Virginia

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. **5.5 miles with 200 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 C&O Canal National Historical Park, Great Falls, Maryland.*** **Description:** ***Beat the heat with an early and short hike.*** We'll start our hike with the Ford Mine Trail. Once completing that trail, we will then reconnect to the towpath and complete the River Trail which runs along the Potomac River. Both trails are in the forest canopy. There are a few small stream crossings on Ford Mine trail that are easily crossed. 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 near the Tavern visitor center. May want to also bring some insect repellent. **Meet:** We will meet on the sidewalk in front of the old refreshment snack bar on the right side of the parking lot before you get to the restrooms and Tavern visitor center. The snack bar is currently closed but it is under the tree canopy. Look for me by the fence anxiously awaiting your arrival. 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. Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland: [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf) **Directions to Park:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm) **GPS: 39.00223, -77.24697** Any questions, please message me on Meetup or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

TRADING THE DANCE FLOOR FOR THE TRAILS The disco lights are taking a breather, but Social Sips & Bites is keeping the high energy alive in the great outdoors. We are hitting the trails, and the timing couldn't be better. National Park Service is waiving its usual vehicle entrance fees for Free Entry Day, so we’re bringing the whole DMV community together for an epic morning of fresh air, jaw-dropping views, and massive group vibes. Whether you’re recovering from the last party or prepping for the next one, this is the perfect excuse to get outside, move your feet, and meet some incredible people. From the rushing waters of the Potomac to the winding, shaded dirt paths, this isn't just a walk in the park. It’s a chance to unplug, swap stories with familiar faces, and explore one of the absolute best natural wonders right in our backyard. No RSVP cap, no exclusive guest list. Just good people, great views, and unmatched Sunday energy. See you on the trail! 🙌

Stars, stripes, and family fun await at Shipgarten! Join us on \*\*July 5th\*\* for our \*\*Family 4th of July Festival\*\*, hosted by none other than \*\*Uncle Sam\*\* and his patriotic Eagle sidekick! Get ready for a red, white, and blue celebration packed with excitement for all ages. \>\>\> #### [Brazil vs. Norway](https://shipgarten.com/event/brazil-vs-norway-fifa-world-cup-2026-watch-party-at-shipgarten/ "Brazil vs. Norway") The FIFA World Cup knockout stage continues with a thrilling showdown as Brazil takes on Norway in a battle for a place in the next round. Every possession, every save, and every goal could determine who keeps their World Cup dream alive. Join us at Shipgarten to watch the match LIVE on our giant outdoor projectors, massive TV walls, and multiple big screens with full game sound. Enjoy delicious food, ice-cold drinks, and an electric atmosphere surrounded by passionate soccer fans from across the DMV. \>\>\> #### [Mexico vs. England](https://shipgarten.com/event/mexico-vs-england-fifa-world-cup-2026-watch-party-at-shipgarten/ "Mexico vs. England") Two soccer giants. One place in the next round. Join us at Shipgarten as Mexico faces England in one of the biggest FIFA World Cup knockout matches yet. With both nations fighting to keep their championship dreams alive, expect an unforgettable night filled with world-class soccer, incredible atmosphere, and nonstop excitement. Watch every minute LIVE on our giant outdoor projectors, massive TV walls, and multiple big screens with full game sound. Enjoy delicious food, ice-cold drinks, and the electric energy of hundreds of passionate soccer fans cheering every goal, save, and tackle. Whether you're supporting El Tri, backing The Three Lions, or simply love the FIFA World Cup, Shipgarten is the ultimate destination to experience this blockbuster matchu. I will have a popup booth for [Swift Running](https://www.topvirtualstaffing.com/collaboration-1)[ ](https://www.topvirtualstaffing.com/best-running-walking-shoes)so I would be busy that way. But I will also do a scavenger hunt / mini activity. Park over here and there is a FREE shuttle or you can walk! ## [PARKING ADDRESS: 1700 OLD MEADOW ROAD, MCLEAN, VA 22102.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SGX7NYjPUxiN3Y3m7)

