Biltmore Bar and Lounge, 47 State St, Rochester
6:30-9:00 PM
Presentations begin at 7pm. Get there early to grab a seat, something to eat, and a drink. Bar is open late so all are welcome to hang out after!
Info about speakers and presentations:
Dan Sendker presents – Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies: What’s the Difference, Doc?
Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies are two of the most well-known animated series in the world. Both were made by the same artists (Chuck Jones, Tex Avery, Bob Clampett, etc.) at the same studio (Warner Bros.) at the same time (1930s-1960s) and feature the same iconic characters (Porky Pig, Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny, etc.). So how are they different from each other? ARE they different from each other? Featuring clips and music from classic shorts and WB movies, this presentation is a brief but deep dive into the cartoons that shaped our collective popular culture.
Born and raised in Buffalo, Dan Sendker is a local animation historian who collects and studies thousands of theatrical cartoons made from the 1920s to the 1960s. After burning out as a high school English/film teacher, he wrote his first book, “Dance of the Comedians: 75 Years of the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote” in 2024. He also writes about film, poetry, music, religion, and politics on Substack at “What We Stay Alive For.” Ask him to see pictures of his dog, Penny, who is even cuter than you are probably imagining right now.
Aidan Flanders presents – Fly Fishing!
Discover more about the technical skill, knowledge, and strategy behind fly fishing, from casting and fly selection to understanding fish and their environment. Enjoy some wild fishing stories, a hands-on demonstration, and a look at the homemade flies tied by Aidan himself. Most importantly, learn how recreational anglers can become powerful conservationists, protecting fish, waterways, and the places we love.
Aidan is a Senior at the University of Rochester studying Ecology and Evolutionary biology. Since he was 3 years old, he has been an obsessed fisherman which fostered a love for the environment and a desire to protect it. In Aidan’s free time you will find him exploring the rivers around Rochester, tying his own flies, or playing soccer.
RJ Millena presents – Entomology of Pokemon!
Pokemon has captured the hearts of millions around the world, spanning all ages. But did you know it was originally based on bug catching? Join RJ Millena for this deep dive of these beloved pocket monsters and their real live invertebrate counterparts.
RJ is an entomologist specializing in the evolution, biology, and taxonomy of the twisted-wing parasites. Her doctoral studies at the American Museum of Natural History in NYC were focused on these delightfully bizarre insects, and she has traveled the world to find them both afield and in museum collections. Now at the University of Rochester as a postdoctoral fellow, RJ works in the Mora-Kepfer Uy Trop Bio Lab to examine how strepsipteran infection can alter its insect hosts. Outside of the lab, RJ spends time practicing invertebrate & reptile husbandry, improving her flying trapeze skills at ROC City Circus, organizing Nerd Nite Rochester, and dancing ballet.