Virginia

**🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ- we have a new WhatsApp chat .. everyone was removed from chat last Friday. Some have the link , but I am finding others are not seeing the new chat link . A new chat has been established - please request to be entered into the new chat if you will be going on the OC Getaway - Thanks** **https://chat.whatsapp.com/JSl4HviiNMBCkfyaxAQ1NX?mode=gi_t** **Hey Everyone!** ****************\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****FAQ’S FOR OCEAN CITY TRIP 2026!\*******************\*** **WHAT WILL WE BE DOING?** **We will be in OC mingling, making connections, enjoying great food and drinks, and of course, making memories, all while strolling the beach and boardwalk and enjoying that ocean breeze and air! We will also have themed nights to include a white party night and tropical night.** **\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****An official Itinerary will be issued soon once the OC businesses open for the season! Stay Tuned :)\***************\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\***************\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*********** **WHEN ARE WE GOING ?** **This year our annual Ocean Trip will take place on Thursday,May 28th-Sunday, May 31st. You do not have to come all four days. Please come as your schedules allow. However, the organizers will be there starting on Thursday early afternoon and until Sunday late afternoon. We will pinpoint an official time once the itinerary is posted. PLEASE NOTE: TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM the beach will not be provided! However, we may possibly gather together a team of carpools to mitigate fuel costs! Will discuss more on this at a later date.** **Who is invited ??** **Everyone who is of legal adult age is invited to join us! All are welcome and if you are bringing a guest, please inform us in advance so that we know how many to expect! Thanks** **WHERE ARE WE STAYING?** **The Hyatt Ocean City/Oceanfront will be the official host hotel for our group. You are free to stay where you wish. However, we have negotiated a group rate with the Hyatt and I have posted the link in the chat for booking your hotel reservations.** **\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****\*****Please note: A deposit equal to the first night's room rental plus tax will be required upon booking. Cancels must be submitted no later than 72 hrs prior to check in. Any cancel requests not received within that timeframe will be subjected to losing deposit. All hotel reservations for the Hyatt MUST be booked by April 30th, 2026. Balance will be due on day of check in.** ******* **Update- May 12th- There are no more available rooms in our group block at the Hyatt! Please feel free to book at the Hyatt - However the discounted group rate would not apply to your booking** ********** **OCEAN CITY GETAWAY ITINERARY** **🌊 OCEAN CITY GETAWAY 2026 ITINERARY** **📌 IMPORTANT NOTES** * **Some activities may require tickets or entry fees.** * **Most locations are walkable from the Hyatt; others accessible via the OC Beach Bus.** * **OC Beach Bus: $4 Ride-All-Day pass (exact cash or prepaid).** * **All activities are optional and at your own expense.** * **Times may change—updates will be shared via WhatsApp.** * **Daily morning “touch base” meetings will review plans.** **🏖️ THURSDAY – MAY 28** **3:00 PM – Hotel Check-In (Hyatt Ocean City Oceanfront)** **Settle in, unpack, relax.** **4:00 – 6:00 PM – Meet & Greet** **Drinks & light appetizers at Seascape Pool Bar** **Dress: Beachwear / Swimwear** **6:00 PM – Reset for Dinner** **7:00 – 9:00 PM – Group Dinner** **Franco’s Pizza & Bar** **10:00 PM – Late – Karaoke Night @ SandBar** **After Midnight (2–4 AM) – Night Owls Hangout** **Hyatt Lobby – Card/Board Games (BYO snacks & drinks)** **🌴 FRIDAY – MAY 29** **Theme: Tropical Attire** **8:00 – 9:00 AM – Morning Walk (Meet in Lobby of Hyatt )** **9:00 AM – Breakfast @ Hyatt** **10:00 AM – Daily Touch Base Meeting at Hyatt** **12:00 – 3:00 PM – Beach Day @ Assateague Island** * **Carpool ($25 per car entry)** * **Activities: Beach, Sunbathing, hiking, biking, and kayaking( additional fees apply for biking and kayaking )** * **Bring essentials (beach chairs, water, sunscreen, bug spray, towels)** * **We will also have lunch at 5 Tides before leaving the island** **3:30 PM – Touch Base (Hyatt Hotel Lobby)** **5:00 – Beach Time/ Free Time** **8:00 PM – Late – Dinner, Drinks & Dancing @ Seacrets** **(Group Photo)** **After Midnight (2–4 AM) – Night Owls Hangout** **Hyatt Lobby – Card/Board Games (BYO snacks & drinks)** **🤍 SATURDAY – MAY 30** **Theme: White Attire** **8:00 – 9:00 AM – Morning Walk( meet in lobby of Hyatt )** **9:00 AM – Breakfast @ Hyatt** **10:00 AM – Touch Base Meeting at Hyatt** **Morning–Afternoon – Free Time / Beach - Explore-** **12:00PM – OC Rocket Cruise** **(Advance tickets strongly recommended/ please purchase tix for 12PM cruise )** **2:00PM - Lunch at MR Ducks before OC Rocket Cruise** **3:30 PM – Touch Base Meeting-At Hyatt** **5:00PM – Late – Dinner & DJ Deck Party- 70’s Rock/Pop Band “FIZZ” @ Fager’s Island** **(Group Photo)** **After Midnight (2–4 AM) – Night Owls Hangout** **Hyatt Lobby – Card/Board Games (BYO snacks & drinks)** **🌅 SUNDAY – MAY 31** **8:00 – 9:00 AM – Morning Walk( meet in lobby of the Hyatt )** **9:00 AM – Breakfast@Hyatt** **Before 11:00 AM – Group Photo & Check-Out** **Early Afternoon (TBD) – Optional Group Lunch (on the way home)** **🎒 QUICK PACKING REMINDERS** * **Beachwear & themed outfits (Tropical + White)** * **Sunscreen & bug spray** * **Comfortable walking shoes** * **Towel (especially for boat cruise)** * **Portable charger** * **Snacks & drinks for late-night hangouts** **📱 COMMUNICATION** * **WhatsApp group will be used for updates and changes.** * **Please check regularly during the trip.** **Let’s have an amazing, safe, and unforgettable Ocean City getaway! 🌊**