Special 250th Independence Day Tour!: Hamilton vs. Jefferson: The Great Debate! Washington D.C. Sunday, July 5, 2026, starting from the lobby of the Willard Hotel Held in and around the White House’s Lafayette Square, on the 250th anniversary weekend of Independence Day, this tour will examine the accomplishments of, and many crises faced, by Jefferson—D.C.’s first two-term President--during the American Revolution, in Europe, and during his eventful stay in the then-new Executive Mansion. And of his colleagues & rivals Alexander Hamilton, George Mason, Benjamin Banneker, James Madison, Aaron Burr, George Washington, & John Adams, and others, all of whom left a significant mark on the capital, and America, from the first July 4th and thereafter. Sunday, July 5, 5:45 pm. MEET in the grand lobby of the Willard Hotel Length: 2 hours. Nearest metros: Length: Farragut North or Farragut West or Metro Center Lafayette Square next to the White House has dozens of sites related to the American Revolution, Thomas Jefferson, Alexandria Hamilton, et al. Discover: • The other Jefferson memorial--outside the White House • Hamilton, a young merchant genius • A traitor’s attempted overthrow of Jefferson’s Lewis & Clark expedition • The man who reconciled Hamilton and Jefferson • George Mason’s battle against—the U.S. Constitution • Hamilton's critical role with the Constitution • The Marquis de Lafayette’s amazing & perilous associations with multiple American Presidents • Inventor of farm, kitchen, and spy apparatus • The Royal Navy's "impressment" makes a bad impression • Hamilton's valor at Yorktown • The secret language of the Jefferson Memorial • The undeclared naval war, and declared trade war, that nearly wrecked Jefferson’s second term • Sally Hemings and Maria Cosway and Maria Reynolds • Disputes over the Jefferson Memorial • Rollercoaster relationships with John Adams • “The room where it happened” • The “miracle mansion” of TJ’s militia chief • The scoundrel who betrayed Jefferson, killed Hamilton, and tried setting up his own country—with the head of the U.S. Army! • Architect-in-Chief: Did TJ secretly design the White House? • Hamilton makes the Virginians an offer they can't refuse • When Jefferson was almost hanged • How Madison & Jefferson ended the slave trade—from Minnesota to the Mediterranean! • Hamilton and Franklin's manumission societies • President Jefferson’s “First Lady” • How TJ came to write the Declaration of Independence, and its hidden coda • The man who reconciled Hamilton and Jefferson • And more! Pre-Register and Pre-Pay via-- Eventbrite, at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/usa-250-hamilton-vs-jefferson-the-great-debate-july-5-2026-dc-tickets-1628454765039?aff=oddtdtcreator Or PayPal, sending $25 to paypal.me/EMoser460 Or pay $25 in cash at the start of the tour. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html Your tour guide is a former speechwriter to the President of the United States, a former writer for Jay Leno’s “The Tonight Show”, & author of the newly published spy novel, set in Georgetown, Femme Fatalité: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5 Also the hidden history of Lafayette Square—The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood!: https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= And, The Lost History of the Capitol-- https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Questions?: [191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me) Bring your walking shoes, and perhaps water. Kick off this special Independence Day weekend with this unique tour! Think history is boring? Not on our tours!

Cost: free Court Type: Outdoor Sand Level: Social (everyone is welcome) Transportation: Parking will be right in front of the courts. What to bring: a ball if you have one. This is a social volleyball which means as long as you played volleyball before and can keep some rally going you can attend. The point is to practice being a team player, have fun, be social, and make friends. We should try to have 2 passes before sending the ball over on most plays. Let's get everyone involved in the game.

Join our ASL Brunch on Sundays in Greenbelt! All ASL users and learners are welcome. Brunches are alternately held at two restaurants in Greenbelt, both in the same town plaza. ODD WEEKS: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays, we meet at Cedars of Lebanon, 103 Centerway. EVEN WEEKS: 2nd and 4th Sundays, we meet at New Deal Café,113 Centerway. We are the Greenbelt ASL Community, a group of both Deaf and hearing people who hang out, chat about everyday goings on, trade stories, get to know each other better, and of course, enjoy food together. Many members use ASL as their primary language, several are interpreters or other fluent ASL users, while others are ASL learners who wish to improve their skills while making new friends. Before or after brunch, you can visit the farmer's market and small coop grocery store in the plaza. Please RSVP so we can contact you via email if needed. Our group is on Facebook as Greenbelt ASL Community. Some longtime Brunch attendees don't mark their attendance here, so feel free to stop by even if you don't see others who have RSVP'd on Meet-up.

