Nonprofit

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)

Let's meet to write! Schedule : 18:00 - 18:30: Arrival & introduction tour. Share briefly with the group your project and the "goal of the day". 18:30 - 20:00 : Let's write! 20:00 : Closing tour. Did you achieve the "goal of the day" ? See you soon !

Would you like to improve your language skills and networking in a casual atmosphere? This event is for you! All languages welcome! Everyone is welcome! The aim is to speak with native/fluent speakers of your target language(s). You'll be around all types of people throughout the whole event. We will be in a private area. A great atmosphere is guaranteed! You'll have to order a drink to attend the event 😀 Don't hesitate to contact us for any further information

Would you like to improve your language skills and networking in a casual atmosphere? This event is for you! All languages welcome! Everyone is welcome! The aim is to speak with native/fluent speakers of your target language(s). You'll be around all types of people throughout the whole event. We will be in a private area. A great atmosphere is guaranteed! You'll have to order a drink to attend the event 😀 Don't hesitate to contact us for any further information

🦞 **OpenClaw User Group Belgium — Clawingly Yours! 🦞** Welcome to the **first ever meetup** of the *OpenClaw User Group Belgium*! Whether you’re here to tame your personal AI assistant, share wild tales of rogue skill installs, or just figure out if your OpenClaw agent is plotting to organize your inbox or take over your fridge — you’re in good company. 💻🤖🎉 At this inaugural gathering we’ll: 🐾 Exchange tips and tricks for getting OpenClaw running smoothly (without it requesting your coffee machine’s password) 🔐 Talk about best practices for **security** so your AI doesn’t start a side hustle of its own. 🤝 Share real experiences — the successes, the fails, and the agent that *accidentally booked you a trip..* 💡 Inspire each other to contribute to the community and help make OpenClaw **smarter, safer, and more fun** for everyone. Come for the AI, stay for the laughs, and leave with new friends who understand that “clawing” your way through setup is half the adventure! 🧠🎈 . This event is free, but do bring 10€ if you want to enjoy some pizza. Doors open at 18h for some networking and speakers start at 19h-21h. Reach out to the organisers if you want to be a speaker or help prepare. **Clawingly yours,** **The OpenClaw Belgium Crew**

The practice of authentic presence is about freely expressing and revealing yourself while being with others. Through this practice, you learn to let go of habitual patterns and conditioned responses, allowing you to form deeper, more genuine connections rooted in who you truly are. ## About the event Authentic presence is a path of radical honesty. It creates a safe and supportive environment where you can look at yourself with fresh eyes. At the same time it often is fun, enjoyable, beautiful, and meaningful. Ultimately, this practice leads to a closer connection with yourself and more meaningful relationships with others. Join these beginner sessions to learn basic techniques from authentic relating and circling. Activities include meditations, dialogues, and exercises on sharing and owning your experience. No prerequisites—just come as you are! Contribution: €20 registration and more info: [click here](https://www.houseofthebeloved.eu/authentic-presence) [Join our WhatsApp group to ask questions or stay updated](https://chat.whatsapp.com/I45llASEfCuE4L7WZ6ctOt) We look forward to meeting you!

**Release & Reset Yoga:** **Gentle flow to unwind, breathe, and reset** (please register in advance at [https://ewalitke.com/yoga/#agenda](https://ewalitke.com/yoga/#agenda)) Do you ever feel like your head is racing 24/7, and the constant "run" of daily life is making you lose perspective? Many of us spend our days in a "*business spin*," caught in a whirlwind of meetings and deadlines where we literally forget to breathe. If you are looking for more than just a workout, but a place to **stop the autopilot** and reconnect with yourself — this class is for you. **What makes this class different?** This isn't a mass-market gym session where you're just another face in the crowd. It is a tailor-made experience in a safe, intimate group where your individual needs are truly seen and answered. I don't believe in "*performing*" or pushing to 100%. Instead, we focus on intention, listening to our bodies, and finding that sweet spot where physical challenge meets deep relaxation. **The Experience:** * **The "*Switch*":** We begin by centering ourselves, shifting the "*gear*" from work mode to being present. * **Active Flow:** A structured, balanced practice to strengthen your body and address those "office life" aches in the back, neck, and wrists. * **The Soothing Finish:** A student favorite. We end with a long, guided relaxation and Savasana — a "balm of relief" for your nervous system that helps you drop the stress and leave feeling 100% better. Come as you are, whether you're tired, stressed, or just need a moment for yourself. Let’s step off the treadmill together and **recharge your week.** **Every Tuesday \| Suitable for all levels \| Beginners are warmly welcome\!** Book through my website: [https://ewalitke.com/yoga/#agenda](https://ewalitke.com/yoga/#agenda) **Prices**: Drop in 20 EUR 4-class pass: 68 EUR

