Mergers & Acquisitions

## **🔥 LeaderSHIFT: New Year, New Opportunities** ### **Private Group Visit to The National Franchise Show (FREE Admission)** The new year is the perfect time to **reset, explore options, and think bigger** — without pressure, sales pitches, or noise. LeaderSHIFT is organizing a **group visit** to **The National Franchise Show in Toronto**, where attendees can explore **business ownership, franchising, and alternative paths to entrepreneurship** — all under one roof. This is **not** about selling franchises. It’s about **exposure, learning, and better questions**. *** ### **📍 Event Details** **Event:** The National Franchise Show – Toronto **Dates:** January 17 & 18 **Time:** • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM **Location:** Metro Toronto Convention Centre 🎟 **FREE Admission** (regularly $15) Promo Code: **OWNABIZ26** *** ### **💡 Why Attend with LeaderSHIFT?** * Explore **dozens of business and franchise opportunities** * Learn about **ownership, systems, and scalability** * Attend **free educational seminars** * Ask real questions — no pressure * Connect with others who are **thinking seriously about their next chapter** This is ideal if you are: * Considering entrepreneurship but unsure where to start * Exploring alternatives to traditional employment * Curious about franchises, systems, or structured businesses * Looking to make **smarter decisions in 2026** *** ### **👥 How This Works** This is a **self-guided visit** with optional group coordination: * Come for as little or as long as you like * Explore at your own pace * Optional meet-up time for LeaderSHIFT members on-site No obligation. No expectations. *** ### **⚠️ Important Notes** * This event is **informational**, not a sales event * LeaderSHIFT is not affiliated with any specific franchise * Come curious, not committed *** ### **✅ RSVP to Save Your Spot** RSVP here so we know who’s attending and can coordinate group timing. Let’s start the year with **clarity, options, and better conversations**.

