Labrador Retriever

PawsUP for David and Brick for originally suggesting this awesome meetup and our dogs love it! -Dumbarton Oaks/Montrose Park in Georgetown -Meet at the entrance off of R st, on the East side (closer to the cemetery) -Plenty of street parking in the area -Bring water and a ball for your Aussie This park is a very large open field, that is very dog friendly. Tons of space to run and chase. Most if not all dogs are off leash. Occasional runners and kids (there is a playground), so keep that in mind. There is also a trail inside with a stream that the dogs love to play in.

Grab a game or bring your own, this event is open play. Whether it is chucking dice, full of traitors, laying tiles, or only cards involved, it doesn't matter; as long as it is a fun game, let's get it to the table and play it. The library will have games available to play but as always, you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own games. So leave a comment about what you are bringing! But be ready to teach your games. The library is located within walking distance of the Silver Spring Metro stop and there is a parking garage across the street. **NTBG** *is a safe environment for all to have fun. Bullying/harassment is not tolerated.*

DONOTBOOK ANYTHING!

Hey Poetry Lovers! This group is on a roll. Here’s the gist: We meet at the **Capital One Café in Chinatown** from **12pm - 2pm** every other week. For enrichment, we start by reading and reflecting on a **“published poem”**, suggested by someone in the group. No advance preparation is necessary. But feel free to check out some of the poems we’ve read [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vSyE_wCLQCPHRrKmN5F9tOIeeRQUZESxjRXGVBoCF2uU8Gm0_d0uECiCBCQXEy6ksxfsBOhtRIOpW3T/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E). Or submit suggestions for future meetings [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexGc2Z2Kp6bZW0D3_hfJ7NUUkfNHf7TXX-43FglCeBd9EF2Q/viewform?usp=send_form). Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Ian / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

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. **Hike Overview:** This will be a 10-mile hike in and around Great Falls, Maryland, with about 800 feet of elevation gain. We will be hiking in the woods, not along the towpath. The trail can be rocky and uneven at times. Plan for some small hills and stream crossings. I hike at a moderate to fast pace of 2.5-3.0 miles per hour. **Park Entrance Fee**: None. **Trailhead:** The trailhead / hike starting location is at the far end of the upper parking lot across from the Old Angler's Inn. The restrooms at the other end (by the entrance) should be open. **Duration**: Approximately 5 hours **Route**: We’ll hike up to the Gold Mine Loop, circle around the east side, make our way down to the towpath, and then visit Olmsted Island for a lovely view of the falls. Once back at the towpath, we'll head past the visitor center and parking lot north to the Ford Mine Loop. After finishing this loop, we'll retrace our steps to the visitor center, hike along the Overlook Trail and around the Gold Mine Loop and back to the parking lot. Highlights include: the falls overlook, Civil War trenches, gold mine sites, and a pretty stream. **Type**: Our path will be roughly in the shape of a barbell. **Hiking Speed**: We'll hike at a speed of 2.5-3.0 mph (moderate to fast). **Pets:** Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with NVHC's dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy). The dog must be on a leash, and you must let the hike leader know in advance. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk to Olmsted Island, so any hikers with a dog would have to wait at the entrance while the group goes to view the falls. **Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf)

A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for 1st- through 4th-level characters. As the Pathfinders slowly regain their footing within the elven nation of Kyonin, Venture-Captain Viore Ciobanu has set his sights on cleaning up what remains of Talhindir Lodge. As such, he's requested a small group of Pathfinders to come and assist him with some minor pest control in the basement library and archives within the lodge, and is happy to reassure them that there's no danger greater than a stubborn rat or hungry centipede. However, when the doors shut behind the agents, it quickly becomes all too clear that sometimes empty lodges aren't always as empty as they seem... Written by John Curtin. Scenario tags: None

\*\*This walk occurs in the DARK, consider bringing an additional light source\*\* Embrace the Holiday Spirit on **this festive & photogenic frolic that is a 6+ mile easy ONE-WAY/ THRU walk (from MLK Library to Union Station) that is relatively flat, albeit some sets of stairs as well as an ascent on Capitol hill.** Pace: 3mph. The trek traverses the heart of Washington, D.C. showcasing tantalizing Christmas Trees that provide a merry foreground to some of the cities iconic institutions! The walk departs from [MLK Jr. memorial Library](https://www.dclibrary.org/plan-visit/martin-luther-king-jr-memorial-library), which currently features a Pop-up Shop of Metro apparel with the Holiday motif. Ambling through the Winter- themed Palmer Alley afterwards leads to the 75ft *CITY CENTER TREE*, followed by a frolic in ["Frosted Franklin"](https://www.downtowndc.org/events/frosted-at-franklin-park-2024-illumination/) park. From there, the circuit skirts by the White House via Layfette park then the [Renwick Gallery](https://americanart.si.edu/visit/renwick), en route to the *ELLIPSE TREE* which is surrounded by tiny timbers from each State/ Territory! After a short saunter in [Pershing park](https://www.nps.gov/articles/pershing-park.htm) the trek continues with a spur to the *WILLARD HOTEL TREE* before wandering through Woodrow Wilson Plaza. A second spur later reveals the *RIGGS HOTEL TREE*. A pitstop at the [D.C. Holiday Market](https://www.downtowndc.org/holiday-market/) follows; **anticipate a \~10min recess for vendor browsing/ shopping**. Once resuming the walk then snakes through Judiciary Square, D.C.'s judicial/ court corridor that leads to the colorful *CANADIAN EMBASSY TREE*, an annual gift 'presented' for over 25years! Latter of the circuit gives a grand gander atop the [President Grant memorial](https://www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/features/ulysses-s-grant-memorial) then observes the colossal *CAPITOL HILL TREE*, before arduously ascending around it. After traversing by the Library of Congress and then the Supreme Court, the walk strolls through Senate park which hides a fabulous fountain that may illuminate at night, concluding through a flank of Flags into Columbus circle. The trek terminates inside the "Great Hall" at the *(Norwegian) [UNION STATION](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Union_Station) TREE*. Explore the Station for more and/or consume a post- social meal at the [mostly Fast-] Food Court with fellow attendees! Walk Highlights include the epic [Eisenhower Executive offices](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eisenhower_Executive_Office_Building), a Clock Tower at the Waldorf- Astoria hotel, & the sublime [Spirit of Haida Gwaii sculpture](https://www.aci-iac.ca/art-books/iljuwas-bill-reid/key-works/spirit-of-haida-gwaii/)... Many more monuments, memorials, & beautiful buildings along the way! NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [MAP](https://npmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/white-house-map.gif) \| Festive/ Holiday clothing encouraged\! Please adhere to Host directions & pedestrian signage\. 2\. Commuting via Metro advised\, alight from Metro Center or Galley Pl\- Chinatown stations then proceed to MLK Library\. Exiting early is possible as the walk meanders by many Metro stations\. **3\. Can't attend on Saturday? Seek [Friday edition](https://www.meetup.com/dmv-outdoor-walks-and-hikes/events/311779250/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) here.** 4\. This Meetup was self\-\- composed\, crafted\, & curated\, but does use some 'holiday magic' from [this (2023) Meetup organized by Sandra H.](https://www.meetup.com/silver-spring-outdoors/events/297875872/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) of the SSO Meetup that I was unavailable to attend.

