Critical Thinking

**Join us for Social Drinks for Expats & Locals!** Now is the time to connect with new people and enjoy a great evening out! 🍷 We’re excited to invite you to Social Drinks for Expats & Locals. Expect a night filled with laughter, meaningful connections, and relaxed conversations in a friendly and welcoming setting. **What to expect** * A lively and inclusive atmosphere to enjoy good company. * Conversations with a diverse mix of locals and internationals. * A laid-back evening of cultural exchange, friendships, and fun. **Who should join** * **Expats** looking to expand their social circle and meet like-minded people. * **Locals** eager to share their culture and connect with an international crowd. * **Anyone** looking for a relaxed, social evening filled with great energy and good vibes. Don't miss out - **RSVP now** and join us for an unforgettable evening! Join the WhatsApp group: brand.page/expatslocalswhatsapp Follow us on Instagram: brand.page/expatslocalsinstagram Become a Welcomer: https://www.expatslocals.com/become-a-welcomer

🎉**Welkom! 欢迎光临!** 🎉 We’re thrilled to welcome you to our **Dutch-Chinese Language Exchange Event** – a fun and interactive gathering where language, culture, and new friendships come together! Whether you’re learning **Dutch**, exploring **Chinese**, or just love meeting people from around the world, today is all about **sharing, speaking, and having fun**. And this time, we’re adding an extra twist — **board games!** 🃏🎲 Practice your language skills through relaxed conversation, pick up new vocabulary while playing games, and enjoy the mix of cultures in a casual, friendly setting. Whether you're a beginner or fluent speaker, there's something here for everyone. So say “你好” or “Hallo”, join a game, and let the exchange begin! **The event itinerary will roughly be as follows**: \- We gather at Utrecht Centraal train station. \- We take a train to "Hollansche Rading". station. \- We will do our hike/walk of 15.5 km. \- We will take a train back to Utrecht Centraal station Some notes about the event: \- We will check attendance at the beginning of the event\, so make sure to sign up if you're joining\. \- We will collect 1 € contribution to cover the expenses on MeetUp\. \- Some pictures may be taken during the event\, if you prefer your photos not to be taken or shared please reach out to the organizer\. \- Please behave in a kind manner\. In case anyone causes trouble or bothers others they will receive a permanent ban to all the future events of this group\.

Does hard work always pay off? Does talent always rise to the top? Or does "meritocracy" often just reward those best at playing the game? Under what conditions does merit actually measure real value, and when does it become a story we tell to justify existing hierarchies? In this session, we'll examine meritocracy as a system: what it optimizes for, when it functions as intended, and when it breaks down. **We'll analyze:** * What is "merit" actually measuring? Skill, credentials, game-playing ability, or something else? * What incentives does meritocratic competition create? What behaviors does it reward? * When does meritocracy identify and elevate genuine talent? When does it just filter for conformity? * How do credential systems function: as signals of competence or gatekeeping mechanisms? * What happens when the metrics of merit become the target? (Goodhart's Law) * Is meritocracy self-reinforcing? How do winners shape the definition of merit? * What alternatives exist, and what do they optimize for instead? **Our approach** We analyze how systems work rather than debating what should be. This means examining incentive structures, selection mechanisms, and feedback loops to understand when meritocratic systems produce good outcomes and when they don't—without immediately reaching for moral judgment. This isn't about whether meritocracy is "fair" or whether inequality is justified. We're examining the machinery: what does meritocracy select for, under what conditions does it work well, and what are its structural limitations? **Format:** * Guided discussion with clear analytical focus * \~120 minutes * Small group to ensure everyone can contribute **Note on RSVPs:** For small group discussions, each person matters. Not showing up without updating your RSVP results in: 1st = warning, 2nd = waitlist, 3rd = removal from group. Please cancel in advance if plans change.

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!