～English description below～ イベント参加費として、日本人の方(日本で生まれ育ち、現在英語を勉強している方)は$2、日本人以外の方(日本語を勉強している方)は$5頂いております。 皆さんから頂いたお金は、こちらのサイトの維持費や将来のランゲージエクスチェンジ施設利用料やソーシャルイベント等のために使われます。ご理解の程、よろしくお願いいたします。 予約受付開始：土曜日5:00PM(前イベント終了後) 予約取消締切：土曜日12:30PM(当日) 予約受付締切：土曜日1:30PM(当日) スケジュール 5.15 PM - 5:30PM - チェックイン、グループ分け 5:30 PM - 6:15PM - 日本語の時間［または英語の時間］ 6:15PM - 7:00 PM - 英語の時間［または日本語の時間］ イベント内容 ・対面でのLanguage Exchangeを再開しています！参加者のレベルに応じて、事前にオーガナイザーが3〜4名のグループをつくり、そのメンバーで各45分間、それぞれ英語と日本語でセッションを行なっていただきます。決まったディスカッショントピックなどはございませんので、気軽にフリートークや質問をしながらそれぞれのセッションを楽しんでいただければと思います。 ・体調が優れない方、あるいはここ数日中に体調が優れない人との接触があった方は、申し訳ありませんが参加をお控え願います。 開催場所：Atrium フードコート 地下鉄Dundas駅と直結していますが、多少分かりにくいため、特に初めて参加される方は次の方法で来れることをおすすめします。 Dundas駅から地上に出ていただき、Dunsas Streetを西にまっすぐ3分ほど歩いていただきます。 Bay Streetとの交差点北東角にある階段を降りてください。 階段を降りた場所にある入り口から入ったところがフードコートですので、そちらでTJEXのサインボードを持ったオーガナイザーにお声がけください。(わからなければメッセージをお願いします！) 予約規約（⚠️重要） ・当日の不参加、もしくは15分以上の遅刻(5:45PM以降)、また予約取消締切後の変更(13:00以降)は原則不参加(No-Show)とみなします。不参加(No-show)が3回になりますと会員登録が抹消され、退会となりますのでご注意ください。 ・イベントに遅れそうな場合は必ずオーガナイザーまでメッセージをお願いします。イベント開始時間にいるメンバーでグループを組み直すこともあるので、連絡なしで到着された場合はイベントに参加できない可能性もあります。原則、30分以上遅れての参加はご遠慮いただいております。あらかじめご了承ください。 キャンセル待ち ・満席の場合、”キャンセル待ち”リスト(waiting-list)にご登録いただくことが可能です。“参加予定”リスト（going-list)中に空席が発生した場合は、”キャンセル待ち”への登録が早かった方を優先に、”参加予定”へ移動いただけます。 ※ご注意※ ・空席ができた際は、自動的に”キャンセル待ち”より”参加予定”へ変更されます。この時にMeetupよりお知らせがあるかはわかりません。 ・システムにより自動的に”参加予定”とされ、それに気づかずに参加しなかった場合でも、不参加とみなされますのでご了承ください。 ・上記の理由により、確実に参加できる場合のみ”キャンセル待ち”への登録をお願いします。予定が入ってしまった場合は、”キャンセル待ち”にいる場合も必ずイベント当日の午後1時までに予め”不参加”リストに移動させてください。 質問 こちら (https://www.meetup.com/tjex-ca/pages/1274142/FAQ/)をご参照ください。または、オーガナイザーまでお問い合わせください。 Instagramアカウント @tjex.ca 最新情報やミートアップの様子を掲載しています。 ぜひこちらもフォローお願いします！ ***Although our group is a non-profit organization, we collect $ 5per member for every event. These proceeds are used to run this website, for social events and room booking fees for future sessions. Thank you for your kind understanding. RSVP open: 5:00 PM (Saturday after previous event) RSVP cancel deadline: Saturday, 12:30 PM (day of the event) RSVP close: Saturday, 1:30 PM (day of the event) 5:15 PM - 5:30 PM - Check-in and Group placement 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM - Japanese half [or English] 6:15 PM - 7:00 PM - English half [or Japanese] Event Description This is an in-person language exchange! Members are placed into groups of three or four based on their language level. Each 45 minute session consists of friendly casual conversation, and/or informal study. Event Location: Atrium Food Court The food court is directly connected to the Dundas subway station, although it is a bit difficult to find. Especially for those who will join our event for the first time, we recommend the following directions, Leave the subway station and walk west for about three minutes along Dundas Street. At the intersection of Bay Street and Dundas Street, you will find an entrance. Proceed down the escalator. The food court is on the basement floor. Please talk to the organizer with the signboard showing TJEX. (If you can’t find them, please send a message to the organizer.) ⚠️RSVP & Late Policy Failure to show, arriving after 5:45 PM (15 minutes late), and cancelling after 1:00 PM on the day of the event all constitute a "no-show". Members are removed from the group after their third no-show. If you are running late, please ensure you send a message to the organizer so we can keep a spot open for you. We will rearrange the groups for members who show up on time. If you show up late without letting us know, we will no longer allow you to join so please be mindful of the time. Waiting List: Members can join the waiting list if an event is full. In case a spot becomes available, it will be automatically assigned to a member on the waitlist on a first-come first-serve basis. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Members from the “Waiting” list are moved automatically to the “Going” list by the system when a spot opens up. You may or may not get a notification from Meetup when this happens. So only sign up on the “Waiting list” for an event if you are sure you can come for it. If the system automatically puts you on the “Going” list and you don't show up to the event, you will receive a strike. Group Instagram - @tjex.ca Feel free to follow us! Questions? We have answers! Please see our Frequently Asked Questions (https://www.meetup.com/tjex-ca/pages/1274142/FAQ/) page.

