Ruby On Rails

We’re heading out for a beautiful cross border hike through forest, heathland, open landscapes, and a very special midpoint stop: **De Achelse Kluis**, a historic abbey on the border between the Netherlands and Belgium. The hike starts in the Netherlands and takes us through the peaceful **Leenderbos**, one of the most atmospheric forest areas in North Brabant. Expect woodland paths, sandy tracks, heath, open views, and that lovely Veluwe style feeling of moving between forest and open landscape. As we continue south, we make our way toward the Belgian border and our main break location: **De Achelse Kluis**. This unique abbey complex lies between **Hamont Achel** and **Leende**. With roots going back to the 17th century, and later known as a Trappist abbey, it offers a beautiful neogothic setting with a brasserie, abbey shop, and a calm historic atmosphere. After several kilometers of forest and heathland walking, arriving at the abbey will feel like a real reward. We’ll take our longer break here, with the option to enjoy the brasserie, have a coffee, try Limburgse vlaai, taste an abbey beer, or simply relax around the grounds. After the break, we cross back into the Dutch side and return through the Leenderbos, completing a full loop through forest, heathland, and quiet countryside. A hike with forest energy, abbey atmosphere, monks’ history, and a touch of Belgium. 📲 **WhatsApp group** I’ll open a temporary WhatsApp group for everyone signed up before the hike, so we can coordinate carpooling, final break arrangements, and any last minute updates. **📍When and where to meet?** We’ll meet at 11h15 at Busstop "Leende, Valkenswaardseweg/A2"" https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uij4AmfEos2foDbQ8 ⏰ **We start walking a few minutes after meeting up** We don’t wait for latecomers, as we have a long route ahead and want to enjoy the full day properly. **🚗 Coming by car?** Please check your parking options beforehand so you arrive on time. **⏸️ Planned Breaks** After around **10 km:** 60 minute break at **De Achelse Kluis** I still need to confirm the practical arrangements with the brasserie, including whether we can just have drinks or whether we need to order food as well. I’ll share the update in the WhatsApp group once confirmed. **💸 Payment** Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space. 🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5. Please pay here: https://tikkie.me/pay/ute915nnuvqfl74002hh **👟 Good to know** * Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 8 May at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable. * Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits. * If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably. * At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities. * Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily. * Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay. * What to bring: Snacks and water. * Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike. * T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.

[Reserve your spot here](https://ccu.stager.co/shop/livecodingweekend/events/111653422?utm_campaign=live-coding-101&utm_source=meetup) Learn to make live coded music and visuals from scratch! Whether you're a complete beginner, or already have live coding foundations, this weekend will offer you a chance to experiment with your creativity. Learn programming visuals from Niki Scheijen with the Hydra Video Synth, and programming music from Wilbert Vogel with the Mercury Playground. On Saturday evening, we'll host a From-Scratch session together with the Netherlands Coding Live community, where you can enjoy improvised performances by others, or show off your newly acquired skills. On Sunday evening, we will host a small showcase for course members! **Programme** Saturday 16 May 13:00 - 18:00 - Workshops Day 1 Saturday 16 May 19:30 - 22:00 - NL_CL From Scratch Session Sunday 17 May 13:00 - 16:00 - Workshops Day 2 Sunday 17 May 16:00 - 18:00 - Showcase [More info and tickets](https://ccu.stager.co/shop/livecodingweekend/events/111653422?utm_campaign=live-coding-101&utm_source=meetup)

🎶Calling all music lovers, players, and listeners!🎶 Do you play an instrument, love listening to live spontaneous jam sessions or just want to meet new people? Come join us for a musical evening at Cafe Domkop! 🎸🎹🥁Feel free to bring your own instrument if you have. There will be one keyboard, one guitar, cajón and two mics on site already. From beginners to pros, everyone is welcome to join. 👋 **Meetup hosts will be there from 17:00 to 19:00** \- you’re welcome to join anytime\. 🎶 **Jam session is from 17:00 to 20:00** \- stay as long as you like and enjoy the vibe!

