UFOs & IFOs
Meet other local people interested in UFOs & IFOs: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a UFOs & IFOs group.
2,351
members
4
groups
Largest UFOs & IFOs groups
Newest UFOs & IFOs groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out ufos & ifos events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the ufos & ifos events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find ufos & ifos events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
UFOs & IFOs Events Today
Join in-person UFOs & IFOs events happening right now
Movie Night: "Disclosure Day"
Steven Spielberg, 2026 - Science Fiction
If you found out we weren't alone, if someone showed you, proved it to you, would that frighten you?
This will be the 7:15pm IMAX screening at the AMC Hoffman Center 22, consider bringing ear plugs at your own accord. I'll be seated in H13 and will arrive an hour beforehand at Atlas Brew Works before heading in. Afterwards, we can meet up in the lobby area to discuss!
Tickets and more info available [here](https://www.amctheatres.com/movies/disclosure-day-77140/showtimes?date=2026-06-13).
Meetup #44: For Simon
**NOTE: Meetup is SATURDAY this month!**
A special Meetup this month. Some sad news recently reached us that our dear friend and Meetup stalwart, Simon, passed away in April. Simon's mother reached out to us to let us know and to share that our little get-togethers were among Simon's favorite activities, and she talked about how he used to call her and they would discuss how he was going to vote for our next episode. She told us that Simon was very devoted to environmental activism and suggested The Nature Conservancy (nature.org), if anyone wanted to give something in his name.
In honor of Simon, let's choose this month from four environmentally themed episodes.
*Galaxy 4* \- The Doctor\, Steven\, and Vicki encounter a planet where two alien races are so busy fighting with each other that they can't get it together to cooperate to escape the planet's impending doom\. Pretty far\-fetched\! \(3 animated episodes and 1 live\-action\.\)
*The Green Death -* The 3rd Doctor, Jo, and UNIT meet Global Chemicals and the mysterious BOSS, who promises unlimited cheap, clean energy so long as you don't mind the giant carnivorous maggots.
*The Android Invasion -* The 4th Doctor and Sarah battle the Kraals, a race of people who have so devastated their own planet with radiation and pollution that even Earth looks attractive.
*Arachnids in the UK/Praxeus* \- The 13th Doctor and the Fam encounter first hand the monstrous consequences of a whole lot of pollution\.
When you RSVP, please rank the four options above in the comments in the order of preference (1 being "Yes! I desperately want to see it!" and 4 being "Meh."), and we will abide by the choice of the attendees.
For the Meetup itself, we ask everyone to bring something to drink and something to eat (snacks/munchies - you don't need to bring a whole ham or something!) to share with the group. We'll have food and drink as well and maybe a themed cocktail if the inspiration strikes...
We are a couple blocks from the Columbia Heights Metro (15th and Harvard NW). We'll provide the full address ahead of the event. Note also that we are a walk-up - two flights of stairs.
Looking forward to seeing everyone!
DC911Truth.org Monthly Meeting
Monthly meeting: Second Saturday of the month
International House of Pancakes (IHOP)
775 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
7:00 PM – 10 PM. Late arrivals always welcome.
Look for the table with someone wearing a red hat.
Questions, please call 1-240-644-5230
Agenda:
What are more things we can do to wake people up?
What can we do to get more people involved?
Other things people would like to talk about.
This will be a joint meeting with:
DC 9/11 Truth
[https://dc911truth.org/](https://dc911truth.org/)
dc911truth Facebook page
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/dc911truth/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/dc911truth/)
911 Meetup Group
[https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-kyegaoqu/](https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-kyegaoqu/)
Central Bank Digital Currencies CBDC Meetup Group
[https://www.meetup.com/central-bank-digital-currencies-cbdc/](https://www.meetup.com/central-bank-digital-currencies-cbdc/)
Freedom of Speech Meetup Group
[https://www.meetup.com/silver-spring-freedom-of-speech-meetup-group/](https://www.meetup.com/silver-spring-freedom-of-speech-meetup-group/)
Forró at Dupont Circle! Free Brazilian Music Concert featuring Simone Baron
Dance forro 😄Enjoy the music of Brazil and grab a dance partner. BID Dupont Circle hosts this free music concert series. Simone is a top local musician and forro is Brasil's favorite dance. See you there.