This is an opportunity to meet up for some LGBTQ2IA-flavoured gaming and socializing—allies also welcome. Come for the gaming, socializing, and the drinks! :) Be sure to invite friends and such, too. We’ll be in the larger area towards the back. You'll have access to a robust library of board games, and attendees are welcome to bring their own games. There is no event fee. Instead we ask attendees to purchase beverages from the venue, Penny's Bar, conveniently located beside Lansdowne subway station at 1306 Bloor St. West. Of course, since they are offering us their space for free, please consider buying a drink if you can--possibly from our \*custom menu\*! We provide nametag stickers with a pronoun field; we want this to be a comfortable environment for everyone, kindly respect people's listed or stated pronouns. If you are unsure of someone's pronouns, don't assume: Ask, Respect and Practice Definitely ask before taking pictures/videos Alas Penny's is not accessible due to stairs, dim lighting, and loud noises. While external food is welcome, outside beverages are not permitted. \*\*\*Please reach out to [info@torontogaymers.ca](mailto:info@torontogaymers.ca) with any accessibility concerns. [https://linktr.ee/TorontoGaymers](https://linktr.ee/TorontoGaymers) #TorontoGaymers #PennysDiveBar [#Boardgames](https://keep.google.com/#label/boardgames)

**RSVP DEADLINE: Thursday, Jan 15 at midnight!** Are you and your partner ready for an evening designed just for **real connection, laughter, and meaningful conversation with other couples**? Join us at **Vesuvio’s Ristorante** for a cozy, fun, and intentional social gathering where like-minded couples come together to share stories, build friendships, and enjoy great food in a relaxed atmosphere. This isn’t your typical night out — it’s a chance to invest in your relationship while connecting with other couples who value connection, openness, and enjoyable conversation. Whether you’re newly together or years in, this event offers a refreshing way to deepen bonds and expand your social circle with people who get it. **Important Details — Please Read:** 💑 *This event is strictly for couples only.* Single registrations will not be accepted. 💳 Your spot is **only secured once payment has been completed** — RSVP alone does not guarantee your place. Please send e-transfer of $20 to ironclive@gmail.com. For more details please visit [Couples Connect Social](https://www.meetup.com/couples-connect-social/). 🍷 Dinner and drinks available for purchase at the restaurant. 🪑 **Reservations are made under “Clive.”** Please mention this upon arrival. Come share a table, a laugh, and maybe even a new friendship. We can’t wait to meet you both! 💫

**A new format: you choose who you're interested in meeting** This meetup is about getting to know new people and sharing the experience in a small group (3-6 people). We use the LYTT platform to handle group size and balance - so you're not just hoping someone interesting shows up. To apply you will need to create an account at [lytt.me](https://lytt.me/meetup/barrys-toronto-red-room) \- it's free\. **The event: The Original HIIT Experience in the Red Room** Barry's Toronto is the largest studio in the world - 8,000 square feet of the iconic red room experience. The lights drop, the music pumps, and you're locked in with 47+ people split between Woodway treadmills and strength training benches. The workout is brutal by design: 25 minutes running, 25 minutes strength training, broken into 15-minute intervals. Different body focus each day. We'll meet at the studio, crush the workout together, then grab smoothies at the Fuel Bar. Post-Barry's conversations are real - you just survived something together. The whole experience runs about 1.5 hours. **The group: LYTT platform** LYTT forms small groups for events and activities you pick. 1\. Click 'Attend' here on Meetup\, then head to [lytt.me](https://lytt.me/meetup/barrys-toronto-red-room) to create a quick profile (photo, a few interests, short bio) 2\. Browse others who applied and select who you'd want to meet 3\. We form groups where the interest is mutual 4\. You get notified when your group is confirmed \- payment happens then 5\. Show up knowing your crew already picked you \- *but no one knows who picked who*, to keep mystery and low pressure Applying doesn't guarantee a spot - but we may form multiple groups or invite you to similar events with other crews. **What's included:** • 50-minute red room HIIT class • Access to premium amenities and Fuel Bar • Oribe products in change rooms **Details:** **Cost:** $30-38 CAD drop-in (pay after your group is confirmed). First class often discounted for new members. **Group size:** 3-6 people **Location:** Barry's Toronto (310 Richmond St W or 100 Bloor St W) **Who this is for:** • 27-40ish, give or take • People who love a good sweat • Those ready for an intense HIIT experience • Looking for friends, workout buddies, or just better ways to start a weekend **Questions?** hey@lytt.me **Proceed to register here:** [https://lytt.me/meetup/barrys-toronto-red-room](https://lytt.me/meetup/barrys-toronto-red-room)