**Welcome to The AI Meetup, the premier gathering for AI enthusiasts and beyond!** Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field of artificial intelligence, The AI Meetup offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, network with peers, and gain valuable insights into the world of AI. **Timetable** 18.00 - Doors open: have a drink and a chat w/ other guests 18.45 - Kick-off 19.00 - [Onno Zoeter](https://www.linkedin.com/in/onno-zoeter-75330a2a2/), Head of Booking AI Research at Booking.com 19.45 - [Pini Reznik](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAABPmG8BbK7ssmTVDmU9fDWqrwyCP5nq4wE?skipRedirect=true), CEO and Co-Founder of [re:cinq](https://re-cinq.com/) 20.30 - Pizza and Drinks (Borrel) 21.30 - Let's wrap It up The AI Meetup covers a wide range of topics and disciplines, from machine learning and natural language processing to computer vision and robotics. So whether you're a data scientist, AI researcher, developer or just someone with a passion for all things AI, you won't want to miss this exciting event. p.s. There will be food and drinks!

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://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fiudropin%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5K0FVPivgkRn67BEoDofHkr7Es12_1bq4hDCggWDXNdpNhLZnzLNMNtrNdqw_aem_j1YiiuZaWNnyDZ5jbnCCBQ&h=AT2fpKsMMORdusQhpZ9iv0ed8772wQ5kPJcHxIGz5i8iQEJK0FVlSpqVqEh62oBzSisT7moNRPBSDvWIuZEL9WgLIXRbLyqXfXj7sE7CYyKbKxqnakD0W31HOEXSgK_5tuPYJFStscaUvrh-0pc&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3WQkDUYF4F66VuKR4XhsJ2afRvpjsAkK93Octb-hRh_JIzYk-7ePG7XSFfHFYxd9GLxqQgCwnPjN2yiYBNVADfb7VXyjFO1sHIArS4Jo43x4NQHr-b2RMtZUH_TIvYncgegRNFx3P2HDQbu5bCg5dzFhmaWlgHFa4). 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.

## 🎨**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 some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS] Travel / Parking info: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS]

Come over to the Ducosim game fair in Amersfoort. For a small fee (or become a member) many publishers are ready to demo their published games. Next to that you can meet up and network with game designers, playtest their games and bring what you are working on and put it on the table. More details: https://www.ducosim.nl/

**This event has two meetup spots: Arnhem station (9:30) and 's-Hertogenbosch (10:40)!** Welcome to the page of the Maastricht & Valkenburg daytrip. On the first day of spring, we like to welcome you to a trip to the very southern edge of the Netherlands: home to the picturesque city of Maastricht, and the river valley town of Valkenburg. The plan goes as follows: * 9:30 Meetup Arnhem CS, next to Burger King * 9:53 Train to 's-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch) * 10:40 Transfer in Den Bosch, second meetup point * 11:08 Train to Maastricht * 12:33 Arrive in Maastricht Those who do not want to go to Valkenburg can stay in Maastricht * 12:41 13-minute train to Valkenburg * ±15:40 Train back to Maastricht * 18:29 Train to Den Bosch * 19:53 2/32 min. transfer in Den Bosch * 20:37/21:07 Arrive in Arnhem While these times are mostly fixed, train disruptions may force us to change the plan. Were they to happen, all changes will be announced in the discussion chat of this event page. **Meetup in Arnhem & Den Bosch** The two meetup places are in Arnhem Centraal Station, next to the Burger King at 9:30, and at 's-Hertogenbosch station on platform 7a at 10:40. If you want to join at another location, like on the train or in Maastricht, please let us know in advance. These are also the places where the group splits and disbands at the end of the day, but of course you may leave the group at any time you like. Please sign up by RSVP on Meetup or via [Google Forms](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2g-H1CVAJrpTD-T0ELzcqoDOmggzyB4bm3lIOqqRRnf0s9Q/viewform?usp=header). We will all travel by using our own OV-Chipkaart or bank card. Tip: if you don't have an NS subscription or the *studentenreisproduct* you can buy train tickets (usually at a discount if you buy it days in advance) on [ns.nl](ns.nl/en) or the NS app. **Payment** In order to keep our Meetup-page active, everyone joining the event will be asked to pay a 2 euro contribution. The payment will be handled via Tikkie, and is refundable if you cancel before Wed March 18th 10:00 - and in any case if we cancel or postpone the event of course. We hope to see you there!

