Sustainable Energy

Please join us for Bike Ride looping around DC and Bethesda area. We will meet new Pierce Mill in Rock Creek park and ride north on Beach Drive. This is a very scenic ride on the road which is mostly closed to vehicular traffic. After crossing over to Maryland, we might switch riding on the Rock Creek Trail if the traffic is heavy on Beach Drive. We will exit the Rock Creek park near Cedar Ln, heading South next to NIH towards Bethesda Downtown. Most of the hard part of the ride should be done by now. In Bethesda we will have a break at Rooted3. After the break we will take the Capital Crescent trail towards Georgetown. This is downhill so it will be a breeze. In Georgetown we will catch the Rock Creek park trail (again!) to go North towards our starting point. Meeting point: [Pierce Barn/Mill at Rock Creek Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uVWXSL47Ki8AcY7R9) Meeting time: 7:45am Route: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yj6rEaBgi24XsV9E7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yj6rEaBgi24XsV9E7) Length: 24 miles Difficulty level: moderate/strenuous Elevation change: 410 ft up and 413 ft down Bike time: \~2.5 hours at moderate pace (\~10 mph) Total time: \~4 hours (including stops). Biking surface: paved Route type: mostly paved trails, some roads Breaks: multiple possible - we can decide en route: [Rooted 3 at Bethesda](https://www.rooted3.com/) [South Block at Georgetown](https://www.southblock.com/) **Metro Accessibility**: Pierce Mill at Rockville park is easily accessible via the Cleveland Park or Van Ness metro stations on Red line Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page. *For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).* *Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.* \*When you sign up to join, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC Activity Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/). *Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below* RULES * Pets are not allowed * Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event. * Practice safe biking habits including: * Wearing a bike helmet * Keeping a safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes) * Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/) 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! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

**🪷**\*\* Cost:\*\* This challenge has a fee. Multiple price options are available. To participate in this challenge, use this link: [Mindful Hiking Challenge Registration](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-mindful-hiking-challenge-nourish-yourself-nurture-community) 📅 Our challenge runs from July through October ✨ **Description:** What if a walk in nature could nourish your well-being while helping others experience the healing power of the outdoors? Join Imagine Well Being's Mindful Hiking Challenge and discover how simple acts of presence can create meaningful change- for yourself and for your community. You'll explore beautiful landscapes, engage in mindfulness practices, and reconnect with the natural world in ways that inspire curiosity, gratitude, and wonder. Whether you hike a mountain trail, wander through a historic landscape, or pause beside a quiet stream, each step becomes an invitation to slow down, notice more deeply, and remember your connection to the living world around you. To guide your journey, the challenge invites you to explore three distinct types of landscapes: * **Historic Sites:** *Where we listen to the stories of the land.* * **National Scenic Trails:** *Where the path guides us back to ourselves.* * **National Parks:** *Where awe expands our perspective.* ⚙️ **How it Works** You choose how, when, and where you explore. Complete the challenge at your own pace, and enrich your journey by joining our hosted, in-person community events—from hikes and bike rides to forest bathing, sound baths, and mindful movement. 📖 Participants receive a downloadable mindful hiking guide for each landscape, featuring sensory and creative invitations to explore with curiosity, deepen awareness, and discover what the land has to share. 💖 **The Impact:** A Practice of Reciprocity Just like a healthy forest relies on an unseen network of roots to thrive, this challenge creates a beautiful cycle of mutual care between you and your community. 🌿 **Nourish Yourself** Modern life floods us with screens, noise, and constant "doing," leaving us disconnected or overwhelmed. Spending intentional, mindful time in nature lowers stress, boosts immune health, and restores physical energy. Consider this challenge your personal sanctuary—a sacred space to quiet an overactive mind and return to your truest self. **🤝 Nurture Community** While you are out on the trail restoring your own spirit, your registration fee and donations ripple outward. Your generosity supports the work of Imagine Well Being, including: * **Accessible Nature Programs:** Keeping our holistic nature experiences affordable and welcoming to everyone. * **Community Helper Workshops:** Providing Wellness-in-Nature and stress-relief sessions for local library staff and other community workers. * **Therapeutic Outreach:** Bringing the healing power of forest therapy directly to residents in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, as well as adults with developmental disabilities. **🌐**\*\* Newsletter:\*\* [Sign up Today for Imagine Well Being's latest news, upcoming events, and retreats!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) **⭐️ Liability Release:** With my RSVP, I hereby confirm that I am physically able to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all events, gatherings, and retreats are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**

