IELTS

**Vous souhaitez améliorer votre prise de parole en public et développer vos compétences en communication et en leadership ?** 🎤✨ Le **Club des Orateurs**, club francophone de Toastmasters à **Bruxelles**, vous invite à une soirée d’apprentissage dans une ambiance conviviale et bienveillante. **Prochaine réunion** : 📅 **Deuxième jeudi du mois** 🕢 **19h30 – 21h30** 📍 **Villa François Gay (salle au 1er étage)** 📍 **326 Rue François Gay, 1150 Bruxelles** 🏡 Le bâtiment est situé dans un petit parc. 🚀 **Pourquoi participer ?** ✔️ **Améliorez votre aisance à l’oral** grâce à des discours préparés et des interventions improvisées. ✔️ **Développez votre leadership** en prenant des rôles lors des réunions. ✔️ **Rejoignez une communauté dynamique** qui vous aidera à progresser à votre rythme. ✔️ **Une expérience immersive** avec des retours bienveillants pour évoluer rapidement. 🔹 **Déroulement d’une réunion Toastmasters** : Nos réunions incluent des discours préparés, des exercices d’improvisation et des évaluations constructives pour vous aider à progresser. 👥 **Qui peut participer ?** Tout le monde est bienvenu, que vous soyez débutant ou expérimenté ! **L’entrée est gratuite pour les invités.** 📩 **Intéressé•e ?** Inscrivez-vous dès maintenant sur Meetup et rejoignez-nous pour une soirée enrichissante !

Shake off the workday and train with a welcoming crew of internationals and Brussels professionals. This is a **co-hosted session with F45 Brussels**—fast, fun, and coached circuit training that fits perfectly after work. **Why join?** * **Community vibe:** Friendly, social, in English. * **All levels welcome:** Coaches demo every move with **easier/harder options**. * **Time-smart:** 45 minutes, full-body, high energy, great music. * **Accountability:** Come with the group, leave with endorphins. **What we’ll do** 1. Quick intro & warm-up 2. **F45 functional circuits** (intervals that mix strength + cardio) 3. Team finisher & cool down 4. Optional post workout social drink/rooftop bowling nearby (meet new people, not just new burpees 😉) **Good to know** * **When:** Thursday, **6:30 PM start** (arrive 6:15 to check in) * **Where:** **F45 Brussels** (Brussels Central Station) Galeries Ravenstein * **Bring:** Clean trainers, towel, water bottle * **Fitness level:** Beginner to advanced (scalable stations) * **Capacity:** Limited spots — **RSVP required** * **Price:** Free weekly tryout **Who this is for** * New in Brussels and want a **friendly fitness + social** routine * Busy professional looking for a **structured, coached** workout * Sunday Vacations regulars who want to stay fit for hikes & trips **About F45** F45 = **Functional 45-minute training**: coach-led, station-based, results-driven. Expect variety, technique tips, and a positive team atmosphere. See you on the floor at 6:30! 💪🏽✨ By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

Socializing and Networking 🛜🆕 at PLUX on Thursday. Making new friends and drinking 🚰🎈🎉🚿🌊. Everybody Welocme, locals, expats or new 🆕 in town.

(English below) L’idée de nos « Cafés Rencontres » est de créer un espace convivial où les personnes intéressées par notre projet d’habitat groupé, ainsi que quelques membres actuels, se retrouvent dans un bar autour d’un verre pour faire connaissance et échanger. C’est l’occasion idéale pour poser toutes vos questions et vous faire une idée de ce qu’est VoltaXL. Nous nous voyons dans "Ginette Cimix". Il y aura une table réservée pour "VoltaXL". Le bar étant à proximité de notre site, nous pourrons faire une **petite visite improvisée**. Bien évidemment, c’est sans engagement et ouvert à tout le monde. (Une inscription n’est pas nécessaire, mais elle nous aiderait à mieux organiser l’événement.) [www.voltaxl.org](https://voltaxl.org/logements/) *The idea of our “Cafés Rencontres” is to create a convivial space where people interested in our group housing project, as well as a few current members, can meet in a bar over a drink to get to know each other and exchange ideas. It's the perfect opportunity to ask all your questions and get a feel for what VoltaXL is all about.* We'll meet at “Ginette Cimix.”, there will be a table reserved for "VoltaXL". Since the bar is close to our site, we can make a quick, impromptu visit. *Of course, there's no obligation and it's open to everyone.* *(Registration isn't necessary, but it would help us to better organize the event).*

