AWCB NEWS

 On 26 June 2024, AWCB members gathered at Galeria Solis for a delightful event featuring the talented artist and US Fulbright scholar, Olga Slavkina.

Olga, a gifted artist with a renowned gallery in La Hulpe, graciously hosted us for a "talk and tour" of her captivating painting and sculpture collections. The event was nothing short of fantastic, offering a lovely and eye-opening experience for all who attended.

The evening was filled with inspiration and camaraderie, as we explored the imaginal world of Uslada together. Olga’s insights and artistic vision left a lasting impression on everyone, making it a truly memorable outing.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful event! We look forward to many more enriching experiences together.

Navigating your US Tax Return – FREE WEBINAR

The USA needs overseas Americans to play their part in the nationwide elections in Autumn 2024. If you have not already registered to vote/requested a ballot, do it now. Voting from overseas is a lot like taking a test in school: doing it requires us to follow the instructions of our states very carefully. In addition. our “election year” is only a little over nine months long. We can’t register before January 1 and we generally need to send our ballots back to the US in early October, a month before the domestic Election Day, to be sure that they meet state deadlines. Please see the full article for detailed instructions on what you and your club can do.

Last weekend, we had an exhilarating wine tasting event at Le Comptoir Rodin, where France and Greece went head-to-head in a battle of flavors!

In this blind tasting, eight wines made from French and Greek grape varieties were put to the test. Participants savored each wine in pairs, one French and one Greek, carefully considering taste and pleasure without the influence of labels.

The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as we awaited the unveiling of each wine's origin after tasting and rating. From bold reds to crisp whites, the diversity of flavors delighted our palates.

The delightful setting of Le Comptoir Rodin, paired with its delectable tapas, provided the perfect backdrop for this epic showdown of wine cultures.

Our next wine tasting is on 21st of March where we will be exploring wines from Italy's Piemonte , register now to join us: https://www.awcb.org/event-5553389

We were happy to have the opportunity to share some festive spirit on Dec. 21st with 29 people from AWCB and partner clubs! Our club sponsors Katerina Marmagioli and Janise Y N T E M A also had their jewellery and artwork on display, which made our evening even more interesting. Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season and new year!

Today marks Saint Nicholas Day, a momentous occasion when the joy of giving comes to life for our Angel Tree children. To those who sponsored children, made a monetary donation, and/or helped wrap gifts, your unwavering support made it possible for The American Women's Club of Brussels to bring joy to the hearts of 360 children across six charities in our city. 

Angel Tree is a true labor of love for AWCB, made possible by your contributions. Your commitment to keeping this tradition alive has not only touched lives but has made the holiday season truly special for those in need. As we reflect on the joyous moments we've created this Saint Nicholas Day, let's carry the spirit of giving forward into the holiday season and beyond. 

We make a great team and together we are making a lasting difference in the lives we touch. Thank you for being the driving force behind this wonderful cause.

On behalf of the 50 children who participated in Lina’s Project this year, I would like to extend a huge thank you to the members of AWCB. Thanks to your generous donations , these children enjoyed exciting activities throughout the summer months.

Thank you!

Nancy Evans

President, Lorraine De Bock, received a special invitation from Clementine Buggenhout, President of Le 8ème Jour (The Eighth Day), along with Pascal Duquenne, a well-known Belgian actor and advocate for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the arts. The purpose of the invitation was to explore Le 8ème Jour, a non-profit association based in Brussels. 

Established in 2002 by Pascal Duquenne and his mother, the organization is dedicated to integrating disabled individuals into society through the creation of supported independent community residences and activity centers.

Named after the 1996 film "Le 8ème Jour," in which Pascal Duquenne played a character with Down syndrome and won the Best Actor award at the 1996 Cannes Festival, the association aims to emulate the film's spirit by fostering acceptance, understanding, and support of people with disabilities. The success of the movie has played a significant role in changing societal perceptions and promoting greater inclusivity. 

Le 8ème Jour has achieved notable advancements and presently operates six supported living facilities and two activity centers across various locations in Brussels. 

During her visit Lorraine had the privilege of connecting with residents and staff, learning about its initiatives, and gaining valuable insights into the mission of Le 8ème Jour.

AWCB expresses gratitude to Clementine, Pascal, and both residents and staff of Le 8ème Jour for their gracious invitation and the opportunity to witness the positive impact it has on the lives of those it serves. 

To learn more about Le 8ème Jour, visit their website at www.le8emejour.be

Janise Yntema is a contemporary artists noted for her specialization in the ancient technique of encaustic painting. Janise received her formal art training at Parson’s School of Design, NYC. She is represented by Brenda Taylor, Boston, The Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh and Cadogan Gallery, London. Museum shows include The Royal Academy, London The Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh, , Bozar, Brussels, The Cape Cod Museum, Massachusetts, The Morris Museum, New Jersey and The Monmouth Museum, New Jersey, as well as the National Botanic Gardens of Belgium, Ireland and Edinburgh. Her works have been included in numerous public and private collections. Studio visits welcomed.  Visit janiseyntema.com email: janiseyntema@gmail.com

AWCB members could not resist the allure of Katerina’s jewelry at the Katerina Marmagioli Trunk Show today in the sophisticated setting of The Merode Club in Brussels. Katerina’s unique designs stole the spotlight and her personalized consultations added a special touch. Delighted to share that many attendees discovered the perfect pieces for themselves and swoon-worthy gifts for loved ones. Cheers to Katerina whose keen eye for elegance and uniqueness shines through in every exquisite piece of jewelry!