Loss & Grief Support

#This meetup is around a third-party organizer (Focus Filmtheater): you can either purchase your ticket online or right before the session# **Title**: Silent Friend **Language**: German **Subtitles**: English **Length**: 147 min **Director**: Ildiko Enyedi More **info**: [https://www.focusarnhem.nl/agenda/english-subs-silent-friend/](https://www.focusarnhem.nl/agenda/english-subs-silent-friend/) **Ticket link**:[https://www.focusarnhem.nl/tickets/143041/](https://www.focusarnhem.nl/tickets/143041/) **Silent Friend** A mesmerizing reflection on humans, trees and how we might communicate… No trees are actually hugged in Silent Friend, but arboreal adoration has never blossomed on screen as lushly as it does in this contemplative, nature-focused feature from Hungarian writer-director Ildiko Enyedi. Not so much a narrative-driven drama, this is more a contemplative reverie about people, trees, the world and their interconnections, anchored around an ancient ginko tree standing in the middle of a German botanical garden. **How it works**: I will be at Focus around 18:30, where we can meet before the movie starts. You can message me to find us. Screening starts at 19:00. After the movie, we can have a drink together. Hope to see you soon!

The **program** will go as this: * 17:00-18:00 Walk-in * 18:00-18:05 Welcome * 18:05-18:50 1st Talk: **Jan Stomphorst (ACC-ICT)** * 18:50-19:30 Pizzas * 19:30-20:15 2nd Talk: **Benjamin Smeding &** **Merijn Stiekema (ProRail)** * 20:15 - 21:30 Networking & drinks * 21:30 End 1st Talk: **Title:** **Kubernetes and the Answer is… 42!** The ultimate checklist for deploying your app without regrets. You built the app. You wrote the Dockerfile. You pushed to your CI/CD pipeline. But... is it really ready for Kubernetes? This talk hands you the one thing every team needs but rarely has: a no-fluff, field-tested, brutally honest checklist of 42 points to verify before you deploy. This is an interactive session from beginner to expert. You’ll learn: How to avoid the most common mistakes in Kubernetes deployments What actually matters in production — and what doesn’t How to think like a platform engineer, even if you're a developer Why checklists save you from 3 AM incidents Interactive, opinionated, and painfully relatable. This is not another Kubernetes 101 — this is the list you wish you had a year ago. Don’t panic. Just check it. **Speaker: Jan Stomphorst** Bio: Ik ben Jan Stomphorst, Solutions Architect van beroep. Ik werk al 25 jaar in de IT en ondersteun organisaties met hun applicatieontwikkeling met behulp van nieuwe technieken zoals Kubernetes. Samen met mijn team werk ik momenteel veel aan Kubernetes projecten, nieuwe implementaties en ben ik voortdurend bezig met het testen van nieuwe tools en technieken. In mijn vrije tijd kook ik graag en houd ik van bbq-en. Wat ik zo geweldig vind aan deze podcast is dat ik als IT'er mijn kennis kan en mag delen met andere IT'ers. Het voelt daardoor een beetje als een opensource project, waarbij ik hoop ook feedback van onze luisteraars te ontvangen. 2nd Talk: **Title: Getting ProRail on Track with Kafka on Kubernetes** Safety and reliability is of high importance to ProRail, which contradicts innovation. A new movement has however started to implement Kubernetes to allows teams to more easily build, host and manage their applications. During this talk we will talk about how the Integratie team uses this technology to provision Kafka (using Strimzi) for a new integration platform. This will be a tale that starts with ClickOps and abandons it all in favor of GitOps using Terraform, ArgoCD and other CNCF projects. We will also share our vision of the integration platform of the future. abstract **Speakers**: **Benjamin Smeding &** **Merijn Stiekema** Benjamin: Solution Architect at ProRail with more than 10 years in the rail sector. My background is in rail design and embedded safety systems. At ProRail I work on event streaming and help promote cloud-native and open-source technologies. Merijn: DevOps Engineer at ProRail. For the past 1.5 years, I have worked on cloud enablers like Kafka and API Management in Azure, provisioning platforms and building tools for health checking and self-service. I enjoy combining software engineering with DevOps and automating processes so teams can onboard and build faster. Outside of work, I have a passion for open source and love building things in my free time. **Photography/Video consent:** We will be taking photos and videos during the event and will use these photos and videos for social media and promotional materials. By coming to the meet-up, you give us your consent to take photos and videos of you. **Code of Conduct:** All members are required to agree with the [Berlin Code of Conduct](https://berlincodeofconduct.org/). **Stay in touch:** Please get in touch on the [CNCF #netherlands slack channel](https://cloud-native.slack.com/archives/CKE1F68G6) for any questions (we're also looking for co-organizers, especially in other cities). Please also don't forget to join the official CNCF community here **Directions:** Directions **Parking:** Parking nearby • https://www.p1.nl/parkeerplaats/parkeergarage-kop-van-lombok/ (cheapest) • https://www.p1.nl/parkeerplaats/parkeergarage-croeselaan/ (more expensive, but closer) https://www.ns.nl/fietsenstallingen/info/utrecht-centraal-jaarbeursplei

