Healthier Water

Hikers (and non) will continue a long tradition (since 1975) by gathering in Georgetown on January 1 to kick off a new year of hiking! Come join old and new friends in ushering in the New Year, while working off some of the holiday cheer that's starting to show. Leashed pets are also welcome. Photo albums of previous hikes: **[bit.ly/MWS-NYDH](https://bit.ly/MWS-NYDH)**. **THE HIKE:** We’ll walk 5.1 miles along the C&O Canal Towpath to the Little Falls Pump Station, and back. You can walk at your own pace and turn around sooner (or later) if you want to do less (or more) than 10.1 miles. A handout (to download or print) for the hike is posted [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TQq9zJqpQUVFCVq0pzi_HQQYvE5GCSuD/view?usp=drive_link) and as a photo below. **LEADERS:** Frank Wodarczyk, Paul Elliot, Gabriele Ludwig, & Mike Darzi. **WHAT TO BRING:** Bring snacks or a bag lunch, and water. Dress warmly in layers and wear rain/snow gear or bring an umbrella if there is a chance of precipitation. Feel free to bring leftover holidays treats to share. **WHEN & WHERE:** We’ll meet at 10 am on the west side of Wisconsin Avenue, NW, south of M Street. There is a small plaza in front of the [Pinstripes Bistro](https://www.google.com/maps/dir//38.904376,-77.062848/@38.904049,-77.0642193,17.78z?hl=en) (1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC) that is next to and above the C&O Canal. If there is no crowd there, start one. Note that street parking is conveniently free on New Year’s Day. **LUNCH:** If you are so inclined, you may also join some of us for après-hike fare at [Pinstripes Bistro](https://pinstripes.com/georgetown/) (where we start and finish the hike) starting at 1:30-1:45 pm. **SIERRA CLUB** You may join the Sierra Club by clicking the "JOIN" button at the top of the Virginia Chapter’s [website](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia). Membership is not required for participation.

