Controversial Topic Discussions

I'm excited to host the 16th edition of *Strangers to Friends*! Every event so far has been warm, fun and full of great connections. So we’re doing it again! Curious about our previous events? Check out our photo albums (only visible on the laptop version of Meetup). **What to expect** * A safe, relaxed environment to meet both locals and expats, whether you want to meet new people, experience an international atmosphere or talk about business, it’s all possible. * Start the evening with a few rounds of conversation cards: pair up with someone you don’t know, answer meaningful questions and rotate every 10 minutes. Within just one hour, you’ll get to know several people really well and enjoy meaningful conversations. * Everyone comes on their own, so it’s easy to connect. **Practical details** * Doors open at 20:00, after 30 minutes we start with conversation cards * Venue: Boekencafé Libertas, Klarendalseweg 477-1, Arnhem * 20 min walk from Arnhem Central * 7 min walk from Arnhem Velperpoort * You’ll receive 2 drink tokens for (beer/wine/soft drinks) and snacks all night! * Find us on the right side of the café at the bar, by the window and garden Bring a smile and join us for an evening where friendships grow, business ideas spark and real-life connections happen. Back to basics, away from screens, meeting face-to-face. Warm regards, Julia

Come play improv theatre in English and kick off your Friday evening with laughter, creativity and new people. This [drop-in workshop](https://www.improvutrecht.nl/drop-in-workshops/) is open to everyone, whether you are trying improv for the very first time or you have played before and want to stay sharp. You do not need acting experience and you do not need perfect English. Many people join us for the first time each week, alongside regular players who keep coming back. The atmosphere is open, playful and supportive, with a real focus on having fun together. During the session you can expect: * Meeting internationals and Dutch players who enjoy playing in English * Fun and accessible improv games inspired by shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway and De Lama’s * Clear introductions to improv principles like listening, accepting ideas and playing together * Plenty of laughter and a few moments where you surprise yourself * A relaxed, social vibe rather than anything competitive or performative We play from 20:00 to 22:00. Doors open between 19:50 and 20:00 and you enter together via the side entrance on Troelstralaan. After the workshop, many people head to O’Leary’s nearby for a drink and a chat. Sign up by adding your name via [https://bit.ly/iudropin](https://bit.ly/iudropin). If you can no longer attend, please remember to remove yourself so someone else can join. The workshop works on a Pay What You Thought It Was Worth basis. Suggested donation is €10 to €20, but you are always welcome regardless of what you can pay. Contributions help cover the room and the professional trainer giving up their Friday evening. **About the teacher this week** This session is taught by [Steven Morgan](https://stevenmorgan.wales). Steven is a British comedian, improviser and teacher with a long international track record both on stage and in the classroom. He was the Head of Teaching at easylaughs in Amsterdam and was cast member of Impro Amsterdam for two years running. He previously organised the Bris Funny Fest in Australia, producing over one hundred comedy shows, and has performed stand-up comedy in numerous countries and festivals, including the Utrecht International Comedy Festival. Steven has also run corporate workshops for organisations such as Nike, Zoom and the Red Cross, and was one half of the improv duo Tru2U with Rogier Bak. His teaching style is playful, clear and confidence building, with a strong focus on connection, generosity on stage and enjoying the moment rather than trying to be funny. Whether you come to learn, to meet people, or just to have a joyful Friday evening, you are very welcome.

