Photo Safari

This is a 4 day dance event in Washington DC. This is the largest dance event for West Coast Swing on the east Coast. All the top professionals will be there giving workshops and competing. There is a beginner track for people who are new to West Coast Swing. Event weekends are definitely a great way to take your dancing to the next level. I know we have a few people in our group that is new to West Coast Swing so this post is also meant to let you know what is out there. Of course, I will be at this event all weekend long and if we do get other attendees then I will message you to arrange times and places to meet up. Let's dance! Here is the event link: https://www.atlanticdancejam.com/

**Wish Marius well on his upcoming knee replacement.** This ride has three very short well packed gravel sections. You might not want to use 23 or 25 mm road bike tires. **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride GAVI Bakery & Café, Sully Station * START LOC: Ellanor C Lawrence Park/Woodlands Stewardship Center, 5301 Walney Rd, Chantilly, VA 20151 * START GPS: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/8DFBGfSaCN6GrKQk6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/8DFBGfSaCN6GrKQk6) * START PARKING: At the Center's gravel parking lot -- NO TOILETS :-( * ARRIVAL: 12:15 pm * SPEECH: 12:25 pm ***\*\*you must be present for the speech or no ride for you!\*\**** * ROLLING: 12:30 pm * LEVEL: Medium * PACE: 11-13 mph (a "social" pace) * DISTANCE: 17.3 miles * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cyclepath * Ride With GPS Route: CBG_KOFFEEK_GAVI_2026 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54108112](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54108112) **Notes:** * This ride is organized very "lean" * Pump your tires on the morning of the ride, please. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++** Welcome to The Koffee Klatch! These rides are normally based off the Arlington Loop, but this week we will go out West towards Centerville and do a 19.7 mile medium level ridden at a social pace (11-13 mph). We will ride East starting from the Ellanor C Lawrence/Woodlands Stewardship parking lot. We will take the I-66 Parallel Trail to the Big Rocky Run Trail at Fair Lakes. We have two gravel sections on Rocky Run. After passing by Ellanor Lawrence we hit Gavi at mile 10.8 in Sully Station. From there we loop over to the Cub Run Valley Stream Trail System. There is a short gravel section in Cub Run. The gravel sections are packed (may be a little softer after early week rain), but you might not want 23 or 25 mm road bike tires. You are not required to drink or even like coffee. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** We meet at the the **gravel parking lot** of the Ellanor C Lawrence Park/Woodlands Stewardship Center. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/8DFBGfSaCN6GrKQk6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/8DFBGfSaCN6GrKQk6) Do NOT park in front of the lake across the street. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** This week's [GAVI Bakery & Café](https://www.gavicafe.com/) is the Ride WITHIN The Ride! 5107 Westfields Blvd Centreville, VA 20120 Located in Sully Station Shopping Center (at about mile 10.8 of the ride). **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above. .

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we want YOU to join us! New players are always welcome - all you need is a good attitude and a willingness to learn. Also, bring a water bottle, a mouth guard, and cleats (if you have them - they're not necessary right away). Our experienced coaches will teach you everything you need to know! Bring your energy, your enthusiasm, and most importantly, your love for the game. Let's make this practice a blast and get ready to rock the upcoming season!

**🥘 European Comfort & Cozy Vibes at Euro Bistro! ✨** Join your DTs friends and family for a delicious evening at **[Euro Bistro](https://euro-bistro.com/home)**, [314 Elden St, Herndon](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KRTrwF4v4M1hq4bx7), one of our most-loved dinner spots—so loved, in fact, they stay open just for us! 💖 ✨ Cozy, casual, and quietly fabulous, **Euro Bistro** offers rich Central European comfort food with a side of old-world charm. Favorites include crispy **Jägerschnitzel**, savory **Sauerbraten**, buttery **Beef Stroganoff**, and yes—creamy **Fettuccine Alfredo** for the pasta lovers. There’s something for every palate, including vegetarian options like **Caprese Salad**, **Potato Pancakes**, and **Vegetable Pasta**. 💖 A gentle (but classy) note from your event diva: They usually close at 8:00 PM, but they keep the doors open just for us! Please RSVP so we can give the kitchen a proper headcount. Walk-ins are welcome if there’s space—but securing your seat is très chic, darling. ✅ Claim your fork (and your chair!) Click “Going” here or RSVP on Facebook. Come for the schnitzel, stay for the laughs. 🌟 Every Thursday is a new flavor with DTs. This one just happens to taste like Europe.