To attend: 1. RSVP; then 2. Register at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-international-gala-at-the-omni-shoreham-hotel-tickets-1968203407374](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-international-gala-at-the-omni-shoreham-hotel-tickets-1968203407374) ***with MULTIPLE AMAZING TALENTS*** **- *CIRQUE PERFORMANCES*** ***\- LIVE BANDS – INCLUDING 7 DEADLIES & CRUSH FUNK*** ***\- WASHINGTON’S BELOVED MASCOTS\, INCLUDING TEDDY FROM THE NATIONALS*** ***…and much more!*** ***FOUR Options*:** *1) General Admission* 2) VIP Admission 3) White Glove VIP Dinner 4) Late Night Admission **(*Group Rates Available. Email events@thingstodoDC.com for Details)*** **THOUSANDS ATTEND EVERY YEAR – AND THIS YEAR WILL BE NO EXCEPTION!** Tonight, we circle the globe and touch countries from around the globe to make this a truly WORLD-WIDE WELCOME into 2026! *15 INTERNATIONAL THEMED CELEBRATIONS \~ MULTIPLE SEPARATE BALLROOMS \~ ONE OF D.C.’s MOST LUXURIOUS LOCATIONS \~ EXCLUSIVE CIRQUE NEW YEAR’S EVE PERFORMANCES \~ LIVE BANDS, including 7 DEADLIES \~ SALUTE TO MULTIPLE COUNTRIES \~ FULLY STOCKED OPEN BAR \~ MIDNIGHT CHAMPAGNE TOAST \~ HUGE MIDNIGHT BALLOON DROP \~ D.C.’S BEST DJS \~ KARAOKE \~ STROLLING ENTERTAINERS \~ PARTY FAVORS \~ CARICATURIST DRAWINGS \~ AFRICAN DANCE SHOW \~ THE CHINESE LION DANCE \~ LIVE IRISH DANCE SHOW \~ OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATION\~ INCREDIBLE HOTEL ROOM RATES \~ WHITE GLOVE SERVICE \~ VIP OPTIONS \~ MANY BARS AND STATIONS TO PREVENT LONG LINES \~ A SELL OUT EVERY YEAR \~ AND MUCH MORE!* **… including the Washington Nationals' most beloved President, TEDDY (and some friends) ready to race into 2026 and welcome in the new year with thousands of their fans!** **THE PARTY:** (A) **THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE – GRAND BALLROOMS** 1. T**IMES SQUARE (New York City)** Embrace your patriotic spirit with pride and enthusiasm as we transport you to a trendy New York nightclub setting with one of Washington’s best DJs spinning the greatest American retro, top 40, hip hop, and dance! A giant midnight balloon drop (with a hidden apple) and light show will welcome you to 2026. (…and you don’t have to risk frostbite.) Again, be prepared as a GIGANTIC BALLOON DROP covers the dance floor at the stroke of midnight! **WASHINGTON’S LARGEST MIDNIGHT BALLOON DROP: THE BEST IN DC!** **2) EXCLUSIVE INTERNATIONAL CIRQUE PERFORMANCES AND CELEBRATION** 3. **TEDDY FROM THE WASHINGTON NATIONALS** **4) THE HOLLYWOOD EXPERIENCE: Starring** **7 DEADLINES** **(B) THE CARIBBEAN** **1) *BARBADOS, BAHAMAS, JAMAICA, and ALL THE OTHER CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES*** **\- STARRING DJ PUMPKIN** **2) BONUS: WIN A TRIP TO THE CARIBBEAN!** Enter a drawing to win a vacation trip to one of the Caribbean Islands or Cancun, Mexico. **(C) SOUTH AMERICA** **THE 1950′s HAVANA SALSA EXPERIENCE** **(D) EUROPE** **1) *PARIS, ROME, PRAGUE, MOSCOW, BERLIN AND THE* EUROPEAN HIGH ENERGY NIGHTLIFE EXPERIENCE:** 2. **OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATION:** 3. **DUBLIN:** **(E) ASIA** **1) THE TOKYO EXPERIENCE: KARAOKE** **2) CHINESE LION DANCE: The Native Chinese** **(F) AFRICA:** Dressed in full native traditional African outfits, we will be dazzled by their interactive show and energy. **For your price of admission, in a single evening, you will revel in and enjoy:** * One of Washington’s Most Luxurious and Historic Hotels * Fully Stocked Open Bar * Plenty of Comfort Space with No Long Lines for Food or Drinks * Midnight Champagne Toast * Elaborate Buffet Menus (served by the same kitchen that serves royalty) * A Celebration with Beloved Nationals Mascots Teddy and Friends * Washington’s Best DJs * Exclusive Cirque Performances * The Live Talents of “7 Deadlies” * The High-Energy Rockin Beats DC’s Favorite DJs * Teddy from the Nationals * Salsa (with optional lessons) * Karaoke * Magic * An African Dance Presentation * A Chinese Lion Dance Presentation * Oktoberfest Dance Presentation * Live Irish Dancing * Caribbean Music * Huge Balloon Drop * Special Guests * Caricaturist * VIP Options * Two Different Ticket Times and Prices * Hats, Tiaras, Party favors and Giveaways * AMAZING Low Discounted Overnight Hotel Rates (only $164) ...plus many more surprises. **VIP OPTION** Want to make your New Year’s Eve experience extra special? Why not indulge yourself with VIP treatment? Enjoy all of the fantastic amenities our New Year’s Eve Gala has to offer and complement them with our exclusive special VIP Reception and Dinner. **OPTIONAL OVERNIGHT HOTEL STAY – Only $172 a Night!** (Rooms Available at:[https://bookings.omnihotels.com/event/washington-dc-shoreham/new-years-eve-gala-room-block](https://bookings.omnihotels.com/event/washington-dc-shoreham/new-years-eve-gala-room-block) To attend: 1. RSVP; then 2. Register at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-international-gala-at-the-omni-shoreham-hotel-tickets-1968203407374](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-international-gala-at-the-omni-shoreham-hotel-tickets-1968203407374)