Walk, Breathe, Rise: A Morning in Nature
**NOTE: AN RSVP ON MEETUP DOES NOT SERVE AS A BOOKED SPOT. YOU MUST BOOK VIA LINK BELOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.**
**You must book your spot through our website: [[Booking Link Here](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/walk-breathe-rise)]**
Lesbifriends Travel is linking up with [We BE Walkin'](https://webewalkin.com/) for Walk, Breathe, Rise for a Saturday morning nature gathering designed to slow the weekend down in the best way possible. Think fresh air, a scenic walk through the U.S. National Arboretum, a grounding yoga flow with Devyn of [Surrender + Flow](https://bio.site/surrenderandflow), light snacks, and meaningful connection with your community.
**Event Details**
📅 Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
⏰ Time: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
📍 Location: The U.S. National Arboretum, Northeast DC (specific meeting location shared with confirmed guests)
💸 **Regular: $25** (Booking Deadline: June 12)
🎁 **Gifted Tickets Available:** **$15** to send a community member
**What to Expect**
* A guided 2.8 mile beginner-friendly walk through the Arboretum
* A grounding yoga flow with Devyn (gentle asana, breathwork, and her signature handpan)
* Healthy snacks, water, and time to connect after
* Pet friendly and welcoming to all paces and energy levels
* A reset before heading back into the week
Tickets are limited. **The earlier you grab yours, the better.**
**Who This Event Is For:**
Black queer women and non-binary people who want to feel grounded, who love being outside and moving their body, or who simply want to spend a Saturday morning the right way.
✨ Lesbifriends Travel and We BE Walkin' invite you to walk, breathe, and rise with your community. **Claim your spot here: [Walk, Breathe, Rise](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/walk-breathe-rise)**!
**Note:** By attending this event, you agree to being photographed. However, if communicated, we will try our best not to capture you in photos and post you publicly. That request must be communicated ahead of time/at the beginning of the event to photographer and host.
Saturday Run - 50 min (25 out and 25 back)
This Saturday lets run to the National Mall! We will start at Roosevelt Island at the crosswalk in the center of parking lot.
(Note there is an alternative meeting spot, it is right on the Custis trail, on the North side of Gateway Park, near Langston Blvd and Lynn St; it will be clearly marked as the meeting spot if conditions are bad on a given Saturday. Ignore this unless told otherwise.
Afterwards stay for coffee, we'll wander up to Rosslyn and either meet in Compass or, if the weather is nice enough, at the Plaza opposite the Metro.
Note: Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platforms.
\|LOCATION:
Roosevelt Island Parking Lot. Use this map to locate the parking lot ([https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B053'48.2%22N+77%C2%B004'02.1%22W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B053'48.2%22N+77%C2%B004'02.1%22W)) [GPS: 38°53'51.99"N 77° 4'3.24"W]. To help new people find the group, please meet in the middle of the parking lot.
Please meet 10 min. before the start time.
Alternative location, ONLY when indicated, on the Custis trail, on the North side of Gateway Park, near Langston Blvd and Lynn St: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SNFYSkFv9rRQed37](https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SNFYSkFv9rRQed37)
PACE and MILEAGE:
All paces are welcome! We'll be doing an out and back route, so everyone will just turn around at the halfway time marker. We generally average from 8-12 min/miles and run for fifty minutes. But, you can run any amount of time or mileage. And if you need to walk, it's not a problem either, everyone needs to start somewhere!
ROUTE:
The usual route is [https://onthegomap.com/s/7r0gvj5r](https://onthegomap.com/s/7r0gvj5r). It may vary occasionally. The full circuit works out to around 8:30 min/mile for a 50 minute run. Slower paces can turn around earlier, faster paces can run farther.
PARKING:
Use this map ([http://bit.ly/i2dWD0](http://bit.ly/i2dWD0)) to find parking in Rosslyn. There are parking lots at Roosevelt Island and above the Continental Lounge. There are also meters and pay garages.
