Local Producers and Directors

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“A Practical Guide to Social Change,”** a research-based look at how communities bring about reform and progress, with Marissa Robinson, founder of Real Health Impact LLC and an adjunct professor at George Washington University who teaches courses focused on public health leadership and social change. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-social-change](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-social-change) .] Systems built on inequality rarely transform without deliberate pressure from the people most committed to justice, because progress takes coordination, conviction and willingness to change what has always been accepted. Real change starts when people choose to move together. Learn what research and experience say about how to make real social progress with Dr. Marissa Robinson, a public health practitioner who previously worked in federal agencies coordinating global and national public health initiatives focused on infectious diseases, HIV, and health equity. Among the key questions she’ll tackle: How do communities overcome barriers to create real change? When should evidence guide decisions and when does context matter more? She’ll discuss established frameworks for moving from intention to measurable progress and talk about the importance of building coalitions that actually work and of making decisions grounded in real data. You’ll learn about the importance of testing ideas on a small scale before going big, as well as how to use rapid feedback loops and continuous improvement cycles to refine approaches and scale what truly works. Dr. Robinson will share stories of ordinary people and communities who refused to accept the status quo and pushed through real barriers to achieve breakthrough results. She’ll talk about practical strategies, usable frameworks, and evidence-based examples that people can apply immediately in their own communities and organizations to support change that lasts. If you have dreamed about bringing about progress in your world, this talk will give you the clarity, direction, and confidence it takes to turn such dreams into reality. (Door: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

This event combines a beautiful, slow-paced neighborhood walk through Adams Morgan (ADMO) with a meaningful day of service in honor of MLK Day. The approximately 3.0-mile loop begins at Pitango Café (1841 Columbia Rd NW) and winds through local streets and parks as we pick up litter and help protect our neighborhood environment. Much of the trash found in our community eventually washes into the Potomac River during rainstorms, and this walk offers a simple but impactful way to make a difference. Our route will pass through Kalorama and Waterside, continue down to the Zoo Loop, and return via Walter Pierce and Unity Parks. Gloves, bags, and masks will be provided, and the walking surfaces will be paved sidewalks and asphalt paths. The pace will be relaxed, but participants should be comfortable walking three miles and should use their judgment if they have back or mobility concerns. Please bring water, snacks, layered clothing, and sturdy, comfortable footwear. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome, and optional brunch in Adams Morgan afterward is available for those who would like to join. This is a joint hike between the ADMO Hiking Club and the Sierra Club. All hikers will be required to sign the Sierra Club waiver form to participate. Sierra Club Potomac Region Outings (SCPRO) appreciates a voluntary $2 per person donation to support our many volunteer-led activities. Also, you can become a Sierra Club member by clicking "join" on the Virginia Sierra Club website: [http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia) Dupont Circle is the closest Metro stop (.6 miles). Bus routes C51, C53, D70, and D74 are all within a couple blocks of Pitango. There is metered and free street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. Please arrive early so you have enough time to find parking.

Mondays just got delicious! Join us at **Divino** for **Wine Mondays: 50% off our entire wine list**—all day, every Monday. From crisp Italian whites to bold Barolos, it’s the perfect excuse to explore something new or revisit a favorite. **Less Monday stress...More Wine!** FREE PARKING

