Landscape Photography

[https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm) Be prepared as lately, the National Park has been charging $20 to enter. **There are two sides to Great Falls National Park as it is divided by the Potomac River. For many, this is a must-see place since it is great for landscape photography. Of course, there are other genres like wildlife and birds such as great blue herons, turkey vultures, and others to photograph. The park does not open until 7:00 AM and WIFI is not available. Cell phone service is spotty. An eBird group surveys these wonderful birds every Sunday at 8:00 AM, except during the Christmas Count. Check the eBird list for updates.** **The Group parks in the first lot just past the Visitor Center on the right and walks south toward the Visitor Center then continues down to the three overlooks. Access to the first overlook is not for the faint of heart since the terrain is rocky but it is worth it because it provides a clear view going upstream of the Potomac River. Sometimes, the Group photographs kayakers as they travel up and down the falls.** **The second overlook has easier access to the river and the falls. The third overlook has a couple of sections that have views over the river. Kayakers and birds are visible from this overlook. Park visitors have been known to climb down the rocks to the river, but it is not recommended as it is dangerous. It has been reported that on average seven people drown in the Potomac River every year.** **At the end of this field trip, the Group typically has breakfast at the Silver Diner in Tyson's Corner, 8101 Fletcher St, McLean, VA 22102.** Bring Water, a Tripod, polarizer filter, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location, and I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114) 28 miles. Picnic break at Wolf Trap around 13.2 miles into the ride. We have toilets halfway along the trail and near the beginning of the trail. NEW: E-biking to Wolf Trap (+/- 27.4 miles). Download the trail here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114 PLEASE NOTE: We start from Lindway Terrace Park. It sounds so far away, but it is within e-biking range. Join us as we embark on a fantastic 28-mile e-bike ride to Wolf Trap National Park in Virginia and return via the W&OD trail. Be ready to e-bike through spectacular landscapes on rustic roads in McLean and Great Falls' upscale neighborhoods. We do not e-bike on gravel roads, but be aware of the hills. Charge your batteries. Wolf Trap National Park is a unique and beautiful destination in Northern Virginia's heart. It is the only national park dedicated to the performing arts, offering visitors various cultural and entertainment experiences. The park covers over 100 acres of lush woods and rolling hills, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors to the park can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park also features several trails that wind through the woods, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing place to spend the day, Wolf Trap National Park is the perfect destination. The park's highlight is the Filene Center, a beautiful outdoor theater that offers a unique and intimate performance experience. From classical music to rock concerts, the Filene Center has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can also take a backstage tour and learn about the history and workings of the theater. Wolf Trap National Park is a must-visit e-biking destination for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the arts. With its picturesque surroundings, diverse activities, and world-class performances, it's easy to see why Wolf Trap is a beloved destination for visitors of all ages. Did you know that E-bike Lovers is an Amazon Affiliate? [https://ebikelovers.com/reviews](https://ebikelovers.com/reviews) FYI: Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) is generating sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN](https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN) The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. For the E-bike Lovers group to be successful, we need to grow our membership carefully. Please feel free to invite other E-bike lovers, spread the word, and let's have fun. As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome. DISCLAIMER LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for the full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

**Studio 151 Learning Lab: Photography Foundations Series — Lighting Basics** Photography starts with light—but understanding how to actually *use* it is where most people get stuck. This session is designed to simplify lighting in a way that makes sense for real-world shooting. Instead of a traditional lecture, we’ll learn through curated video content, pausing to break things down, ask questions, and connect it to real studio work. You’ll see how lighting works, talk through it as a group, and then have the chance to explore it hands-on. *** **What We’ll Cover** * Natural light vs. studio light (and when to use each) * Simple one-light setups that work * How light direction shapes your image * Creating clean, consistent results *** **What to Expect** * Guided video learning (watch + pause + discuss) * Real-time breakdown of concepts in plain language * Hands-on opportunities to experiment * Open networking with other photographers * Snacks will be available, bring a bagged lunch if you like! *** **You’ll Leave With** * A clearer understanding of how light works * Simple setups you can try immediately * More confidence in any shooting environment *** Free to attend (limited spots)

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)

Think you aren't flexible enough for yoga? Afraid to get onto the floor? Living with physical aches or restricted range of motion? Then this is the perfect yoga class for you! Explore your body's strengths in a fun, supportive environment while maintaining and growing your range of motion, flexibility, balance, strength, and sense of peace. All are welcome in this therapeutic class. Come ready to try new things, laugh, ask questions, and support each other. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com.** The session is offered both InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** 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 3,5,7,9**. The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St. Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.