Hello everyone! Ready for another quiz? Come and show us how clever you are and help raise money for Amnesty at the same time! Entry is 24 euro for a team of up to 4 people (no more!). Do you want you with more people? You may split in several teams! Show everyone how knows more! There are prizes for the top three teams, as well as the team bringing up the rear. Payment possible by cash, card or phone. If you would like to reserve a table, please contact the James Joyce directly. They will book a table for you. See you on the 19th!

Let's gather for an afterwork drink in a nice and cosy area

IMPORTANT: This Wednesday's session will be held at the Brussels Beer Project. **Rue Antoine Dansaert 188, 1000 Bruxelles** Please take a moment to read the information and rules for the sessions. **Overview:** Improv sessions in English accepting all levels. We play short and long-form improv comedy, which includes theater-style scenes, guessing, and group games. **Topics:** * Timing * Location * Participation (Attendees list) * RSVP rules * Improv session format * Who is it for? (Participation requirement) *** * **Timing** Being on time will help you and everyone. **18h15** \- Doors open *Please take this time to order your drinks/food and settle in.* **18h30** \- Start of the session **Are you late?** Please inform the event host or comment on the event page. If you arrive late and the session is already in progress, please wait on the side till the game/scene is finished. Wait for the session moderator to indicate when you can start participating. * **Location** We have two locations: Monday Sessions: The session takes place on the first floor of The Sister Cafe. Stairs next to the bar. It's the room with a curtain at the door. Wednesday Sessions: At Brussels Beer Poject Rue Antoine Dansaert 188, 1000 Bruxelles * **Participation (Attendee list)** The session is limited to **12 attendees**. This ensures the session is manageable and everybody gets enough chances to participate. Therefore, only the people on the "attendee list" can participate in the session. **Waiting list**: People on the waiting list should keep an eye on the updates in case someone from the attendees' list drops and you get their spot. It's important for the people on the waiting list also to update their RSVP status if they already know they won't be joining the session. **Do you just want to observe?** In the regular session, we do not have an audience, only participants. Please do not join the session if you do not plan to participate in the games/scenes. If you are unsure about something, please contact the event host. *People on the attendee list are expected to take part.* * **RSVP Rules** * Please update your RSVP status in a timely manner if you can't make it to the session. This applies to people on the **attendee list AND waiting list.** * If you are on the waiting list and know you won't be able to join in case someone from the main list drops, please update your RSVP to "not going". This will give the next person on the waiting list a chance. * Emergencies aside, please update your RSVP status on time. Canceling at the last minute or just 1 hour before isn't helpful. * If we see a pattern from someone not showing up after confirming or last-minute cancellations, we reserve the right to prohibit session access. * Please write a comment if you cancel and your spot becomes available. With this, others will get an extra notification. **Improv Session Format** The session is held in English. The session has three sections: Warm-up, Scene games, and Cool down. **Warmup:** Quick group games are played to break the ice and get the creative juices flowing. **Scenes:** Then we move on to scene games. These are mostly from short-form improv, which can include different games with various gimmicks, like story building, character work, guessing, etc **Cool down:** One or two short group games to end the session. The rules are explained by the moderator before each game. There is no obligation to participate in games you are uncomfortable with. There can be feedback after a game is played. This is so we learn from each other and gain skills and insights. **Tip**: If you are new, pay attention to the regular players when they are performing and notice small details, like how a stage is cleared before a scene, how to enter a scene, and how to collaborate with each other. * **Who is it for?** Anyone interested in improv! We accept participants at all levels, beginners and advanced. This is a great place to start if you are new to improv. The basics will be explained. We only require the "Yes, and...!" spirit! If you are an advanced player and have ideas and games to share and work on, please do let us know. We look forward to welcoming you and doing improv!