Are you looking to make new friends in the DC area? This is it! Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1978715042959?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. Make meaningful connections. This event is free to attend. Please kindly RSVP so we have an accurate guest count. The first 100 to RSVP will get in. We have been invited to visit **[Hyatt Centric Arlington](https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-centric/wasar-hyatt-centric-arlingto)**, where we will gather in a reserved section of their lounge. Attendees will be greeted by members of the Go Gay DC Leadership Team & receive a nametag upon arrival. This event is ideal for meeting new folks, making new friends, community-building, or just to unwind & enjoy the atmosphere. Casual attire is fine. We will gather in **[Awbrey & Sons Lounge](https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-centric/wasar-hyatt-centric-arlington/dining)** and have access to Key Bridge Terrace, a clean and comfortable spot where guests and visitors can enjoy the view. It's a great space for informal business meetings. In the evening, the space converts to a bar where visitors will find nine local craft brews on draft, fine wines, signature cocktails and savory snacks such as lamb lollipops, chorizo tacos, and crispy plantains. See the [bar menu](https://www.hyatt.com/content/dam/hotel/propertysites/assets/centric/wasar/documents/en_US/dining/awbrey-and-sons/A_S_Lounge_Bar_Bites_March_2025.pdf). You may arrive at any time during the event. This event is for ages 21+ and will be a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Arrive when it is convenient for you! Most attendees will likely arrive by 6:00 p.m. You're welcome regardless of where you live. This LGBTQ and Allies community-wide social provides everyone a chance to socialize, network, and share community spirit in a splendid setting. This free social is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](http://www.gogaydc.com)**. Go Gay DC's Leadership Team will be there to greet you. Go Gay DC is Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [http://www.gogaydc.com](http://www.gogaydc.com). At this exciting event, you'll even get to meet Go Gay DC's Founder, **[TJ Flavell](http://www.tjflavell.com)!** Fabulous people from all over the world are expected. Name tags will be provided. It's FREE to attend; cash bar. There will be a bartender on duty; cash or credit card is fine. Casual attire is fine; this will be a relaxing and fun time. The event is free to attend but registration is highly recommended to get in. Be eco-friendly. You are strongly encouraged to take Metro. [Rosslyn Metro station](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/rosslyn.cfm) (exit to [East side Fort Myer Dr. between 19th St. & Wilson Blvd.](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/rosslyn.cfm#:~:text=Entrance-,East%20side%20Fort%20Myer%20Dr.%20between%2019th%20St.%20%26%20Wilson%20Blvd.,-East%20side%20N)) is only footsteps away! Use Metro Trip Planner: [https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/](https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdGpIZGhiNnVBbDE5M3JvbAEeuhWmqw_N3p_FOJ2_Yq-5SF6I0pWlao_wznf3lEZ2-ILBc9NuFZDB-mg7Zp0_aem_KDRJar8HqyuVZ-9Q8EUtfQ) Street parking is free on Labor Day! Just minutes from Washington D.C., Hyatt Centric Arlington is the ideal destination for business travelers and vacationers alike. With vibrant features inside and historical attractions outside, Hyatt Centric Arlington provides an invigorating home base from which to experience one of America’s most coveted destinations. The first hotel of its kind in the D.C. area, the cosmopolitan-inspired **Hyatt Centric** opened at the site of the former Hyatt Arlington in Rosslyn in late December 2016.Hyatt Centric Arlington is a completely renovated, updated space, designed by FRCH Design Worldwide. An open-concept lobby features modern comforts, intimate social spaces and seamlessly integrated technology. The hotel's 318 guest rooms feature new beds, lighting, wall fixtures, furniture and artwork. Rooms feel airy, bright, fresh and modern. Guests enjoy an array of amenities such as luxurious cotton bathrobes, Drybar buttercup premium blowdryers, new 55-inch high-definition televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies Non-binary 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) 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=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw)

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.

Hey Chapter 2ers - Let's Do Brunch! Join us at Founding Farmers in the Tysons Corner area to close out your 3-day weekend. Their brunch is a buffet for $35 a person. Founding Farmers is not in either mall, it is in a business area in between the 2 malls. You can get there via Metro, it's a short walk. There is a parking garage near the actual restaurant. Directions and parking info are on their website, [Founding Farmers | Tysons Corner VA Restaurant](https://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/location/tysons/)

On Academy Awards night the residents of a small Midwestern town are all spellbound in front of their televisions. A local boy who went to Hollywood has been nominated for Best Actor, and everyone is watching as the envelope is opened. He wins! He makes his way to the podium and delivers his acceptance speech, gratefully acknowledging those who helped him achieve this honor. In particular, he thanks his high-school drama teacher, and in doing so mentions that the man is gay. This declaration comes as quite a surprise to the folks back home – especially the teacher and his fiancée! ■ Title — **In & Out** ■ Director — Frank Oz ■ Cast — Kevin Kline, Joan Cusack, Tom Selleck ■ Rating — PG-13 ■ ©1997 \| 1h 30m \| Comedy\, Romance