Our regular Sunday meetup at the Shirlington Dog Park -- members start arriving around 10:15 a.m. You'll always find an Aussie to play with. There are 3 entrances, so wander the park -- the dogs will find each other! For puppies, Shirlington has a small dog park within the larger dog park. It's the prefect place for your puppy to gain confidence and socialize with others. There is also plenty of room to run. Just a reminder, the Dog Park is under attack by the Arlington County Board of Commissioners. While early plans to decrease the size of the park by 50% has been tabled, it's important to remind Arlington County how important this park is to dogs and owners. Here are links to the change.org petition and the Facebook page where you can get updates. Shirlington Dog Park Page Petition: https://www.change.org/.../arlington-county-board-save... Arlington County Board: Save the Shirlington Dog Park! We love the Shirlington Dog Park -- it provides… change.org Shirlington Dog Park Page Shirlington Dog Park Page Save the Dog Park Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/groups/696087663906890

Let's enjoy the current warmer weather with a hike this Sunday in DC's Rock Creek park! This one’s for all the car-free DC folks, those who want an short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length (rather than elevation). We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start, and may also be available a few miles into the hike, but please carry a minimum of 1L with you. Start location: we’ll meet at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) Parking: Free and plentiful Transit: Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Bikeshare: the nearest dock is at Colorado Ave & Longfellow St NW per Google. Meet time: We'll meet at 9:30 am at the location noted above and, after intros, start hiking the trail shortly afterwards. There is no official after hike meal planned. For those that which to gather informally, the hike leader recommends Moreland's Tavern, which is an easy walk from our meeting point: [https://morelandstavern.com/](https://morelandstavern.com/lunch/) CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. We look forward to hiking with you! BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model ([http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service ([https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost](https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route. Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.

Catch all the NFL action at Astro Beer Hall, where giant screens, cold brews, and game-day eats create the ultimate football atmosphere. Whether you’re tracking your fantasy team, rooting for your squad, or just here for the energy, Astro is the perfect Sunday destination. Expect a lively crowd, plenty of screens so you never miss a snap, and an atmosphere that makes every touchdown feel like a win. 📍 Where: Astro Beer Hall, 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 🗓️ When: Every Sunday, kickoff at 1:00 PM EST 💵 Cost: Pay for what you order (game-day specials available) 👥 Who Should Come: Football fans, fantasy players, sports lovers, and anyone looking for a fun, high-energy Sunday hangout 🍻🏈 Bring your team spirit—big plays, cold drinks, and great vibes are waiting!

Join us for an evening of laughter 😂, good vibes ✨, and holiday cheer 🎄🎅 at Astro Beer Hall in Shirlington, Virginia! Dust off your most hilariously hideous holiday sweater 🤣🧥 and come ready to meet up with old friends 👯‍♂️ and make new connections 🤝 in a festive, laid-back atmosphere 🌟. 🎉 What to Expect: • A cozy, upbeat setting at Astro Beer Hall 🍺🍔 with craft beers and delicious bites 😋 • Icebreaker games 🎲😄 and activities to help you connect with new faces 🌟🫶 • An “Ugliest Sweater Contest” 👚🤪🏆 Whether you’re here to mingle 🗣️, share laughs 🤣, or show off your sweater style 💃🕺, this party promises to bring the holiday spirit to life ✨🎄❄️! Don’t miss the chance to create memorable moments 📸💫 with great people ❤️. Bring your festive spirit 🎁✨ and a sense of humor 😄, and we’ll handle the rest. See you there! 🎅🎉🔥🥳

Join us for lunch at True Food Kitchen in Easton as we celebrate the New Year and our friendships!

**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.** **In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.** **Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.** **It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.** **Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026** **Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm** **Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio** **All are welcome- bring a friend!** For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Jennings Java Artisan Coffee Roasters](https://www.jenningsjava.com/)!