Salem, 1692: Two young girls living in the household of one of the town’s ministers are acted strangely—having fits. The doctor is called and he tells the minister that his girls are suffering from the action of the Devil’s ‘Evil Hand’ upon them.  Join University of Maryland historian Dr. Richard Bell for a deep dive into witch-hunting in early America. We’ll begin at the beginning: What did people in colonial America believe about witch-craft and how did they try to hunt it and fight it? What were the hall-marks of an American witch-hunt and why is the outbreak of witch-hunting in one sleepy port town in Massachusetts in 1692 still so well-known today? We’ll examine that infamous episode in depth, probing its most troubling corners. Why did that tragic episode in Salem claim so many innocent lives? Did anyone face justice for their role in perpetrating this outrage? And how have historians tried to explain the peculiar dynamics, impact, and legacy of what happened in Salem?

Cartography is one of our oldest forms of communication. Mapmaking probably existed before writing and a formal language was invented. Today, maps are used for everything from the GPS on our smart phones to way-finding at the local mall to the ‘mental maps’ we give to others to find ourselves. Historic maps combines science, aesthetics and scientific techniques to show a 3-dimensional world on a 2-dimensional space.

Did you know that someone in the United States experiences a stroke every 40 seconds? Stroke is a serious medical event and a leading cause of both death and disability. Join us to learn how to identify the symptoms of stroke as well as useful information about stroke prevention and treatment.

Deborah Kalb is a writer, book blogger, podcaster, editor, and ex-journalist based in the Washington, D.C., area. Her most recent book is the 2023 novel Off to Join the Circus.  Each month this fall, she will be chatting with a local author of note.  This month, she'll sit down with Aggie Blum Thompson. Aggie Blum Thompson is the author of three domestic thrillers, most recently the novel Such a Lovely Family. A journalist, her work has appeared in a variety of publications, including The Washington Post and The Boston Globe. Signed copies of her book will be available for sale after class. Venmo and PayPal accepted.

Every elected official in America, from local school board to the U.S Senate, is elected by popular vote except one: the President of the United States. Ever since 1789, the Constitution requires that the President be chosen not by popular vote, but by a body called the Electoral College. What is it? How does it work? Does it work? Join Peter Bolland, who served as one of California’s 55 electors in the 2020 Presidential election, as he shares insider details about his remarkable experience and leads an inquiry into the pros and cons of this curious political mechanism.

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This program will discuss the likely outcomes of the 2022 midterm elections, focusing on particular races that illustrate broader trends underway in both parties. We will also consider the consequences of one or both houses of Congress returning to Republican majorities, the ways in which different electoral outcomes would strengthen particular factions in both parties, the likely approach and emphases of the Republicans if they regain a majority in either or both houses, and the possible impact on the 2024 presidential election.

When you’re faced with a chronic health problem, an acute event, or the prospect of a life-threatening condition, it’s natural to feel scared, vulnerable, and overwhelmed.  At the same time, the complexity and fragmentation of the medical environment make it challenging to find the right resources and support.  Colette and Charlene will share guidance, insights, and practical tips that will help you become empowered as you make your way through the challenges of the healthcare system.