Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Thanks to extensive surveillance, tireless exploration, and intelligence from a recently rescued ally, First Seeker Sarmak has finally pinpointed a secret entrance to the mysterious Wreck of the Returned. If the Starfinders can gain access to this entry point and secure it without being caught, they can use this entrance as a foothold to launch two vital missions: a rescue mission to the conversion facility within the Wreck’s sublevels, and a direct assault on the being at the heart of the Wreck, Elovai. It’s up to you to navigate underground tunnels through the Sloughscar Hills on Akiton to gain entry to the Wreck of the Returned and secure an entry point without being discovered! A Starfinder Society Scenario designed for 3rd- through 4th-level characters, playable in 2-3 hours. This is an adventure in the ongoing Invasion's Edge metaplot. Written by Kyle T. Raes.

Laser tag with the GLTech community

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Artemis II and Beyond,”** on how the recent space mission fits into long-term plans for the Moon, with Michael J. Neufeld, retired senior curator for the Space History Department of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-artemis-ii-beyond](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-artemis-ii-beyond) .] NASA’s recent, spectacular Artemis II mission is a sign that the United States is serious about sending humans to the Moon again. Gain an understanding of how Artemis II fits in both past and planned lunar missions with historian Michael Neufeld, who was lead curator of the Smithsonian’s Destination Moon exhibit. He has taught at Johns Hopkins, Colgate, and other universities, and is the author or editor of nine books dealing with the history of technology. He’ll start by looking at the aftermath of the Apollo program of a half century ago and why it ended only four years after its first lunar mission. He’ll consider why no lasting lunar programs emerged from major announcements by two presidents, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, that astronauts would be going back to the Moon and on to Mars. His vividly illustrated lecture will then explore how Artemis is a product of a human spaceflight program that has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. We’ll look at how collaboration with Europe, Canada and Japan became integral to the shuttle and International Space Station programs, and how the rise of new commercial space companies such as SpaceX has enabled NASA to buy both space services and space craft. Both international and commercial partners are involved in the latest Moon efforts, with SpaceX and Blue Origin expected to supply the landers to take astronauts down to a planned base on the Moon’s South Pole. How soon will any of this happen? Probably not as quickly as NASA says, but the specter of a Chinese landing on the Moon by 2030 is one obvious reason to keep things moving along. We’ll look at the sustainability of the Artemis space program for at least the next decade or so. You’ll emerge from the talk with no doubt that exciting days are ahead for space fans. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: The Artemis II mission launch (NASA photo).

**Free RPG Social at 3 Gear Games** * **Date:** Sunday, May 31st * **Time:** 6pm-8pm * **Host:** Stewart * **Cost:** Free * **Location:** 3 Gear Games - 25C Street, Laurel, MD 20707 * * **Description:** The dice have been rolled, the campaigns have been waged, and now it's time to tell the tales. 🎲 Join us for a laid-back, laugh-filled evening celebrating everything we love about tabletop RPGs. Whether you survived a harrowing dungeon this season, rolled a nat 1 at the worst possible moment, or pulled off the most legendary power move your GM never saw coming , we want to hear it. This is a night for the whole community: veterans, newcomers, and everyone in between. No experience required, no game to run, just good people, great stories, and the kind of camaraderie that only happens around a table (or in our cozy game room 🌿). * **What to expect:** **⚙️Q&A storytelling —** share your most memorable RPG moments from the season. Questions can be submitted in our RPG social [Discord Channel ](https://discord.gg/ZD7sVsx9) **👀 Sneak peek** at the 3 Gear Games Summer 2026 RPG Season — new systems, new adventures, new GMs Come see what's next. **Free to attend. All are welcome. Bring your stories.** **Play Games \| Make Friends** **Follow Us On:** [Join Our Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/3gearstudios/groups) [Join Our Discord](https://www.3gearstudios.com/3-gear-games-events-community/community/) Website:[ www.3geargames.com](https://www.3gearstudios.com)

Scythe is an engine-building game set in an alternate-history 1920s period. It is a time of farming and war, broken hearts and rusted gears, innovation and valor. Spirit Island --> Punchbowl Social, 1st Floor (Ballson, VA)

