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[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Horror as Queer,”** a look at the influence and depiction of queerness in horror films, with May Santiago, adjunct professor of film studies at George Mason University and producer of the podcast *Horrorspiria.* [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-horror-queer](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-horror-queer) .] Horror was queer long before both Brad and Janet succumbed to the charms of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in *The Rocky Horror Picture Show.* In fact, one could make the argument that, for both better and worse, the history of horror films is the history of queers on film. Film scholar May Santiago will do just that, with plenty of vivid examples, in reprising a talk that has earned rave reviews. You’ll learn how queer auteurs such as F.W. Murnau and James Whale were there at the very beginning. Murnau played a central role in the German expressionist movement that gave rise to films such as *Nosferatu*, while Whale left a body of work full of queer codes, including the films *Frankenstein*, *The Old Dark House*, and *The Invisible Man.* From there, Santiago will discuss how the representational codes established by such queer filmmakers were appropriated throughout the celluloid century by non-queer authors who constructed cinematic horror language that used queerness as shorthand for the monstrous. The result was harmful stereotypes of queer people in films and society, with examples being the stoic psycho lesbian trope embodied by Mrs. Danvers in *Rebecca*, the transgender sex-obsessed serial murderer Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s *Psycho*, and the villains of *Dressed to Kill* and *Silence of the Lambs.* Yet, even with these negative portrayals of explicit or implicit queerness, horror cinema’s relationship with queerness and queer audiences has grown stronger with each passing decade, with queer authors and queer audiences reclaiming the monstrosity that created the basis of the horror genre. Santiago will look at how the evolution of horror films coincided with that of queer stereotypes and how queer authors embedded queerness in films that aren’t explicitly queer. Among the questions she’ll tackle: How did we come around to thinking that the Babadook was gay? ? (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A frame from the 1920 silent German horror film *The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari* (tint added).

PLEASE READ AS THERE IS AN IMPORTANT RECENT CHANGE for the blind tasting at Maxwell Park only: prepayment will be required to attend. Please note that refunds for cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours before the event start time. (But please cancel as soon as you know.) Please bear with me as we navigate this new process. The real maximum number of attendees will remain at 14, but since the Meetup App won’t let me make it a requirement to pre-pay when you RSVP "Yes," I’m not going to set a cap on Meetup's RSVP list, and we will see how that goes. Because there is No linkage between the Meetup App and Maxwell’s prepayment link, you can’t rely on Meetup's RSVP feature to know if there are still spots available. You will only know with certainty that the attendee cap has been reached if you are rejected while trying to prepay. Here is the pre-pay link: [Monthly Blind Tasting Group 6/1/26](https://www.giftrocker.com/secure/Order/?h=3c253325) Let me know if you have any specific questions. Thank you for your patience as we transition to this new process! Maxwell Park is 4 blocks from the Mt. Vernon Sq/7th St-Convention Center. 🍷 RSVP Please: --**If your plans have changed, please change your RSVP to No.** *Note start time of 6:15 PM!* Please plan to arrive on time. 🍷 What is blind wine tasting? In a blind tasting you use your sense of smell, sight, and taste to try to deduce which variety(wine grape) is in your glass. 🍷 Do I need to be a wine professional? Definitely not - this group is experience diverse and we welcome both wine newbies and wine pros (and everyone else in between). 🍷 How does this work? --Please arrive slightly before 6:15pm to grab a seat. --Maxwell Park will serve us two wine flights: 3 white wines around 6:20 pm and 3 red wines around 7:30 pm. Each flight is $20. A 20% gratuity and tax is added to that. Food and other wines are also available for purchase. --We will discuss each flight as a group and try to reach somewhat of a consensus. Then comes the *big reveal* where we discover if our guesses were right. Full vaccination is required, masks are optional. Unfortunately, while we will try to be as careful as possible, we cannot promise that this will be 100% Covid risk free, please keep that in mind when deciding whether or not to attend. Stay home if you are experiencing any symptoms of Covid 19. Please keep an eye on this event for possible changes. Hope to see you there ! \~ Linda Lists of possible wines: [White Wine Varieties](https://www.mastersommeliers.org/sites/default/files/ES%20Tast-CMS%20Probable%20List%20of%20Examinable%20White%20Grape%20Varieties-NEW_2015.pdf) [Red Wine Varieties](https://www.mastersommeliers.org/sites/default/files/ES%20Tast-CMS%20Probable%20List%20of%20Examinable%20Red%20Grape%20Varieties-NEW_2015.pdf)