Hi there ! In this event we will discuss, connect and bring inspiration to each other by talking about the science of understanding the Universe, black holes, the big bang and other such topics :) IMPORTANT UPDATE: This week, the event will be hybrid - both in person and online in order to accommodate both options. If you cannot find us or if you need help in connecting, contact us at +31615466090 (Dragos). Click the following link if you'd prefer to join us online: https://meet.jit.si/Discussing_about_the_Universe_Life_and_Everything_meetup **************************** In our group we are usually talking about Space and the final frontier, and other interesting topics in an non-formal, relaxed environment. Our discussions revolve around topics ranging from space exploration(human, robotic) to astrophysics, exoplanets, Science fiction, or we can talk about something different like our place in the universe as a species - we live on a giant spaceship - some call it Spaceship Earth - we sometimes talk about the challenges and opportunities in the age of AI and the accelerating change that we live in. All in all, it is usually a very interesting and entertaining discussion, so it should be fun :) For the time being we have switched our events to hybrid mode - both in person and onions. Make sure you check again this page for updates before the event. Thanks ! More about our meetings in general: The format of the meetings is open and flexible. This group is addressed to anyone who finds these topics interesting enough to come and meet others with similar interests and to explore knowledge together. The meetings are in no way addressed to researchers or people active in science areas - in fact the more diverse backgrounds people have, the more interesting the dynamic of the discussions will be. If you will like the meetings, anyone can propose topics for future discussions. ______________________________________ Agenda for the event: 19:00 Walk in(connecting) and get comfortable 19:10 Check-in and a short presentation about our discussion group 19:20 Short discussion about the interests of every participant and here each attendee can propose a discussion topic. If we have too many topics we will take a vote to decide which topic to discuss. 19:40 We'll start with a few space news or a presentation on a specific topic 20:00 Let's start a discussion about topics such as Planetary Science, Space Exploration, Science Fiction, etc 20:45 closing and check-out :) 21:00 We many times also stay longer if anyone wants to continue the discussion (we often do this and it's fun but it's not a requirement, of course) ______________________________________ And if you have ideas or topics that you would like us to address in our events - let's discuss these together - we are open to new events proposals. In fact if any of you are interested, any of the participants can prepare a 10-20 minute talk/presentation on any given topic ranging from space exploration to science fiction, etc. And also at the beginning of the event we will invite everyone to propose discussion topics and then if there are more than 2 we will take a vote as to which topic to discuss. IMPORTANT UPDATE: This week, the event will be hybrid - both in person and online in order to accommodate both options. If you cannot find us or if you need help in connecting, contact us at +31615466090 (Dragos). Click the following link if you'd prefer to join us online: https://meet.jit.si/Discussing_about_the_Universe_Life_and_Everything_meetup Thank you for your interest, don't forget to subscribe if you plan on attending. See you there !

Iedereen is welkom op onze open Freedom Friday Bitcoin Turnhout Meetup @ het super gezellige café Sint Pieter - Grote Markt 60, 2300 Turnhout Geen presentaties. Geen workshops. Gewoon 1 onderwerp: bitcoin. **Connect with Like-Minded Minds** Engage with the Bitcoin community and mingle with fellow enthusiasts. This meetup is your chance to discuss the future, share ideas, and network with pioneers in the decentralized money world. 🏢 **Central Location**: café Sint Pieter ligt perfect centraal, een ruim cafe op de grote markt van Turnhout. Mark your calendars and spread the word!

Ben jij gefascineerd door de wereld van hacking en cybersecurity? Goed nieuws! Wat ooit een exclusieve serie workshops was voor studenten van NOVI, is nu toegankelijk voor iedereen met een passie voor hacking. 🚀 **Hack Friday** is jouw wekelijkse dosis cybersecurity praktijk. Elke vrijdagochtend duiken we samen in de diepe, duistere wereld van een nieuwe machine of challenge, onder de deskundige begeleiding van een van de cybersecurity experts van NOVI. Het is de perfecte manier om je skills te testen, te verbeteren en iets nieuws te leren in een vriendelijke en ondersteunende omgeving. 🛠️💻 ### Wat heb je nodig? * **Een werkende Kali Linux installatie**: Zorg dat je klaar bent om de uitdaging aan te gaan met je eigen Kali Linux setup. * **Een nieuwsgierige geest**: Heb je zin om te leren en uitgedaagd te worden? Dan pas je perfect in onze Hack Friday! ### Waarom meedoen? * **Leer van de besten**: Onze cybersecurity experts staan klaar om hun kennis te delen en je door de challenges te begeleiden. * **Wekelijkse uitdagingen**: Elke week bieden we een nieuwe machine of challenge aan, zodat je je vaardigheden kunt blijven ontwikkelen. * **Ontmoet gelijkgestemden**: Sluit je aan bij een community van enthousiaste hackers en cybersecurity professionals. ### Details: * **Wanneer**: Elke vrijdagochtend * **Waar**: op locatie in Utrecht * **Voor wie**: Iedereen met een interesse in hacking en cybersecurity, van beginners tot gevorderden. Ben je klaar om je hacking skills naar een hoger niveau te tillen en deel uit te maken van onze groeiende community? Sluit je dan aan bij Hack Friday en daag jezelf elke week uit met nieuwe en spannende cybersecurity avonturen! 🌟🔒 Registreer nu en laat zien wat je in huis hebt! Wij kunnen niet wachten om je te ontmoeten.