Capoeira (capo-way-ra) is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that is unlike any other martial art. Capoeira incorporates flowing movements with kicks, dodges, and some acrobatics. It is often mistaken for a dance for those reasons. Since it’s origins in the 17th century, it has evolved from a secret fighting practice into an art emphasizing self-expression and community celebration. It is great for the body and mind! In addition to gaining strength and flexibility in class, students learn about Brazilian culture, history, and language (Portuguese). On November 26, 2014 capoeira was granted a special protected status as "intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up at www.piesfitnessyoga.com required at least two hours before class begins.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Happy New Year, Adventurers! Continuing a tradition that started in 1991, Adventuring's first hike of the New Year will be at the Great Falls of the Potomac, arguably the most spectacular natural wonder in the National Capital Area. 2026 being an even year, we will focus on the Maryland side of Great Falls. We will gather at Great Falls Tavern and head upstream along the C&O Canal towpath, with the Canal on one side and the Potomac River on the other. After a couple of miles we will reach Swains Lock, a scenic and historic spot which should have enough picnic tables for our lunch. After lunch we'll retrace our steps back to the Tavern. Some of us may want to continue downstream a short ways past the Tavern to the trail leading to the Falls Overlook, while others may skip the Overlook and head out right away. Total length of this easy, level round-trip hike will be about 5 miles. If the weather cooperates, a stop at the beer garden at nearby Old Anglers Inn on MacArthur Boulevard may be in order. Warming up at the Irish Inn at Glen Echo may also be a tempting after-hike option. Those wishing to participate in our carpool either as drivers or passengers will gather by the Panera on Wisconsin Avenue by the Tenleytown Metro Station at 11 a.m. Passengers will give their drivers $5. Those wishing to drive directly to Great Falls should plan to be at the Tavern by 11:45 to rendezvous with the carpoolers. Everyone should expect to pay the $20/vehicle admission fee at the entrance to Great Falls unless you or someone else in your vehicle has a Park Pass. (Historically, most vehicles in our carpool have included someone with a Pass.) Bring beverages, lunch, mud-worthy hiking boots, and the $5 Adventuring trip fee, and dress in layers. Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release. Everyone must RSVP on their own behalf.

Kickstart your year with Total Body Sculpt! Join us for an invigorating full-body workout designed to help you achieve your New Year’s fitness goals. This dynamic class will help set the tone for a healthier and stronger you. Level: All. Ages 13 & up; FREE **Lake Arbor Community Center** **[REGISTER THROUGH PARKS DIRECT](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=Pe0W6P6S0B17294F1R3B1Q4Q5D3Z5E58055O425I561C5I4R6G510H005P4N521J724Q4V6L02705P6N4S1A4Q60544B055T4S5D5V1K5O5Y5556196U3W5C4X6D734V56&age=0.25&age=0.5&age=0.75&age=1&age=2&age=3&age=4&age=5&age=6&age=7&age=8&age=9&age=10&age=11&age=12&age=13&age=14&age=15&age=16&age=17&age=Adult&age=Senior&primarycode=17681-179A&keyword=&keywordoption=Match+One&showwithavailable=No&spotsavailable=&beginyear=&instructor=&dayoption=All&display=Detail&module=AR&multiselectlist_value=&arwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