Doubles Volleyball - Competitive BB-A level @Bluemont Park Let's get together to play some fun A level Doubles games at Bluemont. Format: Doubles COST: FREE Court Type: Outdoor grass Minimum Skill Requirements: A level (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) Attention: 1. This event is not always on a first come, first served basis. Those who can bring a net and ball, may get priority over others on the waitlist. 1. Since skill levels are self-reported, some attendees may not meet the expected level in reality, so we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this is a competitive event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games. 1. Since people arrive at different times, each group of 1. Players will set up and claim a net as they arrive, and may continue playing without rotating until all nets are set. ——— Smiley Social documents: [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/mobilebasic) [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco/mobilebasic) [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic)

Continuing the 201 Improv class. This will run 8 weeks and will have a showcase towards the end of June. It is 150$ for the entire class and showcase. Let's "yes, and"!

**Are you in the DMV and interested in the Banjo?** Join the [Black Banjo Reclamation Project](https://www.blackbanjoreclamationproject.org/) (BBRP) in celebrating the BLACK roots of the Banjo at our monthly meet-up! Learn about Black artists and musicians in the folk and old-time music space and get connected with other resources about the banjo and traditional Folk music…also don’t be shy– jam with us! **(All skill levels welcome!** ***If you have a banjo, bring it! If not, no worries–we can share!)*** We host meet ups in Baltimore but we are excited to expand our meet-ups to PG County! Huge shoutout to the the **[Archie Edwards](https://www.acousticblues.com/)** \*\*[Blues Heritage Foundation ](https://www.acousticblues.com/)\*\*for hosting our group in their amazing space. We meet EVERY 1st MONDAY from 6:30PM- 8PM!! **About the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation:** A volunteer-run Foundation in Hyattsville, Maryland dedicated to preserving the memory of Washington D.C. blues artist and barbershop owner Archie Edwards. Continuing his mission to keep acoustic Piedmont Blues music alive, the foundation hosts: * [Saturday blues jams](https://www.acousticblues.com/saturday-blues-jams) * Instrument and vocal workshops (they have done banjo workshops!) * Monthly Open Mics * Concerts AND MORE! As a thank you for offering their space for BBRP banjo meet ups, feel free to make a donation to the Archie Edwards Foundation, follow them, and attend their events!

**NEW UPDATE:** Additional members of the cubing community have reached out to me and we all agree, the more cubing the better! I have removed the 12 person limit and we are adding an overflow cube for those also interested in non vintage type cubes! These guest cubes may consist of the following: \- Alex's Enchantment Cube: [Enchanted to Meet You](https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/enchantedCube)! \- Matthew's Avatar cube: [Avatar: The Last Airbender Power(ful) Cube](https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/avatarTLA) Priority will still fall to firing the vintage cube but what this means is if we reach 12 members we can offer the option to fire both cubes at 6 and 6 or just the vintage cube at 2 pods each. If we reach over 12 we will divide up the players between the two cubes with earlier RSVPs getting priority on their choice. If you have a cube that you are interested in having as a spill over cube please reach out to me and we can coordinate. Thank you! Come join and casually draft a vintage cube that is open to everyone. No cost to enter! The store provides promo booster packs and I usually throw in a pack of the most recent standard set to award to the people with the best records at the end of the night. [What is Cube?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNDBTRG6keM) What: Vintage Cube Draft When: 6:00pm Where: Your Hobby Place in Old Town Alexandria (Your Hobby Place, 700 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314) We aim to start drafting shortly after 6:00pm as the store's register closes at 9:00pm. The store owner is kind enough to keep the space open for us to finish rounds. In previous events we've usually wrapped up around 9:45. All skill levels are welcome and all cards, lands, tokens needed are provided so you only need to bring yourself and potentially some dice and playmat if you prefer. The list can be seen here: [https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/proxybacon](https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/proxybacon) Join Your Hobby Place's Discord and grab the Cube Role in the mtg-chat channel for the most up to date information on cube at their location: [https://discord.gg/9je3G8vzXh](https://discord.gg/9je3G8vzXh) **Important Notice:** I have seen an increased number of signups and no shows amongst brand new accounts. In an effort to make sure we have room for everyone if this is your first time joining and you have just created a meetup account please reach out to me via Meetup or discord. **Late Policy:** RSVPing will hold your spot for up to 10 minutes after 6. If you expect you may be running late please reach out to me via the store's discord. My username is iluvbacon610.

