the event. You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your Meetup DMs inbox)* * Billing Reminder - Add 30% for tax and tip to your food and drink total\*. This is part of our group’s expectations (factors DC's 10% tax and restaurant large party 20% gratuity) and helps smooth out service with the restaurant Looking forward to dining with you Joe

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

♠️ Last Saturday Spades in Silver Spring! ♠️ 🌟 In Downtown Silver Spring 🕕 6:00pm to 10:00pm 😀 **Posted in multiple groups. So, expect a nice crowd.** 🚗 Nearby Parking in Wayne Ave. Garage 🍷 Alcoholic beverages are available! Please support the business by purchasing food/drinks. ✅️ No partner needed! Get matched with a partner onsite. All skill levels are welcome. ❤️ Come hang out with a friendly and welcoming group. Meet new people and have a great time! 🌟 The fun starts at 6:00pm! RSVP today.

\*\*\* New Trial Process - No More Signing In \*\*\* **Step 1:** **Read the Liability Disclaimer:** [https://www.nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://www.nvhc.com/signin.pdf) **Step 2:** When prompted, **type:** **"I Accept**/**Full Name/Contact Number/Emergency Contact Number"** Example: "I accept/Jane Doe/703-555-5555/301-666-6666" This is a trial process and is not available on all hikes. **Length**: 2 miles. Elevation: Negligible. Pace: 2.0 miles per hour **DESCRIPTION** This event is not really a hike; it intended to bring together hikers who for whatever reason are unable to go on a regular hike but are interested in keeping in touch. In addition, the event is of course fully open to anyone in the club, regardless of their hiking abilities. The highlight will be pizza at the famed local joint, "Red Hound Pizza" [[link](https://www.redhoundpizza.com/)] at **noon**. Prior to the meal, optionally, those who can and are willing can join a leisurely two-mile stroll around the pretty, historic town of Tacoma Park. We will meet east of the **Tacoma** station on the red line at the junction of **Carroll** Street and **Cedar** Street, one block from the Metro, as below: (1) Strollers: Meet group at 11:00 (2) Non-strollers: Meet the group at 12:00 (same place) **PARKING:** Lots nearby; streetside is an option. Parking is free on Sundays. **DOGS:** DOGS permitted per Club [policy](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/policies/).

Start Location Greenbelt Metro Dr., Greenbelt, MD, 20770, US End Location Same as start location Start Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM End Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 2:00 PM Description Join us for another refreshing Sunday morning hike through one of the DC area's hidden gems, followed by an optional brunch at a local café. We'll explore the scenic trails of Greenbelt Park, a 1,100-acre forest managed by the National Park Service. Despite being only minutes from the city, the park feels surprisingly remote, with shady woodland paths, towering trees, gentle hills, and opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife. Our route will follow a combination of the park's loop trails, offering a pleasant mix of forest scenery and easy-to-moderate hiking. We'll maintain a social pace with time to enjoy nature and get to know fellow hikers. Distance: Approximately 5–6 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Terrain: Natural dirt trails with some roots and gentle hills Please Bring: Water Comfortable hiking shoes Weather-appropriate clothing A positive attitude! Optional Brunch: After the hike, those interested are welcome to join us for brunch at New Deal Café in historic Greenbelt, a cozy community gathering spot known for its coffee, breakfast options, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're new to hiking or a regular trail enthusiast, come enjoy a morning of fresh air, conversation, and good food. Looking forward to hiking with you!

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 8 miles, 850 feet Please join me for a brisk hike in the northern section of Rock Creek Park, starting from the visitor center. The trail is mostly dirt, with some roots and rocks, and a few steep inclines. Highlights include plenty of creek views, a few stream crossings, and a five-trunk tulip tree. We'll be looking for any edible berries! Directions: The hike begins and ends at Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Road, N.W., Washington, DC. Meet the group by the building; the center normally opens at 9:00. There is lots of parking by the visitor center. Hiking Pace: 2.5-3.0 mph average moving pace. We will be hiking as a group; the group will determine the overall pace. You should have prior experience of hikes of a similar distance. To Bring: Please bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy, comfortable footwear. And of course a positive attitude! Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy: https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. You must let the hike leader know if you are bringing a dog, and the dog must be kept on a leash.

**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.** Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a 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 Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested 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? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Welp, it's official. I'm moving to Taiwan on June 30. It would be great to see everyone before I go!

**NOTE: AN RSVP ON MEETUP DOES NOT SERVE AS A BOOKED SPOT. YOU MUST BOOK VIA LINK BELOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.** **You must book your spot through our website: [[Booking Link Here](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/spritz-and-blooms)]** Florals, cocktails, and good company. That is the whole vibe. Lesbifriends Travel is teaming up as the June event partner for Spritz & Blooms, a signature garden party experience created by lead floral designer Alexandra Taylor of Taylor Made Blooms, with creative direction by Danielle René. We are transforming the Lesbifriends house into a floral utopia with bouquets you build yourself, signature wine spritz cocktails, light bites, and a special live solo performance by DMV queer singer/songwriter KattLandia. Come sip, mingle, and play in the flowers with your community. **Event Details** 📅 Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026 ⏰ Time: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM 📍 Location: The Lesbifriends House, Southeast DC (address shared with confirmed guests) 💸 **Cost: $75** **What's Included with Your Ticket** Designer-led Bloom Bar to build your own bouquet Three drink tickets for our signature Spritz Bar (wine spritz cocktails and mocktails) More drinks will be available for purchase Light bites and charcuterie A live solo performance by KattLandia An afternoon designed for community and connection **Attire: Garden Party Chic** Think florals, pastels, linens, whites, neutrals, and vibrant colors. **Who This Event Is For:** Black queer women and non-binary folks who love getting creative with their hands, sipping something delicious, and meeting new people in a chic, sunlit, garden-style environment. ✨ Lesbifriends Travel invites you to come as you are, celebrate Pride with your people, and make it a tradition. Claim your spot here: **[Spritz & Blooms](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/spritz-and-blooms)**! Note: By attending this event, you agree to being photographed. However, if communicated, we will try our best not to capture you in photos and post you publicly. That request must be communicated ahead of time/at the beginning of the event to photographer and host.

Our next much-awaited **COLUMBUS** meetup is **Tuesday June 30th from 7-10 pm EST at ACE OF CUPS**. Meet patients, cultivators, processors, dispensary managers/staff, physicians, home growers, educators, activists, nonprofits, artists, attorneys, business owners, writers, students, and supporters to network, share our knowledge, collaborate, support each other and make new ones! Hope you will be there too! Save the date and pass the word. **Please RSVP** so we know who is coming and how many to expect. Find us to say hi and we will introduce you to others. We should be easy to spot. (The happy-looking group wearing cool nametags! See photos from our past events.) Sign in, grab a name tag, start your own bar/food tab, meet old friends and make new ones! Everyone is welcome. SEE YOU THERE!

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

Join us for a 2.4 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail south from Casto park to Strawberry Farms park and back. This is a fully paved flat trail along Alum Creek. Come and enjoy a great hike with us!

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

**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.** How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently? Then we will go into a topic discussion. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS** \*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\* 1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group. 2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another. 3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up. 4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space. 5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable. 6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.