The Signal Film Festival at Silver Branch Brewing Company is dedicated to the power of short-form storytelling, showcasing films up to 10 minutes in length across narrative, documentary, animation, and more. Benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter, the Signal Film Festival is dedicated to unique cinematic voices that cut through the static to deliver compelling, impactful, and innovative stories. Admission is FREE, seating is limited and on a first come first serve basis. If you do not have a ticket, simply check in at the registration table upon arrival. The Festival takes place in-person on May 31, 2026 the Silver Branch Brewing Company from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. The address is 8401 Colesville Road #150, Silver Spring, MD 20910. PARKING: Paid parking available one block away at the county's Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron Street (Better pricing than street or private parking.) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Tentative Schedule: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Doors Open & Networking 5:00 PM - 5:15 PM: Welcome & Opening Remarks 5:15 PM - 7:30 PM: Film Screenings 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Audience Voting & Awards Ceremony 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM: After Party & Networking at the Silver Branch Brewing Co. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit [https://www.signalfilmfestival.com](https://www.signalfilmfestival.com/) to keep up to date. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Awards & Prizes: "Silver Branch Award" - Audience Favorite Film "Arlyne Award" - Jury Award for Best Mini Film "Howard Award" - Jury Award for Best Short Film \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- For more information about the Signal Film Festival visit [https://www.signalfilmfestival.com](https://www.signalfilmfestival.com/). To keep up with festival news and details follow us on social media: Facebook - [facebook.com/SignalFilmFestival](facebook.com/SignalFilmFestival) -and- [facebook.com/groups/dcfilmmakers](facebook.com/groups/dcfilmmakers) Instagram - [instagram.com/signalfilmfestival](instagram.com/signalfilmfestival) Twitter - [x.com/signalfilmfest](x.com/signalfilmfest) -and- [x.com/brianfilms](x.com/brianfilms) TikTok - [tiktok.com/@signalfilmfestival](tiktok.com/@signalfilmfestival) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- This event is supported by the Brian Frankel Law Firm, DC Filmmakers Group, Wheaton Film Festival, Silver Branch Brewing Company, and the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter.

We're seeing Tuner at the 4:10pm show at Regal Gallery Place. Your host will be in seat F3. Let's get dinner afterwards.

* Workshop: ***Resonate to the God Current Within You*** * Video Presentation by Sri Doug Kunin ***The Quest For God Consciousness*** * Keynote talk by Guest Speaker Bob Lawton ***Spiritual Keys For Your Journey Home to God*** * Discussions, creative arts, panels * Catered Lunch Included 👉 Free for Guests (Limited Seats) Pre-register by May 21st, 2026 👉For the full program and to Registration go to: [eckankarmaryland.org](https://eckankarmaryland.org/) **Maryland ECK Center, Third Floor** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 314** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **Suggested donations, which include lunch, are listed on the registration page.** **[CLICK HERE TO REGISTER](https://eckankarmaryland.org/2026-day-of-eck/)** **Presented by the Maryland & D.C. Satsang Societies, Inc., Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2026 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

**MLK Library - Room 401A** Why do so many of us feel like we are alone when we have so many more ways of connecting with others than ever before? Are we missing out on forming true friendships by failing to consider the spiritual impulse for those connections? It seems to be our instinct – and need – to be connected to others. But we also seem to have created increasingly fractured and isolating social structures that don’t actually require us to build those connections – much less with anyone who may look or think differently than we do. So how might recognizing our reality as spiritual beings, as all of us being part of one human family, help us understand where this instinct comes from – and what we need to fulfill it? How might it inform the types and qualities of relationships we look for – and who with? And beyond our individual relationships, what would it look like to reconfigure our communities to make finding and building connection easier for all of us? How can we create a culture of community that supports everyone in this search, that allows every individual to thrive not despite but with and because of the larger diversity of people around them? What are the spiritual principles and qualities we need to build and nurture these diverse, inclusive, and connected communities? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the deeper truths that unite us – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the search for true friendship. Please join us for a lively discussion as we explore how we can build true community together. *“Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone, let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.”* – Bahá’í Teachings **\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.** Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions** 1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? 2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? 3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Open gaming at Panera! New players welcome. We have many games on hand or you can bring your own. We are happy to teach or learn one of yours.

We invite you to enjoy a day of excitement as we are having Kids Renaissance Festival. Bring the whole family for an unforgettable experience! For your little ones Shipgarten has face painting and arts & crafts, allowing their creativity to shine. The fun doesn’t stop there – we’ve got live music, great drinks, moonbounces, and a full outdoor playground to ensure everyone has a blast. Dogs are more than welcome at Shipgarten, whether on-leash or in our off-leash dog park. Treat your furry friends to Pup Cups and Kongs filled with peanut butter for a delightful family treat. I will have a popup booth for [Swift Running ](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)

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

The theme for June is Fantasy. The book is TBD by voting at May’s Book Club with suggestions from April’s event. More details to come

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

In the year 2044, in the age of AI, a woman named Gabrielle (Seydoux) tries to purify her DNA by purging the inherited memories of her past lives. She (re)lives her life in 1910 Paris and 2014 Los Angeles, and as the procedure goes on, the lines between her worlds become blurred. These three timelines have a lot of connective tissue holding them together; certain symbols and motifs appear repeatedly, not to mention Mackay’s Louis, a figure whom Gabrielle seems drawn to in each lifetime.

Based on the novel Roadside Picnic, it is NO picnic, but rather one of the masterpieces of world cinema. Andrei Tarkovsky's 1979 Soviet sci-fi classic, recounts the expedition of a writer and professor led by a mysterious guide called "The Stalker." to a futuristic wasteland called "The Zone." Dripping with existential dread, it continually presents strange occurrences that will have us debating the meaning of what we've just viewed right through the ending.