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. **5 miles with 420 feet elevation gain.** **Fee Free Day!** ***Join us in celebrating Independence Day weekend*** ***for a nice hike along the scenic Potomac River and adjoining forests of Great Falls Park, Virginia.*** **Description:** ***Beat the heat with an early and short hike, with time left to go see some fireworks.*** We'll start our hike with the three Great Falls overlooks for great views of the flowing Potomac River. Once completing the overlooks, we will connect to the River Trail for views along Mather Gorge. Other trails include Ridge Trail, Difficult Run, and Swamp Trail. Trails are in the forest canopy. The pace will be about 2.5 mph but adjusted for conditions. **Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots in the forest. Restrooms are open at the Great Falls Visitor Center. May want to also bring some insect repellent. **Meet:** We will meet at the Great Falls Parking lot closest to the Visitor Center. I will park as close as I can in the parking lot, white SUV with the rear hatch open. GPS: 38.998198, -77.255878 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/m5LGdmjqFtLfEUAfA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/m5LGdmjqFtLfEUAfA) Please plan on being there at 8:15am so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time. **Dogs are welcome. Dog Policy** [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Park Fee**: ***Park Fees waived on Independence Day Weekend.*** If you haven't hiked with me before, please provide your name, contact number and emergency contact number. You can text me the info or direct message me on Meetup. Do not post in comments. Any questions, please message me on Meetup or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

### **What would you like to wish at exactly 11:11? The number 1111 is associated with spiritual awakening, intuition, and spiritual growth. It also signifies enlightenment and the manifestation of your desires.** ### ***What is sound healing? During a sound healing experience also known as a sound bath participants lie down comfortably, allowing their bodies to relax and open to the healing frequencies from the soothing vibrational sounds filling the space. The session will feature an array of instruments, including crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, gentle chimes, gongs, and other vibrational instruments, each chosen for their unique resonant qualities. The soundscape will be carefully crafted to guide participants through a journey of deep relaxation and inner exploration, promoting emotional release and mental clarity. As the session unfolds, the sounds will recalibrate every cell in your body, creating a nurturing environment where you can connect to your innerself. The experience will make you feel refreshed, aligned and rejuvenated.*** **What you may experience during this session:** * Stress Relief and deep relaxation * Ability to connect to your higher self, Ancestors and the divine * Relief physical pain * Release anxiety * Improve emotional balance * Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace * Ability to create self-love and improve relationships **What to bring:** * Your own water bottle * A Yoga mat or use one at the studio * A blanket ( or use one at the studio) * Eye mask (if you have one) * Comfortable clothes to lay down * If you are very sensitive to sound you may wear earplugs for this session **About Jenny Perez Curandera: Jenny is a full time Curandera and Shamanic Healer. Her core values are to LIVE IN HARMONY with great spirit, the elements, nature, animals and people. DO NO HARM TO OTHER PEOPLE, PLANTS OR ANIMALS. In the traditional Curanderismo that Jenny practices the foundation is LOVE AND RESPECT to the spirit world, towards animals,plants, people,free will and the elders who guard the curanderismo tradition (Los Abulitos de la tradicion).** **Private bookings are available for ancestral healings,energy clearing , energy balancing and tarot readings. If you would like to book a private energy session or tarot reading before/after ceremony send an email to healing@curanderasheart.com or text (703)531-7046 ( Visit our site for more information on our upcoming ancestral healing ceremonies, trauma release ceremonies, cacao ceremonies, full moon ceremonies, women circles, breathwork sessions and energy clearing ceremonies to bring balance to mind, body and spirit) Stay connected via IG @curanderasheart** ### **Curanderas Heart is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA . 5852 Washington Blvd STE 5 Arlington VA at a walkable neighborhood with food options and street parking. Space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe. Due to limited space pre registration and arriving on time is very important.** ### **Energy Exchange: $45** ### **Multiple Dates: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday Mornings 11am-12pm (Space is limited make sure to register early) Arrive early to set up your spot we will start on time) DON'T KNOCK ON THE DOOR OR DISTURB THE SESSION. ONCE THE DOOR IS CLOSED IT MEANS SESSION IS ALREADY IN PROCESS AND IT WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL THE SESSION IS OVER.Info: Healing@curanderasheart.com call or text (703)531-7046** ### ### **Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed or canceled reservations** ### **What you may experience during this session: Improve emotional balance, Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace. Ability to create self-love and improve relationships**

