Pet Birds

Join NVBA bird guides Arielle and Gabrielle this Saturday for a rewarding morning of birding followed by an invasive species removal project at Monticello Park! Late winter is one of the best times to tackle invasive plants in our parks and backyards as there’s no poison ivy to worry about, roots are easier to pull, and visibility across the landscape is much improved. Because habitat loss is the leading cause of bird population declines, urbanized (and rapidly urbanizing) areas like Northern Virginia play a significant role. Through the *[Stretch Our Parks](https://www.nvbirdalliance.org/stretch-our-parks)* program, volunteers are working to reverse that trend! **Timing & activities:** The event begins at 9:00 AM with a peaceful bird walk to observe and learn about the park’s species. Around 10:00 AM, we’ll shift to hands-on habitat restoration, focusing on clearing invasive plants. The upper corner and along the fence line is in need of some maintenance to improve habitat health and open the area for wildlife. Attendees should wear hard-soled shoes and long sleeves. Gloves, binoculars, & tools will be available. *We ask that those who RSVP plan to attend both portions of the program to fully experience how habitat restoration benefits birds and birders alike.* **Interest form:** Let us know you’re joining us by filling out the google form **[[linked here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScEdjDjYTfNFrLx4EjCVP429JP2jIgta_4BUu9_tgEtVi4edQ/viewform?usp=publish-editor)],** we will use this information to plan accordingly and send reminder messages! **Parking:** Street parking is available on Beverly Dr. There is no parking lot - please do not park on the driveway of the park as that's reserved for service vehicles.

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.

Come discuss People We Meet On Vacation by Emily Henry as our romance book for this month! We’ll have stricter questions as well as some open discussion.

Join Sarah and Willow for a walk at the Arboretum! We will meet at the Visitor Center Parking at 9am. It should be nice weather, so we will go on about a 1.5hr walk. We will start by heading past the visitor center to wooded hillside to take a long walk in the shade. Then we will walk to the other set of woods and walk through there. We will end at the capital columns. Time: 9am Plan on getting there a little early so we can be ready to go on time. Location: Visitor Center Parking lot by R street entrance What to expect: This walk will be on leash. Don't forget to bring water for you and your dog. The walking surface will be a mix of paved road and grass/dirt. More info and directions here: https://usna.usda.gov/visit/hours-and-directions/

[More Than a Flower | National Museum of African American History and Culture](https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions/more-flower) [https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions/more-flower](https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions/more-flower) **More Than a Flower Exhibit \| National Museum of African American History and Culture** ***More than a Flower* shares the fresh and fragrant beauty of live orchids and connects stories, scholarship, and art to this extraordinary species.** **I have 4 tickets, and Sri has 9 tickets for 1:30 PM on Saturday, February 28th.** ***SO, there are 13 tickets, and I limited the number of attendees to 13.*** ***Feel free to go at another time that works for you. The exhibit will be there until April 26.*** Bring: Water, fully charged batteries, empty cards, and comfortable shoes 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.

Please join the [Veg Society of DC](vsdc.org) Animal Rights Discussion and Education Group for another great discussion. We are excited to round out our discussion about theories of change in the animals rights movement with a speaker who has been leading the charge on the ballot initiative to prohibit the sale of foie gras in D.C. We will have a chance to apply theory to practice by understanding how this and other ballot initiatives can create change for animals. Please join us for what we hope will be an inspiring and interesting discussion! We will grab a bite to eat at a DC Vegan afterwards. *What is the Animal Rights Discussion and Education Group?* If you’ve been looking for a way to educate yourself on animal rights and issues affecting animals in our world today with the support of a like-minded community, then this group is for you. The VSDC Animal Rights Discussion and Education Group will discuss thoughts, questions, concerns, and news related to animal rights. It seeks to provide a safe space for discussions around issues affecting captive animals, farmed animals, animals used in research, wild animals, companion animals, and more. All are welcome, from those well-versed in animal rights philosophy and issues to those who are just starting off on their journey and are curious to learn more. Please come with an open mind, an open heart, and a willingness to engage with diverse opinions with curiosity and respect. The plan is for the group to meet every month, alternating between Zoom and in person. The topic of each meeting and any accompanying materials will be planned in advance and posted in event announcements via this VSDC meetup group. Participants are encouraged to offer topic ideas and materials for discussion at subsequent meetings. **Date / Time:** Saturday, February 28th, from 4:15 to 5:45 pm (followed by dinner) **Location:** Pea Street Yoga (just above DC Vegan) *Email 'ARdiscuss@vsdc.org' for further information.* **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Guest Speaker: Hunter Raab, Vice President of the DC Bird Alliance presenting "How Artificial Light Impacts Bird Migration...and What You Can Do to Help." Post-PAM Animal Action: DxE Trader Joe’s protest Life has evolved to depend upon light in many ways. Be it migration, circadian rhythms, habitat selection, mating...you name it really, the effects artificial light has on life is vast and unfortunately overlooked. Fortunately however, we already have the tools to help! Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