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)

Lifestyle Photography and the Art of Natural Light -- Achieve Studio-Perfect Portraits Outdoors! HANDS-ON! Plus Male and Female MODELS! TESTIMONIALS: "I knew lighting was something that I need to improve in my photography skills but had no idea how much I didn't know about it until I took Philip Brasch's workshop "Lifestyle Photography / Show me the Light!" I look forward to attending his other workshops in the future." "Outstanding session. Learned an incredible amount of information and how to see light in a whole new way. Philip provides outstanding hands-on lessons that are invaluable to enhancing one's photographic skills. Highly recommend!" —Kym J. “Philip's course was one of the most beneficial I have ever taken. In a few hours, I improved from taking average pictures to taking professional-level photographs..." VOTED #1! If you have taken Philip's Super 1 Days or this workshop more than once, you know it's different each time as models, locations, seasons, & environmental conditions change. For the student that hasn't taken it or has, this workshop will continue to help you to "see the light" & nail those all-important outdoor people images with beauty, consistency, style, & confidence! \*\*\* RSVP NOW! \*\*\* All of the images in this post were created without a reflector, diffusers, or flash... https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/f/a/600_452891258.jpeg "The 'Lifestyle Workshop' presented by Philip was inspiring, it moved along in a smooth rhythm that seemed to hold the interest of the audience; it certainly held mine. Philip was so knowledgeable of his subject matter that he presented it with such ease. The hand out "TipsLifestyle" was most informative, and his explanation of each item on the list was given in a way that it was easily understood. There were some things on this list that I knew but did not know how to put it to use in a practical and hands-on way. After this workshop the dots were connected, now all I have to do is go out and practice!" —R. Virgil, Photographer https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/4/6/7/600_452862087.jpeg https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/0/a/a/600_460992458.jpeg Anyone can buy a camera but it's lighting techniques that truly set the professionals apart. In this course, you'll learn how to up your game by improving your lighting skills. Learn how to maximize your use of available/existing light and your environment for ENGAGEMENT sessions, WEDDINGS, seniors, children, and more. Learn to understand, control, and plan the use of existing light while not sacrificing traditional lighting patterns, lighting ratios, and multiple light directions. Become comfortable with- and identify if fill light is necessary; determine when and where to use flash. We will teach you to use the light, your environment, and how to naturally pose your clients for images with natural emotional impact. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/c/6/4/600_464740036.jpeg Above: The newest addition from the Outdoor Night and Low Light Portrait Workshop (this is a one-light Q-flash)! https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/e/f/3/600_18336595.jpeg Whether you are a photographer for passion or profit, this course will teach you innovative and portable techniques for capturing stunning natural light and breathtaking composition in any situation. Be ready to change the way you think about natural and existing light photography — using street lights, pathway lamps, & iPhone controlled LED lights as our main, fill, kicker, and hair lights to create portraits after dark! These night portraits techniques are ideal for the wedding couple in front of their venue! This course begins with classroom instruction & Q&A and then take it outside to experiment and "find the light!" You will use multiple lighting options, pose a model or two & get instructor feedback in the field! https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/0/c/3/600_460992483.jpeg https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/0/a/b/600_460992459.jpeg \*\*\* RSVP NOW! \*\*\* TO REGISTER: 1. Please RSVP in the upper right sidebar to express your interest. 2. PLEASE COMPLETE this short and secure (https) Registration and Contact Information FORM (REQUIRED for your contact info.): https://goo.gl/forms/HFsiT6bL9Ntx4nfx2 QUESTIONS: workshops@gallery252.com The workshop will be *POSTPONED* if a minimum of 2 students are not signed up and remit investment by Thursday at 11 pm, prior to the Sunday workshop! INVESTMENT: Early registration is $169 and is due by Sunday midnight, 7 days prior to the workshop date. Late registration is $189. Complete the FORM above & we will email you a very convenient and easy-to-use PayPal invoice. Please don't wait; we want to get the models-per-student ratio right! $15 DISCOUNT: Get a $15 discount if you're a Gold Member of NVPPA! LOCATION: We have chosen convenient & gorgeous environmental scenes for the shooting portions. Register on this page for *Starting* Location in Woodbridge, VA 22192. ITEMS TO BRING: snacks, water, your longest and fastest lenses INSTRUCTORS: • Philip Brasch, NVPPA President & Founder, Speaker, IPC Medalist, Wedding & Portrait Photographer 20yrs+ https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/b/d/c/600_464675804.jpeg Above: Night portrait. It's dark! Ambient doorway light, pathway lamps, and sconces create ambient and fill while a camera-right LED panel creates the main. The hair and rim light is an LED flashlight placed far to camera-right in the rear. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/0/a/e/600_460992462.jpeg Above: Night portrait. 3 pathway lamps triangulate the light to form main, fill, and hair while an additional LED panel kicks up more light on the hair on camera-left. BIO: Philip Brasch is an international award-winning professional photographer (PPA http://www.ppa.com) that is inspired by people (portraits), landscapes, and the technology we use to enhance it. He is the president and founder of www.NVPPA.org and a pro photographer specializing in weddings, lifestyle portraiture, and commercial photography. He also lectures and holds seminars and workshops on the same. Philip has now led over 50 lectures and workshops over a period of 10 years to peer-professionals, aspiring professionals, and most recently, the enthusiast. He will share a career of photography secrets with you... pulling highlights from his many highly-rated workshops as on this one from 4/28/2011 http://www.meetup.com/Prince-William-Professional-Photographers-VA-DC/events/15233723 with over 21, 5-star (out-of-5 :-) reviews! In addition, Mr. Brasch has earned the distinction of PPA Medalist, one of the most prestigious awards presented through the industry's most prominent photographic competition, the International Photographic Competition (IPC) of PPA. This is an incredible accomplishment. "...I love helping others exceed their photographic potential and that’s why I promote these professionally-led workshops at an incredible value. Once you remit your investment, you are guaranteed a spot in these limited-enrollment hands-on training sessions. These special sessions are fun, inspiring, creative, & technical – all my enthusiastic students learn and improve each and every time we head outdoors! I guarantee it (or just ask them yourself)!" —Philip Brasch

