Landscape Photography

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.

We are closing down the 6900 block of Laurel Avenue in downtown Takoma Park MD to celebrate spring with live bluegrass music. The SMT advanced bluegrass ensemble class will open the show, then Justin Heath willbe joining Bebe Blumenthal and Cory Chubb to headline. This is a free, family friendly, event with food and drinks available from great local restaurants, and picnic tables where you can enjoy the music and meet your neighbors. Learn more: https://jheathmusic.com/lessons/upcoming-events/takoma-park-bluegrass-block-party/ Co-sponsored by the DC Bluegrass Union, and Main Street Takoma

Bring your lights for the “Friday Night” Skate! **Join us for the Friday Night Skate!** See the monuments of DC all lit up at night! We will meet at the National World War I Memorial “Pershing Park” at 7pm. We’ll warm up with a nice easy skate to the Capital and skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial. Those interested in just a 5.5 mile skate can backtrack to Pershing Park. The group will then proceed from the Lincoln to Haynes Point via Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile loop (12 mile total skate) or sit by the water and enjoy the crisp air (8.5 mile total skate.) There are three options to loop back to the Pershing Park WWI Memorial and our path back will depend on the preferences / skill of the group. The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive. If skaters are more advanced we will cross the 14th St bridge, enjoy a few up and down hills and finish with a downhill through the 12th St. tunnel. Please feel free to jazz it up with lights, I wear a helmet bike light, a fun set of lights and lighted wheels! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen! In case of bad weather, I will cancel the skate by 6pm on this post. **Of course, all skating is at your own risk.**

Are you looking to make new friends in the DC area? This is it! Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1987803322247?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. Make new friends and meaningful new connections and do community building. Or just to unwind and enjoy extended happy hour. We are absolutely thrilled to announce that **[Hotel Zena](https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/zena?gclid=CjwKCAjw9NeXBhAMEiwAbaY4lmNIGNhZ43UtLelRqLdCZsZ_eXi5gUulOWkczZ9-jBZcrF_XJTC2lxoC4rgQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)**, an art-filled boutique hotel, is hosting Go Gay DC! Get ready for another gathering of members of the LGBTQ+ Community! About 20 LGBTQ+ folk are expected. We are gathering in Figleaf lounge located to the left of the main entrance. We will be in the back by the pool table. Arrive when it is convenient for you! Most attendees will likely arrive by 7:00 p.m. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. The hotel is located at 1155 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005. The closest Metro station is McPherson Square. **[See a map](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hotel+Zena,+a+Viceroy+Urban+Retreat/@38.9050701,-77.0315871,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x734a7f7109afbeb2?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwio7Yrx1dSBAxVolWoFHQUPA14Q_BJ6BAhnEAA&ved=2ahUKEwio7Yrx1dSBAxVolWoFHQUPA14Q_BJ6BAhxEAc)**. Use Metro Trip Planner: [https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/](https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdGpIZGhiNnVBbDE5M3JvbAEeuhWmqw_N3p_FOJ2_Yq-5SF6I0pWlao_wznf3lEZ2-ILBc9NuFZDB-mg7Zp0_aem_KDRJar8HqyuVZ-9Q8EUtfQ) You're welcome regardless of where you live. This LGBTQ and Allies community-wide social provides everyone a chance to socialize, network, and share community spirit in a splendid setting. This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/) At this exciting event, you'll even get to meet Go Gay DC's Founder, **[TJ Flavell](http://www.tjflavell.com)!** Fabulous people from all over the world are expected. Name tags will be provided. It's FREE to attend; cash bar. There will be a bartender on duty; cash or credit card is fine. Casual attire is fine; this will be a relaxing and fun time. The event is free to attend but registration is highly recommended to get in. Hotel Zena, an Urban Retreat By Viceroy, is where art, music, and design thrive. Part hotel and part art gallery that features work that celebrates the contributions and courage of women. Find us at the nexus of downtown DC and the 14th Street Corridor, close to DC’s most notable landmarks and museums. The 191 guest rooms and suites are soothing spaces with artful touches. The hotel is even offering a [Go Gay DC discount on a hotel stay](https://be.synxis.com/?Hotel=9029&Chain=1003&arrive=2022-09-23&depart=2022-09-24&adult=1&child=0&promo=GOGAYDC)! Invite all your friends. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies Non-binary