Bus hike) Prince WIlliam Forest is a splendid example of the rolling hills and varied vegetation characteristic of the piedmont area east of the Appalchian Mountain chain. All hikers start near the Visitor Center. Moderate hikers make a loop following the Laurel trail, North Valley, Lake One Rd, Mary Bird Branch, Old Black Top Rd, Taylor Farm Rd, South Valley and Laurel trail. Long hikers follow a loop consisting of the following trails: North Valley, Burma Rd, Taylor Farm Rd, High Meadows, South Valley, and Laurel trail. Est.: 12.5 miles, 1000' elevation and 8.5 miles, 500' elevation. Map: Prince William Forest Park web site. 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 pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **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 Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. COVID 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)

**PLEASE do not RSVP on Meetup - only posting here so more people can learn about upcoming events** We are excited to host a **pairs** speed puzzling competition on **Sunday, March 1st**! No experience is needed, and all ages are welcome. **Please note**: Registration is required, RSVPing on Meetup does not reserve your spot! Please sign up at [bit.ly/novapuzzlers-march](bit.ly/novapuzzlers-march) **Date**: March 1st, 2026 **Time**: 11am (please try to arrive 5 minutes early!) **Address**: George Mason Regional Library Meeting Room (7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale VA) **Price**: $40 per pair **Notes**: * Teams will get to keep the competition puzzle, and prizes will be given for the winning team! * There is free parking in front of the library * There is no time limit, but the event will end at 1:30pm

Celebrating our many March Birthdays (including mine!) has become an annual tradition at Slater Run Vineyards. For 300 years, the Slater family has farmed along Goose Creek. In 2010,they added the grapevines and the rest is history. They grow 13 acres of vines on site and specialize in Bordeaux Style Red Blends. Slater Run Vineyards offers a Hunt Country wine experience with sweeping views overlooking the vineyard from a bright and airy tasting room. They allow us to bring our own food so let's have a birthday style celebration feast! March birthday babies, let us know if you will be celebrating with us!

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

Based on the Chinese Zodiac, 2026 is the year of the **HORSE.** Whether you are a horse or any other zodiac sign, you are all welcome to join us for a delicious Chinese lunch to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Please only RSVP if you are sure to attend as space is limited. Also, to ensure a smooth checkout process, please **BRING CASH** to cover the cost of your meal **plus 30% for tax and tip.** Some discussion about the HORSE from Astrology.com: "It is said that Horse would have finished the race in sixth place, but Snake snuck a ride in the equine hoof, unbeknownst to the host. When Snake jumped ashore, she startled Horse. In typical Horse fashion, this majestic creature reared back, and Snake slithered across the finish line first. This story exemplifies how Horse may run with full speed, strength, and intent after goals, promises, and love interests, but can also scare easily. Strengths: virile, easygoing, witty, honest, and outspoken Weaknesses: impatient, impulsive, and self-centered Compatibility: Tiger, Goat, or Dog Mixmatch: Rat, Ox, or Rooster Element: Fire Yin or Yang: Yang Years: 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 Chinese mythology contains stories of flying horses, horses that are part dragon or deity, and a silkworm/mulberry origin story wherein a girl promises to marry a horse if he helps her find her father. When found, the father murders the horse to preclude the marriage, and the girl and horsehide transform into a silkworm on a mulberry tree – thus even today, you can see a horse’s face on the silkworm. Those born in the year of the Horse have inexhaustible energy (including potent sexuality), yet are easygoing, witty, honest, and outspoken. Horses are independent, adventurous, have a quick intuitive intelligence, and are good with money. They are decisive, generous, extremely popular, and can often be found in the middle of large social happenings." Mama Chang (Fairfax Circle) 3251 Blenheim Blvd. Fairfax, VA 22030 703-268-5556 www.mamachangva.com