EN (FR en bas): We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!​ -step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html) -step 2: Show up! Schedule: [Monday to Thursday](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule) Fees : [All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees) Locations: -Rue Brialmont 7, Brussels Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1: From base to the dancefloor! When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base. Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or Forró! Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2: Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or Forró? Let's go! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3: Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with Forró Root? We've got your back! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates) More info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project) \-\-\-\-\- FR: Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous ! -1ère pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html) -2ème pas : Vient danser ! Horaire : [lundi à jeudi](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire) Les prix : [Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix) Endroits : -Rue Brialmont 7, Bruxelles Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1 : De la base à la piste de danse ! Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mêmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base. C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró ! Notre groupe est très accueillant et a hâte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs ! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2 : Prêt à approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le Forró ? Allons-y! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3 : Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi ! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires) Plus d’info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)

Looking for a casual after-work activity to meet other internationals (and locals) in Leuven? Our volunteer Reinier will be there to welcome you for an evening of great conversation and delicious Belgian beer (or another drink of your choosing). Let us know you are joining via Meetup. This way we can easily contact you, via the Meetup chat, in case there are any changes. The location will be indicated in the event details once decided! :)

**PLEASE READ THE ATTENDANCE POLICY (below) IF IT'S YOUR FIRST TIME** **SUNDAY COFFEE & JAPANESE CONVERSATION** 日曜日のコーヒー＆日本語会話 Our "Japanese/English Conversation Exchange" offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Japanese culture and language, all while helping native Japanese members to learn English, French, or Dutch. 私たちの「日本語/英語会話交流」は、日本の文化と言語の世界に没頭しながら、ネイティブの日本人メンバーが英語、フランス語、またはオランダ語を学ぶのを手助けするユニークな機会を提供します。 **Date: /** 日付：**(almost) every Sunday** **Time: /** 時間：**from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm** **Location: /** 場所：**Cafe Caberdouche - Place de la Liberté 8, 1000 Bruxelles** **Venue Note: /** 会場の注意：**The manager of the cafe kindly accepted us to book a table on a regular basis. To thank him for his kindness, please order AT LEAST ONE DRINK**. カフェのマネージャーが親切にも私たちに定期的にテーブルを予約することを承諾してくださいました。その親切に感謝の意を示すために、少なくとも1杯のドリンクを注文してください。 **Location Assistance: /** 場所の案内：**If you can't find us, ask one of the waiters. They know where we are :) You can also send us a message.** 私たちを見つけられない場合は、ウェイターの一人に尋ねてください。彼らは私たちがどこにいるか知っています :) メッセージも送っていただけます。 **Event Agenda: /** イベントのアジェンダ： * **4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: JAPANESE CONVERSATION** \- Join us for the first 30 minutes dedicated to Japanese conversation and cultural exploration\. Beginners are welcome to listen or join after the initial half\-hour\. / 日本語会話 \- 最初の30分は日本語の会話と文化探求に充てられています。初心者も聞くだけでも歓迎です。30分後に参加しても構いません。 * **4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: MULTI-LINGUAL EXCHANGE** \- Experience Belgium's diversity by sharing your language and culture with native Japanese members eager to learn English\, French\, or Dutch\. Engage in cross\-cultural conversations in various languages\. Introduce our Japanese friends to Belgian culture\, traditions\, and life\. 多言語交換 \- ベルギーの多様性を体験し、ネイティブの日本人メンバーが英語、フランス語、またはオランダ語を学びたいと熱心に待っています。さまざまな言語で異文化交流の会話に参加しましょう。私たちの日本の友人にベルギーの文化、伝統、生活を紹介しましょう。 * **6:00 PM: EVENT CONCLUSION** \- Please respect the event's start and end times to maximize your language exchange opportunities\. Your participation and enthusiasm are appreciated\! イベントの終了 \- イベントの開始時間と終了時間を尊重して、言語交換の機会を最大限に活用してください。参加と熱意に感謝します！ **Attendance Policy: --->** 以下の日本語 * We're excited to have you join our events and appreciate your commitment to learning and growing together. To ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for all participants, please take note of our attendance policy: 1. **Punctuality:** Please arrive on time for scheduled events. Late arrivals can disrupt the flow of the event and may miss important information. 4.00 pm for JAPANESE ONLY SESSION & 4.30 PM for ALL LANGUAGES SESSION 2. **Language Commitment:** If you sign up for language-specific sessions, such as Japanese conversation or language exchange, we kindly request your commitment to actively participate in that language for the designated duration. 3. **Respect:** Treat fellow participants, organizers, and cafe staff with respect and courtesy. Harassment or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. 4. **Removal Policy:** A participant who is not respectful towards other members will be removed from the group and blocked, with no warning. This point is not negotiable. 5. **Cancellation:** If you are unable to attend an event you've registered for, please let us know as soon as possible. This helps us plan accordingly and allows others to take your place if there's a waitlist. 6. **No-Show Policy:** Three no-shows (failing to attend without prior notice) may result in restrictions on event registration to ensure fairness to other participants. By attending our events, you agree to adhere to these guidelines. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and connect. Thank you for being part of our community! **出席ポリシー：** 私たちは、イベントに参加していただけることを楽しみにしており、皆さんが一緒に学び成長することに取り組んでいただけることを感謝しています。すべての参加者が生産的で楽しい経験をするために、出席ポリシーにご留意ください： 1. 時間厳守：予定されたイベントには時間通りにお越しください。遅刻はイベントの流れを乱し、重要な情報を見逃す可能性があります。日本語のみのセッションは午後4時、全言語のセッションは午後4時30分開始です。 2. 言語へのコミットメント：日本語会話や言語交換など、特定の言語のセッションに登録された場合は、その言語での積極的な参加をお願いします。 3. 尊重：他の参加者、主催者、カフェのスタッフには敬意と礼儀をもって接してください。嫌がらせや迷惑行為は許容されません。 4. 退場ポリシー：他のメンバーに対して敬意を持たない参加者は、警告なしにグループから削除され、ブロックされます。このポイントは交渉の余地がありません。 5. キャンセル：登録したイベントに参加できない場合は、できるだけ早くお知らせください。これにより、他の人があなたの代わりを取ることができます。 6. ノーショーポリシー：事前の通知なしに3回のノーショー（欠席）がある場合は、他の参加者に公平になるようイベントの登録に制限がかかる場合があります。 私たちのイベントに参加することで、これらのガイドラインに従うことに同意するものとします。私たちはみなさんが学び、つながることができるように歓迎される包括的な環境を作り出すことを目指しています。コミュニティの一部としてご参加いただき、ありがとうございます！ **Note: Please stay tuned to our event page for updates and schedule changes. We can't wait to see you there and exchange languages, cultures, and stories!** 備考：更新やスケジュールの変更については、イベントページをご覧ください。そこで皆さんにお会いして、言語や文化、物語を交換できるのを楽しみにしています！