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

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

This epic event will run for two weeks, I want to create a MeetUp giving others, like myself, a way to meet new friends and get out there for any day you have available. Each day will be a duplicate event, giving everyone the ability to sign up for the day they have free. I will not be at every event as I work three days a week, but I will put in the messages the days I'll be there. The Metro Smithsonian is a great place to meet since it's right at one of the two entrances. The only two entrances are at 12th and 4th and Jefferson. If you want to go to one or several of the days just hit the attend and message those who are also planning on attending that day. You can coordinate the times as well. Let's make new friends and experience the 250 anniversary of our country. https://www.freedom250.org/celebration/the-great-american-state-fair

Happy 250th MAGA! We're going to get together this Sunday at Noon to celebrate America's 250th! Out of town MAGA is encouraged to join us and hang out for a few hours. We will meet on the right side of the THIRD level of CC Sports Pub. We will have two bartenders so please order drinks and food from the bar. And TIP WELL! See you there! Fox Magee

***July is National Picnic Month*** (along with National Hot Dog/Baked Beans/Ice Cream Month)! So let's do it up by joining a giant PICNIC celebrating America's 250th Birthday! Join us at Wyandotte Winery for an **America 250–Ohio Homecoming Picnic as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States in true Ohio style!** Throughout July 2026, communities across Ohio are gathering for food, fun, and friendship to honor our nation’s history and reflect on the contributions of Ohioans over the past 250 years. Our picnic will feature a relaxed atmosphere with food, live music (starts at 5pm), and opportunities to connect with friends. ***BRING***: ***Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs*** and enjoy an afternoon of community celebration. ***FREE EVENT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC***: Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the shop and food trucks. ***PARKING***: limited near the wine shop. Most park one block away in the church parking lot. [Wyandotte Winery](https://www.wyandottewinery.com/) has been part of the Central Ohio community since 1977, and we are proud to host this gathering during our 50th year of operation as a local place for connection and hospitality.

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!

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

It’s been way too long since we’ve had a night out at PBR, so let’s change that! Join us for an evening of great drink specials, live music, line dancing, and, of course, the mechanical bull. 📍 Check-In: 6:00–8:30 PM When you arrive, check in with the host and let them know you’re with Suzie or Foodies Meetup. 🍻 Happy Hour Specials (7:00–9:00 PM) * 🍒 $2 Jello Shots * 🍺 $3 Domestic Cans: Busch Light, Bud Light & Miller Lite * 🍹 $3 Well Cocktails (no doubles, Red Bull, or shots) * 🥃 $4 Select Call Liquor: Deep Eddy Vodka (including flavors), Captain Morgan, Bombay Dry Gin, Dulce Vida Blanco & Jim Beam (no doubles, Red Bull, or shots) * 🔥 $5 Select Shots: White Tea, Green Tea, Fireball, Fireball Apple & Jager Bombs * 🏖️ $5 Surfside Seltzers 🎉 Tonight’s Entertainment 🎸 Live Music: 6:30–8:30 PM 🐂 Mechanical Bull Riding: 8:30 PM–Close (FREE with a valid ID!) 💃 Line Dancing with an Instructor: 9:00–10:00 PM Whether you’re coming to dance, ride the bull, enjoy the music, or simply catch up with friends over a drink, this is the perfect night to join us. We can’t wait to see everyone there!

Most people use LLMs by feel: ask a question, read the answer, decide whether it “seems good,” and move on. That works for casual use. It does not work when you are building software, automating workflows, writing important documents, or relying on AI for anything that needs to be repeatable. In this talk, we’ll look at how to improve and evaluate the inputs and outputs of LLMs using practical measurement techniques. We’ll cover how prompt changes affect results, how to compare outputs, how to build simple evaluation sets, and how math-based methods like similarity scoring can help you move beyond guesswork. This will be beginner-friendly, so even if you don't know anything about AI, you should get something out of it. However, this will be a little more technical than our intro talks. You do not need to be an AI researcher, but programmers and technically curious attendees will get a lot out of it. We’ll cover: * Why “it looks good” is not enough * How to improve prompts by changing the input, context, and constraints * How to compare LLM outputs more systematically * Basic evaluation techniques for accuracy, consistency, and usefulness * How embeddings, cosine similarity, and scoring can help evaluate results * Where automated evaluation works — and where humans still need to stay in the loop By the end, you’ll have a practical mental model for treating LLMs less like magic and more like systems you can test, measure, and improve. LOGISTICS AND PARKING: The talk starts at 7:00 PM. The first half hour is reserved for everyone to get set up and mingle. Free pizza and drinks! The cheapest parking option is to find street parking, which will only cost you a few bucks. Otherwise, park in the nearby veteran's museum lot for $8. It's highly recommended you avoid the nearby $15 garage parking.