Come join us for Tapas and drinks at Madrina’s Bar Y Tapas in the Distillery District. Afterwards we can explore the Distillery together. The Distillery District is a beautiful area to explore in the winter, with lots of neat shops, historical buildings and events going on. https://www.madrinatapas.com https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/about/ Please note there is a $3 charge for this meetup. Payment Options:
E-transfers should be sent to torontofriendsmeetup@gmail.com
Or
PayPal Link:
https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/torontofriendsmeetup
Or you can pay cash in person.
 
Please note: refunds will only be issued in the case where the organizer has to cancel or reschedule the event.
 Hope to see you there!
 Jess

Please make your reservation on dayofus.com. This is a paid event. DayOfUs brings strangers together for unforgettable dinners. Every week, we curate group dining experiences at great local restaurants — you + five new faces. No awkward planning, no group chats that go nowhere — just good food, good vibes, and conversations that matter. ### **Here’s how it works:** 1. **Take our quick quiz** in the DayOfUs app to share your preferences. 2. **We match you** with a group of like-minded people. 3. **We book the restaurant** — you simply show up and enjoy. 4. **You leave with new friends** (and maybe a new favorite restaurant). ✨ **Not a dating app** – we’re all about human connection and building friendships. ### **Why Join Us?** * **Effortless** – We handle all the planning. * **Fresh every week** – New people, new restaurants. * **Personality-based matching** – Not just random pairings. * **Local & traveler friendly** – Whether you’re new in town or just looking to meet more people. **📅 This listing is for awareness only — bookings are made through our app or website.** ✅ **Join today and get 10% off your first dinner** with code: **MEETUP10** **Download the Day of Us app**: [App Store Link](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/day-of-us-meet-new-friends/id6748222136 "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/day-of-us-meet-new-friends/id6748222136")💻 **Or sign up on our website**: [dayofus.com](https://www.dayofus.com/?utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=toronto&utm_content=diningtable "https://www.dayofus.com?utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=toronto&utm_content=diningtable") Your registration does not include your individual food and drink purchases. You will pay for your own order. ## **FAQ** **Do I pay here on Meetup?** No — we don’t take bookings here. Please sign up through our app or website to join a dinner. **Is this a dating event?** Nope! Our focus is on genuine friendships and expanding your social circle. **Do I need to come every week?** Not at all. You join whenever you’re free and feel like meeting new people. **Refund Policy** Refunds are available when you cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled dinner (handled through the app).

.**Saturday January 17th** 7.30pm -12.30 **The Palais Royale** **1601 Lakeshore Blvd West** Join us for a fabulous a Saturday night of Dancing & Romancing . We have a great DJ playing all your favorite tunes from the 70’s to the present. It’s your opportunity to mix, mingle, enjoy a few dances and meet some new friends. You can dance the night away on their big dance floor. Please, no running shoes or jeans. The cost is only $25.00. 416- 236- 8222. Free parking. Hope to see you then at our Dance Party + 40 Crowd