In previous years, the rangers said they try to get to the park and open the gate by 7:45 AM. From the website: [https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm) Waterlilies are bountiful all over the park! Our volunteers moved the tropical lilies from the hothouses to the display ponds, and they are vibrant. Bird enthusiasts have been enjoying watching the 3 young fledgling red-shouldered hawks, nesting orchard orioles, and kingbirds. Turtles have been laying eggs, and tadpoles and frogs are abundant in the ponds. Every year, we visit Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on July 4th. The lotus flowers start blooming in early June and will be plentiful by the end of the month. The best time to visit is in the morning, as the temperatures are cooler and the flowers close up in the heat of the day, usually around 1:30 pm. I know it is outside of the Virginia Beltway, but it is not far. It is a very unique place in Washington, DC. I will be there in my grey pickup and rain or shine (hopefully shine)! Bring: Tripod Comfortable shoes Water Fully charged batteries Empty memory cards Rain poncho and plastic bags for the camera and lens in case of rain. Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Park Facts Entrance Fee: Free Allow Dogs with lease: No Bathroom: Restroom in the Visitor Center Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave, NE, Washington D.C. 20019 Lat, Long: 38.913003, -76.940142 - Parking Lot Plus Code: W375+6W Washington, District of Columbia Website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm I generally schedule this meetup on the Fourth of July, as I would have the day off. They are open on July 4th, but one year we waited until 9:00 AM until a ranger showed up to unlock the gate, and it wasn’t a holiday. I also want to mention security, as in the past, a photographer in my group was at the gardens and saw someone’s car being broken into in the parking lot. From the parking lot, walk towards the gardens down the path. I usually stay to the left and head into the lotus fields. Please be careful, as there are just dirt paths between the fields, and if there has been a lot of rain, there can be ruts, and I almost twisted my ankle. You actually need a fairly long lens, as the lotus flowers are tall and can be some distance away. A wide angle is only good for some overall shots, and a good-sized macro works as well. Another thing folks do not realize is that the flowers do bloom into September, but have many full blooms. This is one park where you do not have to worry about mosquitoes, as they are eaten by pond beetles, dragonflies, and damselfly larvae, and also by frogs and birds. There is a boardwalk at the back of the flower fields that goes out to a marsh area. I have seen many types of birds and dragonflies in that area. Being there makes it hard to believe that you are in Washington, DC. On the way out, allow some time to check out the small ponds with different lotus and lilies that also attract frogs and dragonflies. Why you will not see any mosquitoes in the park: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/learn/nature/insects.htm 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.

