You are encouraged to bring whatever you need to feel supported and comfortable during this short, but jam-packed workshop. We recommend: 

• A reusable water bottle

• Seat cushions, fidget devices

• Electronic device chargers

• Layers: Indoor climate control is more art than science these days; layers are always a good idea. 

• Comfortable walking shoes: We'll be walking from the Colwell Center to the National Aquarium and back, and traversing various aquarium exhibits on Day 1. 

• Umbrella / rain gear: The current weather forecast indicates there is a strong chance there will be consistent drizzle on both days of the workshop. Temperatures are going to be pretty warm (read: hot and sticky) during the day and into the evening. *You will be exposed to the elements as we walk to and from the National Aquarium, and for a 15-minute presentation at the Harbor Wetlands exhibit on Day 1. 

The dress code is comfy-casual throughout the workshop. The reception on Tuesday evening will take place immediately after the day's activities end. Come as you are. 

*Don't forget to eat a hearty breakfast and a full lunch prior to the start of the workshop on September 10, to ensure you have plenty of energy to power you through the day's activities.

Yes! Workshop organizers have taken precautions to safeguard against the recent surge in COVID-19 transmissions, as well as any back-to-school bugs that may be making the rounds this time of year. We encourage participants to practice good personal hygiene and to make healthy choices for personal and community protection. 

Several medical-grade HEPA air purifiers will filter and circulate air in the main presentation space (Multi-Purpose Room). The ventilation system at the Rita Rossi Colwell Center provides a continuous stream of filtered air that does not re-circulate.  

N-95 respirators and KN-95 ear-loop masks will be available in various sizes. Fragrance-free gel hand sanitizer will be available in strategic locations throughout the meeting space, including the dining area. The on-site restrooms are stocked with antibacterial hand soap. Commonly-touched surfaces will be sanitized at various intervals throughout the day. 

A contact-less infrared thermometer will be available at the registration table throughout the event. Rapid-antigen tests and Lucira PCR-Flu tests are available for anyone experiencing symptoms of illness. Should you test positive, or suspect you may be carrying a transmissible pathogen, we encourage you return home to recover and recuperate in a safe, familiar, and comfortable place. 

Epi-pens and a first aid kit will be available at the registration table and in the dining area for the duration of the event. AED units are located on the 1st and 3rd floors (we're meeting on the 3rd floor) of the Rita Rossi Colwell Center. Many of the event staff have current First Aid / CPR certification. 

All food and beverages served throughout the event will be prepared to Celiac standards, with the utmost care taken to ensure there is no cross contamination of participant allergens. No red meat, seafood, pineapple, kiwi, sesame, or nuts will be served.  

Download the menu here! There will be ample vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Fun fact: 30% of registered attendees are vegetarian!

Light appetizers and a variety of drinks will be served during the Reception on Tuesday evening. We encourage participants to make arrangements for dinner at a local restaurant after 7:00pm. See the following FAQ for recommendations.

Breakfast will be served at the Rita Rossi Colwell Center on Wednesday morning. Coffee and tea service will extend into Lunch and through the end of the event. A snack table will be stocked throughout both days. 

All food and beverages served throughout the event will be prepared with the utmost care taken to ensure there is no cross contamination of participant allergens. Gluten-free products will be prepared to Celiac standards. No red meat, seafood, pineapple, kiwi, sesame, or nuts will be served.  

*Don't forget to eat a hearty breakfast and a full lunch prior to the start of the workshop on September 10, to ensure you have plenty of energy to power you through the day's activities.

While not required attendance, we have made group reservations at three restaurants within easy walking distance of the workshop venue. You are welcome to claim a seat in one of these existing reservations! Visit this spreadsheet to fill in your name in your reservation of choice. *Remember to update the spreadsheet if your plans change. 

If the existing reservations are full for your preferred restaurant, please contact Edith Mari to increase the reservation size or feel free to visit the restaurant website to reserve a table of your own. 

If you're not excited about any of these choices, we encourage you to explore Baltimore's diverse culinary scene. The nearby neighborhoods of Little Italy and Fells Point are home to dozens of delicious eateries that are open late on Tuesdays.

Participants will receive a tote bag, journal, and other branded goodies from workshop co-sponsors!

The canvas tote bag was designed by OA Alliance creative consultant Juliana Corrales and features a thematic haiku composed by Professor Steve Widdicombe, Director of Science at Plymouth Marine Laboratory and OARS co-chair. 

Take a sneak peek at the tote here! 

For any and all inquiries about this event and life in general, please email Edith. 

Yes, it is! Massachusetts diver, Charlie Nutting, captured footage of a native blue crab making a meal of an invasive green crab. Watch Charlie's original footage here.