*Physically Accessible Venue* This is an opportunity to meet up for some LGBTQ2IA-flavoured gaming and socializing—allies also welcome. Come for the gaming, socializing, not to mention the draft! :) Be sure to invite friends and such, too. Although Fred, your amiable host, starts the event at 3pm, feel free to drop in when you are able, Steadfast opens at Noon! You'll have access to a robust library of board games, and attendees are welcome to bring their own games. There is no event fee. Instead we ask attendees to purchase beverages or food from the venue, Steadfast Brewery, conveniently located at Lansdowne and Dundas, 301 Lansdowne Ave. Of course, since they are offering us their space for free, please consider buying a drink if you can. Note - Sunday's is usually Miguel's day off, he may or may not pop in to cook up his amazing tacos, if the kitchen is closed, Steadfast welcomes outside food should you be hungry. We provide nametag stickers with a pronoun field; we want this to be a comfortable environment for everyone, kindly respect people's listed or stated pronouns. * If you are unsure of someone's pronouns, don't assume: Ask, Respect and Practice * Definitely ask before taking pictures/videos Steadfast Brewery is an accessible space with a smooth entrance and large single stall washrooms available on the main floor. For those with sensory concerns, there may be possible loud noises. Steadfast offers an annual Brew Membership called **The Mug Club** that offers the following: Your own mug! It has your name on it and is reserved for you. A larger pour-19.5 oz vs 16 oz 1$ off pours in that mug (if you do the math, this sums to about a 40% discount on beer to stay, I think) 1 free growler fill a month (15$ value each, so $180 value for the year) 30% off merch. It costs $150 year one, $100 every year after that.

We are so excited to be heading to Toronto! Join us on blue Jay way for an afternoon of fresh faces, delicious beverages and pizza! Happy Hour is heading to Blue Jay Way for our first ever Toronto speed dating round @Rustica Pizza [Click here to purchase ticket (REQUIRED)](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/thats-amore-speed-dating-ages-28-40-rustica-pizza-bar-toronto-tickets-1976997812677?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobile) Ages 28-40 Let us guide you through a casual afternoon of fresh faces & delicious beverages! Meet People in a safe space that overcomes the awkwardness of working up the courage to speak to new people! ✨ All participants come to our events ready to get out of their comfort zone and are ready to chat! \*Each ticket includes one complimentary drink\* Non-alcohalic beverages available\* DM @happyhourzhamont IG to bypass Eventbrite fees & etransfer Event length is 60-90 minutes. You meet several participants at each station in 5 minute intervals. After the event is completed you will fill out a form indicating if you would like to contact an individual after the event. If it’s a match, we will send you your results within 24 hours! \*A match is when you and another person both pick each other and want to connect after the event!\* End the Swiping, meet new people old school style, we look forward to seeing you! F or more events you can follow our Instagram @happyhourshamont \*A twenty(20) participant minimum is required due to the nature of each event. If minimum ticket requirement is not met, you will be notified 48-72 hours prior and will be fully refunded. Tickets are non-refundable, unless event is cancelled due to attendance