**Important! Please register on [Luma Page](https://luma.com/n7h7ynr4)** This event is organised by Projector Institute community and Ukrainian Tech Space DC MD VA Join us for an exclusive evening dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a Product Designer — and how to manage this role more effectively in today’s fast-changing digital landscape. ​ During this session, we’ll dive into: • The pros and cons of working in product vs. non-product companies • Communication as one of the main design tools • Business-oriented approaches to product design • Practical insights for both junior and senior designers • The use of AI tools and workflows — backed by real-world examples ​ Speaker: [Misha Rybachuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-rybachuk/) — Co-founder of [Projector Institute](https://prjctr.com/en/about), Art Director at [Lezo.io](https://lezo.io/en), and former designer at Accenture. With over 10 years of experience in interface design, Mike has helped build impactful digital products by merging creativity, strategy, and technology. ​ This event is your opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, gain hands-on insights, and see how design bridges creativity, communication, and business success.

Please join us at Hill Center on Wednesday January 21st from 6:30pm-8:30pm for the Opening Reception with the Artists and Juror. All pieces of art are for sale and will be on display throughout our Galleries and online at [HillCenterDC.org](https://www.hillcenterdc.org/). These are wonderful community events with affordable art and generous refreshments. **[REGISTER HERE](https://www.hillcenterdc.org/event/hill-center-galleries-2026-regional-juried-show/)**. Street parking is easy and the Metro is across the street. Juried by Claude Elliott, the Hill Center Galleries 2026 Regional Juried Exhibition features the amazing work of artists from all over DC, Maryland, and Virginia. The selected artists compete for cash prizes and honorable mention awards. First place $1000, Second Place $750, and Third place $500. The exhibition runs from January 21-May 2, 2026 **Juror: Claude L. Elliott** is an independent curator, oral historian, and advocate for artists in the DMV. He is former assistant curator at Rhode Island School of Design. He has developed exhibitions in Providence, RI, Atlanta, GA, Philadelphia, PA, Brentwood, MD, and Washington, DC. Use the left and

**PLEASE REGISTER ON THE [LUMA PAGE](https://luma.com/92fskwbl) (only this registration will be valid)​** Ukrainian Tech Space DC MD VA and Projector Global Community are very excited to invite you to the panel discussion “Education in the age of AI” held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library on January 24th at 3:30 pm ​Our panelists: ​[Nina Borysova](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nborysova/) uses AI-powered tech in financial data analysis in her role as Director of Product at Mastercard and occasionally asks ChatGPT to help redesign her house in her free time. Her domain, among many others, is obtaining technical knowledge without the traditional IT background. ​[Mike Rybachuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-rybachuk/) co-founded Projector - the biggest creative and tech educational institution in Ukraine - and is passionate about building professional education that really adds value and supports Ukraine’s strive to rebuild after the devastation of a long war. ​[Andrew Tsintsiruk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsintsiruk/) is a seasoned product development executive that brings vast experience of building AI-powered products to this panel. His background as an AI startup founder and broad educational reach with focus on IT and data science adds a blended perspective on the importance of both traditional and self-starter learning efforts, especially as AI continues to enrich the ways we consume new information. ​ Join our discussion, and we promise that you’ll walk away with new knowledge on how AI is disrupting education and get a better understanding of what to focus on in your professional development. ​Moderated by [Maksym Tereshchenko](https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxter/), CEO at Mantis Analytics. ​ Join the discussion to dive into practical challenges, share hands-on experience, and exchange ideas you can start applying right away. Please add the questions you’d like us to bring into the panel discussion. See you!

**$60/2\.5\-hour Class \| Class Limit: 5** Hamiltonian Artists Second Floor, Studio 2 [Registration Link ](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://trishaart.com/classes/p/drop-in-classes&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw07rgL9h-rFd3JRP7l9BSDN) In this introductory course, students will learn the history of Indian woodblock before using the technique for themselves to create a printed piece of fabric from start to finish. I will demonstrate the process before allowing students the opportunity to ask questions and practice. Various examples of patterns and motifs will be shared with the group that they can emulate for their own projects. We will provide a handkerchief for the final project, but students are encouraged to bring their own light-weight cotton objects to use instead.

Every Sunday afternoon before church, one of the Covenant Life Church prophetess' hosts a prophetic training class that activates participants in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. During this class, participants will be provided opportunity to be taught how to use the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and will have opportunity to ask questions and talk with someone who has been used in the Gifts during ministry. Teaching is provided on the gifts with emphasis on the Gift of the Prophecy. A combination of lecture and experiential learning is employed to teach, guide and instruct the participants. Everyone is welcome, all classes are free. Childcare is not provided.