Hey Poetry Lovers! This group is on a roll. Here’s the gist: We meet at the **Capital One Café in Chinatown** from **12pm - 2pm** every other week. For enrichment, we start by reading and reflecting on a **“published poem”**, suggested by someone in the group. No advance preparation is necessary. But feel free to check out some of the poems we’ve read [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vSyE_wCLQCPHRrKmN5F9tOIeeRQUZESxjRXGVBoCF2uU8Gm0_d0uECiCBCQXEy6ksxfsBOhtRIOpW3T/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E). Or submit suggestions for future meetings [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexGc2Z2Kp6bZW0D3_hfJ7NUUkfNHf7TXX-43FglCeBd9EF2Q/viewform?usp=send_form). Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Ian / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

Sit back and relax as Tibetan & crystal bowls (and other instruments) help bring you back into alignment thru sacred sound therapy. This is a great way to clear yourself and recharge for the week ahead. For those interested, it can also assist in achieving deeper stages of meditation. Space is limited so a RSVP is required. Once you have joined us for an event, you are welcome to text to confirm your spot. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. You are also welcome to walk our grounds or check out or crystal shop. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable rd. Property is at end of 1/2 driveway into the woods. you will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (5 MPH) as to not stir any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway so it's important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. COST: To help make this affordable to all, we have an offering range of $15-$25. If you would like to contribute in another way, please let us know. With Love and Gratitude

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

Join us for a discussion of ***The Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet* by John Green.** Here's the summary: The Anthropocene is the current geological age, in which human activity has profoundly shaped the planet and its biodiversity. In this remarkable symphony of essays adapted and expanded from his ground-breaking, critically acclaimed podcast, John Green reviews different facets of the human-centered planet - from the QWERTY keyboard and Halley's Comet to Penguins of Madagascar - on a five-star scale. Complex and rich with detail, the Anthropocene's reviews have been praised as 'observations that double as exercises in memoiristic empathy', with over 10 million lifetime downloads. John Green's gift for storytelling shines throughout this artfully curated collection about the shared human experience; it includes beloved essays along with six all-new pieces exclusive to the book. **Let’s meet at Caboose Commons in Fairfax to enjoy some good discussion and meet new friends.**

🍇 **UPDATE: Change of Plans for This Sunday** Good news: I found an easy way to reach the wineberry patches, so we won’t have to trek through thorns and brambles or cross any streams. Bad news: After checking several wineberry patches over the past week, it's clear the berries need just a little more time. A late frost appears to have delayed the season, and most of the berries are still unripe. Rather than hike out only to find slim pickings, we'll give them another week or two to finish ripening. This is probably for the best anyway. The forecast is calling for a very high heat index, making an off-trail hike through thorny thickets much less enjoyable. **Instead, let's get together for coffee, pastries, and conversation!** We'll meet at **Tous les Jours** in Gaithersburg (1 Grand Corner Ave P0, Gaithersburg, MD 20878) at **11:00 AM**. Whether you'd like a coffee, tea, pastry, or lunch, this will be a great opportunity to get to know one another, talk about foraging and future Meetup ideas, and escape the summer heat for a bit. I'm optimistic that the wineberries will be ready in another week or two, and I'll schedule the foraging hike as soon as they're at their peak. Looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday!

Flow Beneath the Bells: Traditional Yoga at the Netherlands Carillon Cost: Free Level: Beginner Friendly Take a break from the noise and join us for a refreshing hour of yoga in one of Arlington’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve been practicing for years or can’t touch your toes without negotiating first, you’re welcome here. This class is designed for beginners, but experienced practitioners will also enjoy the flow. During this session we’ll: • Learn foundational yoga poses • Explore simple breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve focus • Build strength, balance, and flexibility • Stretch out tight muscles from work, running, cycling, or life in general • Spend an hour moving, breathing, and reconnecting with ourselves No pressure. No competition. No yoga experience required. What to Bring • A yoga mat or large towel • Water • Comfortable clothes you can move in • An open mind A Few Quick Notes • Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time. • Avoid a heavy meal right before class. Light snacks are fine. • If your plans change, please update your RSVP so someone else can join. Safety Disclaimer Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including yoga. Participate at your own pace and listen to your body. Modify or skip any movement that doesn’t feel right for you. By attending this class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being and participate voluntarily.

