Survival Training

Have you ever wanted to ***really*** immerse yourself in Pocahontas County, West Virginia? Here is your chance! Last Memorial Day Weekend, DC UL hiked a section of the Allegheny Trail (“ALT”) from Blackwater Falls to Durbin. Let’s knock out the next section this year: Durbin to Sherwood Lake. This section of the trail bisects most of Pocahontas County. Expect wet feet, regular ascents and descents, 4k feet of *daily* elevation change over 4 days, big miles, and very remote hiking. You must be in solid “Veteran Member” status for this one. In addition to this being a physically tough trek, it is at times tough to follow navigationally. The reward? When co-workers talk about Pocahontas around the water cooler, you’ll be able to say confidently, “***do I know*** Pocahontas County!" This section looks much harder than the one we hiked last year—hopefully, it will be just as funny. [Here is the trip report from that adventure](https://dculbackpacking.com/2025/05/29/trip-report-this-trail-has-everything-allegheny-trail-section-2-blackwater-falls-sp-to-durbin-west-virginia-may-22-26-2025-73-miles/): https://dculbackpacking.com/2025/05/29/trip-report-this-trail-has-everything-allegheny-trail-section-2-blackwater-falls-sp-to-durbin-west-virginia-may-22-26-2025-73-miles/ (For those of you who missed out on the Blackwater-Durbin section, and who want to someday hike the entire ALT, I’ll redo that section on a future trip). **The Plan** Friday: We’ll carpool at 3:00 p.m. from the Vienna Metro to Trainer, WV to leave a car or two. Then, we’ll drive to Durbin, WV to camp at a campground in town. Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday: We’ll hike SB on the ALT with tentative splits of 20, 19, 14, 16 miles. There may be a restaurant opportunity in Cass for Saturday evening. We pass a gas station convenience store on Monday, but it may be closed on Memorial Day. On Tuesday we may go for swim in Sherwood Lake before reversing the shuttle. We’ll have lunch at Station2 restaurant in Durbin before we drive home. **IMPORTANT: YOU NEED TO TAKE A HALF DAY LEAVE ON FRIDAY AND ALL DAY LEAVE ON TUESDAY (I’M ASSUMING YOU ALSO HAVE MEMORIAL DAY OFF).** I set the group size at 5 to make the shuttle work. I can expand it if we get enough drivers, so join the wait list if interested. I’m limiting this trip to Veteran Members. DC ULers have maps! [Everyone should use the FarOut app for this one](https://faroutguides.com/allegheny-trail-map/), with the maps downloaded. The trail is tough to follow and is often rerouted. FarOut is the most accurate line. https://faroutguides.com/allegheny-trail-map/ [Here is a Google Maps version](https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1VRr0rrSWM4sSTA5B_1bHqolLzLfcmzAZ&ll=37.84614715940329%2C-80.22346559843282&z=8): https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1VRr0rrSWM4sSTA5B_1bHqolLzLfcmzAZ&ll=37.84614715940329%2C-80.22346559843282&z=8 [You can buy maps to print here](https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/new-page): https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/new-page \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-**THE IMPORTANT WARNINGS**\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- I’m just a co-participant on this trip, not a guide or an expert. I’ve been hiking with DCUL since 2017 but have no special training, such as organizational, medical, or navigational.
You are officially on the trip if you both RSVP on Meetup, we engage by email, text, or the app, and you meet me at the trailhead. Otherwise, you are doing your own trip until you make physical contact with me and I recognize you as a co-participant. I’m open to questions. By RSVPing to this trip or any other DCUL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DCUL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) COVID-19 policy: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) Dues: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DCUL profile. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15) ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.)

Hypnosis Training These are organizational meetings just to go over course requirements and answer any questions. (no funds due) Warning: These courses are WORK! There is practice and then there is more practice. It's an incredibly powerful skillset that you will love for the rest of your life. Please PM any questions If you can't make it but want to be on the email list, please PM me. Hypnosis Certification Course Meeting Become a Certified Hypnotist with NGH and ICBCH able to open your own practice and help everyday people with everyday problems. 10 4-5 hour sessions $1500 21 May 6pm Via Zoom [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87078824834?pwd=FJCnqyzhcXnkAzUrd3QsbolJJ0SHKA.1](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87078824834?pwd%3DFJCnqyzhcXnkAzUrd3QsbolJJ0SHKA.1&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw35nfKBrMrq4Wo8dmH0YqZC)