**FRANCAIS**: Je démarre une **rotation thématique** tous les mois autour du domaine de l'entrepreneuriat. Pour ce mois, d'août, je propose: **Le freelancing en Belgique** (avantages et désavantages). Etes-vous un freelanceur ou non? Partagez vos avis avec le groupe. On prendra aussi le temps nécessaire pour apprendre à se connaître via une session de réseautage! Si vous souhaitez apporter/partager quelque chose pour manger/boire, n'hésitez pas! Rendez-vous au Cinquantenaire en-dessous de l'arc: [Cinquantenaire (Bruxelles)](https://goo.gl/maps/B4hEv3uyDVKD1Uap6) **ENGLISH**: I am starting **each month a topic** related to entrepreneurship. This month of august, the topic will be : **Freelancing in Belgium** (advantages and disadvantages). Are you a freelance or not? Share your insights with the group. We will take this time for getting to know each other throughout a networking! If you feel like bringing/sharing something to eat, don't hesitate! See you at 50naire next to the arch: [Cinquantenaire (Brussels)](https://goo.gl/maps/B4hEv3uyDVKD1Uap6)

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)

✨ **Meet new people in Brussels** **in a friendly, relaxed and international atmosphere.** The ambience is relatively quiet, calm and sober for easy-going casual conversation, with no chaos and loud party music in the background! 🍻 Large selection of drinks and food available 🌍 Internationals, expats & locals welcome 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Over 10,000 members overall in our Brussels community! The event was also covered in a recent article from Brussels Times: [https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/1949146/euromeet-the-real-life-brussels-social-network](https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/1949146/euromeet-the-real-life-brussels-social-network) 😀 Our events usually attract **30–40 attendees**, with an age average of around 35 years old and good gender balance (the event announcement is relayed across multiple social media, not just on this page) 💪 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. You can also leave any anonymous feedback about the event here under this form: [https://gmogni.aidaform.com/brasserie-meetup-feedback-form](https://gmogni.aidaform.com/brasserie-meetup-feedback-form) **.** 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 18:30** **and until at least 23h** **at** **the** **“Quartier Leopold”** **brasserie**, in the heart of the famous Place du Luxembourg in front of the European Parliament, for a fun, relaxed night of **drinks, food, spontaneous conversations, and great vibes**! 💛 . 📍 **Location**: “Quartier Leopold” brasserie, Pl. du Luxembourg 9, 1050 Ixelles 📌 **Google Maps**: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCvSP1AGZNX2ZV3C8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCvSP1AGZNX2ZV3C8) (don't worry if you see the bar marked as "closed" on Google Maps for the Friday nights, they will always be open for us!) **🌐 Website of the venue**: [https://www.quartier-leopold.be/en](https://www.quartier-leopold.be/en) 📸 **Pictures gallery from previous events:** [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LRbsinA1wEtUrDhlyw8K6Uz9YKeq0_dw?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LRbsinA1wEtUrDhlyw8K6Uz9YKeq0_dw?usp=sharing) . ✨ **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 we have a private large room reserved entirely for the Meetup participants at the back of the bar! ✅ Possibility to have **dinner at the brasserie** during the meetup (until 22h), thanks to its comprehensive selection of dishes available in the menu: [https://www.quartier-leopold.be/web/content/1467?unique=b27f82e985f525417a92cbeaf0f1ac1c5e2fb4a0](https://www.quartier-leopold.be/web/content/1467?unique=b27f82e985f525417a92cbeaf0f1ac1c5e2fb4a0) ✅ **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/Abaqvj9lxNT3_xh7/)[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) ▶️ We are also active on **Telegram**: [https://t.me/euromeet_meetup](https://t.me/euromeet_meetup "https://t.me/euromeet_meetup") ▶️ 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 #MeetupBrussels #BrusselsEvents #BrusselsSocial #SocialInBrussels #BrusselsLife #ExpatLifeBrussels #ExpatsInBrussels #InternationalBrussels #InternationalFriends #MeetNewPeople #MakeNewFriends #FridayVibes #AfterWorkBrussels #AfterworkDrinks #FridayInBrussels #PlaceLuxembourg #PlaceLux #BrusselsNetworking #NewInBrussels #BrusselsExpats #BrusselsCommunity #BrusselsNightlife #SocialFriday #EuroMeet