Part 3 of our celebration of the Year of the Horse takes us once again to one of our community favorites, Mark's Duck House in Falls Church. We will be ordering a la carte, which should allow more freedom to order things that we like or even go "family style" if that's what your table chooses. Here's the link if you wish to peruse their menu: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qGwAZxwFPalz7R0ZK6NTPlkFte38bw4F/view](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qGwAZxwFPalz7R0ZK6NTPlkFte38bw4F/view) We really want to try and fill out our tables with attendees, so we ask that you be diligent with managing your RSVPs. The RSVP mechanism will close 24 hours before the start of the event, so make your decisions by then so that we can give the restaurant an accurate head count! Disclaimer that we have to say even though we don't want to.........Just a heads up that we may have to give out "No Show" labels to those who don't follow our attendance protocol, but we know you don't want that Scarlet Letter, so don't let it be you! Also, please do not show up if you are not in the field of attendees! You will only anger the horse! As always, a bonus activity could follow if the mood is right! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! VEGAN MEALS: As previously mentioned, the food vendor does NOT have a vegan option at this year’s Oscar Party. However, we DO have a solution! I have reached out to several individuals who are affected. If you are a vegan, plan to attend the Oscar Party and did not receive an e-mail from me, please reach out via private message post a note below. I’ll provide details off-line. And while there won’t be a vegan meal option this year, I think we do have a workable solution. And, all other plans are usiness-as-usual: popcorn, sodas, candy, on-site paparazzi, decorations, bar drinks (including your first drink on the house), the Drexel’s Annual Oscar ballot contest, along with the Big Show on the Big Screen and a fun group of Movie Group friends to watch ‘em with! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Coffee and conversation at [Stauf's Coffee Roasters](https://www.staufs.com/) in German Village. Street parking is free on Sundays.

Please join us the 3rd Wednesday of each month to learn more about the Columbus Ski Club and what we have to offer. Pizza, wings and a variety of appetizers provided. We are a non-profit organization founded in 1958 with over 800 members. The club has grown beyond the single mission of providing members with not only quality skiing events but also year round social and sport activities. Our gatherings are an opportunity for members and non-members to interact and learn about the many activities offered such as euchre, billiards, volleyball, pickleball, tennis, bowling, golf & softball leagues along with ski and non-ski trips. Our members also plan group activities such as visits to wine tastings, bike trips, comedy clubs, concerts, plays and local sports games, etc. CSC membership is not required to belong to the Meetup group. Membership is required in order to participate in most club activities (CSC member). However, anyone (21 and over) is welcome at our meeting gatherings which consist of checking out our current activities and socializing. The annual dues for club membership are $35 with the membership year from September 1st – August 31st. [https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=686961](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=686961)