DIRECTIONS:
For those of you driving to Roosevelt Island, please note that the parking lot is only accessible from the NORTHBOUND lane of GW parkway. You will see it right after the Roosevelt Bridge. Also whenever it is warmer the parking lot fills up really quickly. You are strongly advised to use alternative travel or park in Rosslyn.
They do ticket illegally parked cars at the island!!
METRO:
Orange or blue to Rosslyn. From N. Moore St, turn left; right onto 19th St; cross Lynn St. and turn left; take the trail on the right just before the Key Bridge.
UFOs & IFOs Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Starfinder Society 1-22: Rescue in the Wreck [3-4]
Having secured a secret entrance to the Wreck of the Returned, the Starfinder Society is finally ready to launch a rescue mission into the Wreck, to liberate the lost Starfinder Zizenzi and the countless other citizens of Akiton who’ve been abducted by the Functionary’s forces and await forced conversion into mindless servitors of the Wreck. While numerous teams prepare to enter the conversion facility, First Seeker Sarmak has tasked one special team with breaching the conversion facility’s central control room and dispatching the cure to conversion through the ventilation system. If successful, all the converted innocents within the Wreck will regain their autonomy and break free from the Wreck’s control. Unfortunately, the central control is sure to be heavily guarded… Prepare for battle, Starfinders!
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 Matt Morris.
BINGO Online (Win Prizes!)
**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET At**
[https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix)
(Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so the RSVP's shown are just a very small portion attending. We'll have at least 20 registered.)
Our last online Bingo Night Party was such a BIG hit, we're doing it again! Do you like to play BINGO or want to just do something different?! Then you will LOVE this event! Here is your opportunity to have some fun playing our Live "Bingo" game. You will also get to socialize and make other friends from the comfort of your home.
Prizes included Amazon gift cards, free future events and more! This completely online event will be LIVE and you will be able to see and hear the other participants while playing. You will either need to print or draw out your bingo cards. We will email you with how to get it after registering.
You can have more than 1 person on your team as long as they're from your house and use same device. Friends/family around the country can also play. They would just need to also register for a ticket.
This event will be held on Zoom which you would access through your computer/webcam, or via your phone/tablet. On day of the event, you will get a secured Zoom link and link to print out Bingo cards.
\*RSVPS ON HERE ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF ACTUAL ATTENDANCE as this is a multi group event.
Cost: $15-$20 depending on how early you register.
**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET AT -**
[https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13508#tix)
Star party- Astronomical Society of Greenbelt
The Astronomical Society of Greenbelt will hold a star party at the Greenbelt Observatory on Saturday, June 13 from 9:30 to 11:30 PM. The event is free and open to the public. Visitors can come in to the observatory dome to watch the telescope operators or bring their own telescopes. The event will be cancelled if it’s clouded over or raining. All are welcome. Children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Moon Landing Duo @ National Harbor Stars and Smiles Foodie Festival!
Don’t miss your chance to check out the INCREDIBLE pop-rock Moon Landing Duo at The National Harbor Stars & Smiles Foodie Festival June 14th at 2 pm! (Set time subject to change).
Featuring @shelleystarofficial and @alanxtra, this pair is truly out of this world! 🌎
Open Forum In-Person Discussion Group
***Please join us as we continue a course of study on the spelling of the Hebrew letters. Our 11th session will be the spelling of Kaph (Kaph Peh) relating to Tarot Key 10. We will be exploring ideas about the spelling of Kaph to illuminate our understanding of The Wheel of Fortune.***
***No prior preparation is needed and membership in B.O.T.A. is not required. We'll be providing handouts.***
***Looking forward to sharing in the Ageless Wisdom as we grow in Understanding together!***
***Fraternally yours in L.V.X.,***
***Roger***
Movie: Last One for the Road
Join us to watch Last One For the Road at AFI Silver: Two middle-aged friends, who swear each drink is their last, cross paths with a shy architecture student and take him under their wing on a free-flowing bender through the Italian countryside.