📚 Book Club Invitation: The Ape That Understood the Universe by Steve Stewart-Williams Hello curious minds and lovers of big questions, For our February meeting, we turn to The Ape That Understood the Universe, a fascinating and accessible exploration of how the human mind evolved to make sense of reality, from everyday beliefs to science, religion, and culture. Steve Stewart-Williams takes us on a journey through evolutionary psychology, showing how the same mental tools that helped our ancestors survive also shape our deepest intuitions, sometimes helping us understand the world, sometimes leading us astray. If you’ve ever wondered: * Why humans are so good at storytelling * How evolution shaped our beliefs about meaning, morality, and truth * Whether science is just another cultural product… or something more …this book offers plenty of fuel for reflection and debate. 📅 Date: Friday, 21 February ⏰ Time: 11:30 📍 Venue: Carpe Diem, Avenue de Tervuren 13, 1040 Brussels Expect an engaging and open discussion about human nature, evolution, culture, and how an evolved ‘ape’ ended up trying to understand the universe, all in a relaxed setting with good coffee and good company. As always, you’re welcome whether you read every chapter or just grasped the main ideas. Those who wish can stay for lunch afterward and continue the conversation informally. 📞 Questions: 0474.60.83.70 🏡 Book Club Home Rules 1️⃣ You’re welcome even if you didn’t finish the book. 2️⃣ We listen to understand, not to win. 3️⃣ Curiosity, respect, and openness come first — especially when ideas challenge us. Looking forward to another lively exchange of ideas 🧠

We will have open shop hours for anyone to bring their bikes to work on or need help fixing your own bike. We will also have bikes that need to be fixed so you can learn if you like. We will need everyone to sign in when arriving and sign out when leaving so we can keep track of volunteer hours and shop times. Suggested donation of $15 per hour for use of tools and space would be appreciated. Thank you!

We will have open shop hours for anyone to bring their bikes to work on or need help fixing your own bike. We will also have bikes that need to be fixed so you can learn if you like. We will need everyone to sign in when arriving and sign out when leaving so we can keep track of volunteer hours and shop times. Suggested donation of $15 per hour for use of tools and space would be appreciated. Thank you!

Come browse thru our overstock inventory! We will have refurbished bikes for sale, including hybrids, mountain bikes, beach cruisers, kids bikes, vintage road bikes and a special tandem bike. We also have gentle-used bicycle parts and accessories such as training wheels, car racks, hitch racks, bike locks, trainers, wheels, rims, frames, bike clothing and other gear. You never know what you can find! We have as-is bikes that need some work or a tune-up that are not quite ready for riding. But perfect if you want a project to work on! Come find out what we do as a local community bike shop and how you can volunteer with us. All proceeds will benefit future RBH programming, including the TERRIFIC Kids bicycle award program in partnership with the City of Rockville, and the purchase of parts, tools and kids helmets. Cash, checks, credit cards, PayPal and Venmo will be accepted onsite. Spread the word to potential shoppers and bicycle enthusiasts!

