Marines

Spend your Sunday at the the Silver Spring library. Whether you and your little one(s) are exploring the many activities or reading a book on the kids floor. You can sign up for the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten @ https://montgomerycountymd.beanstack.org/reader365 Join us at the Silver Spring Library branch to read together. Bring your library card or get one there.

**Washington after Dark. An easy 5- mile hike.** Join us experiencing the magic of visiting Washington monuments and memorials after dark, illuminated and weather permitting having the January Super Moon light up the way. Our hike will take us past the Washington Monument, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln Memorial, the Franklin D. Roosevelt and Martin Luther King Memorials, the Korean and Vietnam Veteran Memorials and the World War II Memorial. We will see the White House toward the end and the Capitol at the start and end of the hike. We will hike at a speed of about 2 miles per hour between memorials but have to allow for long red traffic lights and want time for visiting memorials. We meet at the national mall entrance/exit to the Smithsonian Metro stop. 38.88903, - 77.02837 . If you come by car you need to find your own parking. Otherwise, take Metro to the Smithsonian Metro Station, Mall entrance. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 4:30 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 4:45 **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders are Christa (410-610-6254 and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text as needed. **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 38.88903,- 77.02837. These are the coordinates for the Smithsonian Metro Station, where we will meet. We meet at the national mall entrance/exit to the Smithsonian Metro stop. If you come by car you need to find your own parking. I’ll be parking at a metro parking lot, free on weekends. The closest street address is 1200 Jefferson Drive, SW, Washington DC. **Details** Rating: Easy Distance: 5 miles Elevation Gain: 85 feet Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Bathroom at Jefferson Memorial open until 6 pm **Cancellation:** In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8). **Notes:** -Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.-Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance-free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here.](https://www.patc.net/) -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here.](https://www.patc.net/membership)

Last week of regular season as the Broncos look to clinch home field advantage in the playoffs! Join us at PQ to watch the Broncos get it done! I am a Broncos fan and I believe. I believe in Mile High Magic and Bleed Orange and Blue. I celebrate the drive and the Mile High Salute. I create the THUNDER, share in the common dream and will forever be a proud citizen of BRONCOS COUNTRY

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. This will be a 9.5 mile hike along the C & O Canal Towpath and the Potomac River. We will start in the parking lot across from Old Angler's Inn and first head upstream along the C&O Canal to the upstream entrance to Billy Goat Path A. We will then do Billy Goat Path A and then head downstream to the start of Billy Goat Path C. After doing that loop, we will return to the parking area along the C&O Canal. There is an option to just do Billy Goat Path A. That is rated as a C hike (but sometimes called B due to the level of effort of involved with doing Billy Goat Path A). Meet at near the bathrooms in the parking lot across from Old Anglers Inn at at 8:15 am for an 8:30 start. The address of Old Angler's Inn is 10801 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854. Basics: * Distance: 9 miles (4 with BGT A only). * Elevation Gain: 300' * Rating: B (or a strong C for BGT A only) * Meeting place: Parking areas across the street from Old Anglers Inn, near the restrooms. * Hike map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/billy-goat-a-c-78fadda Please bring lunch, water, proper footwear, etc. Dogs **not** allowed due to their being prohibited on Billy Goat Path A. Edward 703-850-3251

🛼 Sunday Social: The "Grand Branch" Trek Get ready for an epic 15.7-mile out-and-back journey from the heart of DC to the northern edge of the District. We are so fortunate to have the incredible Talida leading the pack for this high-energy trek! This is a special one—we’ll be rolling through the freshly opened MBT extension from Fort Totten to Takoma, completing the full trail connection. 📍 Meetup & Rollout • Location: Freedom Plaza (1301 Pennsylvania Ave NW) • Meetup: 11:00 AM • Wheels Up: 11:10 AM Sharp! 🚀 🗺️ The Route Under Talida’s expert guidance, we’ll move from Freedom Plaza toward the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT). We are skating the full length of the trail all the way into Takoma. ⚡ The Vibe: Flow & Flex • The Pace: We’re keeping a steady, intermediate-friendly flow. • The Turnaround: Once we reach the Takoma terminus, Talida will call the play—we may stay for a quick break to soak in the vibes, or we might keep the wheels spinning and head straight back to the Plaza. • The "Red Line" Backup: If you need to tap out early, the route mirrors the Metro Red Line. You can easily hop on at Takoma, Fort Totten, or Brookland. ________________________________________ 🛡️ Safety & Gear • HELMETS ARE MANDATORY: Let's keep the community safe! • Pads: Highly recommended (especially wrist guards for those urban trail cracks). • Hydration: 15.7 miles is a solid workout—please bring plenty of water! • Etiquette: Follow Talida’s lead, stay to the right on the trail, and always call out your passes. The Route: https://onthegomap.com/s/1ip8snof Disclaimer: Please note that anyone who participates does so at their own risk. For the most up-to-date information, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you soon!

Please bring white and dark shirts Small grass field Read comments below for latest info.