**Note: RSVPing here does not guarantee your spot for the event. You must purchase a 6;30pm ticket from AFI Silver: [https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100005579/](https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100005579/)**
(In Italian with English subtitles)
Hidden Gem: Franciscan Monastery & Gardens
Even though this is posted as a meetup event, this is a self-guided experience, we wont be walking as a group.
Let's visit the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, one of Washington's most beautiful and underrated landmarks.
We'll explore the monastery's stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, catacombs, grottos, and replicas of famous Holy Land sites. Often described as a hidden oasis in the city, this unique destination offers a fascinating blend of history, art, culture, and tranquility.
Whether you're interested in architecture, photography, spirituality, history, or simply discovering new places and meeting great people, you're welcome to join us.
**Cost:** Free
**Who can attend:** Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. Please dress respectfully, as this is an active religious site.
### What makes it unique?
* **A "Holy Land in America"** – It was created so Americans could experience replicas of important Christian sites in Jerusalem and the Holy Land without traveling overseas.
* **Underground catacombs** – Few places in DC have catacombs. Walking through them feels like stepping into another era.
* **Hidden gardens and grottos** – The 40+ acre grounds are filled with rose gardens, quiet pathways, fountains, and secluded prayer spaces. Many visitors are surprised such a peaceful retreat exists in the middle of the city.
* **Architectural variety** – The monastery combines elements inspired by churches and shrines from the Middle East, Europe, and early Christianity.
* **A living monastery** – Franciscan friars still live and worship there, so it is not just a museum or historic site.
### Why is it historically important?
* The Franciscans have been custodians of many Christian holy sites in the Holy Land for nearly 800 years.
* The monastery was founded in the late 1800s as the American headquarters supporting those missions.
* It helped make pilgrimage experiences accessible to people who could not afford the long journey to Jerusalem.
### Why do non-religious visitors enjoy it?
Even if you're not religious, the monastery offers:
* Beautiful architecture and art
* Excellent photography opportunities
* A fascinating glimpse into history and world cultures
* One of the quietest and most serene places in DC
* A chance to explore hidden tunnels, chapels, and gardens that most tourists never see
Many people visit expecting a church and leave feeling like they've discovered a secret European monastery tucked away in Washington. That's why it is often described as one of DC's most underrated attractions.
UFOs & IFOs Events Near You
Connect with your local UFOs & IFOs community
Mt Kilimanjaro Trek! One of the 7 Summits. Join us on this bucket list adventure
**Our Meetup is off to another hiking adventure! Mt Kilimanjaro, as the tallest mountain in Africa, is included in the 7 Summits of the world.**
**It is a bucket-list item for all hard-core hikers and mountain lovers.**
We did this trek with Meetup in the summer of 2024 and it was a true experience of a lifetime (see photos below)
Let's get to some numbers. It is 5,895m/19,340ft
BUT . . . our starting elevation for the trek is 3795m/12541ft
As such elevation gain is 2100m/6799ft
To compare Everest Base Camp trek, is about 2754m/9035ft elevation change. And Mt Whitney is about 1828m/6000ft elevation change.
The key to being able to succeed in this endeavor lays in the route and the support system.
We are taking the Lemosho Route via the Northern Circuit. The Northern Circuit route is the longest and newest of the seven established Kilimanjaro routes. It's one of the best routes because it has the best acclimatization profile. This results in one of the highest summit success rates. Add to that stunning views, and comparatively relaxed pace. It is also much less crowded than the other Kilimanjaro routes.
As far as our support system: We will be accompanied by experienced guides, porters and cooks. They are certified, ensuring our safety and comfort. Porters will carry our gear.
We will have a high ratio of guides to hikers. Our guides will go our pace and support each and everyone of us, regardless of fitness level and pace. In other words...you go your own speed and we all get there safe.
More about our trek/trip.
As with all our international trips, we picked the best season/time of year to go for weather and wildlife. Lemosho and Northern Circuit is a scenically spectacular and varied route. At the lower elevations it has an abundance of wildlife such as elephant, buffalo, eland and lion which come over to forage during dry season.