**Join [TILE.]** at the **most popular Saturday Language Learning Social Event & Party in Toronto! 🍁** **We have a new 2-for-1 (Language class + Social event/party) format for 2026!** **[TILE.] = Toronto International Language Exchange [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/tilelearning/)** Contact us at : \*[info@tilelearning.com.*](http://info@tilelearning.com.%2A/) **The New [TILE.]** **2-for-1 special event every Saturday ($5 total)** includes: **1.** From **[7:00 - 7:30 PM](https://www.meetup.com/english-class-with-certified-award-winning-teacher):** A new small group 30-minute **[Language class](https://www.meetup.com/english-class-with-certified-award-winning-teacher)**[ ](https://www.meetup.com/english-class-with-certified-award-winning-teacher)led by a certified award-winning language teacher **2.** From **[7:30 - 11 PM](https://www.meetup.com/biggest-language-party-event-social-in-toronto):** Our usual huge group **[BIGGEST LANGUAGE EXCHANGE SOCIAL EVENT AND PARTY IN TORONTO](https://www.meetup.com/biggest-language-party-event-social-in-toronto)** Both events happen Saturday on the 2nd floor of the Madison Pub (14 Madison Avenue). ***Attend either or both events for just $5 total!*** Meet Toronto locals and international friends. Talk to language teachers and speakers to learn English, French, Korean, Japanese, Spanish, and much more! **Join us for:** ✅ Language Exchanges and Learning in a Fun Setting ✅ Meeting New Friends & Networking ✅ Board Games & Activities ✅ (Post-event) on-site Madison Pub dancing, piano bar, singing & more! Make sure to get a nametag from one of our helpers. *You **must** read the full event description below before attending. By attending, you agree to all the terms listed.* **[TILE.] Toronto International Language Exchange** event details: * We are on the 2nd floor of the Madison pub on the patio with all the international flags! *The dance floor opens around 10 PM, and the live piano bar singer start around 10:30 on the 1st floor.* * **PAY** **$5** right at the event by **CASH, CREDIT or DEBIT**, or **SEND $5 E-TRANSFERS** to: **TILETORONTO1@GMAIL.COM**. **\*** The second event ends late at night. It is 100% your own responsibility to ensure you get home safe. \-\-\-\-\-\- **IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Meetup Group** By attending any TILE events, including these ones, you acknowledge and agree to the following: * *The organizers and hosts of TILE events are are not liable for any loss, injury, damage, or other unforeseen outcomes that may occur before, during, or after any event.* * *Photographs will be taken* *at TILE* events. *By attending these events, you understand that you may end in photographs*. * *Participation in TILE events is entirely voluntary and at your own risk. You are solely responsible for your own safety, personal belongings, transportation, behavior, and well-being. It is your responsibility to assess the risks involved in any activity or location and to act accordingly.* * *TILE and its organizers do not provide insurance and cannot guarantee the safety, accuracy of information, or quality of venues, third-party services, or other attendees.* * *By attending, you release TILE, its organizers, and affiliates from any and all claims or liability, and you agree to conduct yourself respectfully and in accordance with local laws and venue rules.* * ***If you do not agree with this disclaimer, please do not attend TILE events.***

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.

We are now Meeting at ResQ BBQ in Leesburg \*\*help us track guest attendance, please register here please: https://www.bniconnectglobal.com/web/open/visitorRegistration?chapterId=16801 \*\* *** Thanks for visiting our meetup group for information for BNI Potomac Business Alliance where I am honored to hold the Title Insurance seat. During this meeting you will meet other local business professionals from a wide variety of industries who commit to providing excellent service to people within our shared networks. We will pass over 1.5 million dollars of business in 2022-2023. and we want you to consider applying to be a part of our referral network. So come out, enjoy an excellent breakfast, learn a little more about me and Title Insurance, and consider being a part of a fantastic group of business professionals. Be prepared to tell everyone about your business in about 30 seconds or less. We want to know what you do but have to keep it short so we can complete the meeting's agenda, we want to honor your time! • 30 second elevator speech? What do I say?! Your Name Your Company's Name What your company does (in basic form) One key difference maker (deliver on-time, on budget. or We close complicated cases. or We can sell your home quickly and for top dollar. Etc...) Who you would like to meet in the room or in the area (so we can refer you business :-) ) Keep it short and sweet, there will be plenty of time after and before the meeting to get to know other people in the group and even opportunities to schedule "one to one/1:2:1" meetings. We love to grab our coffee and go out to a spot in the lobby afterwards in one on ones to discuss how we can work together, get to know each other, get business done! So plan a little extra time to meet if need be.

This is an **event at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr., Reston, VA 20191** (All participants must have RSVP'd). We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental. Our meeting schedule will be as follows: * **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation * **5 minutes:** Break * **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra. During the sitting meditation session, we will provide you with a non-roller chair (or feel free to bring in your own meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when you are here at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).

Per Collective: Ooooh party people. LISTEN UP: we're doing something fun yet again. It's the only way we know how! On Friday Jan 23 Collective is holding a "Dark of Night" event at Rai's Rendezvous. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN!?!?!? Come in black - your fanciest, your most emo, your most badass black leather...it ALL goes. And we're pulling a bunch of older Collective songs out of the shadows and putting them back on stage for ONE NIGHT ONLY. We can't wait to see you!

[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.