What's up Friends! 👋 Let’s catch up over a cup of ☕️ (or whatever drink 🍵 or bite 🍪🍰🥐 inspires you in the moment). Where: Leopold PDN. This café may be a bit of a challenge to find on rainy days 🌧️☔️, but that's how adventures begin, right? 😂 Well, don't wait until you get hopelessly lost - text me here before you start cursing google maps 🗺️. The idea: Join the table once you've grabbed your order - mandatory! We'll kick-off with a light intro and move over to topics like activities, travel, music... At some point, if we are feeling it, we may also play some games. We will speak mostly English and French. Any other language is a bonus: 🌍🎭💃🎶🎷🤹🏻🤖 🎲 Games: No giant boards that end up in coffee spills please. Only light, short and fun games (generally card games like uno or exploding kittens💥🐱 will fit). I will bring a game or two myself, however feel free to bring along any of your own favorites. ⏱Timing: We start at 15:00, and you’re welcome to join at any time and for as long as you want. Joining later? Just let me know in advance in the chat so we keep a seat available for you 😊 🚦If you find yourself on the waiting list but you absolutely want to join or if you have any other question - feel free to contact me directly via the chat. 📢 Further details may be shared via the group chat or via DM 💬. Make sure to check your messages 👀 at least on the day before the event to avoid missing critical 🙄 announcements. 🐈‍⬛ The Friends Code:
👉No formalities - just chill 😎
👉Respect and positive vibes, if not 💥🥊 👉Can’t make it? Cancel so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot 🙏 👉 Don't show up if you are on the waiting list. See you folks! 😉

Another new year just arriving, it might be a fitting opportunity to re-explore a subject we last did in July 2021 when live contacting towards the end of the COVID pandemic was just beginning to resume, although we were still obligated to hold that meetup outdoors in order to avoid the prescribed maximum of 8 participants when indoors. Since then, life has "normalized" again, and, thinking back, it might even be now almost difficult to imagine how that pandemic period, back "there and then", was experienced during that time as a "here and now"... How "here and now" is related to "there and then" is indeed one of the questions we might wish to explore during our next session... This subject I believe is one of the most interesting ones we've covered in Brussels Philosophy so far, inviting us to re-examine how we phenomenologically experience space and time, and in the process (literally!) to critically re-think how we habitually conceptualize space and time in our everyday lives. So here's the intro: Why, when we look in a mirror, are left and right reversed but not up and down? Might this pseudo-paradox ("para-paradox"??) (not) be a clue, if at least only by analogy, as to why we typically seem to have a clearer concept of what we can identify as an "eternal now", but seemingly have much more difficulty conceptualizing an "eternal here"? When it comes to experiencing and conceptualizing moments in time and places in space in relation to change, we habitually, almost instinctively, believe that moments flow by (in the one stream of time) independent of our will, while places always remain the same places (independent of the fact that they gradually become different as time goes on), and moreover, remain subject to our will: we can choose to move (or not move) from one place to another. We can travel in space but not in time. Change, therefore, we tend to view as a phenomenon that is temporal, not spatial: "things may change _in_ time, but it is time itself that causes change". On the other hand, we do seem able to perceive and conceptualize an "eternal now"... while seemingly finding it more difficult to experience an "eternal here" (the pseudo-paradox). Newton indeed conceived of time as a dimension separate and independent of the 3 dimensions of space, and of all events in the universe as occurring in one singular uniform flow of time, whereas Einstein, as we all now understand, conceptualized spacetime as one unified phenomenon, neither space itself nor time itself being absolute or independent of the other. In this meetup we will attempt to explore and find out if there is a phenomenological counterpart to Einstein's spacetime. The thesis proposed here is that there is indeed, and that it is in fact found centre stage in our consciousness - but perhaps because of survival pressures that have operated on humans collectively and individually for most of our history, and the resultant ways in which language and culture have evolved, our consciousness of the "eternal here" has remained under-developed. (Language and culture mirror consciousness, and how consciousness develops mirrors existent language and culture.) A key corollary-claim in this thesis is that change can also be experienced and explained primarily in terms of space, without reference to time, and moreover, such a manner of perceiving and conceptualizing space-driven change arguably remains compatible with both Newtonian (tweaking it slightly, perhaps!) and Einsteinian models of reality. Our session will provide an opportunity to consider and examine phenomenological experiences that could be referred to as "eternal now", "eternal here", "everywhere here", "everywhen now", "everywhere now", "everywhen here", "flowing time", "flowing space" ... We will be guided through several different thought experiments designed to support the idea that change can be attributed to space rather than time, paying special attention to developing the concept of "flowing space". These thought experiments will then hopefully invite animated and open discussion. So let's enjoy being able to meet up with no restrictions this time. Looking forward to seeing you then & there! *without ever having truly left