Having a running routine that you actually enjoy and stick with takes more than a new year’s resolution and a new pair of shoes. You’ve got to build your body up to handle it without misery or injury, figure out how to fit it into your busy schedule, and learn how to motivate and discipline yourself so you actually stick with it. *So let’s walk before we run!* Join your fellow explorers on Saturday for a walk and talk. (talking optional!) It’s a time to connect and share tips with each other related to starting a walking/running routine, getting motivated, finding exercise partners, or whatever else is on your mind. We’ll plan to walk for about an hour around the lake on a flat gravel trail. **SAFETY NOTES** 1. Walking, just like running or any physical activity, may result in injury. Please dress for the weather, prepare your body properly, and consult your doctor prior to participation. 2. If you’ve never met anyone else attending, please bring a friend or take whatever steps you need to feel safe at this, or any, Meetup event. ***This is a free, community based event. You assume all risk associated with this activity.***

**Celebrate [Veganuary](https://veganuary.com/en-us/)** on Saturday, January 3rd, with the [Veg Society of DC (VSDC)](vsdc.org) with a vegan networking and social event at [DC Vegan](https://www.dc-vegan.com/)! This will be the kick-off to Veganuary in DC. *Yes, we will also do a round of vegan trivia with prizes!* *About Veganuary: "Our vision is simple; we want a vegan world. A world without animal farms and slaughterhouses. A world where food production does not decimate forests, pollute rivers and oceans, exacerbate climate change, and drive wild animal populations to extinction." Veganuary has inspired and supported millions of people to try vegan since 2014 – with participants from almost every country in the world. They have worked with businesses to drive up vegan options in shops and restaurants, and have made veganism more visible and accessible through their work with national and international media.* DC Vegan will feature a special mocktail for the occasion. There is **no fee to attend but PLEASE DO purchase food and drinks from the DC Vegan cafe. Everything is vegan.** Note: DC Vegan Cafe is a *VSDC Green Rewards members so show your VSDC member card and get 10% off on food and beverages*. If not already a [member of VSDC, then join today](https://vsdc.org/join/#join). Additionally, if you would like to ***reserve a table in advance, please go to the following link and [make your booking here](https://tables.toasttab.com/restaurants/a3575f59-b1e6-49dd-934e-21cb80b98be0/findTime)***. If you don't book a table in advance, then please know you will be joining numerous others standing in the open areas as part of the social with mingling. This event will take place on Saturday, January 3rd, starting at 3 pm. Come then or come later - people will be there over the course of the evening. Announcements and trivia will occur sometime around 4 pm. Don't be a no show! If your plans change, please update your RSVP. By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). ***See you at the event and bring friends! Be sure to RSVP in advance to let us know.*** **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/) 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 VSDC membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

**Join Us for New Year Fun with the VSDC Vegan Children’s Playgroup!** Bring the whole family to welcome 2026 with an afternoon of creativity, connection, and fun. For this year's event, we’re excited to team up with Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM) as we celebrate the New Year with crafts, games, vegan-themed books, and delicious vegan refreshments. While the event and the VSDC Children's Playgroup is all-vegan, our meetup welcomes veg (or veg-curious) kids under the age of 10 to be accompanied by at least one parent or caregiver. The vision for this playgroup is to build community for veg kids to help instill more confidence in their lifestyle choices and provide a strong sense of belonging while also having fun. We also seek to provide support for parents/caretakers by sharing helpful tips, resources, and inspiration for vegan families. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](http://vsdc.org/) 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 VSDC membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **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.**

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

**This is a paid program.** **Click <<[here](https://online.innerengineering.com/en/program-details/bhuta-shuddhi-cityprogram-staybridge-suites-columbus-university-area-ohio-us-jan-16-2026)\>\> to register\.** ### **Bhuta Shuddhi means “purification of the five elements” (i.e. earth, water, fire, air and space) which gets to the root of imbalances in the body that lead to disease. This simple practice which you can do daily reorganizes your system on the elemental level.** **Benefits:** * **Keeps the system in harmony and balance** * **Prepares the system to handle powerful states of energy** * **Creates the basis to gain complete mastery over the human system** **For ages 14 and above, no prior knowledge of yoga is required.** **This program is conducted by a Hatha Yoga teacher trained by Sadhguru.**

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.