## Details **What is Toastmasters?** Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that’s been empowering people to become confident communicators and leaders since 1924. Worldwide, there are more than 266,000 members in over 14,200 clubs in 150 countries. In the Netherlands, there are over **40 clubs** across the country, including those in major cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. This network of clubs and their learn-by-doing program is sure to help you improve. You can visit Toastmasters clubs as a guest or become a member. **What does a meeting look like?** Some of the members give short, prepared speeches, which other club members later evaluate. A typical meeting also includes short impromptu speeches. In this improvisation part of the meeting, everybody gets a chance to speak, including guests, if they wish. We usually end the evening with a drink at the bar. **How do I become a guest at a meeting?** It’s easy! Simply RSVP for one of our upcoming meetings here on Meetup to let us know you’re coming. If you have any questions, contact us at [utrechttoastmasters@gmail.com.](http://utrechttoastmasters@gmail.com./) If you visit and like us, we can talk about membership! **Additional information** Our cozy venue has a maximum capacity of 30 people - perfect for an engaging. Please be on time to grab a seat and mingle before the speeches begin!

Join us every first Friday of the month to hang out and have a drink. Start off the weekend in a fun way :) Meet familiar faces or some new people, especially if you're new in town. February is cold, but no worries, we'll be inside. 🙂 Join us in En Public, a spacious bar/restaurant in Griftpark (near the canal bridge), at the former location of Peter's Bistro. If you can't make it on Friday, try joining Mingle Mania Tuesday drinks. For even more socializing and events in Utrecht, join our [WhatsApp community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GopSuzuFKRBKeYVKQrX4pE). Feel free to visit our [website](https://utrechters.net). We (your event hosts) are proud to organize this gathering as volunteers, free of charge and without any financial profit for ourselves, with the intention of strengthening local community and that everyone has a nice time. With that in mind, please note that it is nice to support the venue by ordering a drink. We greatly appreciate if you settle your bills at latest by the end of the evening.

'THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB' by Richard Osman 'Smart, compassionate, warm, moving and so VERY funny' Marian Keyes 'So smart and funny. Deplorably good' Ian Rankin 'Thrilling, moving, laugh-out-loud funny' - Mark Billingham In a peaceful retirement village, four unlikely friends meet up once a week to investigate unsolved murders. But when a brutal killing takes place on their very doorstep, the Thursday Murder Club find themselves in the middle of their first live case. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron might be pushing eighty but they still have a few tricks up their sleeves. Can our unorthodox but brilliant gang catch the killer before it's too late? The Times Crime Book of the Month Guardian Best Crime and Thrillers. ***Please read the book and join us for a lively discussion (in English) about the contents during our afternoon book club meeting.*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **PLEASE NOTE:** This is an IN-PERSON event in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. Please cancel your attendance in advance if you are unable to join, so that those on the waitlist can participate. Looking forward to seeing you all IN REAL LIFE then! Best regards, Sandra

**🟢🟢 ABOUT OUR WATERCOLOR PAINTING PARTY / AMERSFOORT** 🎨🥳🍷🏢 Amersfoort - Utrecht Province / Center of the City / Easy access from train station. Create your very own **portrait, animals, landscape, or figurative** masterpiece in only **2.5 HOURS using watercolor and our secret mixed media techniques!🧪🧫.** This session is not about perfection; it is about capturing emotions and personal expression. **No experience required** **\- trust us\!** our professional artist will guide you step-by-step through this unique self-portrait journey. You can look forward to a fun and exciting evening with other participants, **so it doesn't matter if you want to come with friends or alone - you are very welcome!** This is the perfect after-work or weekend activity where you'll unleash your creativity while creating something deeply personal. You will create a portrait combining painting, drawing, and creative techniques to bring your unique vision to life. When finished, you'll take home your newly created self-portrait artwork to cherish or share with loved ones. Each participant will have pencils, colored pencils, watercolor, acrylic/gouache paints, and a surface. You'll work from an image we will bring. **🎟️ READY TO HAVE FUN?** Get your Ticket and book your seat **✨[HERE](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430555) ✨** 🤔 **Questions?** Speak with a member of the team in **[WHATSAPP HERE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J3Y5yeWUhvbJM98bqty2WP) 💬** .................................... **🟢🟢 WHAT'S INCLUDED?** 🔶 All supplies included 🔶 **2.5-HOUR [TICKET SESSION](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430555)** 🎟️ 🎁 **EXTRA BONUS:** **FREE TICKET**🎟️ to participate in our Drawing and Painting Cafes in Amersfoort or Our Online Still-Life sessions if you live far away. 🔶 New friendships and Conversations💬 🔶 Freedom to work at your own pace 🔶 **English tutored activity** (And of course, you can speak in your local language with your friends!🍷🥰🥰🍹) ⭐ No experience needed **🎟️ BOOK YOUR SEAT🪑 IN ADVANCE ✨[HERE](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430555) ✨!** 🤔 **Questions?** Speak with a member of the team in **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J3Y5yeWUhvbJM98bqty2WP) 💬** **🕑 2026 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS:** First Sunday or every month from 11.00 AM - 1:30 PM. .................................... **🎟️ ART LOVERS CLUB / ABOUT US** **ART LOVERS CLUB** is a community where art enthusiasts come together to explore their creativity and connect with new buddies through various events and sessions ( In-Person and Online) . Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, we have something for everyone!⭐ To share with you more about what we do, you can see here the overall atmosphere of our events in Amersfoort and also follow us if you want⭐: **[https://www.instagram.com/art_lovers_social_club](https://www.instagram.com/art_lovers_social_club)** 🤔 **Questions?** Speak with a member of the team in **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J3Y5yeWUhvbJM98bqty2WP) 💬** **🕑 2025 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS:** First Sunday or every month from 11.00 AM - 1:30 PM. **See you soon. We are looking forward to painting and having Fun Together! 🎨👩🏼‍🎨👨🏼‍🎨👩🏼‍🎨🧑🏼‍🎨🎈**