♠️ Spades in Virginia! ♠️ Nando's Peri Peri, Mosaic District 2987 District Ave Ste 100, Fairfax, VA 22031 🌟 3rd Friday Spades in Virginia! 🕕 6:30pm to 10:30pm 😀 **Posted in multiple groups. So, expect a nice crowd.** 🚗 Parking is FREE!!! 🍷 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 7pm! RSVP today.

**For Information Only, as I may or may not attend.** The Seventh Annual Old Town Festival of Speed & Style Exotic Cars, Motorcycles, Fashion, and Fun! Lower Blocks of King Street and Market Square in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia [https://festivalofspeedandstyle.com/home](https://festivalofspeedandstyle.com/home) Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, 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.

April showers bring May flowers! We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, May 17 to learn about nature and remove invasive plants from everyone's favorite urban island. Meet us at the entrance to the bridge (on the parking lot side, look for the sign) at 10:00 and bring your garden gloves and loppers/pruners if you have them. If not, we can provide gloves and tools. Wear long sleeves and pants and don't forget a water bottle. We will have tasks ranging from easy (cutting English ivy and honeysuckle vines from trees) to hard (sawing down bush honeysuckle). Parking at TRI can be tight if it's a pretty day. When the parking lot is full, you can park in Rosslyn and take the trail down. If you can bike or walk or take public transit, that's wonderful. We'll see you there! Erica, Stephanie, and Heidi P.S. If you can't wait until then to RIP (Remove Invasive Plants!), go here to find more volunteer opportunities in Arlington parks: [Volunteer to Restore Native Habitat – Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (armn.org)](https://armn.org/volunteer-opportunities/)

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

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55123697 22 miles. Lunch/snack stop TBD. Join us for a short and pleasant e-bike ride in and around the center of Washington, DC. The total tour distance is some 22 miles but you can cut it short if needed. The ride is on paved bike paths, some city streets, and flat terrain. Various monuments can be seen during this route (the Capitol, the municipal Fish Market, the White House, the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Nationals ballpark, the Titanic Memorial, and the Frederick Douglas bridge). Lunch: Brown bag TBD. The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. The distance will be some 22 miles or shorter any time you are fully satisfied with biking for the day. **Please remember to charge your bike, check your tires and brakes, and consider packing an extra tube.** **We recommend downloading the Ride with GPS route map to enhance your independence.** https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55123697 **Free Ride With GPS for E-Bike Lovers** The Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) generates 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) **More information about using GPS files:** [https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/](https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/) **More information about e-bike ranges:** [https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/](https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/) As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome. **Your registration for this ride signifies your agreement with the terms of the disclaimer below.** **DISCLAIMER** **LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, RICHARD CAMER, 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 Glamour Series: Featuring Pinky Ann!– Only $150** Date & Time: May 16, 10am-12noon (optional 1 on 1 opportunities after 12:30) Location: Sterling, VA (exact location provided upon registration) Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate (All are welcome!) **🛠️ What You'll Learn** Join us for an immersive, hands-on photography workshop designed to elevate your skills! This session is perfect for hobbyists, aspiring photographers, and anyone who wants to build confidence behind the lens. We’ll cover: * Learn the fundamentals of [e.g., portrait lighting or composition]. * Practice techniques to [e.g., control exposure and use natural light]. * Get tips for [e.g., setting up creative shots & working with models]. You’ll walk away with actionable knowledge and beautiful images to show for it! ### **🧑‍🏫 What Makes This Workshop Special** * Hands-On Practice: Bring your camera – most of the time will be spent shooting! * Small Group Setting: Personalized feedback in an intimate group size (limited seats). * Professional Guidance: Led by an experienced photographer who knows the craft inside and out. ### **🎒 What to Bring** * Your camera (DSLR or mirrorless preferred, but all gear welcome) * Fully charged batteries and memory cards * Notebook (optional, but recommended) ### **💲 Pricing** Only $150 per person – reserve your seat today! Spots are limited, so book early to avoid missing out. ### **📢 Refund/Cancellation Policy** Refunds will be issued only if the class is canceled by the host. ### **📅 How to Reserve Your Spot** 1. Click the "Attend" button to register. 2. Complete your payment on Meetup to confirm your seat. 3. Get ready to learn, practice, and have fun! We can’t wait to see you there! If you have any questions, please email us at info@studio151photo.com. Additionally, this amazingly versatile model has agreed to offer 1 on 1 sessions, afterwards for a discounted fee of $50 per half hour for fashion and $65 per half hour for tasteful nude. Take advantage of these rates and use our studio lights to create dramatic and stunning images (we will be there to assist with lighting setups)!!!! There will be a limited amount of 1 on 1's offered, so book early!!! 1 on 1's (email us and we will update this list with your requested time!) 12:30 - 1:00 - Abhi G. 1:00 - 1:30 - 1:30 - 2:00 - 2:00 - 2:30 - 2:30 - 3:00 - Andy W. 3:00 - 3:30 - Andy W. 3:30 - 4:00 - Samantha