For some reason I can’t stop thinking about this. I really want to do the whole C&O towpath next year. I just impulse bought all the bike spots on the Floridian 40 to Cumberland at 3:57pm on the Friday of memorial day 2026. As that is almost a year away I will post more about it later but this is just my obsession right now so here is the basic information: * splits are roughly 60/60/60 with a little wiggle room depending on which campsites we go with and how much we do Friday night * the cost of this trip is $53 for your train ticket * for this train, you can just hand your bike fully loaded to the guy at the train luggage car and they will give it back to you at the platform in Cumberland, super easy * I’m making this VMO+previous bike experience, we don’t really have bikepacking levels but you should be confident with basic bike maintenance and have the knowledge, tools and materials to fix a flat tire, fix a broken chain, wrenches for your bike’s nuts and bolts, etc. you should also have a bailout plan in case of emergency since nobody will have a car * you will need a bike that can handle gravel * the tickets are changeable and refundable so you can catch the train at a different spot if it would be more convenient (Alexandria, Rockville) Map (please add any fun side quests or food!): https://caltopo.com/m/0U4NSRV/AAB0T1CNG65HMTAK I can take 4!

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. **7.4 miles with an elevation gain of 210+ feet.** **Description:** In honor of Memorial day we will begin our hike from the **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)** parking lot and proceed along the **[Mount Vernon Trail](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/mtvernontrail.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/mtvernontrail.htm)offering a splendid view of the **Potomac River** and well-known **Landmarks.** Arriving at the **[Arlington National Cemetery](https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/#/),** we will need to go through **security**. Once in the cemetery we will visit the **[JFK Memorial](https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/explore/monuments-and-memorials/president-john-f-kennedy-gravesite)**, the **[Arlington House](https://www.nps.gov/arho/index.htm)** and the **[Tomb of the Unknown Soldier](https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Monuments-and-Memorials/Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier).** There is the option of witnessing the **changing of the guard** at the Tomb which takes place on the half hour. Please consider ***wearing a white top*** to make it easier to identity group members as their will be a lot of people. **Pace:** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. **Bring:** adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, insect repellant and sturdy hiking shoes and hiking poles if you use them. **Fee:** None **Dogs:** Dogs are **not** welcome. **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)**[ ](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Weather:** weather for this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/434885816dced9dd270292ef3091a4d5d474bc898df914d47c36585a0f98d1c2).** **Where to Meet:** We will meet up in the **Columbia Island Marina** parking lot. GPS Coordinates: 38.87651,-77.04947 [Google Map link](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B052'35.4%22N+77%C2%B002'58.1%22W/@38.8761704,-77.0494217,18.33z/data=!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d38.8765!4d-77.0494722) Thank you so much for being ready to hike at 9:00 am to allow time to check-in and be ready to leave on time at 9:30 am. Please note that there are **Facilities** at **Columbia Island Mariana**, at **Arlington Visitor's Center** and at the **Arlington House**. **Arlington National Cemetery [Map](https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Visit/Map-of-ANC) .** **Post Hike Fellowship**: **Island Time Grill** at **Columbia Island Marina** Feel Free to reach out via text with any questions, Dawn K 703 533 9231 If you do text me, thank you for including your name.

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🍷♠️❤️ A Spades Special - A Night of Cards & "Casual" Conversation 🍷♠️❤️ Thank you for all those who participated in our Speak & Spades Night on April 10! We are hosting another event at the same venue in Downtown Silver Spring - Comma's Food Hall inside City Place Mall. This time, it will be more about the game - a traditional night of Spades play, lots of laughs, and Friday fun. ♠️ Spades games will be the main event, from 6pm to 10pm! Play cards, eat, drink, & socialize! Enjoy drink specials and variety of reasonably-priced restaurant options. ❤️ Optional: If interested, conversation cards will be available in the room all evening. No formal discussion or official program is planned. Just engage in open, casual conversations about a variety of topics with those who may want to talk as well. No pressure. Singles and couples are invited! Get matched with a partner onsite. All skill levels are welcome. The fun starts at 6pm! 🍷 Happy Hour Specials all night! 🎶 Live music will be playing 🚗 Parking available in Ellsworth Garage (connected to the venue through the Skywalk) 📷 See the photo section for details 🌜Join us for a night of CARDS....with a little bit of conversation, if you like! Either way, you won't forget it!🌛 <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><