😌 **Tired of dating apps or speed dating that feels forced and boring?** ✨ Ditch the apps and meet people offline in the most fun way possible! We take a crowd of freshly showered people, mix them, and shake them up with: 🎲 Tabletop Arcade 🤼 Group Challenges 🧲 Connecting questions 🤪 Crazy hosts **What to expect?** Watch this video for a quick impression: [https://update-events.nl/#whatcaniexpect](https://update-events.nl/#whatcaniexpect) **No awkward silences** Just like a perfect night out, the evening is filled with surprises. One moment you are playing a 1-on-1 game, the next you are mingling in a group challenge. Amazing hosts will guide you through the evening, creating a group spirit, making you feel safe, and getting you laughing (a lot!). You'll be having so much fun you won't even notice you're meeting dozens of new people in so many different ways! **Our philosophy? Real connections happen with:** 😏 Reacting to unexpected situations together 😎 Discovering someone's natural vibe in a group setting 🗣️ Having deeper conversations naturally 🎭 Dropping the masks and getting playful **It's a Match!** Met someone you like? We make it easy. At the end of the night, simply select your favorites on your phone. If the interest is mutual, you’ll receive each other’s contact details the next morning via email :) **🎟️ IMPORTANT: How to join?** An RSVP on Meetup is **not** a ticket. We need to keep the gender balance equal, so you must get your ticket here: https://update-events.nl/events/utrecht-29th-of-april-32-45-y-o-the-5th-neude-fun-at-first-sight/ 👉 (Note: Our events sell out fast, so don't wait too long!) **Timeline** 18:45 - Doors open 19:00 - Official start & welcome 19:10 - Chaos! But nice, very social chaos :) 20:00 - Breather & Drinks 20:10 - More games, more people 21:00 - Is it already over? Don’t be sad, you can stick around! Maybe invite one of your favourites for a drink? :) **P.S. Low RSVP count here? Don't worry!** Most people book directly through our website or other channels. Our evenings are usually sold out with 30 participants. If we don't have enough sign-ups (which rarely happens), you will be offered a full refund.

Hi all! 🙂 On Wednesdays we welcome you to practice languages! If you want to practice a specific (uncommon) language, please send us a message so we can find some conversation partners for you on our mailing list! We hope to see you in Café Marktzicht! In the last year we had tables for the following languages: * Dutch * English * French * Italian * Spanish * Turkish\* * German\* * Portuguese\* * Danish\* * Norwegian\* * Russian\* * Arabic\* * Chinese\*\* * Japanese\*\* * Indonesian\*\* * * Most likely, but not every week present. \*\* - Rather rare ;-) If your language is not in this list, please let us know! We have a large database of Language Cafe visitors speaking 56 different languages! We might be able to connect you with a person that does speak the language you want to practice. In case you are not in our database yet, please use this form: http://goo.gl/forms/oSCn9Dn8m8