Welcome, all, for another meetup at the lodge for another night of boardgaming! Open to anyone in either the League, Ashburn, Reston, DC/Nova or Herndon Boardgaming groups. Guests are welcome. Bring whatever you want in the way of games, and we'll deal with food when we see how many are interested. I won't be there until 7:45, but John will be there at 7pm. Hope to see everyone there!

***Colvin Run's Thursday Night Country Dance with Tim Bowker*** Come early and enjoy the warmup music at 7:15 p.m. **Tim Bowker's Country Nightclub Two-Step lesson** is at **7:30 p.m**, and then stay for **DJ Tim's dance party 8:30-10:30 p.m.** Cold water, snacks and lots of friendly people included. No partner, experience, or reservations needed. Plenty of free, safe parking. $15 entry fee (cash/check only); Includes lesson, dance and light refreshments. ***First Timer? No Problem!! Come learn a great lesson from Timothy Bowker! We welcome everyone!*** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Mark your calendars for **West Coast Swing Sundays** Every 2nd & 4th Sunday at 4:00 p.m. The next WCS Sunday is January 11, 2026 ***Find your happy place at Colvin Run Dance Hall*** ***Where everybody knows your name, and everyone's glad you came!*** *Find Colvin Run at: http://www.colvinrun.org* *or contact Kathy.Milks@ColvinRun.org*

• What we'll do Learn how to take great pictures BEFORE you go on that expensive trip! And we will teach you how to use your camera IN THE FIELD, not in a classroom! Join our standard Monuments and Memorials workshop, offered Wednesdays and Saturdays, in which the instructor takes you to some of DC’s most popular attractions: White House, Lafayette Park, the Einstein, Lincoln, Korea, and Vietnam Three Servicemen Memorials, and finally to Union Station, where you learn to make all the moving people DISAPPEAR! Remember, it was Confucius who said: "I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do, and I understand." At Washington Photo Safari, we help you "do " and understand! That is why our motto is "See. Click. Learn." This $71 Safari (a 20% discount from the regular $89 price) begins with a 45-minute travel photography orientation, giving you basic tips in composition, F-stops and shutter speeds, portraiture, and interior photography. While you are taking pictures, you receive hands-on guidance on how to make those images even better! Advanced and smartphone photographers will appreciate the instructor’s extensive knowledge of the best camera angles in DC. This is suggested as a preliminary course before taking special safaris. Open to any photographers at any skill level with any camera, phone, or tablet. Transportation from site to site is provided by the instructor. • What to bring camera and all lenses • Important to know travel, architectural, portrait and street photography techniques

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PRE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED**. PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER: https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-3-7-photo-basics-getting-off-auto **This class is also offered on 3/15, 4/11, 4/26, 5/2, 5/17 & 6/13.** Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, this beginner photography basics class provides the tools you need with hands-on practice. Learn how YOU, not the camera, can control the ‘look’ of an image by choosing the appropriate settings. Understand which tools you can use to freeze or blur motion, and how to beautifully blur backgrounds to make your subject stand out. This class is designed for those who want to learn more about photo basics to comfortably get off the Auto mode. Topics Include: * Camera Controls – Learn the most important settings that affect exposure * ISO Settings * Shutter Speeds – Control motion to add emphasis * Aperture Settings – To affect the ‘Depth of Field’ (the amount of blurring in the background) * Manual Shooting Modes * Focus Settings – Learn how to get tack-sharp focus in your photos. * Resolution & Compression – Set your camera to capture the best quality images * White Balance – Capture accurate and vibrant colors * Fill Flash * Lenses – Understand your lens options * Composition – Learn tips for captivating photographs Students are encouraged to bring their cameras. As we discuss camera features and menu settings, you can follow along and learn how to adjust them. An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual are also very helpful to have on hand at the class. People who like this class might also enjoy the In-the-Field-Photography classes, especially the FIELDWORK classes, as a way to reinforce the material covered in the classroom. Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls. Questions about this class can be directed to Marie Joabar at [info@capitalphotographycenter.com](mailto:info@capitalphotographycenter.com) Class Limit: 10-12 *** • Important to know THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **Pre-Registration is required.** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-3-7-photo-basics-getting-off-auto