✨ Meet new people in Brussels in a friendly, international atmosphere 🍻 Easy socializing, no awkward networking 🌍 Internationals, expats & locals welcome 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Over 10,000 members overall in our Brussels community 😀 Our events usually attract 20–40 attendees 💪 Organized weekly since early 2025 🩷 Safe, respectful environment, and zero tolerance for any harassment! The organizer is always present all evening in case of problems. **.** Looking to meet new people and expand your social circle in Brussels, as well as your network of professional contacts? Join us **every Friday evening anytime from 18:00** **and until at least 23h** **at** **“The Network” bar**, in the heart of the famous Place du Luxembourg in front of the European Parliament, for a fun, relaxed night of **drinks, conversations, and great vibes**! 💛 . **Bonus: Happy Hour discounts** offered by the venue **from 18h until 19h** for early birds! . 📍 **Location**: “The Network”, Pl. du Luxembourg 11, 1050 Ixelles 📌 **Google Maps**:[ ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AuHq4YZuqyMtAQcp7)[https://maps.app.goo.gl/PWYMpWcMsYRWTtRg9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/PWYMpWcMsYRWTtRg9) . ✨ **Why you’ll love it**: ✅ **Everyone is welcome**, even if you don’t know anyone else yet—expats, locals, newcomers, solo adventurers, or groups! ✅ Completely **free to attend**—just grab a drink and join the fun! Please ask the bartenders when you arrive if unsure where to find our meetup group and tables ✅ Possibility to make also useful **professional exchanges and networking** with other participants who work in similar domains, so remember to bring also your business card! ✅ Tons of **indoor and outdoor space available**—the square in front of the bar is quite pedestrian-friendly, and typically there aren’t many other customers inside the bar on the Friday evening besides the Meetup participants! ✅ **Want to keep the night going?** After the meetup, we often continue as a group to explore nightlife hotspots in the city center. . 💬 **Stay connected with our Community**: ▶️ Join our **Facebook/Messenger chat** to get updates and easily find the group on arrival: [https://m.me/ch/AbaV86vk4SHop_eD/](https://m.me/ch/AbaV86vk4SHop_eD/) ▶️ Otherwise, if you prefer to use **WhatsApp**, please join this other group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0) ▶️ And don’t forget to join our **EuroMeet Facebook group** for many more social events in Brussels:[ https://www.facebook.com/groups/euromeet](https://www.facebook.com/groups/euromeet) ▶️ Finally, we also manage a **professional networking group on LinkedIn** as well, for more easily retrieving each other's LinkedIn profiles and identifying people who also work in similar domains: [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13194613/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13194613/) . Come alone or bring a friend—either way, you’ll leave with **new friends, great memories, and maybe even some ideas on how to develop further your professional career!** See you this Friday! 🍻✨😀 . 📧 Got questions? Reach out to the **organizer**: **[gabriele.mogni@gmail.com](mailto:gabriele.mogni@gmail.com)** . 👉 Please **RSVP on Meetup** if you would like to attend our next event, so that we can plan accordingly. . *** **#BrusselsMeetup #ExpatsInBrussels #BrusselsSocialLife #BrusselsEvents #FridayVibes #EuroMeet #SocialInBrussels #BrusselsNightlife #MakeNewFriends #MeetupBrussels #SchumanAfterWork #WeekendVibes**