**10X ORG: The NL Book launch** [Alexey Krivitsky](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexeykrivitsky/), [Craig Larman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/craiglarman/) and [Roland Flemm](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandflemm/) released their bestselling book [10XORG](https://www.amazon.nl/10X-ORG-Topologies-Elevating-Performance-ebook/dp/B0GNDSJGKM/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_nl_NL=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=YO8SQXLGDS3O&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Rv8O2emcuflTuBjweveWC1ZWzi1zXd_Zlf7Cl_8EY11no-K-NWQo7EhtL-HBe_3Jj-M8JAvNNgYycikpRqxgmMaRIHl8Q5A7-eaHZ13NZNNsAQ2l5dZv6WG4RfaQi5GFTTCz3ybHEX8AGum9q7lffnvRKZuyRoSGZeot9J1bt49HrEQjzAgy2gEdFpfhByjA__3aU4mT6o3hzaX6Uuk530ViINBrvQBFjGU42WAl7TVlGHWkFgdlW_cbIFbPSyY5YJ5hbl7hCsrNQLBCCCkiH82uVxtfgGwg06mfKIjcVpc.gjWcGcVthI5baE9TUVRKurZTQEj3z6-tocYXN7eDSjg&dib_tag=se&keywords=10x+org&qid=1775071604&sprefix=10x+org%2Caps%2C93&sr=8-1) on Amazon. As of this month, the book is also available in all Netherlands-based bookstores. To celebrate this event, the [Agile Consortium](https://www.agileconsortium.nl/) and the LeSS company are inviting you to the official book launch at [Sopra Steria](https://www.soprasteria.nl/) in Nieuwegein. During this session, Roland will present the book 10X ORG: A manager’s guide to elevate business performance with people and AI. Released at the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Agile Manifesto, the book distills decades of hard-won insights on agility and organisational transformation. Which patterns in org design have proven truly unbreakable? How well are we actually unlocking the full potential of our people? And how can we harness AI to reshape our organisations — making them not just efficient, but fit for the future? Ultimately, what will it take to build a world of work our children will thrive in? Besides highlighting the key learnings of the book, Roland will also be sharing why they wrote the book, how the writing process went, and there will be time to answer questions in a Q&A. This talk will summarize the learnings from the 10X ORG book and touch upon the underlying concepts of Org Topologies. You will leave with key insights and, above all, with new questions to explore about organization, learning, and performance. We will close the session with an opportunity to purchase the book, and have it personally signed by Roland. **As we're making use of nice catering, please actively manage your RSVP and let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.** **Date: Thursday April 29th** * 17:00 Walk-in * 17:30 Buffet * 18:00 Talk by Agile Consortium: the impact of AI on our professional field / the successful application of AI requires responsiveness on people, team and organization level * 18:30 10X ORG and 25 years of Agile Transformations * 19:30 networking & drinks Location: Sopra Steria [Ringwade 1, 3439 LM Nieuwegein](https://www.google.com/maps/place/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x47c5c939362b986f:0xa7dc68348aa9f7b6?sa=X&ved=1t:8290&ictx=111) Free Parking

*We work on each other's practical goals & "impossible" dreams* \*\*\* Help wanted & help offered. Bi-weekly meetings (every two weeks). Language English/Dutch. This idea is inspired by Barbara Sher's story and experiences. Please see her Ted Talk titled "Isolation is the dream-killer, not your attitude". The idea in short: One person at a time tells the group his/her dream or aim and the obstacles they face to achieve it. It could be a trip, an experience, a change of career, an undertaking of some kind, learning a skill, solving a particular problem or even finding out what you really want. The group works to realise the person's aim. Not just theoretically, also practically. For this we use our experience and networks. —Nothing as satisfying as helping another! Perhaps suitable, Gabor Mate's words: "You never heal alone." Please contact me at galatv@protonmail.com if you have questions. We gather in a pleasant space at Rosa Buurtcentrum. On the 2nd floor ("eerste verdieping"), take the door at your right (right from the staircase), at end of the small hall, the last door left). There will be tea and you are welcome (but not required) to bring snacks. It's free (50 cents for tea contribution is appreciated). We'd love to have you. Painting: Cattleya Orchid and Three Hummingbirds. Martin Johnson Heade, 1871.