**Each of our trips is personally crafted to offer the best places and best use of time.**
*But I don't have the needed gear?!*
You don't need much more than the standard trekker's equipment. We will provide you with a list of what is already included and what can be rented there.
*Does this include food?*
All meals on the trek potion are included and a cook travels with us!
*What is lodging like?*
We are sleeping in new and comfortable tents (carried during the day by porters)
*I am new at this.*
That's OK. We do plenty of prep Zooms before we depart. And in California we have a number of local outdoor day or weekend outings you can test out with us.
*How dangerous is this? What if I get sick or hurt?*
We will be walking on an established, well used trail the entire time. **Our trip INCLUDES emergency insurance.** We are also Certified Wilderness First Responders and our guides are members of (AMREF) Flying Doctor.
**Plain and simple, safety is our primary goal.**
*How much does this cost?*
**Kilimanjaro Mountain Trek $3950 per person, double occupancy. Land only (airfare not included). Solo supplement $600**
Trip Cost includes:
\- 9 nights accommodation
\- 3 meals everyday on the trek
\- All Fees & Entrances and Taxes
\- Camping equipment such as tents\, tables\, chairs\.
\- Lead Guide\, Assistant Guides\, Porters and Cook
*RSVP to this event shows your interest, but does not hold your space.*
***The only way to secure your spot for this trip is a $300 deposit:***
***[CLICK HERE FOR SECURE DEPOSIT LINK](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/8P9NUAVQM8UEN)***
*Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).*
*IF you need an airfare quote,* [Click here to message Anna](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062)
For more information about this or any of our other international events, fill out this form: **[INTERNATIONAL MEETUPS INFO REQUEST](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)**
To see pictures from our Kilimanjaro adventure in 2024 [CLICK HERE](https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPkfkUp6sEZVQ-xse1di_K19d1QVmSb5KOLeIjynRoWGv_XFLXI8wBfT61XxAHavg?key=U2tKajBuOGRiZkxBOUtTUG1GbUVRVmlDaERCeG5n)
We do a monthly Q & A Zoom: Meet others attending, be social, or come and get any questions answered.
[Click Here to RSVP to our Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/)
The MAIN location where this event is posted:
[https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/302872805/](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/302872805/)
(RSVP there for any conversation and comments)
This events is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
[Click Here ](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events)for our other events:
Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!
SOT 200318-10
The Crop Circle: Alien Night!
Have any abduction stories? Want a group to make contact, CE5 style? Sleep paralysis? Starseeds? Join us for all things star beings!
LGBTQ+ Uniformed Services Happy Hour @ Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant
**Please note that Go Gay DC is listing this exciting event as a community service, but is not running the event. Just go and have a fun time!**
Reserve a spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1989176239680?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count.
Be at ease and enjoy a happy hour with Uniformed Services personnel on the third Thursday of every month. It officially starts at 5 p.m. but come early and enjoy the happy hour drink specials.
If you plan to dine, please call ahead for table reservations at (703) 685-0555 or reserve a table **[online](https://www.yelp.com/biz/freddies-beach-bar-and-restaurant-arlington)**.
The menu is at [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu)
Ask your server about the happy hour drink specials (which last until 7 p.m.).
Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets.
This fun monthly gathering brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including Allies, together for conversation. About 25 usually attend. **This event is inclusive, meaning those who support Uniformed Services personnel are welcome too.**
This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/)
Go Gay DC's leader is[ ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**.
Casual attire is fine.
Feel free to invite all your friends to join you there.
**Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Freddie's is up 23rd Street just a block. Just look for the rainbow flags on the right side of the street!
Freddie's was voted the Best Virginia Bar by *Washington Blade* readers. Don't like a smoky bar? You are covered: Freddie's is a smoke-free establishment. (Ashtrays are provided in back of the building if smoking is 'your thing').
Freddie's is an LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar. It offers Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/)
Arrive at any time that's convenient for you.
There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket.
This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for all ages. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course.