## 🎨**Activity for EXPATS & English Speakers** ☕ Are you an art enthusiast living in or around **Amersfoort, Hilversum, Utrecht, Nieuwegein, IJsseltein, De Bilt and the rest of cities of the Utrecht's province** who love painting or drawing? Maybe you've felt the joy of creating but struggled to find others who share your passion and speak **ENGLISH**? **You're not alone! 😉** ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## 🖌️**About this event** You will meet other Art Lovers like you to Draw, Paint and have some drinks Together ! Our events are not just about sketching or creating art—they’re about building connections. Every two weeks, we meet at a café to have a relaxing time drawing a painting. Please keep on mind that **ENGLISH i**s the official language we will use to integrate everyone in our conversations. ⭕⭕⭕➡️ **IMPORTANT ⬅️** ⭕⭕⭕⭕ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**Book formally your Seat 🪑via [WHATSAPP](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** **If you want to confirm officially your attendance and separate your seat🪑. Book your seat in meet-up, and contact us via [WHATSAPP HERE](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f) to receive more information on the address of our activities.** **Thanks a lot for your understanding!** 💐🥰 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**How Does It Work?** This event is simple, this initiative takes 2 Hours. Most of the participants use pencils, water pencils or watercolours. Main aim is to socialize while we draw. There will be plenty of time to talk and get to know each other. We have to mention that this event is suitable for all levels. Many have started to draw in our event actually. Also it is very important that you **[JOIN US AT OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f),** to stay up to date on our upcoming events and participate in our Drawing and Painting Contests! **👉: [https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** 🍀 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### ☕**Where?** We will meet in different cafes mainly in the *center of Amersfoort ( and some occasions in other cities around)*. I will inform you of the exact place some days in advance this event. The place will depend on the number of attendees. ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### **🎟️ What is included?** 🟢 **2 HOURS TO HAVE FUN!** 🟢 **15 mins warming-up creative activity and paper material**🖌️🎨 🟢 New friendships and **conversations in ENGLISH** in a relaxed atmosphere 🟢 **Souvenir picture** with you and the rest of Art Lovers 📷 🟢 Exclusive **access to our Art Lovers Community** on which you will receive: ***\~\~\~ Drawing challenges,*** ***\~\~\~ Training content,*** ***\~\~\~ FREE Entries only to members*** ***\~\~\~ Drawing Competitions*** 🟢 Time to **create alongside fellow artists and amateurs** 🟢 The freedom to **work at your own pace** 💃🕺🎈 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 🖼️**Art Materials?** Bring your own practical art materials to be adaptable to sketch on a coffee table. Like your sketchbook, pencils, watercolor, markets, pencils, your Tablet..etc ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## **See you to Paint, Draw, and drink together!🌟☕🍷🍪🍰**