Let's go for a moonlight walk on the National Mall to watch Freedom 250's "The Illumination of America" Washington Monument Lighting! Freedom 250 transforms the iconic Washington Monument into the world’s tallest birthday candle in honor of our Nation’s 250th birthday. From New Year’s Eve through January 5th, 2026, a six-night projection-mapping spectacle will illuminate the Monument, creating an immersive, luminous canvas that narrates our Nation’s discovery, expansion, independence, and vision for the future. This Washington Monument illumination is the opening signature moment of a year-long series of marquee national events celebrating the triumph of the American spirit. **❶ What we'll do:** * From the U.S. Navy Memorial at 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004, we'll walk west along Pennsylvania Ave NW to the Ellipse, past the National Christmas Tree, and then south to the World War II Memorial to watch "The Illumination of America" show at 7 pm, which lasts about 20 minutes. After the show we'll walk north back to the corner of Constitution Ave NW and 7th St NW, and then back to our start point along Constitution Ave NW, 12th St NW, and Pennsylvania Ave NW. * The walk is a little over 2.5 miles and should take about an hour and a half at a moderate pace, including the time to watch the show. The path is level and mostly paved, with steps in places. * Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/5czap87p](https://tinyurl.com/5czap87p) ❷ **How to get there:** * Metro: The U.S. Navy Memorial is located at 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004, just west of the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Metro Station. Use the [Metro Trip Planner](https://www.wmata.com/) to plan your trip and check for alerts. * Driving: If you are driving, the street address is 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004. There is paid parallel parking in the area. You may wish to download and use the [Parkmobile app](https://parkmobile.io/) to find/pay for parking. ❸ **Weather:** The forecast is mostly clear and a high of 41F with winds NW at 8-9 mph. Sunset is at 4:59 pm; moonrise is at 6:32 pm, with 98.9% illumination (full moon!). Updates here: [https://tinyurl.com/2p9ycnap](https://tinyurl.com/2p9ycnap) ❹ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired. The layered look is a good idea, with gloves and protection for your ears and face close at hand (lip balm). ❺ **Advisory:** As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers. ❻ **Administrative stuff:** There are restrooms at Starbucks, Teaism, and Penn Quarter Sports Tavern near our meetup point, and at CVS along our way. See the Google map. **❼ Notes:** * The Illumination of America: Washington Monument Lighting, December 31, 2025 - January 5, 2026, [https://tinyurl.com/54crkyuh](https://tinyurl.com/54crkyuh) * Starbucks, 325 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 * Teaism, 400 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 * Penn Quarter Sports Tavern, 639 Indiana Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 * CVS, 1275 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 *Event illustration is a screencap from the video at the Illumination of America website*

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.

## Details - Please read all below before you sign up **Cost:** Free **Court Type:** Outdoor Grass **Level:** B/BB/A **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the grass. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball/net if you have one. **10 persons per net max** **Host's Philosophy on this event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. This is a space where you won’t be judged for making mistakes, but we do expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this group isn’t intended for total beginners; a basic understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have an issue with this. [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Your Vibe > Skills > \*Your Attendance Ratio > New Members \* If you have 3 events attended and 6 events you dropped off, you may or may not be invited. Anyone with a drop-off level of -.50 or lower. The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event. [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** * Bringing your dog is welcome and encouraged. * *Can I come if I don't know how to play?* No, you may not. The host does teach a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. * *Can I be late or leave late?* The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to come late or leave early, please let the host know ahead of time. * *Can I come even if I am not on the going list?* No, sorry **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

A Starfinder Society Scenario designed for 1st- through 2nd-level characters, playable in 2-3 hours. First Seeker Sarmak has called on the scientist Dr. Heldin Sevaille to create an inoculation for an process known as “conversion” which is transforming wildlife and residents of the Sloughscar Hills into monsters in the service of the Wreck of the Returned. The final ingredient Dr. Sevaille requires is found in a remote forest called Ste Xinnith on Marata, one of Bretheda’s moons. Dr. Sevaille dispatches a team of Starfinders to collect samples of this rare plant with the aid of a few local scientists. But trouble is brewing in Ste Xinnith… Frozen Trove, a Triaxian biotech corporation notorious for unethical and illegal methods that damage environments to maximize profits, has established a laboratory in the area, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. With the entire ecosystem at risk, it’s time for the Starfinders to take a stand. This is an adventure in the ongoing Invasion's Edge metaplot. Written by Sara Jeffers.

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

We are a real world Martial arts group. \ Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \ Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \ We have been around a while. \ We are donation based. Every week we get together and work technical skills and live pressure testing. \ Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from altercations in the real world to the ring and some still compete in the cage. \ If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \ We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 inside the whetstone rec center in the auditorium, upstairs in classroom B or outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295 Saturday 1pm Wednesday 5:30pm From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \ \ You must have a free leisure card for the rec center and must be registered for our class specifically .\ Wear workout clothing \ Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \ WE HAVE GLOVES. \ Hope to see you soon :-).\ We are run off of donations. \ let me know if you have any questions :)