Go Gay DC is on social media:
Join the Facebook Group
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC)
Like the Facebook Page
[https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/)
Follow on Threads
[https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw)
Follow on Bluesky
[https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/)
Follow on X
[https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC)
Watch on YouTube
[https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC)
LinkedIn
[https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5wn7CoNkDnzZk1J8PGqEXSOaiVTjajzIpsVdNeg2WI7X_BJ5MeR6ierA9SUg_aem_YJJoTeXOh5HTjDXienXIZQ)
Search tags: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies non-binary
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: Can Artificial Intelligence “See”?
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Can Artificial Intelligence ‘See’?”** A look at how humans and artificial intelligence systems interpret the visual world in fundamentally different ways, with Arryn Robbins, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Richmond and cognitive scientist who researches visual attention, perception, and category learning.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-can-AI-see](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-can-AI-see) .]
Artificial intelligence can now identify faces, categorize objects, describe scenes, and outperform humans on certain visual tasks. But does AI actually “see” the world the way that people do? Or does it arrive at correct answers using representations that differ markedly from human perception?
Join Arryn Robbins of the University of Richmond for a fascinating exploration of how humans and AI construct meaning from visual information and a look at comparisons between human perception and AI that reveal just how dynamic and context-dependent our own visual systems really are.
Dr. Robbins, who previously has given excellent Profs and Pints talks on flaws and biases in human visual perception, will draw from research in cognitive science, visual perception, and AI vision systems.
She’ll explain how human perception is not merely a simple recording of the world, but an active process shaped by expectations, context, goals, and recent experience. You’ll learn how humans form flexible mental representations that allow us to recognize objects across changing environments and conditions, and why those representations continuously adapt as we interact with the world.
Many AI systems, by contrast, learn visual categories through statistical patterns in data. They can produce impressive results, but sometimes they also produce strange and unexpected failures, and sometimes they classify images in ways that seem strange to us.
Dr. Robbins will discuss what these differences reveal about the nature of perception itself, and why the mismatch between human and AI representations matters for technologies like self-driving cars, medical imaging, facial recognition, and automated surveillance.
Important for anyone trying to understand the rapidly growing role of AI in daily life, this talk will explore one of the biggest questions in cognitive science and artificial intelligence: What does it actually mean to “see” and understand the world? (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image: “Eye Farm” by Nevit Dilmen (Wikimedia Commons).
LGBTQ+ Uniformed Services Pride Happy Hour @ Freddie's Beach Bar
**Please note that Go Gay DC is listing this exciting event as a community service, but is not running the event. Just go and have a fun time!**
Reserve a spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1989176239680?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count.
Be at ease and enjoy a happy hour with Uniformed Services personnel on the third Thursday of every month. It officially starts at 5 p.m. but come early and enjoy the happy hour drink specials.
If you plan to dine, please call ahead for table reservations at (703) 685-0555 or reserve a table **[online](https://www.yelp.com/biz/freddies-beach-bar-and-restaurant-arlington)**.
The menu is at [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu)
Ask your server about the happy hour drink specials (which last until 7 p.m.).
Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets.
This fun monthly gathering brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including Allies, together for conversation. About 25 usually attend. **This event is inclusive, meaning those who support Uniformed Services personnel are welcome too.**
This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/)
Go Gay DC's leader is[ ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**.
Casual attire is fine.
Feel free to invite all your friends to join you there.
**Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Freddie's is up 23rd Street just a block. Just look for the rainbow flags on the right side of the street!
Freddie's was voted the Best Virginia Bar by *Washington Blade* readers. Don't like a smoky bar? You are covered: Freddie's is a smoke-free establishment. (Ashtrays are provided in back of the building if smoking is 'your thing').
Freddie's is an LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar. It offers Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/)
Arrive at any time that's convenient for you.
There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket.
This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for all ages. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course.
Go Gay DC is on social media:
Join the Facebook Group
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC)
Like the Facebook Page
[https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC/)
Follow on Threads
[https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw)
Follow on Bluesky
[https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/)
Follow on X
[https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC)
Watch on YouTube
[https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC)
LinkedIn
[https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5wn7CoNkDnzZk1J8PGqEXSOaiVTjajzIpsVdNeg2WI7X_BJ5MeR6ierA9SUg_aem_YJJoTeXOh5HTjDXienXIZQ)
Search tags: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies non-binary
[Hybrid] Superconvergence: How the Genetics, Biotech, and AI Revolutions Will…
…Transform Our Lives, Work, and World (2024) by Jamie Metzl, 432 pages [Genetics]
• Paperback
• Hardcover
• Kindle
• Audiobook
• Library: [https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082](https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082)
Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)**
### Review
“In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes readers on a magical journey through the science of the intersecting genetics, biotech, and AI revolutions, deeply explores the implications, and challenges us to think creatively and proactively about what comes next. Very few books are absolute must-reads. This is one.”―Siddhartha Mukherjee, assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University and author of The Gene: An Intimate History
"During the 25 years I have known Jamie Metzl, he has always been ahead of the curve. There is no one better to help us understand and prepare for the fast-approaching technological revolutions. Superconvergence is brilliant. I can't recommend it more strongly."―Sanjay Gupta MD, bestseller author, neurosurgeon, and Emmy-award winning chief medical correspondent (CNN)
"Our world is defined by our science and technology—whether we like it or not. The question now is not whether to use these powers, but how best to use them. In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes us on a journey through the new capabilities that are radically transforming ecosystems inside us and around us, challenging each of us to get personally involved with building the future we want."―Beth Shapiro, University of California Santa Cruz evolutionary biologist and author of Life as We Made It: How 50,000 Years of Human Innovation Refined―and Redefined―Nature
"In a fine counter-blast to the pessimism of today, Jamie Metzl lays out just how spectacular the future of humanity and planet can be if we harness innovation responsibly and imaginatively to create what he calls the 'spiral of progress.'"―Matt Ridley, author of How Innovation Works, and co-author of Viral: The search for the Origin of Covid-19
“A page-turning journey through space and time that shows us how our lives will be changed by imminent technological advances we once only dreamed of.”―David Sinclair, Professor of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, and author of Lifespan: Why We Age―and Why We Don't Have To
“The superconvergence of the genetics, biotechnology, and AI revolutions provides spectacular opportunities for building a better world. It also represents an almost limitless investment opportunity. We were excited to collaborate with Jamie Metzl, one of the world's great experts on how these aspirations can best be realized, including in capital markets. Superconvergence is a master class for imagining, investing in, and building a future we'd like to inhabit."―Jeremy Schwartz, Global Chief Investment Officer, WisdomTree
“A clear examination of a transitional moment in the story of life on Earth…. Metzl capably describes recent developments in genetics and biotech and looks at how AI is providing an analytical engine of unprecedented power…. An important book in which the author sets out a path for the future based on his experience and expertise.”―Kirkus
“Erudite, optimistic, and timely.”―Science Magazine
"[In Superconvergence] Mr. Metzl has identified an important truth: that the convergence of new technologies is galvanizing us to reimagine how to meet urgent challenges in medicine and the environment. It’s a compelling opportunity—provided we manage to sidestep self-induced catastrophes along the way."―The Wall Street Journal
### About the Author
Jamie Metzl is a leading technology and healthcare futurist and the founder and chair of OneShared.World. He is the author of Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity and four other books and was a member of the World Health Organization expert advisory committee on human genome editing. Jamie previously served in the U.S. National Security Council, State Department, and Senate Foreign Relations Committee and with the United Nations in Cambodia. His work has been featured by most major media organizations around the world, including 60 Minutes, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Fox, CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, the Times of London, Le Monde, and Paris Match, and his podcast interviews with Joe Rogan, Lex Fridman, and others have reached tens of millions of listeners. He lives in New York City. Visit Jamiemetzl.com.











![Starfinder Society 1-22: Rescue in the Wreck [3-4]](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/0/c/7/highres_520172967.webp?w=640)












![[Hybrid] Superconvergence: How the Genetics, Biotech, and AI Revolutions Will…](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/7/8/highres_534122936.webp?w=640)