♠️😲♠️ W.O.W. Spades Night ♠️😲♠️ Washington on Wednesday (W.O.W.) - 3rd Wednesday Spades in DC 🌟Spades in DC! 😀 Hang out with a friendly and welcoming group. Meet new people and have a great time! ✅️ No partner needed! Find one onsite. All skill levels are welcome. 📌 Nando's Peri-Peri Chicken - Navy Yard 300 Tingey St SE #150, Washington, DC 20003 ❤️ **Posted in multiple groups. So, expect a nice crowd.** 🚌 One block from Navy Yard Metro Station 🚗 Street and Garage Parking available. **** 🍷 Alcoholic beverages are available! 🍗 Please support the business by purchasing food/drinks. 🌟 The fun starts at 5:30pm! RSVP today.

This is our very first Evocean meetup—and it’s intentionally simple. Join us for a relaxed, welcoming gathering for women living with autoimmune conditions who are craving connection, understanding, and a calmer way forward. No pressure. No fixing. Just real conversation and community. We’ll spend time: • Meeting one another in a supportive, judgment-free space • Sharing why we’re here (only if you want to) • Learning a short, gentle nervous system reset you can use anytime • Setting the tone for what this community will become together This is not a medical talk or a support group focused on symptoms. It’s a space to reconnect with yourself and meet women who truly get it. Come exactly as you are. Energy levels welcome. Quiet observers welcome.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Venezuela’s Future—and Ours,”** an analysis of how the Trump administration’s intervention in Venezuela will affect that nation, the U.S., and the rest of the world, with Ernesto Castañeda, Director of the Center for Latin American and Latino Studies and the Immigration Lab at American University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-venezuela-future](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-venezuela-future) .] On January 3rd, after a long military buildup, the United States used special forces to seize Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their residence in Caracas, Venezuela to stand trial here on criminal charges. The development marked a major turning point in our relationship with Venezuela and the rest of Latin America and raised a host of complex questions, not just for Venezuelans living inside and outside that country but for American citizens and other nations of the world. Coming to the stage to break down what all of this means is Ernesto Castañeda, a scholar of Latin America who has given several excellent Profs and Pints talks on immigration policy and has given dozens of interviews to media outlets around the world in the wake of the U.S. raid. In a talk offering informed perspective on the latest news developments, Professor Castañeda will discuss various theories about why the U.S. conducted the operation to get Maduro out of Venezuela. He’s put our nation’s current plans for Venezuela into context by touching on previous U.S. military interventions in Latin America and beyond. Professor Castañeda will look at the implications of recent events for U.S. politics and U.S. citizens and what such developments tell us about the balance of power in the United States. He’ll examine the distance between decisions made by the White House and public priorities, touching on how it all relates to our immigration policies and our views about peaceful protest and democracy. He’ll consider how the Venezuela raid and our actions since have altered relations between the U.S. and other nations and provide scenarios about what the future might hold. (Door: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

# Happy Birthday, You’re Dead Written and Directed by Terry Smith Produced by Jerri Wiseman ***You are invited to a surprise birthday party for Candy Crush, a D-list actor. She’s the hottest ticket in town. But her birthday party isn’t the only surprise she will get tonight! Someone’s about to be murdered. Only you can prevent this from happening before it’s game over. To miss this would be a crime.*** January 24 at Ono Offshore in Chantilly (with dinner) ONO Offshore, 4515 Daly Drive, Suite N, Chantilly, VA 20151 5:30pm Doors and Beverage Tabs open 6:00pm Dinner starts 6:45pm Show starts There will be a 15-20-minute intermission. Tickets: $57 plus ticketing fee and sales tax includes the show, catered dinner and dessert by Odd BBQ. Menu: Choice of smoked pulled pork or smoked chicken thighs and bun. Assemble your own sandwich with choice of BBQ sauce. (A Beyond Brat will be available for those who select a Vegetarian/Vegan Meal.) Macaroni and cheese. Grilled Vegetables. Baked Beans. Cookies for dessert. Beverages are not included in the ticket price. Guests will be able to open a tab for the self-serve beer wall with 4 craft beer options from Ono Brewing Company. There will also be hard seltzer available for purchase in addition to assorted sodas, tea, and bottled water. ### **[Buy tickets for ONO Offshore.](https://www.stagecoachtc.com/happy-birthday-youre-dead/)** You must buy a ticket to attend. An RSVP here will not save you a seat. This venue sells out quickly!