Join us for [Muay Thai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai) kickboxing at [OSMA in Herndon, VA](https://www.virginiabjj.com/): an energetic evening 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 **Tuesday** and **Thursday** at **7:00 PM**. 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**.

Learn practical self-defense skills in Herndon, VA using [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ), with beginner-friendly instruction focused on real-world positions and submissions. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).** This class is designed for **adults** who want a clear, **structured introduction to self-defense** with a focus on basic takedowns and [ground fighting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground_fighting). Training emphasizes **foundational BJJ concepts**, including **positional control**, **escapes**, and **high-percentage submissions**. *No prior experience is required.* Instruction is paced for **beginners**, with an emphasis on **safety**, **understanding**, and building **confidence** on the mat. Classes run **Tuesdays** and **Thursdays** from **6:00–7:30 PM** at the [Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) serving students from nearby [Reston](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reston,_Virginia) and surrounding [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) areas. Come ready to **learn**, **move**, and **train** in a supportive environment. This [self-defense event in Herndon](https://nvma.group/2026/03/26/intro-to-self-defense-class-at-osma-in-herndon-va/) has been cross-posted on the NVMA website as well as on [Patch](https://patch.com/virginia/reston/calendar/event/20260402/85b3425c-6dfe-4840-b46d-87d129333c4e/introduction-to-self-defense-course-on-april-02nd-2026-at-osma-in-herndon-va).

Come out to Lost Gen to have a drink and gab a little! The bar is dog friendly and has a food truck. All are welcome :)

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.

To secure your spot, RSVP on Eventbrite link for free ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-band-karaoke-and-contest-tickets-650453934227](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-band-karaoke-and-contest-tickets-650453934227)). RSVPing only on the Meetup Page doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. ABOUT THE EVENT Embrace your inner diva and flaunt your vocals all night! Whatever you want to sing, we want to hear it. The entire group accompanies you when you sing and we will be your background singers. Don’t sing, no problem. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show. Need a little liquid courage? We have you covered. Before taking the stage, we’ll have plenty of drink specials. You’ll be sure to work up an appetite, so we will also feature food specials all night. Grab your friends and get ready to be the star of the show. Dress code : Weekend Casual Event is free and 21+ * Come one, come all; YOU COULD FLY SOLO TOO:) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended! * Feel free to invite your friends. They don't necessarily have to be a member * Ideal for either you are new in town or not, to make friends and acquaintances * We will have a registration station and check you in. * * METRO & PARKING INFO : Clarendon Metro Station is a block away. Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking, we highly recommend you to get a shared ride or taxi service. DRINK RESPONSIBLY! http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/7/5/6/600_434918742.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/1/3/6/600_418768982.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/7/9/c/600_434918812.jpeg

[https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm) Be prepared as lately, the National Park has been charging $20 to enter. **There are two sides to Great Falls National Park as it is divided by the Potomac River. For many, this is a must-see place since it is great for landscape photography. Of course, there are other genres like wildlife and birds such as great blue herons, turkey vultures, and others to photograph. The park does not open until 7:00 AM and WIFI is not available. Cell phone service is spotty. An eBird group surveys these wonderful birds every Sunday at 8:00 AM, except during the Christmas Count. Check the eBird list for updates.** **The Group parks in the first lot just past the Visitor Center on the right and walks south toward the Visitor Center then continues down to the three overlooks. Access to the first overlook is not for the faint of heart since the terrain is rocky but it is worth it because it provides a clear view going upstream of the Potomac River. Sometimes, the Group photographs kayakers as they travel up and down the falls.** **The second overlook has easier access to the river and the falls. The third overlook has a couple of sections that have views over the river. Kayakers and birds are visible from this overlook. Park visitors have been known to climb down the rocks to the river, but it is not recommended as it is dangerous. It has been reported that on average seven people drown in the Potomac River every year.** **At the end of this field trip, the Group typically has breakfast at the Silver Diner in Tyson's Corner, 8101 Fletcher St, McLean, VA 22102.** Bring Water, a Tripod, polarizer filter, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location, and 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.