Join us for an evening meditation hike. This is part of a series of unique walking programs focused on methods to tap into your own quiet space. Learn to unwind from your day and listen to the sounds of nature, silence, and your inner wisdom as we take a peaceful walk through the park. Learn a simple yet powerful way to meditate and commune with nature to invigorate your mind, body, and spirit. Each session consists of: * A Pre-walk "Intro to Meditation" to prepare you for the walk with suggested mediation techniques to use (from 6:30-6:45PM) * Walking in silence along the paths (approximately two miles from 6:45 – 8:15PM, with a brief break) * A Post-walk reflection to journal and time for sharing (from 8:15 – 8:30PM) Cost is $10 This is a rain or shine event. I'll See YOU on the Trail! Marcia Fairweather 301-352-5272 7 Days to live everyday as a Wellness Day (http://www.renewandrecharge.com/7daystowellness/signupforteleconference.html) Visit us online at www.frescoadventure.com (http://www.frescoadventure.com/) Live Life as an adventure! Details for Hiking Adventures Please review the information below and call if you have any additional questions. If you need to make changes in your attendance, please call before 3PM on the program date. Always leave a number for me to contact you so that I may call you back if needed. *** WHAT TO WEAR: * Comfortable, well-broken-in, sturdy walking shoes or ankle-high boots. * Protective clothing should include: * Long comfortable loose fitting pants * A cotton blend shirt provides for better perspiration and comfort * Dress in layers for warmth and comfort *** WHAT TO BRING: * Water canteen or bottle filled with water (at least 1 quart, bring what you feel you can carry or need to drink) * A journal or pad of paper to record your thoughts *** WHERE TO MEET: McDonalds at 4130 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC You may arrive by metro (Red line) on the Tenely exit and walk a few blocks down the street on Wisconsin Avenue. We will end closer to the Van Ness metro stop, so if you drive and park near the meeting location, you will need to walk a few blocks to return. Be onsite by 6:15PM to sign-in. We will begin the program promptly at 6:30PM, so please be on time. IMPORTANT: Your registration and RSVP to his program assumes the following Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility, and Release of Liability Fresco Adventures, a program of Fresco Enterprises, LLC is the sponsor of arrangements for this activity and is not responsible for any damage, loss, injury, or accident due to any act by the participants. Note: There are elements of risk in any activity associated with the outdoors and the use of any related equipment. Although precautions are taken to provide proper organization and suitable equipment so that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, there can be no guarantee of absolute safety against injury and accident. Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility and Release: I recognize the apparent risks of this activity which I and any minor children for which I am responsible, will engage in and confirm that I am mentally and physically capable of participating in the activity. I participate willingly and voluntarily, and I assume full responsibility for any personal injury. I hereby release Fresco Enterprises, LLC, its principals, agents, or volunteers from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever.

Join us for [Muay Thai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai) kickboxing at [OSMA in Herndon, VA](https://www.virginiabjj.com/): an energetic morning class focused on striking technique, conditioning, and controlled sparring. 🔥 This adult (16+) class combines **technical instruction, pad work, partner drills**, and **cardio training** to build real-world skill and endurance in a safe, structured setting. Beginners and experienced students alike will learn how to apply the principles of **Muay Thai: *The Art Of Eight Limbs***, through precise **strikes**, **timing**, and **defense**. Classes take place every **Saturday** at **10:00 AM**. The **drop-in fee is $20**, payable on-site, and note that we are located in **suite #130**. Come train with us and see why so many in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) choose One Spirit Martial Arts for top-tier martial-arts instruction. **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)** Q: Is this class suitable for someone interested in **boxing**? A: Yes! Muay Thai shares many of the same **striking fundamentals** as [boxing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing), including **stance**, **timing**, and **defensive movement**. Students searching for boxing gyms in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) or Northern Virginia train at OSMA to develop **solid punching technique** along with **kicks**, **knees**, and **elbows**.