**NOTE: THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.** **Details** Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a 5.38 mile hike at Turkey Run. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 456 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate to advanced hikers**. The trail includes shallow stream crossings, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. **Hiking shoes are a must -** the trail is slippery, and the extra grip of hiking shoes is essential for safety. Also, don’t forget your **hiking poles**; they’ll be helpful at the stream crossings. After the hike, join us for a social gathering at \*\**Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse [(6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4250880837db9923fe99316769050373b426a317e7bdf43931605d5b92eba921JmltdHM9MTc3NDkxNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=108cd8d6-7e8f-6b13-174d-ce097fb86ad8&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9NTZ-fkVtYmVkZGVkfkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPUNoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2Umc3M9eXBpZC5ZTjg0NDI0Nzc2MDUyNTc5NzcmcHBvaXM9MzguOTM0NzY4Njc2NzU3ODFfLTc3LjE3OTQzNTcyOTk4MDQ3X0NoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2VfWU44NDQyNDc3NjA1MjU3OTc3fiZjcD0zOC45MzQ3Njl-LTc3LjE3OTQzNiZ2PTImc1Y9MSZGT1JNPU1QU1JQTA)* to unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy time with fellow hikers. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1. **Distance:** 5.38 miles **Elevation Gain:** 456 feet **Difficulty Level:** Intermediate Hike (challenging stream crossings) This hike features moderate inclines and **challenging stream crossings** over slippery rocks. Hiking poles are recommended for added balance and stability. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours This hike is expected to take approximately **3 hours**, which accounts for breaks, stream crossings, and group pace. **Pace:** Moderate Pace A steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Park in Turkey Run’s **Lot C-1,** where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail! **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-367d794?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Bathrooms** There are no bathrooms available on this hike. Please plan accordingly. **Age Requirement:** Children under 18 are not permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** Join us for a casual lunch at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)**. Free parking is available in the garage off Beverly Rd.

Join me for a small, mindful photography walk in nature. (**NOTE Time is 9:00 AM EST(Meetup is having technical Issue))** This is a slow, intentional gathering — not focused on fitness or perfect photography — but on simply pausing, observing, and being present. We’ll walk at a gentle pace, with moments of quiet, and a few light prompts to help you notice details you might normally miss. 📷 You don’t need any photography experience — a phone camera is enough. This is also not a business networking event. It’s a calm space to connect with nature and, if it feels natural, with like-minded people. 🌿 What to expect: • A slow-paced, relaxed walk • Moments of silence and observation • Simple reflection prompts 📍 Location: [ Red Trabue Nature Preserve] ⏱ Duration: \~90 minutes

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

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.