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

(Note: RSVPing here on meetup does NOT reserve your seat. To do that, you’ll need to register at our website, [HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=Picnic-with-a-Purpose-Real-Estate-Networking-That-Actually-Pays-Off-14-7-7-2026).) Real estate is a proven wealth-builder—it has been for generations. But it’s not a solo sport. You need PEOPLE—who can advise you, partner with you, bring you deals, and buy deals from you. We’re all about bringing you the best, most active, most got-your-back people in Central Ohio, which is why our July meeting is all about real conversations with real investors at our annual Picnic with a Purpose. This is where: * Deals get discussed * Partnerships get formed * Funding relationships start * Problems get solved faster Bring your family. Build your network. Strengthen the relationships that actually move your business forward. Members and first-time guests are free. Returning guests are $35. Location is a local park and will be shared after registration. Space is limited, so you’ll want to secure your spot now. Remember, to actually reserve your seat, you have to go [HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=Picnic-with-a-Purpose-Real-Estate-Networking-That-Actually-Pays-Off-14-7-7-2026) and register on our website!

Want to be a speaker? submit your talk to our Call for Presenters!!! https://sessionize.com/azure-cbus-2026/

Join us at Unity of Columbus for our Weekly Reiki Share, a peaceful and uplifting gathering for connection, healing, and growth. A Reiki Share is a time where Reiki practitioners and students come together to give and receive healing energy in a supportive and welcoming environment. These sessions will be moderated by Columbus Unity Reiki. Reiki is a hands-on energy healing method from Japan that first came to the United States in 1938. Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now widely practiced throughout the West. All levels are welcome, and you do not need to be a practitioner at Unity of Columbus to attend. If you are a Reiki practitioner, a Reiki student, or simply interested in becoming a Reiki student, we warmly invite you to join us. Come practice your healing techniques, learn new approaches, receive healing energy, and connect with a like-minded community in a space of relaxation, renewal, and positive energy.

Backyard Conservation: Prairies Thursday, July 16, 2026 Want to find a way to reduce your lawn care costs and maintenance while providing habitat for Ohio pollinators, birds and other wildlife in a beautiful way? Putting in a backyard prairie may be for you! Come the evening of July 16th to learn how you can create one in ANY yard, large or small. You will visit our small manicured demo prairie suitable for small spaces and our large scale prairie areas at Infirmary Mound Park. FREE! Register by July 14 (or just show up!) https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/272/July-2026 6PM - 7:30PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

Topic to be announced. **CALL FOR SPEAKERS** Learn more: https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/ **THANK YOU** *VEEAM* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Veeam*, please visit their website: https://www.veeam.com/ **DIRECTIONS** 8800 Lyra Dr #450 · Columbus, OH go to 4th floor. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

Gravel Gardens 101 with Native Plants Thursday, July 9, 2026 Learn how to design, install, and maintain a water-wise and low-maintenance gravel garden. We will cover plant selection (like drought-tolerant natives), proper gravel depth, and weed prevention. FREE! Register by July 7th at Licking Parks website https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/272/July-2026 Or just show up! (Registering will let you know of any date/time changes) 6PM - 7:30 PM

Join us for the Summer edition of [Nature Loving Fest](https://www.facebook.com/events/1575999320350910/), a small, thoughtfully curated outdoor gathering celebrating vibrant vegan eats, handmade goods, and the fullness of the season. Formerly known as our Vegan Pop-Up, this gathering continues to grow as a space rooted in nature, community, and intentional living. Expect around 20 + local vendors offering refreshing seasonal vegan dishes, small-batch bakes, handcrafted goods, and earth-conscious products. This is a welcoming space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the warmth and abundance of summer. Come support local makers, share good food, and celebrate the height of summer with us. Admission is Free.