Hi everyone! For those who want to enjoy nature, trips/excursions, and generally a more outdoors setting, let’s get together for a hiking excursion! The plan is to meet at Utrecht Central (and/or a train station that is closest to our hiking area), and then we begin our hiking route. For first-timers (or as a helpful reminder 😉), I recommend that you wear a comfy outfit & shoes and bring water & a snack or two. At some point during the excursion, we can do a break in-between to rest and eat/drink for a while. Depending on the time & weather, and whether people are up for it, there’s always the possibility of follow-up drinks later that day. More info about the route/location: https://www.ns.nl/dagje-uit/wandelen/elsterberg.html Short info from the route's site; the route is 17.5 km in total but can be stopped at 11 km by going to Elst and getting the bus 50 to go back to Veenedal, Zeist, or directly to Utrecht. For pet owners, dogs are allowed in most parts of the route, but there's a 1.5 km part (grazing area) where dogs are not allowed. However, there is an alternative path to take 👍 In addition, I'll attempt to take different turns this time aiming for different fields than the ones we saw before. More on that closer to the event's confirmation day More tips on finding the group and helpful contact info with the host will follow in the comments the day before the meetup. To those interested, hope to see you there! 😄 In case of bad (NL) weather, the event might be moved to another day.

Whether you are a veteran board gamer, or it is your first time playing board games, time to roll some dice, play some cards and flip the table!!! :P You can bring your own games or play those brought by others. There are also dozens of games available for us at Het Lab. No need to know the rules to a game beforehand. Usually people are happy to explain the rules. Feel free to drop a comment in the event's comments section to look for players for a specific game. - You can bring your own food or have it delivered. There are plenty of restaurants and food venues are around Het Lab. You can buy soft drinks at Het Lab. - As usual, voluntary contribution of €5 per person is more than welcome to pay for the costs of the venue and this meetup group. - All participants get 10% discount on all games purchases on the day of the meetup. Hope to see you all there, happy gaming in the meantime!

Have you always wanted to visit the Netherlands, but for no specific reason, you never actually did it? How about spending a weekend of street photography in one of the most beautiful Dutch cities-Utrecht-with me? | lived in Utrecht for 8 years and can show you all the beautitul spots. Find more details on my website! Workshop Details Where: Utrecht, The Netherlands When: 16.05.2026 Time: 07:30 — 10:30PM What you’ll Learn * Master how to use natural light and shadow to create striking black and white images * Capture candid street moments with confidence * Embrace ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), a creative technique that combines deliberate camera movement with a slow shutter speed to create abstract, painterly images * Discover the timeless beauty of black and white street photography Your participation costs 150 CHF. Please register directly through my website to secure your spot: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops More info on www.katjabouwman.com/workshops or visit my Instagram account katja_zuerich