# 🗣️ Language Exchange at Gare Maritime **Practice languages over drinks in Brussels' coolest food court!** Join fellow language enthusiasts for an evening of conversation, connection, and cocktails at the stunning Gare Maritime. Whether you're polishing your French, learning Dutch, or practicing any other language, come mingle in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. ## 📍 The Venue **Gare Maritime Food Court** \- Tour & Taxis A breathtaking industrial space transformed into Brussels' hottest social hub. With its soaring ceilings, vibrant atmosphere, and multiple bars serving everything from craft cocktails to Belgian beers, it's the perfect setting for a language meetup. ## 🎯 What to Expect Grab a drink and dive into natural conversations with people from all over the world. Chat in French with a Parisian, practice Dutch with a local, share travel stories in English, or switch between languages as the mood strikes. This is all about organic connections and real conversations - no pressure, no structure, just good vibes and great company. **Everyone welcome:** complete beginners to fluent speakers, locals and expats, native speakers and eager learners. ## 👥 Who Comes to These Events? Our community includes language students, professionals new to Brussels, polyglots, locals wanting to practice their English, expats improving their French or Dutch, and anyone curious about other cultures. The common thread? A love of languages and meeting interesting people. ## 🍹 Drinks & Atmosphere Gare Maritime shines when it comes to drinks. Multiple bars offer creative cocktails, local craft beers, quality wines, and non-alcoholic options. The industrial-chic setting with communal seating makes it easy to strike up conversations and move between groups. ## 💡 First Time? No Worries! Just show up and introduce yourself. People are friendly and everyone remembers being a beginner. The best way to learn is by speaking, and mistakes are just part of the journey. Bring your curiosity and willingness to try - that's all you need.

Need some quiet time for reading? Want to share the experience with others? Join us at the charming venue of La Belladone to read in the company of others. It’s alone, but also together, get it? We read for an hour, then chat over a drink, then go back to reading (if we feel like it) This is a free activity except for drinks.

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening evening of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will choose from the menu and pay individually)

I don't usually pick romance but I really wanted to do a Hanukkah book. It's a bit on the longer side but hopefully a quick read. The library only has 5 audiobooks so please try to remember to "release it" when you're done. Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3503238](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3503238) Location: The Goat Riversouth [219 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215](https://www.google.com/maps?q=219%20South%20High%20Street%2C%20Columbus%2C%20Ohio%2043215%2C%20United%20States) [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: Rachel Rubenstein-Goldblatt is a nice Jewish girl with a shameful secret: she loves Christmas. For a decade she’s hidden her career as a Christmas romance novelist from her family. Her talent has made her a bestseller even as her chronic illness has always kept the kind of love she writes about out of reach. But when her diversity-conscious publisher insists she write a Hanukkah romance, her well of inspiration suddenly runs dry. Hanukkah’s not magical. It’s not merry. It’s not *Christmas*. Desperate not to lose her contract, Rachel’s determined to find her muse at the Matzah Ball, a Jewish music celebration on the last night of Hanukkah, even if it means working with her summer camp archenemy—Jacob Greenberg. Though Rachel and Jacob haven’t seen each other since they were kids, their grudge still glows brighter than a menorah. But as they spend more time together, Rachel finds herself drawn to Hanukkah—and Jacob—in a way she never expected. Maybe this holiday of lights will be the spark she needed to set her heart ablaze.

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Paris Baguette on Lane Avenue. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.

Come and join our lively Japanese language meetup, where Japanese language learners and native speakers come together to learn, play, and connect. We’ll practice through fun games and interactive conversation in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether you’re just starting out, more advanced, or a native speaker who enjoys helping others, everyone is encouraged to join and participate. After the library we'll take a leisurely walk together to get food/drinks. There are many options around including North Market Bridge Park. It's a perfect opportunity to continue our conversations and enjoy each other's company over a meal.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**

Experience the breathtaking theatrical presentation of Rodgers & Hammerstein's® iconic musical film The Sound of Music. Meticulously restored and remastered in 4K for its 60th anniversary, the beloved classic is more brilliant than ever with pristine picture and sound. In this true-life story, Julie Andrews lights up the screen as Maria, a spirited young woman who leaves the convent and becomes a governess to the seven unruly children of Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). Her warmth, charm and songs soon win the hearts of the children and their father. But when the threat of war rises, Maria is forced to attempt a daring escape with her new family. One of the most successful movie musicals of all time, The Sound of Music features unforgettable treasures like “Edelweiss,” “My Favorite Things,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” and “Do-Re-Mi.”