George Washington & in the American Revolution, Alexandria, VA! As the 250th anniversary of the United States approaches, let's take a walk through historic Alexandria’s core, to examine the epochal life of "The Father of His Country." Old Town Alexandria has an astonishing dense array of famous persons and noted events related to George Washington's life and times. Especially those involving the American Revolution, in what was George Washington's home away from home, just miles from Mt. Vernon. Accompanied by a historian/author, immerse yourself in this special tour taking place in one of America’s most fascinating towns. MEET outside The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar, 715 King St., Alexandria, Virginia. About 2 hours in length. Fee: Prices start at $22. Pre-register and Pre-pay-- Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/george-washington-the-american-revolution-alexandria-virginia-tickets-1990520540520?aff=oddtdtcreator Or: PayPal, sending $23 to paypal.me/EMoser460 Or pay $22 at the start of the tour. Our packed itinerary will select from: • George Washington, Old Town surveyor • Lafayette's triumphant reunion tour to America, and his stay in Alexandria • The noted architects behind the city’s stunning architecture • Martha Washington's school • The Alexandria houses and taverns where GW stayed • John Adams, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and other Founders in town • Lafayette, first abolitionist • The site of the first six Presidential inaugural balls • The nation’s narrowest houses • Where GW passed by on the way to the battle of Yorktown • Where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were hatched • What did the Founding Fathers do for fun? Violent horse races & crazed drinking bouts from back in the day. • A World War Two munitions factory, and spy nest • How GW started a world war • The horrific attack on a Revolutionary War hero • "Give me liberty or give me death!" • The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--of the American Revolution • The sea battle of Alexandria, 1776 • The real “Father” of his country • GW's fistfight And more! Your guide is a former “Tonight Show” writer, an ex-Presidential speechwriter, & author of a crime thriller set in Alexandria that draws on its rich history: https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG His book on D.C.’s history, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: Crime, Scandal & Intrigue in the History of Lafayette Square: [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788) And his latest, a spy thriller set in Georgetown: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 Your host's tours are rated more highly than the Eiffel Tower or the Great Wall of China!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) MEET outside The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar, 715 King St., Alexandria, VA You can take the free trolley from the King St. metro stop. Plenty of free parking 2-3 blocks on either side of King St. Questions? Contact: [191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me) 703 203 2670 Examine America's independence in Washington's home away from his Mt. Vernon home.

George Washington & in the American Revolution, Alexandria, VA! As the 250th anniversary of the United States approaches, let's take a walk through historic Alexandria’s core, to examine the epochal life of "The Father of His Country." Old Town Alexandria has an astonishing dense array of famous persons and noted events related to George Washington's life and times. Especially those involving the American Revolution, in what was George Washington's home away from home, just miles from Mt. Vernon. Accompanied by a historian/author, immerse yourself in this special tour taking place in one of America’s most fascinating towns. MEET outside The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar, 715 King St., Alexandria, Virginia. About 2 hours in length. Fee: Prices start at $22. Pre-register and Pre-pay-- Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/george-washington-the-american-revolution-alexandria-virginia-tickets-1990520540520?aff=oddtdtcreator Or: PayPal, sending $23 to paypal.me/EMoser460 Or pay $22 at the start of the tour. Our packed itinerary will select from: • Lafayette's triumphant reunion tour to America, and his stay in Alexandria • George Washington, teenaged Old Town surveyor • The noted architects behind the city’s stunning architecture • Martha Washington's school • The Alexandria houses and taverns where GW stayed • John Adams, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and other Founders in town • Lafayette, first abolitionist • The site of the first six Presidential inaugural balls • The nation’s narrowest houses • Where GW passed by on the way to the battle of Yorktown • Where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were hatched • What did the Founding Fathers do for fun? Violent horse races & crazed drinking bouts from back in the day. • A World War Two munitions factory, and spy nest • How GW started a world war • The horrific attack on a Revolutionary War hero • "Give me liberty or give me death!" • The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--of the American Revolution • The sea battle of Alexandria, 1776 • The real “Father” of his country • GW's fistfight And more! Your guide is a former “Tonight Show” writer, an ex-Presidential speechwriter, & author of a crime thriller set in Alexandria that draws on its rich history: https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG His book on D.C.’s history, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: Crime, Scandal & Intrigue in the History of Lafayette Square: [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788) And his latest, a spy thriller set in Georgetown: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 Your host's tours are rated more highly than the Eiffel Tower or the Great Wall of China!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) MEET outside The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar, 715 King St., Alexandria, VA You can take the free trolley from the King St. metro stop. Plenty of free parking 2-3 blocks on either side of King St. Questions? Contact: [191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me) 703 203 2670 Examine America's independence in Washington's home away from his Mt. Vernon home.