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PRE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED**. PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER: https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-03-08-art-creativiy-at-renwick-gallery Expand your creativity and vision at the Renwick Gallery. You’ll find unique photographic opportunities as we explore various the styles of art and mediums on display. We’ll focus on capturing details of the artwork in unique, unusual and abstract ways. Learn to see multiple photographic opportunities within an individual piece of art. Our goal is not necessarily to document the artwork but to find creative approaches using perspective, depth of field, focus, and subject isolation. Learn how to: \- Explore unusual angles and perspectives \- Isolate portions of a subject for creative interpretations \- Using depth of field to simplify your compositions \- Use the background to enhance the subject Recommended Gear; A DSLR or mirrorless camera, lenses covering the range 18-200mm. No tripods allowed. Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com. Class Limit: 8 *** • Important to know THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **Pre-Registration is required.** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-03-08-art-creativiy-at-renwick-gallery

Ever dreamt of going to ANTARTICA, then RSVP, email me the requested info and start budgeting! Cost: Land Only from $9099/pp; Land & Air from Miami $10349/pp Non-Refundable Deposit $500/pp; Single Supplement$3200 Final Payment Date: 11/7/2025 HOW TO GET BOOKED AS PART OF OUR GROUP: Email me the following information to Supra1214@aol.com: 1)Your full name as it appears in your passport 2)Your mailing address 3)Your telephone number 4)Your email address 5)Your date of birth 6)Your passport number & expiration dates 7)Your emergency contact info (name and phone number) 8)Type of cabin needed (single or double; interior, oceanview or balcony). If double, provide the same information for your roommate. 9)Signed credit card authorization (will email upon receipt of items 1-8) Tour Includes: Round trip flights Miami-Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires-Miami Some departures may be offered from a nearby airport. Check flight itinerary options when booking. Other departure cities available at additional cost. All intra-flights: Buenos Aires-Ushuaia & Ushuaia-Buenos Aires 13 nights First Class accommodations 3 nights Buenos Aires 10 nights Antarctica Cruise Hotel taxes, fees & service charges Hotel & cruise porterage All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† 34 meals: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 12 dinners Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout Services of English-speaking local guides Entrance fees per itinerary This itinerary requires a high level of physical fitness. All passengers must be able to walk on uneven or slippery surfaces and to climb on and off the small boats used for landings. An expedition cruise is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking, have heart conditions or require frequent medical care. Special Features Tour of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, the sophisticated "Paris of South America" Enjoy tango lessons with professional Argentine tango dancers Navigate through the calm waters of the Beagle Channel in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago An exciting journey takes you along the Drake Passage where the Atlantic & Pacific converge From the observation deck, opportunity to view various species of sea birds, whales, dolphins, seals, albatross Reach the spectacular wilderness of the South Shetland Islands - a haven for prolific wildlife Exciting explorations by zodiac with expedition leaders in the glacial wonderland of Antarctica Traverse Cape Horn, once of great strategic importance because of its location and trade routes Onboard activities while at sea: enriching lectures, discussions and wildlife spotting Cruise Amenities Welcome dinner reception Coffee & tea with all meals Panoramic lounge & bar Spa & fitness center Observation deck Non-smoking ship interior †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates Is This Trip Right for You? Pace: This tour has 4-5 hours of walking every touring day. Terrain: Passengers must be able to walk on uneven, slippery surfaces and climb on and off small boats used for landings. Weather Conditions: The itinerary is subject to weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be communicated in regularly scheduled briefings. Transportation: Weather and conditions in the Antarctic region are often unpredictable and the ship Captain will make adjustments accordingly for passenger comfort and safety. Things to Consider: This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. The Drake Passage is known for its rough waters. The Antarctica cruise route, sightseeing, and itinerary inclusions are subject to favorable weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety issues, and wildlife migration patterns. At final payment date, a medical questionnaire will be sent that must be completed by a physician and turned into reception upon embarkation.