## 🎨**Activity for EXPATS & English Speakers** ☕ Are you an art enthusiast living in or around **Amersfoort, Hilversum, Utrecht, Nieuwegein, IJsseltein, De Bilt and the rest of cities of the Utrecht's province** who love painting or drawing? Maybe you've felt the joy of creating but struggled to find others who share your passion and speak **ENGLISH**? **You're not alone! 😉** ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## 🖌️**About this event** You will meet other Art Lovers like you to Draw, Paint and have some drinks Together ! Our events are not just about sketching or creating art—they’re about building connections. Every two weeks, we meet at a café to have a relaxing time drawing a painting. Please keep on mind that **ENGLISH i**s the official language we will use to integrate everyone in our conversations. ⭕⭕⭕➡️ **IMPORTANT ⬅️** ⭕⭕⭕⭕ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**Book formally your Seat 🪑via [WHATSAPP](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** **If you want to confirm officially your attendance and separate your seat🪑. Book your seat in meet-up, and contact us via [WHATSAPP HERE](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f) to receive more information on the address of our activities.** **Thanks a lot for your understanding!** 💐🥰 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**How Does It Work?** This event is simple, this initiative takes 2 Hours. Most of the participants use pencils, water pencils or watercolours. Main aim is to socialize while we draw. There will be plenty of time to talk and get to know each other. We have to mention that this event is suitable for all levels. Many have started to draw in our event actually. Also it is very important that you **[JOIN US AT OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f),** to stay up to date on our upcoming events and participate in our Drawing and Painting Contests! **👉: [https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** 🍀 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### ☕**Where?** We will meet in different cafes mainly in the *center of Amersfoort ( and some occasions in other cities around)*. I will inform you of the exact place some days in advance this event. The place will depend on the number of attendees. ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### **🎟️ What is included?** 🟢 **2 HOURS TO HAVE FUN!** 🟢 **15 mins warming-up creative activity and paper material**🖌️🎨 🟢 New friendships and **conversations in ENGLISH** in a relaxed atmosphere 🟢 **Souvenir picture** with you and the rest of Art Lovers 📷 🟢 Exclusive **access to our Art Lovers Community** on which you will receive: ***\~\~\~ Drawing challenges,*** ***\~\~\~ Training content,*** ***\~\~\~ FREE Entries only to members*** ***\~\~\~ Drawing Competitions*** 🟢 Time to **create alongside fellow artists and amateurs** 🟢 The freedom to **work at your own pace** 💃🕺🎈 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 🖼️**Art Materials?** Bring your own practical art materials to be adaptable to sketch on a coffee table. Like your sketchbook, pencils, watercolor, markets, pencils, your Tablet..etc ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## **See you to Paint, Draw, and drink together!🌟☕🍷🍪🍰**

Gran Fondo Rosa is a must ride in the Netherlands, and since years we are riding under the ATAC flag! 3 distances available: 80, 120 and 170km. It’s a sportive so not a race, you choose your pace and we enjoy the race ride. Roads are closed and there are food and drink stops along the way. When signing up, select FRIEND TEAM and then type ATAC as the team. We will have our own table at the pasta party. Sign up here: https://www.nltourrides.nl/gran-fondo-rosa/#inschrijving Cheers !

**We have limited space at the café, so if you've RSVPd and can't make it, please cancel as early as possible so another person can join!** Join in for a morning of crafting & chatting over a drink. Just bring your own project and payment for drinks. Meet fellow crafting enthusiasts, whether it's knitting, crocheting, stitching, origami, or something more unique! We talk about our projects, exchange tipps, but also just get to know each other and enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning in good company. We now also have a WhatsApp group, where we want to organise get-togethers and other events. Ask one of the organisers at the next Meetup you join for more information and access.

Update!! Because too cold (and maybe rainy), we move this event to an indoor venue. Still BYO food/drinks! And think maybe boardgames? _________ With warm & good weather on the horizon again, it's time again to get more picnic-y & outdoors-y 🌄 For this new season, let's revisit the old picnic gathering formula, but add into the night vibe & spicy dance theme (in this case tango, because other dances are oversaturated with events 😊) The premise: A picnic gathering starting from 15:30 & ending 20:00 Since it's evening vibes, BYO food/drinks/games still applies but think time appropriate (don't go big on alcohol though!) Dancing aspect, music starts 16:00 & ends 20:00 sharp! Exact location in Griftpark: To be concluded, but assume close to where the meetup event location currently is set at Additional notes for the tango aspect: *you're very much welcome to join in & dance, even with no experience. I can show you a thing or two so you can get a taste & give it a go 😊 Depending on how many, either via a quick group tryout or I help you out individually - The tango aspect of the event is through the Utrecht Tango Cafe Milonga community (also organized by Constantinos) More info --> [https://www.utrechtcafemilonga.com](https://www.utrechtcafemilonga.com) If you have any further questions, feel free to message the host Depending on the time & weather, and whether people are up for it, follow-up drinks can always follow later that day. To those interested, I hope to see you there! 😄