**Summary** For this event, we will do the [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at [The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/), a ten-thousand acre conservation center in Muskingum County. It is the largest such center in North America and one of the largest in the entire world. During this tour, we'll visit The Wilds' rhino herd in their state-of-the-art heated barns and learn how The Wilds' animal management team takes care of one of the largest herds of rhinos outside of Africa and Asia. **The date and time of this tour** We will be doing the 1:00 p.m. [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) on Saturday, February 28. The tour is scheduled to last 90 minutes. **What you need to do to attend** Signing up here on Meetup will not get you into The Wilds for the tour. You must go out to The Wilds' [website](https://www.thewilds.org/) and [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour). Please [purchase your ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour), then sign up here on Meetup so I know how many to expect. **Attendance cap** There are only eight total slots/tickets available for this tour. As I obviously have already bought one of the tickets, that leaves seven spaces for everyone else. If you are interested in this event, I urge you to [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at The Wilds' website as soon as possible. Since their website is obviously public, nothing prevents other people having nothing to do with *GOhio!* from buying their own tickets, thereby potentially taking an available slot away from you. **Additional notes on attendance** I have now run several events at The Wilds. While the location of The Wilds and the pricing of the tickets generally leads to small turnouts, the people who have gone have all enjoyed it and were glad they went. If you've never been to The Wilds and you like zoos or animals at all, you are likely to find any tour at The Wilds to be a rewarding experience. **Tickets and pricing** [Tickets](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) for this tour are $95, or $76 if you're a Wilds' member. I've posted screen shots, below, to help you be sure you're buying tickets for the correct event. Wilds' memberships pay for themselves if you go to The Wilds at least twice a year, and [Columbus Zoo members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) get a discount on memberships to The Wilds. I will always run at least two events a year at The Wilds. Tickets for all Wilds' tours must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance of the actual tour. **Cancellations and refunds** Per The Wilds' [Cancellation Policy](https://www.thewilds.org/policies): *In order to be eligible for refund and accrue no rescheduling fees, cancellations must be made at least 14 days in advance of reservation. Cancellations made within 14 days of reservation will not receive a refund.* You may [contact The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/contact) at (740) 638-5030 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or you can email them at information@thewilds.org. **Waiver of liability** After you purchase your ticket, you will likely be asked to fill out a waiver of liability. This is a very short document and should take you no more than two minutes to complete. **Where we'll meet** We will meet at The Wilds, whose actual address is [14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732](https://www.google.com/maps/place/14000+International+Rd,+Cumberland,+OH+43732/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837dae07a595557:0xa1ceca93325a8bd1?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Please try to be there by 12:30 p.m. For most Wilds' tours, a shuttle bus will take you to the actual spot of the tour. So think of this as though you're going to the airport to catch a flight. It helps to be on time. The Wilds generally asks that people arrive at least thirty minutes because the scheduled start time of their tour. **GPS / Getting to The Wilds** The Wilds is in a very rural area, but I've never had a problem getting there with my GPS (I have Verizon). I've also uploaded a JPG map, below, of Muskingum County. Sometimes, though, it's hard to get a signal when you're at The Wilds and getting ready to leave. So you might want to consider downloading an offline map in Google Maps. Your cell phone should pick up a signal, however, within a few minutes after you leave. The Wilds' Visitor Center does have free Wi-Fi. **Carpooling?** If you want to carpool, I recommend discussing this in the comments, below, to this event. While I don't myself carpool, I will do what I can to help you arrange something if I can. **The weather** Dress for the weather. Just because the barn is heated doesn't mean it will be warm. And wear closed-toed shoes. Wilds' tours typically run no matter what the weather is. **After the tour** Once we're done with the rhinos, we'll head over to the very highly rated [Y-Bridge Brewing Company](https://ybridgebrewing.com/). The brewery is about thirty minutes from The Wilds, and it will be on the way back to Columbus for most, if not all, of us. The brewery's actual address is [1417 Linden Ave Ste D, Zanesville, OH 43701](https://www.google.com/maps/place/1417+Linden+Ave+d,+Zanesville,+OH+43701/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837edd6cc50824f:0xe3a0af1ccb2aefbf?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Y-Bridge Brewing does not serve food; however, they have several [food options](https://ybridgebrewing.com/food-options). I encourage you to check these out ahead of time on their website for yourself. However, here are a few of them: *Within walking distance -- 120 feet away* * [Angry Bull Saloon](https://www.facebook.com/AngryBullSaloonZanesville/) (pizza & subs) * The Corner Pub Sports Bar and Grill (classic bar food) *Delivery options -- [Door Dash](https://www.doordash.com/)* * [4 Star Pizza](https://fourstarpizza.com/), (740) 452-9300 * [Donatos](https://www.donatos.com/), (740) 452-7900 * [Pizza Cottage](https://www.pizza-cottage.com/), (740) 455-6000 * [Dominos](https://www.dominos.com/), (740) 455-3126 * [Papa John's](https://www.papajohns.com/), (740) 450-4100 If you live in the area or can't make The Wilds but still want to meet us at the brewery, that's fine too.