Join an exclusive hands-on portrait photography workshop at **Sarosh Photography & Studios** where creativity meets professional guidance. This immersive studio session will give photographers the opportunity to learn lighting techniques, posing direction, composition, and creative storytelling while working with **International model Cordelia**. Participants will gain real-world experience capturing elegant portraits in a controlled studio environment, while also learning practical tips on working with professional models, styling, and creating portfolio-worthy images. This workshop is designed to help photographers refine their artistic vision, improve technical skills, and elevate their portrait photography through guided demonstrations and live shooting sessions.

Please join us for our Annual Open House at the Studio on March 21st from 1lam to 4pm. Enjoy light drinks, small bites, and a relaxed stroll through the studio. As we step into our 5th year at this location, we'd love for you to stop by & celebrate with us. This is a drop-in event from llam-4pm

**📸 Studio 151 Glamour Series: Featuring International Model Alexis!– Only $150** Date & Time: March 14, 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 boudoir. Take advantage of these rates and use our studio lights to create dramatic and stunning images (Samantha or Jason 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 - 1:00 - 1:30 - 1:30 - 2:00 - 2:00 - 2:30 - 2:30 - 3:00 - 3:00 - 3:30 - 3:30 - 4:00 - Samantha

Join the [Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) and [A Fighting Chance Foundation](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about) for a special fundraising event at Lost Rhino Brewing in Ashburn VA on Friday, March 13th. Come out to enjoy a fun Friday night of music, friendship, and great food and drinks, all for two great causes! **Special musical guests** – The Outpatients (Northern VA band well known for their Americana musical mayhem). **Tickets: $10** at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Loudoun Wildlife and A Fighting Chance. Lost Rhino is also graciously donating **10%** of all sales to both organizations. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is a volunteer-powered nonprofit working to protect, preserve, and restore wildlife habitat while shaping a Loudoun where people and wildlife thrive together. Learn more at: [https://www.loudounwildlife.org](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) A Fighting Chance is ensures that all pets are given the best chance possible to recover from a life-threatening medical condition or accident regardless of the financial circumstances of their caregivers. Learn more at: [https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about)

The trails in Great Falls National Park, Virginia, offer spectacular views of the Potomac Gorge and Difficult Run. This hike will be a repeat of January 4th, 4.6 miles at a leisurely pace. We will start on the Old Carriage Road and winding Swamp Trail. Then onto the Ridge and Difficult Run Trails, including hills and a detour to a waterfall. Return ralong the Ridge trail and more difficult River Trail, which has short but steep hills; steps; mini-rock scrambles; and clifftop overlooks. We will pause at several overlooks and finish at the overlooks of Great Falls. Bring; hiking boots (no smooth-soled shoes), water, and snacks for a rest stop halfway through the hike. Start time: Meet at 10:30 and start walking at 10:45. Pace: average 2.0 mph (faster on the early flat section, slower on the later rocky section) AllTrails map: We will mostly follow the AllTrails "River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trails" in reverse: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/great-falls-loop-river-ridge-cct-and-swamp-trails Custom Alltrails map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/custom-route-382bf19?p=-1&sh=fuqxr6&utm_medium=map_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality Meeting point: Meet at 10:30 am for sign-ins and introductions, at the bottom of the ramp to the Visitor Center (the entrance facing the parking lot). Street address is 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102. Allow extra drive time for construction delays on Georgetown Pike and George Washington Parkway. Meeting place coordinates: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kAY7ou858TqCAJeK7?g_st=ipc Park entrance fee: NO CASH ACCEPTED. $20 per car or $35 annually. Free with a National Park pass. Carpools can be arranged by using the Meetup Comments section. (Hike leader can take 1-2 passengers from Eastern Market or Rosslyn metro station if willing to go early.) Facilities: The park has restrooms and a snack bar located "under" the Visitor Center. Contact Information: Please use the Meetup Comments for routine comments and questions. Hike leaders are Amber 703-231-5978 and Peter 703-999-9435. However, there is NO cell service in the park, so hike leaders will not get last-minute messages. RSVP: Sign-up ends at 6:00 pm the night before. Please do not show up unregistered. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. To find out more about PATC, see www.patc.net Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, see www.patc.net/membership