**LOCATION CHANGE as of APRIL 1, 2026:** **Body Grace has moved to 133 Maple Avenue East, 3rd Floor, above the Bear Branch Tavern.** Whether you're new to Insight meditation or an advanced practitioner looking for like-minded people to sit with, you're welcome to join us at our Sunday morning drop-in group, sponsored by the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. Insight meditation cultivates our natural wisdom and compassion. Meditation practice develops concentration, which allows us to calm and steady the mind. This class includes a 30-minute lightly-guided meditation, followed by a short talk and time for questions and discussion. The size of the group usually runs somewhere between 25-40 people in-person and between 12-25 online. Chairs are provided, or you may bring a sitting cushion or bench. You may also use the blankets and bolsters offered by the yoga studio. **We offer both in-person and online attendance.** To learn more about our topics and teachers, view our videos or **get the Zoom link**, visit our [class page](https://imcw.org/event/?eventId=735&utm_source=MeetUp&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=vienna-drop-in).

Join Social Sips & Bites for a scenic waterfront walk from Jones Point in Alexandria across the iconic Woodrow Wilson Bridge to National Harbor! We’ll enjoy beautiful river views, fresh air, great conversations, and one of the most unique walking routes in the DMV. This is the perfect mix of social, active, and relaxing. Once we arrive at National Harbor, we can grab drinks, food, dessert, or just hang out by the waterfront and enjoy the atmosphere before heading back. • Amazing sunset and waterfront views • A fun, relaxed group vibe • Great conversations and new connections • Plenty of photo opportunities • Optional food/drinks at National Harbor after the walk Distance: Approximately 5–6 miles round trip Pace: Casual and social Bring comfortable shoes and come ready for a fun evening with the Social Sips & Bites family!

Community Backyards Workshop .Community Backyards Workshop - Westerville Join us for the Westerville Community Backyards workshop! This is a FREE class on how you can protect our waterways and environment with small changes in your gardening habits. We will discuss rain barrels, rain gardens, composting, and native plants. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but not required. * Location: Westerville Community Center, 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082 * Date and time: Sat, May 30, 2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM * Organizer: Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/h2w5ms8 **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Summer Session, Thursdays, June 4 - July 23, 2026, from 6 to 8:30pm ET **NAMI Family-to-Family** is a free, eight-week program for family members, caregivers, and partners of individuals living with mental illness. NAMI Family-to-Family provides information about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Other topics covered include communication, problem solving, treatment, and recovery.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

The number of ticks and tick diseases in Ohio have quickly multiplied over the last 10 years. Dean Kreager discusses tick species, tick pathogens, tick-borne diseases, tick bite prevention, and proper tick removal. Kreager is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator with OSU Extension in Licking County * Lakewood Public Library (in Hebron)- May 26 at 7pm [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/tick-talk-29621) * Johnstown public library at 7:00 pm June 8 [https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622](https://events.lickingcountylibrary.org/event/ctick-talk-29622) Free to attend, no RSVP needed

REGISTER HERE: [SIGN UP TODAY](https://link.elitereimm.com/widget/form/mUCJcb9LFDGoPqRg82jP?am_id=debbie4540) Should a real estate investor get a real estate license? Sometimes it’s a massive advantage… and sometimes it can complicate your business if you don’t know what you’re walking into. In this training, we’ll cut through the “agents vs investors” drama and focus on one thing: **what makes you more money and gives you more leverage**. You’ll learn: * **When being licensed helps investors win** (better access, better data, better terms, better deal flow) * How investors use a license to **create extra profit centers** (commissions, referrals, listings, buyer rep, property management pathways) * The truth about **MLS access, pocket listings, and being first to the good deals** * How licensing impacts **wholesaling, double-closing, assignments, and disclosures** * What brokerages don’t tell you: **fees, splits, compliance, and time requirements** * When it’s smarter to **partner with an agent** instead of becoming one * A simple decision framework: **licensed vs partnered vs hybrid model** You’ll walk out knowing whether licensing fits your goals—and if it does, the cleanest path to do it without slowing down your investing. REGISTER HERE: [SIGN UP TODAY](https://link.elitereimm.com/widget/form/mUCJcb9LFDGoPqRg82jP?am_id=debbie4540)

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.