Are you an **expat** in **Utrecht** and do you want to **learn how to swim?** Look no further! Dive into **personalized swimming lessons** with **Your Personal Swim Coach**. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced swimmer seeking to refine your technique, our expert coaches offer **tailored sessions** that fit your needs. **De Kwakel** is a great pool close to the city center, has free parking, and is easy to reach by bus. It's an **amazing learning environment!** **Don't wait any longer:** **[Sign up for a Try Out Lesson!](https://www.your-personal-swim-coach.nl/product/try-out-adult-swimming-lesson/)** Want to learn more first? Go to our **[website](https://www.your-personal-swim-coach.nl/)** or **[schedule a call!](https://calendly.com/ypsc/new-meeting)**

## 🎨**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!🌟☕🍷🍪🍰**

I'm excited to host the 21st 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 1 drink token 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

Hi✋ At[ Data Tribes ](https://www.datatribes.nl/)we organise Meetups because we truly care about sharing knowledge both inside and outside the organisation. We believe that it is beneficial to us and to the market as a whole to connect, create, learn and grow together! **The agenda** // Doors open 6.00pm // Drinks and Pizza’s 6.30pm // Start presentations 7.00pm // Guest Speaker Advait Avinash Sowale // Quantifying the Impact of Data Quality on AI-Driven Decision Accuracy // Start networking 9.00pm // End Meetup 9.30pm Greetings, Data Tribes Inc.

**\*\*The Perfect excuse to Draw and Paint in the Dark, and have Fun!\*\*💕**👨‍🎨👩‍🎨💕 ⭐ No experience needed 💬 English speaking activity 🕑 2 Hours of painting, creativity & fun in the dark 🧑🏻‍🎨 Workshop is guided by a professional artist 🎨 Extra Creative warming-up activity 🥳 All materials included 🏢 Amersfoort / Langestraat / City center 🎟️ **Book your seat formally HERE in [THIS LINK](https://buymeacoffee.com/artloversclub/e/430509)**! 📽️🔮🌙🌟 Check on YouTube, a video of what painting with us in the dark looks like: [https://www.youtube.com/shorts/D_Wo1esvls4](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/D_Wo1esvls4) 🌟If you want, you and your friends can bring freely any accessory, custom, or object that glows in the dark to have fun. 👓🎩⛑️👒🧤👕👙👔👗. This is a personal choice and not for everyone. Just for those who want to do it. 🎈 **Is it your birthday🎂 or a special occasion👰🏻💍🎒🧑🏻‍🎓, and do you want to bring some friends?** We can do something special for you ( contact us in advance to arrange). **🎨**💃🏻🎉**🖼️ ENJOY 2 HOURS OF CREATIVITY AND FUN IN THE DARK!** 🕑**CALENDAR 2026:** First Sunday of every month from 4PM - 6PM Jan 4 Feb 1 March 1 Apr 5 May 3 Jun 7 July 5 Aug 2 Sept 6 Oct 4 Nov 1 Dec 6 Jan 3 2027 🚫**NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED.** Our Artists and hosts will guide you through a step-by-step tutorial. You can use our suggested image or bring your picture of reference 🎨🖌️🖼️**ALL MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED** We'll provide you with everything you need to create your masterpiece. Create your very own masterpiece in only 2 hours using Glow in the Dark Painting! This session is not about perfection; it is about capturing emotions and personal expression. No experience required - our professional artist will guide you step-by-step. You can come with friends or alone - you are always very welcome! **🎟️🤔 QUESTIONS?** Contact one of our team members via WhatsApp in the following link: **[https://bit.ly/ArtLoversTickets](https://bit.ly/ArtLoversTickets "https://bit.ly/ArtLoversTickets")** **See you Soon.We are looking forward to painting and having Fun Together!** **🥳🎈**