**Meetup & Mad Cow Comedy Show (please purchase a ticket in advance for the show [here](https://shop.weeztix.com/7644a480-d5a7-4264-a27a-ed697bb17fc9/events?shop_code=3qjd24qv))** 🎟️ TICKETS: https://bit.ly/Expats_Utr_Comedy 🕒 Show starts at 15:00 \| Doors open at 14:00 🍺🥨 Grab a drink or snack from Kartoffel’s tasty menu **From 14:00 – Join the Meetup!** Before the show kicks off, come by early for our pre-show Meetup from 14:00. It's a relaxed and friendly way to meet other internationals living in Utrecht, especially if you're new in town or just looking to connect. Our lovely host **Gisele** will be there to welcome you and introduce you to a few friendly faces. Whether you come solo or with friends, you're guaranteed a warm vibe and some easy laughs before the comedy even starts! 🐮 **From 15:00 - The Show!** Mad Cow Comedy hosts an afternoon of stand-up comedy performed by various international acts, all performing in English. Utrecht-based comedian, Rachel Morton-Young, introduces a different mix of comedians every 2 weeks, so no two shows are ever the same. **Kartoffel:** Our show now takes place in the Biergarten at Kartoffel, a German-themed restaurant along the historic Oudegracht (only a 10 minutes walk from Utrecht Central Station). The venue has great, affordable food, so considering coming early for lunch, or staying for a bite after the show. 🐮 **Hosted by Rachel Morton-Young** Rachel brings the energy, warmth and cheeky charm Mad Cow Comedy is known for. She’s a British comic living in Utrecht and the mastermind behind these monthly mayhem-filled shows. **Line-ups:** **22nd February 2026** ✨ **Diederik Zuurmond** – dry, playful observations from a British-born Amsterdammer ✨ **Ghieslaine Guardiola** – dynamic, multi-talented performer blending storytelling with big stage energy ✨ **Pieter Jouke** – seasoned international comedian with sharp, intelligent humour ✨ **Kyle Lucey** – high-energy Canadian headliner with punchy, no-nonsense comedy **Upcoming Dates:** * 22nd March 2026 * 5th April 2026 * 19th April 2026 * 3rd May 2026 * 17th May 2026 (Season finale!) * We'll be back in September! **What Customers Say about Mad Cow Comedy (from Tripadvisor):** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\*"The highlight of my visit to Utrecht!! I had tears laughing, the absolute perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Very professional show, lovely community vibe, cosy venue and fab food and drinks."\* ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\*"Great mix of comedians. Rachel the host is energetic and brings a different mix of stand up acts every two weeks. I have been a few times now and it's always a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon."\* ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\*"Amazing line up of comedians. A fun afternoon. The best 3 hrs full of laughter. Great line, witty people, well organised"\* 🐮 See you there?

*Since the event will be in Dutch, this description is too.* Ben je benieuwd naar wat het Tibetaans boeddhisme inhoudt en zoek je een plek waar je op een ontspannen en toegankelijke manier kunt kennismaken? Of ben je gewoon op zoek naar een moment van rust, meditatie en reflectie? Dan ben je van harte welkom bij *Heart of Compassion*, een reeks zondagochtendbijeenkomsten waarin compassie het centrale thema vormt. Aan deze activiteit kun je per keer meedoen. Tijdens deze ochtenden beginnen we met een gezamenlijke meditatie. Daarna volgt een korte inleiding op een boeddhistisch thema, zoals de [Vier Edele Waarheden](https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vier_edele_waarheden), compassie voor jezelf en voor anderen. We nemen vervolgens de tijd om samen stil te staan bij het onderwerp, in de vorm van een gesprek of een geleide meditatie die uitnodigt tot reflectie. **Voor wie?** Of je nu net begint met het verkennen van boeddhisme of gewoon op zoek bent naar een moment van rust, iedereen is welkom. Ervaar de kracht van compassie in een toegankelijke en rustige sfeer. **Praktische informatie** -Begeleiding: Eline Rinchen Dorjee-Weiman -Ontvangst: vanaf 10:15 uur en na de bijeenkomst is er tijd voor een kopje thee -Plaats: [Jewel Heart, Hatertseveldweg 284, 6532 XX Nijmegen](https://maps.app.goo.gl/D4FzqLbkaqs2JNDG8). Loop de oprit op en dan zit de ingang aan je rechterzijde -Kosten: Aan deze bijeenkomsten zijn geen kosten verbonden -Aanmelding is niet nodig Kijk ook naar onze andere [open activiteiten](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/open-activiteiten/) en [cursussen](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/cursussen-overzicht/)