We will have open shop hours for anyone to bring their bikes to work on or need help fixing your own bike. We will also have bikes that need to be fixed so you can learn if you like. We will need everyone to sign in when arriving and sign out when leaving so we can keep track of volunteer hours and shop times. Suggested donation of $15 per hour for use of tools and space would be appreciated. Thank you!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Satanic Panics,”** a look at waves of fear of demonic activity as an American tradition, with Luxx Mishou, cultural historian and former instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy and area community colleges. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics2](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics2) .] The 1980s found the United States gripped by fear of Satanic cults targeting children. They were believed to be corrupting young ones in daycare centers and tempting teens through subliminal messages on heavy metal albums or through the quiet inclusion of demonic rituals in role-playing games. Satanic serial killers supposedly stalked the suburbs. Doctors helped patients uncover what were claimed to be repressed memories of ritualistic satanic abuse. Parents, police, and politicians were urged to protect impressionable youths from both moral and physical danger. With Satanic cults deemed to be a real and material threat, it was a frightening time for everyone, including those who suddenly came under suspicion for doing evil deeds. Then, suddenly, it all faded from public consciousness, just as surely as did eighties fads such mullet haircuts, leg warmers, and Cabbage Patch Kids. Why did it all start? Why did it stop? And has this happened before or since? Hear such questions tackled by Luxx Mishou, a cultural historian and media specialist who has long researched the devious and villainous in cultural artifacts. She’ll discuss moral panics as a longstanding cultural tradition, with each new one stemming from fear of cultural shifts and shaped by the time and place where it occurred. Among the panics we’ll look into are the Red Scare of the 1950s and the public response to the gruesome 1969 murders committed by the Manson Family. Delving into the 1980s panic, Mishou will describe how it began with the 1980 publication of psychiatrist Lawrence Pazder’s memoir *Michelle Remembers*, detailing the suppressed memories of ritualistic abuse reportedly suffered by a patient. As that book quickly became a best seller, its ideas saturated American culture. A California daycare center became the focus of a three-year investigation, followed by three years of trials, based on allegations that its owner had engaged in secret ritualistic abuse of the children in its care. Mishou will lead you through the media that convinced the public that devil worshipers were among them, and she’ll talk about how reactions to imagined threats can have very real social costs. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Hidden Cleopatra,”** an excavation through myth and slander to uncover the real Egyptian queen, with Jacquelyn Williamson, an Egyptologist and associate professor of archaeology and ancient art at George Mason University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra) .] Depictions of Cleopatra are abundant in popular culture. A long list of painters have depicted her, Marilyn Monroe and Kim Kardashian have posed as her, and Vivien Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor famously portrayed her in Hollywood films. At the end of the day, however, what most of us think we know about Cleopatra is wrong, the product of the ancient Rome’s “fake news” and anti-Egypt propaganda. Learn about the real Cleopatra—and how our understanding of her came to be so distorted—with Professor Jacquelyn Williamson, scholar of women and power in ancient Egypt, teacher of courses on ancient Egyptian art and archaeology, and author of *Nefertiti’s Sun Temple: A New Cult Complex at Tell el-Amarna.* Dr. Williamson will walk us through how the first Roman emperor, Octavian, created the distorted image of Cleopatra as seductress that we know today as part of his political scheming to defeat his rival Antony and end the Roman Republic once and for all. Cleopatra has been the subject of debate and controversy ever since. William Shakespeare later relied on ancient Roman sources such as Horace and Plutarch in writing *Antony and Cleopatra*, and his play helped give rise to countless other works offering a distorted picture of her. Professor Williamson argues that “Cleopatra was a human being, like you and I,” and “deserves the dignity of being represented as accurately as possible.” Her efforts to set the record straight have met frustration, however—after being extensively interviewed for the recent Netflix historical docuseries Queen Cleopatra, she concluded that it, too, had missed the mark. You’ll gain a much deeper appreciation of the challenges of researching and accurately depicting the ancient past from Dr. Williamson, who also has taught at Harvard, Brandeis, and the University of California at Berkeley and is involved with an ongoing archaeological investigation of Queen Nefertiti’s sun temple. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Layla Taj portrays Cleopatra VII as part of an Egyptian Cultural Performing Arts Society production. (Photo by Amos Gvili / Wikimedia Commons.)

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – February 25 Business Presentation** **Featuring Jennifer Zitelli, Founder of ESL Thrive** **Wednesday\, February 25 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us at 1 Million Cups Loudoun as we welcome **Jennifer Zitelli**, founder of **ESL Thrive**, for a dynamic conversation focused on workforce communication, business growth, and supporting employees for long-term success. **About the Business** ESL Thrive provides **on-the-job English training designed specifically for business success**. Through customized instruction, Jennifer helps employees gain the language skills they need to communicate effectively, perform confidently, and thrive in their roles — ultimately strengthening the businesses they support. Her programs are tailored to meet the real-world needs of small businesses, ensuring employees learn practical workplace language that directly impacts productivity, team collaboration, and customer experience. **Who Jennifer Is Looking to Hear From** Jennifer is seeking feedback from business owners and leaders in industries such as: * Hospitality * Home services * Restaurants * Retail * Any business with employees whose first language is not English **Current Business Focus & Barriers** As ESL Thrive continues to grow, Jennifer is looking for insight around: * Overcoming barriers to business growth * Strengthening marketing strategy * Expanding business development efforts * Effectively reaching her target markets This is an excellent opportunity to share your perspective while supporting a business dedicated to empowering both employers and employees. **Why Attend?** * Learn about a service that directly impacts workplace success * Provide valuable feedback to a growing business * Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and community leaders * Be part of a collaborative, solutions-focused conversation **What is 1 Million Cups?** 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **February 25 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about communication, workforce development, and business growth. We look forward to seeing you there!