**Locatie:** Huis van Actief Burgerschap, Neude 11, 3512 AE Utrecht **Datum:** 30 april 2026 **Tijd:** 19:15 inloop, start 19:30 en eindigt om 21:30 We zijn allemaal op zoek naar liefde. Zoeken de perfecte partner of zijn erachter gekomen dat onze partner niet perfect is. Wat doe je dan? Ben je te kieskeurig? **Wanneer is liefde goed genoeg?** Tijdens deze bloeiklas bieden we ideeën en oefeningen aan over hoe jij liefdesrelaties kunt laten bloeien. Met creatieve oefeningen en in gesprek. Want je bent echt niet de enige met deze vragen. Samen gaan we zo op weg naar goede relaties. We zijn allemaal op zoek naar liefde. Zoeken de perfecte partner of zijn erachter gekomen dat onze partner niet perfect is. Wat doe je dan? Ben je te kieskeurig? Wanneeris liefde goed genoeg? Met filosoof Alain de Botton verkennen we hoe we tot onze huidige liefdesidealen zijn gekomen en hoe die een gezonde relaties weleens in de weg kunnen staan. Om vervolgens met psycholoog John Gottman uit te zoeken welke ingrediënten een relatie nu succesvol maken. We nemen onze rol in relaties onder de loep. En die van de ander. **Wat kan je verwachten?** Een avond in een ontspannen sfeer voor alle leeftijden. Geniet van een drankje van ons en ontmoet nieuwe mensen. Je kunt alleen komen of samen met een vriend(in). Liever een buddy? Geef het aan bij je aanmelding. Tijdens de avond maak je makkelijk contact met anderen die ook op zoek zijn naar betekenis. Meld je aan en kom bloeien! **Aanmelden kan via de onderstaande link:** https://www.dekwekerij.org/bloeiklas/utrecht-liefde/

**🟢🟢 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! 🎨👩🏼‍🎨👨🏼‍🎨👩🏼‍🎨🧑🏼‍🎨🎈**

'CONVENIENCE STORE WOMAN' by Sayaka Murata 'Keiko Furukura had always been considered a strange child, and her parents always worried how she would get on in the real world, so when she takes on a job in a convenience store while at university, they are delighted for her. For her part, in the convenience store she finds a predictable world mandated by the store manual, which dictates how the workers should act and what they should say, and she copies her coworkers' style of dress and speech patterns so that she can play the part of a normal person. However, eighteen years later, at age 36, she is still in the same job, has never had a boyfriend, and has only few friends. She feels comfortable in her life, but is aware that she is not living up to society's expectations and causing her family to worry about her. When a similarly alienated but cynical and bitter young man comes to work in the store, he will upset Keiko's contented stasis--but will it be for the better? Sayaka Murata brilliantly captures the atmosphere of the familiar convenience store that is so much part of life in Japan. With some laugh-out-loud moments prompted by the disconnect between Keiko's thoughts and those of the people around her, she provides a sharp look at Japanese society and the pressure to conform, as well as penetrating insights into the female mind. Convenience Store Woman is a fresh, charming portrait of an unforgettable heroine that recalls Banana Yoshimoto, Han Kang, and Amélie.' ***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

This meeting will be a discussion about a proposed tour of the Ohio Theatre led by Mary Cecil, Tour Coordinator of the Ohio Theatre and Jane Ehrenfeld, Audio Describer. We will try to connect for a Conference Call option at (518) 263-8851.

Do you want more motivation and confidence to build Lasting Relationships? This is a free, in-person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Are you burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival, while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This class is held at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center.

Join us for this free, in person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Do you want more motivation and confidence to build lasting relationships? Are you burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival, while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is held at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

The emotional pain from past bad experiences easily lingers in the present, making it hard to enjoy life and create your future. Even when you think you've moved on, the negative emotions can be triggered, sending you back into the pain of that experience. And we are talking about pain; emotions such as grief, depression, anxiety, fear (or terror), boiling anger, simmering resentment, feelings of shame, blaming and regret can leave you incapacitated to a greater or lesser degree. In this local event we will be discussing the reasons why these past bad experiences have the power to affect you long after they occurred. We'll go over why the emotional pain can be so strong. We'll also discuss some simple solutions to overcome your emotional pain and be free to fully enjoy your life again. Examples of painful experiences include: * A broken relationship or divorce. * Death or loss of a loved one. * Death of a pet. * A sudden shock or bad news. * A betrayal. * Being part of an abusive relationship. * A bad injustice. * Loss of a job, position or business. * A grave illness or injury. The negative emotions from these experiences don't just go away on their own. But the good news is there is a way to clear them out of your way. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.