These are the same guys who couldn't figure out that Vietnam isn't Chinese, China isn't Russian, and Russians aren't superhuman. And don't ask when the party's over. They couldn't foresee the fall of the Shah or the end of the Cold War. They're probably not gonna know. Once you're in the door, stay away from the girls.
Hookers are a great way to get blackmail on people.
Definitely avoid the punch bowl. If the host says hello, stick to the small talk. However, if you're feeling jaunty and just can't help yourself, ask politely what the whole shindig is for. Truth is, they don't even know anymore. The last three Directors were asked essentially that very question during confirmation hearings, and not one had a coherent response.