Please join our Advisors and other invited speakers to hear a presentation on investing basics. Topics to be discussed will include an overview of asset allocation, diversification, market volatility, tax efficient accounts, and general income strategies. Refreshments and Hors D’oeuvres will be served. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To reserve your spot, please RSVP today to your financial advisor. We look forward to seeing you!

Speaker: Michelle Kleinhans is an avid native-plant gardener and nature lover who has transformed her conventional yard into a haven for wildlife. She will share with us fascinating facts about backyard fauna, explain why native plants are key to animal wellbeing and biodiversity, and steps you can take to protect local wildlife, even if you don't have a yard of your own. Finally, she will discuss how native-plant gardening relates to veganism and how one can practice animal-rights activism within the gardening community. Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

Party! http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/5/2/b/600_433122283.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/d/2/4/600_344616132.jpeg http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/5/8/7/600_433122375.jpeg

Please join us every week for power networking! Our Chapter Passed $1,666,736 USD in the past 12 months! BNI members, on average, increase their business 20% the first year. Our chapter is a dynamic, committed group of business people who know how to refer business to each other. Come for our meeting -- stay for the referrals!!! We have open categories for individuals who will bring enthusiasm and integrity to our meeting. Just one person per professional specialty is allowed in each chapter. Visit a meeting to find out more and lock out your competition! Register Here: https://bninovanorth.com/va-nova-north-bni-mclean-business-connection--n136/en-US/visitorregistration?chapterId=16988

Climbers of all skill levels are welcome to Join "[Sends with Friends](https://www.instagram.com/sends_with_friends_climbing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)" rock climbing community for an indoor bouldering event at [Bouldering Project -DC](https://maps.app.goo.gl/m6okjpQsjeSxTqVj8) gym. The first 25 climbers who come in through the doors get in for free, after that you'll pay $15 for a day pass. Rental shoes and chalk bag is provided free of charge. If this is your first time using Bouldering Project-DC facility consider taking the Intro to BP that starts 7:15PM and includes a tour of the facility. You must sign the Bouldering Project waiver and read, understand, and agree to Sends With Friends release of liability form before participating in this event. Please do so beforehand to avid creating a line at the front desk. You can find Bouldering Project waiver here: [First-Time-Visit](https://boulderingproject.com/first-time-visit/) and Sends With Friends Release of Liability form below: \* \* \* \* **Sends with Friends Rock Climbing Meetup Waiver and Release of Liability** **NOTICE:** By signing up for this event, you agree to the terms outlined below and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with rock climbing activities. Participation in any event organized by this Meetup group is contingent upon your agreement to this release form. **1\. Assumption of Risk:** I, the undersigned participant, acknowledge and fully understand that rock climbing is a high-risk activity. I am aware that participation involves risks including, but not limited to, physical injury, permanent disability, or death. These risks may arise from, but are not limited to, natural hazards, equipment failure, human error, and the actions or negligence of others. **2\. Release of Liability:** In consideration of being allowed to participate in any activity organized by this Meetup group, I hereby release and discharge the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and all other participants from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or connected to my participation, including claims arising from negligence or gross negligence. **3\. Personal Responsibility:** I acknowledge that I am solely responsible for my own safety during these events. I will use my own judgment in evaluating the risks involved and will take appropriate precautions, including but not limited to: * Wearing appropriate safety gear. * Using reliable climbing equipment. * Following established safety protocols. * Refraining from participating in activities beyond my skill level. **4\. Medical Fitness:** I affirm that I am in good health and physically capable of participating in rock climbing activities. I assume full responsibility for any medical conditions that may affect my ability to participate safely. **5\. Indemnity Agreement:** I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and other participants from any claims, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or related to my actions or participation in these activities. **6\. Photo/Video Release \(Optional\):** By signing this waiver, I grant permission for any photographs or videos taken during the events to be used for promotional or group-related purposes. (Participants may opt out by notifying the organizer.) **7\. Agreement to Follow Rules:** I agree to abide by all rules, instructions, and guidance provided by the event organizers and leaders. Failure to comply may result in my removal from the group. **8\. Acknowledgment of Agreement:** By joining any event organized by this Meetup group, I acknowledge that I have read and understood this waiver and release form. I agree that my participation in any event constitutes my electronic or physical signature to this agreement.