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 (www.solowfa.com) 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)

**[Hosted by J](https://www.meetup.com/wanderbirds-hiking-club/events/314137699/attendees/)**[osh S. and Vicky](https://www.meetup.com/wanderbirds-hiking-club/events/314137699/attendees/) Sign up link (please remember to fill in your required RSVP info): https://www.meetup.com/wanderbirds-hiking-club/events/314137699/?eventOrigin=home_page_event_from_group_you_are_in (Bus hike) Don’t miss this hike in the beautiful but seldom-visited southern section of the Shenandoah National Park. All hikers walk for a short distance on the Madison Run Road before beginning the ascent of Austin Mountain and Rockytop Trails. Moderate hikers then descend on the Madison Run Spur Trail and Road back to the bus. Long hikers continue on the Big Run Loop Trail to the Appalachian Trail, which is followed through Browns Gap to the summit of Blackrock with its panoramic views. The Blackrock and Trayfoot Mountain Trails lead to our descent on the Furnace Mountain Trail to the bus. Est.: 12 miles, 2800' elevation and 9 miles, 2000' elevation. PATC Map 11. Fare: $33. VA Hikes * [DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu) downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8 am. * [Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus), last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. **RESERVATIONS** Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. **FIRST-TIME HIKERS** If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep a 2-mph (30 min/mile) pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike with us. Liability Waiver: Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. **CANCELLATION POLICY** To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on MeetUp before NOON on the Frida**y before the hike**. If you change your RSVP after twelve noon on the Friday before the hike, a refund will not be issued (but a 'rain-check' may be possible). Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hikers are implored to change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. **FLU, COVID-19, and RSV PRECAUTIONS** Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

**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?

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

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

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

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

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

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

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

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

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

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

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

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

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

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

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

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

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

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

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

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

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

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

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

TOPIC (TBD): Meeting Schedule: 1. 6:00 - Introduction, Meet New Members 2. 6:10 - Old Business 3. 6:20 - New Business 4. 6:30 - Pre-Shoot Briefing/Education 5. 7:15 - Break 6. 7:30 - Image Critique 7. 8:00 - Adjourn Pre-Shoot Brief/Education: NIK Collection 8 Image Critique: Previous Photoshoot Images (iPhone images and Christmas Cards). If anyone has images they would like critiqued, please provide them at the beginning of the meeting. Providing Images for Critique: For now, I will collect images at the beginning of the meeting on a USB memory stick. My computer has USB-C ports, so a USB-C memory stick or one with dual (USB-C / USB-A) ports will be needed. Images should follow these format rules: JPG - 80% quality or higher 132 dpi resolution 2048 pixels across the long edge Embedded colorspace - sRGB

Join us Tuesday (6/2) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hundred Acre Woods in Westerville. This is a beautiful trail that is filled of hills and roots but a picturesque wooded landscape to hike. Wear your hiking boots if you have them. We will do 2 loops of the 1 mile trail.

**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming. Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.

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.