In this session, we will analyse the Preface (to the second edition) of Kant's Critique of Pure Reason. ### Book [Kant, Critique of Pure Reason](https://cpb-us-w2.wpmucdn.com/u.osu.edu/dist/5/25851/files/2017/09/kant-first-critique-cambridge-1m89prv.pdf) Translated by Paul Guyer & Allen W. Wood (Cambridge University Press, 1998; revised edition 2000) #### Section - Preface (to the second edition): pages 106-125 If you want to order a drink beforehand, please arrive 10 minutes early. See you!

Join for a relaxing hike through the blooming forest. We will start at Baarn railway station. We will stop for coffee and sketching at the castle cafe along the way, check the farmer shop and contine our way to Hilversum. The hike is around 8km. Dress for the weather (for sun/rain and wind), wear comfortable shoes that are ok to get muddy and bring sketching materials. Meeting at 11:30 at Baarn station. The event is 3 EUR and should be paid before Friday 21:00, via link: https://tikkie.me/pay/i29nqfek15epegigjtue The fee is non-refundable and will be used towards Meetup app organizer fee.

Twee ensembles bundelen hun krachten in een uniek muzikaal project. Kamerkoor het **Schütz Ensemble** o.l.v. Jelle Leistra en **Gitaarorkest Guitarrísimo** o.l.v. Peter Constant nemen je mee op een muzikale reis over zee en land, met als kloppend hart het indrukwekkende tweeluik *Tales of Wind and Sail*. De rijke klanken van het Schütz Ensemble en het warme, gelaagde gitaargeluid van Gitaarorkest Guitarrísimo smelten samen tot een muzikale vertelling. *Tales of Wind and Sail* is een ode aan de zee, de wind, de vrijheid en de menselijke daadkracht, in 2021 geschreven door de Australische componist Richard Charlton. Op 21 maart 2026 zal de feestelijke Almeerse première te horen zal zijn, omlijst door een kleurrijk en gevarieerd programma voor koor en gitaarorkest. Met solisten Marion Schaap (octaafgitaar), Marlou Stift en Ilse Hoekstra (gitaar) en percussionist Sybren Schaake (Koninklijk Conservatorium). **Locatie, Tijd & kaartverkoop** Concert: zaterdag 21 maart, 20.00-21.45 Levend Waterkerk Almere, Parkwijklaan 44, Almere Toegang: €15,00 (tot 18 jaar €5) Bestel je kaarten per email: entreekaarten.schutzensemble@gmail.com *Kaarten zijn ook verkrijgbaar aan de deur*

So this month's prompt is more general. I think we can all agree that we are living in "unique" times that require coping skills. I think that one role and/or purpose of philosophy is to help us deal with our daily lives and our "unique" times. So, let's share our feelings and thoughts about which philosopher/philosophy we turn to in order to deal with our crazy events. Who/what helps you stay focused in your daily life and helps you sleep at night. I find that Stoicism with a little philosophical pessimism mixed in goes a long way in helping me deal with what I see as very destructive, fearful and mean spirited public policies at both the state and federal levels. Hope to see you on March 28th!

OpenClaw, NemoClaw, personal assistants, 24/7 agents. What does it all mean? How does it all work and what should we know about it? Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services)

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, March 25 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 **Abstract** Web Forms gave .NET developers a powerful abstraction for building reusable UI controls long before design systems were a thing. Web Components finally bring that same idea to the browser natively. This session explores how the Web Forms mindset translates into Custom Elements, Shadow DOM, and HTML templates. We’ll examine how Web Components enable design systems that work across frameworks, how they differ from server‑driven controls, and why they’re becoming a foundational layer for modern UI. Whether you’re maintaining legacy apps or building greenfield projects, you’ll leave with a practical understanding of how to apply familiar patterns in a modern, standards‑based way. **YouTube Link** TBA

This 1967 film is widely regarded as one of the best American movies ever made. Now remembered almost as much for its Simon and Garfunkel music as its deadpan comedy and being the role that established Dustin Hoffman as the hottest actor in Hollywood. It became a cultural icon for capturing the spirit of 60s angst of a young man on the make, while garnering a batch of Oscar nominations. After watching the movie on your own, join us to relive (or experience!) those feelings at our discussion.