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

## Thinking about buying a home in Maryland? Join us for an informative seminar on the **Maryland Mortgage Program** and learn how qualified buyers may be able to access home loan options, down payment assistance, and other valuable homebuyer resources. This seminar is designed for first-time buyers, repeat buyers, renters preparing to purchase, and anyone who wants to better understand the homebuying process in Maryland. **Topics will include:** Maryland Mortgage Program basics Down payment assistance options First-time homebuyer qualifications Credit, income, and loan eligibility Steps to prepare for homeownership Common mistakes to avoid when buying a home **Date:** Thursday, June 4, 2026 **Time:** 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM **Location:** 1300 Spring St #134, Silver Spring, MD **Registration is required.** To register, email: **cassey.coul@gmail.com** Space may be limited, so reserve your spot today and take the next step toward homeownership.

Unshackled will be one of the largest The Prisoners wines tasting in the nation this Thursday, hosted by Rose Marie in my absence. The Prisoner Wines have several dozen white and red blended wines using unusual combinations that are very different than traditional blends from Bordeaux or The Rhone regions. ***The Prisoner Red Blend*** is comprised of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Sirah, Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec. ***Saldo***, in the $30 range, has Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, Mataro, Verdelho, and Cabernet Sauvignon. ***The Prisoner Chardonnay*** has, Chardonnay, Viognier and Gewürztraminer. You get the idea: no traditional limits in blending grapes. I will get a table for people to gather. It will be crowded, so be patient with this very popular. Feel free to bring your own food as it is welcomed at this local gem or order from the newly opened Worthington Inn, or local favorites such as Dewey's, Everest, Jet, Worthington Tavern and The Whitney. Each person pays their tasting fee, typically $15, and gets their wine glass, then approximately five pours of the wines being served. **Parking is tough**. Try the second lot behind House Wine accessed by the land by the back parking lot or the municipal lot one block north of House Wine. **Waiver and Liability and Attendance Policy.** Participation by you and your guests means you agree to the Waiver of Liability and Attendance Policies on our Group Page. People who have two more or Attendance policy violations are subject to removal from the group.

CONNECTED – Grove City A casual, people-first networking gathering. CONNECTED – Grove City is a casual, people-first networking gathering. Join us for a relaxed, low-pressure space to meet new people, build real relationships, and have meaningful conversations — no sales pitches required. From 7:30–8:30 AM every 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Grove City Business Center. Coffee & baked goods available for purchase at Pick ’Em Up Joe's. Free street & public lot parking behind the building. Free to attend & open to all!

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Do toxic people weigh you down? Affect your happiness? How can having toxic relationships affect your Health? And moreover, how can you spot them before it’s too late? Attend this in-person meeting to find out how to spot these people and remove their negative emotions from your life. This event is hosted by The Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center in Central Ohio.

**Welcome to the Women’s Columbus Bogleheads® Sub-Group** This sub-group is for **women who want to learn and discuss finances in a safe, supportive space**. For those interested in moving towards financial independence and retirement by learning investment basics, choosing your 401(k) investments, minimizing taxes, and more. We’re a local chapter of **Bogleheads®**, following a long-term, practical investment philosophy: [Investment Philosophy](https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy): https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy [Bogleheads Forum](https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php): https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php No question is too small, and no experience is too simple. Share, ask, and learn — at your own pace, without judgment, in a group of like-minded women. Let’s build confidence and knowledge **together**!