🔥 60-Minute Full-Body Circuit Training Workout ⏱️ Structure Overview We will meet at the volleyball court in Founders Park in Alexandria, VA Warm-up: 10 minutes Main Circuits: 40 minutes Finisher: 5 minutes Cool-down: 5 minutes 🟢 1. Dynamic Warm-Up (10 Minutes) Perform continuously, 30–45 seconds each: Jumping jacks Bodyweight squats Arm circles (forward/backward) Walking lunges Inch-worm walkouts High knees Glute bridges Push-ups (easy pace) Goal: Increase heart rate + activate major muscle groups. 🏋️ Main Workout (40 Minutes) Format: 3 Circuits 4 exercises per circuit 40 seconds work / 20 seconds rest Repeat each circuit 3 times before moving on Rest as long as you want between circuits Cool down 5 Min IMPORTANT!!!!! Liability statement: I understand that I am responsible for exercising at my own pace and within my own physical limits, and for monitoring my condition during participation. I voluntarily assume all risks associated with my participation and agree that I attend entirely at my own risk. I hereby release and hold harmless the organizer, and affiliated parties from any and all liability, claims, or demands arising out of or related to any injury, medical condition, loss, or damage that may occur as a result of my participation.

Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

A Communion With Your Inner Self Unwind from your day and listen to the sounds of nature, silence, and your inner wisdom as we take peaceful walks through local parks and central downtown DC locations. Learn a simple yet powerful way to meditate by "walking with yourself" through silence. Let this commune with nature invigorate your mind, body, and spirit. This is a series of four hikes along various trails in Washington, DC. Each session consists of: * A Pre-walk "Intro to Meditation" to prepare you for the walk with suggested mediation techniques to use * Walking in silence along the paths * A Post-walk reflection and time for sharing The evening program is from 6:30-8:30PM at the following locations around the Washington DC area: Saturday, May 23: Glover Archibald Park Sunday, June 7: Circles of Washington, DC featuring local historical sites Saturday, August 8: C&O Canal in Georgetown Saturday, September 12: Soapstone Valley North Trail Cost is $25 for the entire series. Come to participate and learn all about how you can use meditation techniques to enhance your life. This is a rain or shine event. I'll See YOU on the Trail! Marcia Fairweather 301-352-5272 Visit us online at www.frescoadventure.com (http://www.frescoadventure.com/) Details for Hiking Adventures Please review the information below and call if you have any additional questions. If you need to make changes in your attendance, please call before 3PM on the program date. Always leave a number for me to contact you so that I may call you back if needed. *** WHAT TO WEAR: * Comfortable, well-broken-in, sturdy walking shoes or ankle-high boots. * Protective clothing should include: * Long comfortable loose fitting pants * A cotton blend shirt provides for better perspiration and comfort * Dress in layers for warmth and comfort *** WHAT TO BRING: * Water canteen or bottle filled with water (at least 1 quart, bring what you feel you can carry or need to drink) * A journal or pad of paper to record your thoughts *** WHERE TO MEET (check out the map details on each meetup for each date): **Saturday, May 23:** Glover Archibald Park into Georgetown, meet at the McDonald's at 4130 Wisconsin Ave. NW **Sunday, June 7:** Circles of Washington, DC featuring local historical sites. Meet outside of the Smithsonian Metro on the Mall **Saturday, August 8:** C&O Canal in Georgetown, meet at 23rd and K St. at the circle on Pennsylvania Ave. **Saturday, September 12:** Soapstone Valley Trail, meet at Starbucks outside of the Van Ness Metro station on Connecticut Ave. IMPORTANT: Your registration and RSVP to his program assumes the following Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility, and Release of Liability Fresco Adventures, a program of Fresco Enterprises, LLC is the sponsor of arrangements for this activity and is not responsible for any damage, loss, injury, or accident due to any act by the participants. Note: There are elements of risk in any activity associated with the outdoors and the use of any related equipment. Although precautions are taken to provide proper organization and suitable equipment so that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, there can be no guarantee of absolute safety against injury and accident. Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility and Release: I recognize the apparent risks of this activity which I and any minor children for which I am responsible, will engage in and confirm that I am mentally and physically capable of participating in the activity. I participate willingly and voluntarily, and I assume full responsibility for any personal injury. I hereby release Fresco Enterprises, LLC, its principals, agents, or volunteers from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

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.

Connected Westerville Night of Networking flips the script on networking, with surprises and connections that'll make you say, "Who knew networking could be this much fun?!"

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)