Federal Executive GovCon - "Supporting Government Efficiency with Thought Leadership" When: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 5:30 – 8:00 Location: Lost Rhino, 21730 Red Rum Dr, Ste 142, Ashburn, VA 20147 (\*\* NEW LOCATION \*\*) Come network with other local GovCon Executives and enjoy a few free beers on us and engage with our sponsors and Industry speakers. Please register here for your spot and please enter full name and company so a badge will be waiting for you. Sponsorships: 1 of 2 spots are available. DM me to claim the 2nd sponsorship to highlight your company to an invitation-only executive audience.

This CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR is for creative people and folks who appreciate creativity. Whether you attend, produce, appreciate, or promote, you are welcome to join us on Monday, January 26, 2026 from 5pm-7pm for CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour1-26-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour1-26-26.eventbrite.com). Come meet, network, and enjoy. Only those ages 21 and up can attend. Happy Hour specials are from 5pm-6pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free. This is a casual event. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour1-26-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour1-26-26.eventbrite.com). This event is produced in partnership with[ TIVA](https://www.tivadc.org/) (Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC),[ WIFV](https://www.wifv.org/) (Women in Film & Video),[ Wheaton Film Festival](https://www.wheatonfilmfestival.com/),[ Docs in Progress](https://www.docsinprogress.org/), DC Media Makers Group, etc. Sponsored by[ Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC](https://brianfrankel.com/),[ Creative Colony Spaces](https://www.creativecolonyspaces.com/membership/overview), [ReelAbilities Film Festival: Greater Washington](https://reelabilities.org/greaterwash), and Adobe Software. Enjoy delicious craft beers, tasty snacks, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to unwind after a long day, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to kick back and relax with us at Silver Branch Brewing Co. Use the QR codes at the table to order food and drinks, and be prepared to mingle. Check out the[ Silver Branch Brewing Company's Menu](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/). 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.) See you there on 1/26/26! Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour1-26-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour1-26-26.eventbrite.com).

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Satanic Panics,”** a look at waves of fear of demonic activity as an American tradition, with Luxx Mishou, cultural historian and former instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy and area community colleges. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics) .] The 1980s found the United States gripped by fear of Satanic cults targeting children. They were believed to be corrupting young ones in daycare centers and tempting teens through subliminal messages on heavy metal albums or through the quiet inclusion of demonic rituals in role-playing games. Satanic serial killers supposedly stalked the suburbs. Doctors helped patients uncover what were claimed to be repressed memories of ritualistic satanic abuse. Parents, police, and politicians were urged to protect impressionable youths from both moral and physical danger. With Satanic cults deemed to be a real and material threat, it was a frightening time for everyone, including those who suddenly came under suspicion for doing evil deeds. Then, suddenly, it all faded from public consciousness, just as surely as did eighties fads such mullet haircuts, leg warmers, and Cabbage Patch Kids. Why did it all start? Why did it stop? And has this happened before or since? Hear such questions tackled by Luxx Mishou, a cultural historian and media specialist who has long researched the devious and villainous in cultural artifacts. She’ll discuss moral panics as a longstanding cultural tradition, with each new one stemming from fear of cultural shifts and shaped by the time and place where it occurred. Among the panics we’ll look into are the Red Scare of the 1950s and the public response to the gruesome 1969 murders committed by the Manson Family. Delving into the 1980s panic, Mishou will describe how it began with the 1980 publication of psychiatrist Lawrence Pazder’s memoir *Michelle Remembers*, detailing the suppressed memories of ritualistic abuse reportedly suffered by a patient. As that book quickly became a best seller, its ideas saturated American culture. A California daycare center became the focus of a three-year investigation, followed by three years of trials, based on allegations that its owner had engaged in secret ritualistic abuse of the children in its care. Mishou will lead you through the media that convinced the public that devil worshipers were among them, and she’ll talk about how reactions to imagined threats can have very real social costs. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.