Join us for a 9km walk in the beautiful East of the Utrecht Region. As the route will be taking us along the Egelmeer lake and Prattenburg estate, you may expect forest mixed with some heathlandscapes, which makes this a great walk if you want to get out in the nature. The start and end point of this walk will be Veenendaal-West train station, where we'll be meeting right next to the platform where the train from Utrecht will arrive. We'll wait for the 10.40AM train to arrive and then depart at around 10.45AM. If you're arriving late, we won't let the whole group wait for you, but you can send a WhatsApp message to +31621177691 so we can send you our live location and you can try to catch up with us. For those coming by car, there is a free parking right next to the station, at the Dichterslaan. Please be aware that Veenendaal-West is just a small train station and there are no public toilets there. Also there are no public toilets on our route. Therefore please visit a restroom before arriving. Do you think about joining, but you're not sure if it's something for you? Utrecht Hiking Community aims to organise one hike per month in or around Utrecht, often in collaboration with UR-Glocal, which organises expat activities in Utrecht Region. If you're in for a hike with a bunch of friendly other hiking enthusiasts, you're very welcome to join, no matter whether you're an expat, local, tourist, nomad, student, professional, beginner, alone or with friends. The hikes are a great way to meet people from different backgrounds while being active and out in nature. We call this 'Social Hiking'. If you love to hike fast, we might not be the right group for you though, as for us it's important that beginners can join and have a good time as well. Dogs are allowed on almost the whole route, but need to be kept on a leash at several parts. At the end of the route there is one small part where dogs aren't allowed, but there's an easy little detour available. If you want, you can join for a lunch afterwards in the snackbar/lunchroom next to the train station. Participation in the hike is for free, but we do make some costs for it. Especially the yearly MeetUp subscribtion for organisers is quite expensive. Therefore, if you like the hike and would like to support us, a donation would be very welcome. Donations can be made using this link: https://www.ing.nl/payreq/m/?trxid=Mx3BLcfeIITcTMIHEHnpeAKKIFrWFukB For an impression of this route or of our previous, please check and follow our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/utrecht.hiking.community We hope to see you on Saturday in Veenendaal!

We begin our journey at Arnhem Central Station and will be rolling into the landscapes of the Veluwezoom, combining historic estates, peaceful forests, and one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Netherlands. We start at Arnhem Central Station, from where we quickly leave the city behind and enter the green oasis of Sonsbeekpark. Here we walk through the beautiful parkland and stop at the Belvedere Toren to enjoy views over the park and surrounding area. From Sonsbeekpark, the route continues to 18th-century Huis Zypendaal, a historic country estate set in a quiet, wooded environment. The hike then leads us deeper into nature as we enter the Waterberg national forest, where forest trails and natural surroundings provide a calm and refreshing atmosphere. We’ll take a short break here (8-9km). We will leave Arnhem behind and make our way to Rozendaal and will visit at Kasteel en Park Rosendael, a beautiful castle estate known for its gardens and water features. This will be our lunch break, with time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. After lunch, the hike continues toward Veluwezoom National Park and pass Rozendaalse Veld and will have a break at the Posbank Paviljoen, one of the highlights of the route. From here, we enjoy a panoramic view over the heathlands and hills of the Veluwezoom—an unforgettable moment and a perfect photo opportunity. The final stretch leads us downhill to Rheden Central Station, where the hike ends and public transport is available for the return journey. Or you can treat yourself to tasty pancake before you leave. This hike offers a varied experience of city parks, historic estates, forests, and open landscapes, making it a rewarding and memorable day outdoors. **📍When and where to meet?** We’ll meet at 11:00 at Arnhem Centraal train station. https://maps.app.goo.gl/W5tuBVNqbJ4zQw9B6 ⏰ We **start walking a few minutes after meeting up** — we don’t wait for latecomers, as the forest calls and daylight is short this time of year. **🚗 Coming by car?** There is a big parking next to the train station **⏸️ Planned Breaks** After 8 km: short break at Waterberg park After 13 km: Lunch break at Kasteel and Park Rosendael https://maps.app.goo.gl/skttJQdakUHrjLAS9 After 19km: break at the Posbank Paviljoen https://maps.app.goo.gl/wowuqj3sRY5hcid37 **💸 Payment** Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space. 🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5. https://tikkie.me/pay/7flhf3f6erltb3cv5635 **👟 Good to know** * Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 31 January at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable. * Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits. * If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably. * At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities. * Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily. * Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay. * What to bring: Snacks, lunch, and water/ or hot thee/ coffee (depending on the hike distance). * Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike. * T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.