**RSVP's at MeetUp.com are limited to a total of 10 and will be ignored. If you would like us to wait for you when we walk, please register for this photowalk at our Clubhouse:** [https://www.heylo.com/events/94898f98-af8d-4b65-b31d-922abfe6568e/-OrIio1QR8h3tjQXgzFM](https://www.heylo.com/events/94898f98-af8d-4b65-b31d-922abfe6568e/-OrIio1QR8h3tjQXgzFM) *\* The event is listed at MeetUp for promotion only.* *\* The number of attendees listed here is not the actual number.* \~ During this walk, you’ll capture how different historical periods coexist in the city — from medieval to modern. The idea is to photograph how Utrecht’s rich history blends with contemporary life, offering a visual journey through time. Think about old facades vs. modern shops, or capture the contrast between historic buildings and modern hustle. Alternatively, as bonus assignment, you can also do a color hunt. Each participant picks one color and during the photowalk, looks for subjects where that color clearly stands out. The goal is to make at least three photos that work together as a small series. This challenge is about training your eye, improving composition, and becoming more aware of color and subjects in everyday scenes. Submit a collage on Heylo, displaying your time capture, or selected color. We will meet at Domplein, near the Sun (big orb) in front of the Academiegebouw of Universiteit Utrecht. The planned route is: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1rkouqq2VDsGSWb_Zgve9V7R6KAjhtw4](https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1rkouqq2VDsGSWb_Zgve9V7R6KAjhtw4) The walk is about 4km, so we expect to finish around 16:00. After the walk we could stop for a drink at Mariaplaats (optional, not included and at your own expense), share our results and talk photography. ***Let's meetup and have fun!*** *Please note:* * ***The photowalk starts at the posted time.*** Try to be there early, but if you are running late... just find us. The link to live location of the group (via Google Maps) will be shared in the Event Chat in our Clubhouse at [https://heylo.group/utrechtphotography](https://heylo.group/utrechtphotography). * ***If you register for this photowalk and you can not make it, please update your RSVP!*** * The photowalk could be cancelled or postponed in case of really bad weather. * The end time is an estimate only; the length of the actual walk could be different from posted. * Check before you go if all your equipment is working properly; lens cleaned, batteries charged, memory cards empty. * ***Come prepared:*** wear comfortable shoes, bring water and a snack, check the weather forecast - and don't forget your camera * The organisation is not responsible for any personal injury, loss, or damage to personal property during the photowalk. Participants are advised to have appropriate (travel/liability) insurance. * During the walk, pay attention to your surroundings, traffic, curbs and people. * ***Be respectful of residents, their property and privacy.*** *And finally:* * Any type of camera is welcome. * If taking pictures or making photos gives you joy, you are more than welcome!

NOVA Code and Coffee is an inclusive, informal, co-working session. People of all skill levels are invited. The concept is simple, bring a laptop and ideas, we'll provide the coffee and donuts! Here's how it works: 1. At 10:15 everyone introduces themselves and briefly describes what brought them to Code & Coffee today (project, homework, networking, etc) 2. For the rest of the day, folks work in the communal space on their projects providing one another help and conversation as needed. Oh and they usually drink coffee and tea too! That's it! Hope to see you there! **Location** Our hosts are the Fairfax City Economic Development Building: [10300 Eaton Pl, Fairfax, VA 22030](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d7298231ca2df594df822003f9a93517c788fceefe1fcbb79c8976696e341bc6JmltdHM9MTc1MzIyODgwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=180d0745-3b7f-69a1-23a2-11433a7868e5&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MTA5fn5Ub3BPZlBhZ2V-QWRkcmVzc19MaW5rJnR5PTE4JnE9RmFpcmZheCUyMENpdHklMjBFY29ub21pYyUyMERldmVsb3BtZW50JnNzPXlwaWQuWU44NzN4ODI4MTk2Mjg0NTk5MDM4MTU0MiZwcG9pcz0zOC44NjE0NDYzODA2MTUyMzRfLTc3LjMwMjE3NzQyOTE5OTIyX0ZhaXJmYXglMjBDaXR5JTIwRWNvbm9taWMlMjBEZXZlbG9wbWVudF9ZTjg3M3g4MjgxOTYyODQ1OTkwMzgxNTQyfiZjcD0zOC44NjE0NDZ-LTc3LjMwMjE3NyZ2PTImc1Y9MSZGT1JNPU1QU1JQTA&ntb=1) Conference Room A- Large, Floor 1 This is a new venue for us, so give us some time to get more details about it. Driving is the best option. There is plenty of free on-site parking. Otherwise, we are a 22 minute bus from the Vienna Metro Station. Bicycling from Vienna is possible but difficult, though once you are here, there's a bike rack in the garage behind the building, and there's also a Capital Bikeshare dock 15 min walk away. **Sponsored by:** Thank you [Fairfax City Economic Development](https://gofairfaxcity.com/) and [Mason Enterprise Center](https://enterprise.gmu.edu/) for making this event possible! **Thank you so much to our wonderful sponsors!** Organized by [DMV Petri Dish](https://www.dmvpetridish.com/) **[Code of Conduct](https://github.com/NoVACodeCoffee/admin/blob/master/code-of-conduct.md):** We value the participation of each member of the community and want all attendees to have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. To make clear what is expected, all delegates/attendees, organizers, and volunteers at any Nova Code & Coffee events are required to conform to our [Code of Conduct](https://github.com/NoVACodeCoffee/admin/blob/master/code-of-conduct.md).

**Come Sing With the Fairfax Jubil-Aires!** Do you enjoy singing along to your favorite songs? Curious what it’s like to sing rich four-part harmony with a friendly group? Come visit the weekly rehearsal of the Fairfax Jubil-Aires and see what barbershop singing is all about! The Fairfax Jubil-Aires are a welcoming mixed a cappella chorus that performs classic and contemporary barbershop harmony. Our members come from all kinds of musical backgrounds—some have years of experience, while others simply love to sing. What we all share is a passion for music, laughter, and community. Visitors are always welcome at our weekly rehearsals. You can sit back and observe, or jump right in and sing with us—no pressure either way. You don’t need to read music, and there’s no audition required just to visit. We rehearse **Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM in Fairfax**, and we’d love to have you stop by and check it out.

Join us for another session of our study group as we continue our coverage of the book Domain-Specific Small Language Models. In this session, we will attempt to cover Chapters 13 on "Creating end-to-end applications", which explores RAG and Agents and Chapter 14, on "Advanced Components for LLM Applications", which explores GraphRAG. This isn't just a lecture! Come ready to ask questions, share insights, and code along. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this is the perfect opportunity to continue to learn together. If you plan to work with the code on your own laptop during the session, try and download the code from here https://github.com/virtualramblas/Domain-Specific-Small-Language-Models ahead of time.

🌿 **James River State Park – 7 Mile Moderate Hike** 🥾 Join us for a scenic and energizing \~7-mile hike through **James River State Park**, one of Virginia’s hidden gems! This route combines river views, forest trails, and a rewarding overlook—perfect for anyone looking for a solid, moderate hike without extreme elevation. ### 📍 Where: James River State Park (meet at Visitor Center parking area) ### 🥾 The Plan: We’ll follow a loop combining the **Cabell Trail, Dixon Trail, and Tye River Overlook**: * 🌲 Peaceful forest hiking * 🌊 Occasional views of the James & Tye Rivers * ⛰️ A moderate climb up to the scenic overlook (our main reward!) ### 📏 Details: * Distance: \~6.5–7 miles * Difficulty: Moderate (some hills, steady pace) * Time: \~3 hours (with breaks) Whether you're looking to get some miles in, enjoy nature, or meet fellow hikers, this is a great way to spend a few hours outdoors. 👉 RSVP if you’re in—looking forward to hitting the trail! Meet at Visitor Center: 37.6306, -78.8127

Join our new group’s third meeting. Meet fellow tech enthusiasts west of the beltway. ​Because our group is new, we have a poll for the direction we want to take this new group. ​[https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca](https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca) ​For this event, we will be running a working meetup. ​Our meetings are a great place to work on and show off what you do. We are always welcoming. ​Our format is great for people who have started on but not finished one or several side projects. ​We will start off with basic introductions and what we are working on and what our goals are. We’ll break the rest of the meeting into two working sessions. In between, we’ll do a quick check-in to see how folks are going. If the RSVP is full, come anyway. We'll likely have space.

**Check back to see if the date or start time has changed. If chance of rain is > 29% or wind > 15 mph It may get cancelled/postponed** **ROUTE DISTANCE** The distance for this loop is \~20.3 miles +/- 767 ft. Ten miles down to Georgetown and ten miles back up the CCT to the starting point. The only way to shorten the distance is to stop somewhere before Georgetown and return the same way. **TRAIL DETAILS** In need of a relaxing escape from your usual habitat? These two trails are famous for their views of the Rock Creek and Potomac River. What can be more relaxing than the sound and sight of water cascading over rocks and watching sailboats? There are several sections that offer shade and cool breezes blowing across the trail. Although this loop is "flatish," there are more elevation changes compared to the Paint Branch and Rhode Island Trolley trails (the flatter trails we ride). **Note 1:** We will need to bike 2.0 miles on neighborhood streets once we get off the Georgetown Branch Trail in Bethesda to get back to the starting point. There is no better option. **Note 2:** There are a couple of street crossings. As long as you are not distracted and WAIT for the green light or for a clear break in traffic, you will be fine. **SKILL LEVEL:** As long as you've biked at least 20 miles in the past two weeks, you should be able to complete this ride comfortably. We average a casual 9-15 mph on this route, and we add stops for hydration and socializing. Faster riders are welcome to go at their own pace and stop at the regroup spots (to wait for slower riders to catch up). Slower riders can go at their own pace and if they missed the 5-10 minute regroup stop, they can continue and use a nav app, if needed. **PARKING & MEETUP SPOT** Park at the Meadowbrook Park parking lot. Meet us in an oval formation by 11:00 for check-in and the icebreaker question. I'll post the question at least one day before so you can prepare! Late arrivers should let the group know by posting a comment in the event. Otherwise, we assume you're a "no show." Road, hybrid, and mountain tires will work. E-bike riders are welcome. **RESTROOMS** Located at the starting point, in Rock Creek Park going down to Georgetown, in Georgetown (the rest stop) on the C&O Canal path, and at retail shops in Bethesda. **THE PLAN** After check-in and the icebreaker question, we'll depart. **1\. Ride southward on the Rock Creek Trail** We'll start at Meadowbrook Local Park (the bathrooms may not be open but there are three outdoor loos). Then bike down to Georgetown (the Washington Harbor waterfront area). We'll stop for a break (optional). **Regroup Spots:** 1. Intersection of Beach Drive and Broad Branch 2. Rock Creek Park Station at Beach Drive & Joyce Road. (Keryn will stop & wait if needed.) 3. National Zoo staff road intersection\*\* with the trail. (Keryn will stop & wait if needed.) 4. Pierce Mill (bathroom/ rest stop) The RCT is mostly shady due to trees on the side of the trails. It hugs the Rock Creek from one end of the park to the other, providing scenic views and it often has breezes to cool bikers off. It is mostly flat. Only one noticeable hill when you get to Cathedral Ave (near to the National Zoo). It will take 45-65 minutes to bike. **2\. Take a 30 to 60\-minute break in Georgetown \(Washington Harbor\)**. We plan on a 30-minute minimum stop for socializing/lunch/relaxing/cooling off). Some participants may want to return earlier, and some want to stay longer. We usually work out who’s staying vs going back earlier. Feel free to go on your own or join us for a group lunch (picnic or retail) if anyone offers. **3\. Ride north on the CCT \(\~45 minutes\)** Meet up at TBD. CCT is mostly flat and scenic, but it may have a lot of walkers to navigate around the last 3 miles. **Regrouping spots:** **1\. Thompson boat house** 2. **Fletcher's Cove Boat House** (5-10 min stop for socializing/drinking etc. 3. **Capital Cresent Tunnel** (Keryn will stop & wait if needed) 4. **Capital Crescent Trail entry (opposite Ourisman Honda)** 4760 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD. 5\. Street intersections on the way back to starting point\. **BIKE RENTALS** NA **BIKE REPAIR** NA - participants may volunteer to help **RECOMMENDATIONS** **Bring:** Water bottles, snacks, biking gloves, bike bell, bike lock, helmet visor, sunglasses, bike tube, pump, patch, first aid kit, mobile phone with nav app installed (e.g. Google maps, we use RidewithGPS). If you get leg cramps during or after a ride, take electrolytes before and during your ride (or add salt and magnesium to your water). A change of clothes for your ride home or a car seat cover to absorb sweat. **Clothing:** Wear biking gloves and durable clothing so that if you do fall, your skin is protected. Avoid wearing all black, all grey, all dark brown, or all dark blue, which blends in with pavement, especially while riding through a shady segment. Consider wearing something lighter to help others notice you. **REQUIREMENTS** **Participants must wear tightly secured helmets when on their bike and carry a charged mobile phone.** **Be proactive to avoid a fall/crash and minimize injury:** \- Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers\. If the biker ahead of you suddenly stops\, you should be able to avoid hitting them\. \- Don’t make stops on the trail\. Pull over to the side and use hand gestures to let people know you’re slowing down to make a stop\. \- Yelling out “Passing on your left” and/or ringing a bike bell as you approach people ahead of you\, so they don’t inadvertently move in your line of travel\. \- Slowing down to wait\, rather than speeding up when trying to pass people at the same time walkers/bikers are approaching you from the opposite direction\. \- Avoid potholes and debris and slow down when approaching bumps \- When approaching road crossings and iffy situations\, triple\-check before crossing and don’t let yourself be distracted by talking\, etc\. \- Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers in case of a sudden stop If you have a medical emergency, call 911. **MEETUP POLICIES** Participants should understand that biking is an inherently dangerous activity, and an accident could happen at any time. **Participation is at your own risk**. An RSVP of “Yes” to an event is your digital signature acknowledging that you have read, understood, and agree with Meetup’s and MD Rail Trail Biking’s policies, esp. section 6 “Release” and section 8.2 ” Limitation of Liability,” found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/) * Support the Coalition for the Capital Crescent Trail. Their [Donate](https://cctrail.nationbuilder.com/donate) page

**Chantilly Carb Crawl: Asian Breads & Pastries** **🍞** **Whether you’re a long-time member or this is your very first event, come with us on a mini-tour of 3 of Chantilly’s hidden gems. It’ll be a fun chance to reconnect, meet new members and enjoy some amazing breads and pastries!** **The Game Plan** ***11:00 AM — Café Moment*** **We’ll kick things off at this new cafe specializing in** **Korean Salt Bread. If you’ve never tried it, imagine eating a warm, buttery, fluffy cloud (yes, I am drooling as I write this)** **Next, we’ll head over to Mahiwaga for some warm, freshly baked** **Pandasal. If you’ve never had this Filipino classic fresh from the oven, this father/daughter team** **make** **some of the best!** **We’ll wrap up with a stop across the hall at Toimoi Bakery for their famous** **pandan and banana pudding filled croissants** **🥐.** **Can't wait to see you there! RSVP to save your spot!** [Cafe Moment](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DX-C-Hmhg7g/?igsh=dHd4N2RodWwwaHo1) [Mahiwaga](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXiCy0Gz0P5/?igsh=Mm45a2c3ZWJtM2pv) [ToiMoi Bakery ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DX0O-2KuRiT/?igsh=MWh2bjN4cHE1am55eg==)