We'll kick off this new Shared Reading group with the prologue to Adam Phillips' Missing Out: In Praise of the Unlived Life. This group is a shared, interactive reading experience, so you do not have to purchase or to have read the book beforehand. Copies of the prologue, which is a few pages long, will be distributed at the event, and we will read key sections of this chapter together. The session will take place at the circular table in the cafe at Dekker v.d. Vegt, in the center of Nijmegen. In the event that there are more participants than expected, we will move to the long table. Looking forward to seeing you there!

**NEW DATE: Friday February 6th** Let's kick off 2026 together! 🎉 For the first time, **Dutch AUG** and **Flutter Netherlands** are teaming up for a New Year's drinks meetup 🥂 Join us at **Quignon in Utrecht** on **Friday, February 6th, from 17:00 to 20:00** — perfect for dropping by after work. This won't be your typical talks-and-pizza night, just good company, a few drinks, and a chance to start the new year with others from the community. Both groups share a lot of common ground — we're all building mobile apps, often with the same tools, and powered by Google technologies. So a joint event mixing the communities felt like a fun way to start the year! Everyone gets a few drinks on us to start the evening, plus some snacks to share. After that, it's pay-as-you-drink at the bar 🍻. Space is 80 people in total, shared across both meetup groups. So with 40 per group, be quick! If this event fills up here, check the other group's Meetup page to sign up there instead: * [Dutch AUG](https://www.meetup.com/nl-nl/dutch-aug/) * [Flutter Netherlands](https://www.meetup.com/flutter-holland/) (using Flutter Holland meetup page) Please note: You only have to register **once**! We're excited to toast the new year, catch up with familiar faces, and welcome new ones. See you at [Quignon](%5Bhttps://quignon.nl/%5D(https://quignon.nl/))! **NOTE:** Please drink responsibly. If you come by car, think of the limit, try some alcohol free versions or arrange a taxi or carpool. Best is of course public transport. For people by car in general: there are several Q-parks in Utrecht, but ParkBee is also a good option.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Join us for our February Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *A Master of Djinn* by P. Djèlí Clark in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.

Start the year surrounded by Love From the Earth—with delicious vegan eats, sweet treats, artisan goods, and a chance to win one of our raffle baskets filled with plant-based goodies. Support small businesses, enjoy great food, and spend a cozy day with the community. We will reserve a table for this group if there is enough interest. Just comment "interest" below. Don’t miss out—see you there! Check [event page](https://www.facebook.com/events/893838639773267/) for a vendor list.

Join us on February 14th from 2–5 PM for a cozy and fun Valentine’s Day gathering! Start by grabbing lunch at **Portia’s Café**, then head next door to **The Cozy** for crafts, activities, and a relaxed space to celebrate the day together. **Date:** February 14 **Time:** 2:00–5:00 PM **Location:** The Cozy (next to Portia’s Café)

Our group, KIND MEALS, will be picking up the tab for pizzas, at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT SLICE, on Sunday, February 8th from 12-2pm. We will be trying out MIKEY'S Vegan Fake-ass BBQ Chick'n pizza and Vegan Fake-ass Pepperoni pizza, as well as some other special vegan pizzas that are served there. All the vegan pizzas are covered with Selfish Cow vegan cheese. The pizza is free, drinks on your own. Join us to learn more about **[KIND MEALS](https://kindmealscolumbus.org)** (a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Cols. Ohio, providing hunger relief services to those in need). All of the food we serve is fresh and vegan! If you love working with community, being of service, looking to hang with some fun like-minded people, and just love to socialize on a Sunday afternoon, join us for some FREE vegan pizzas at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT on 4th and Main. Mikey said the more the merrier!

This is an in-person meeting. Would you like to know the Real You, not just a shadow of yourself? Does your life energy feel somehow trapped within? Does your self-confidence get easily shaken? Do you get in the way of your own goals? We will discuss the real source of all this, what holds you back in life, and how to handle it so you can achieve more successful and happier living. Perhaps you get weighed down with negative emotions you can't seem to shrug off. Or find yourself doing strange and irrational things - not really being yourself. We will cover why that is and tools that work to help you unearth your self, your self-confidence and motivation. This meeting will help you learn about how to effectively overcome: -Out-of-control unwanted emotions -Low self-esteem -Anxiety -Negativity -Stress -Irrational fears -Traumatic or painfully emotional incidents -Breakups -Betrayals -Feeling like you're not really yourself -Self-doubt... We will discuss how to unleash the inner you and tap into your true potential. So come to this online meetup! This meeting is sponsored by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon