Columns and Speeches by Mayor Nadine Stemerdink

Dear residents, business owners, representatives of associations and organizations, emergency service personnel, fellow administrators, and all other stakeholders,

A warm welcome to this New Year’s Eve gathering. For the third year in a row, we are pleased to welcome you to Duivenvoorde Castle, which once again looks simply magical.

2025 … What a year it’s been! A year in which we made many memories together, memories we look back on with big smiles. But it was also a year with moments that brought tears to our eyes, such as the moving memorial service for 13-year-old Raphaël at the Voorschoten ’97 soccer club. Or the passing of Martin Oppelaar, whom many of us knew as the driving force behind the preservation of Spuit 41 and the fire museum.

These days, our thoughts are especially with the families and friends who will soon be missing a loved one at the Christmas table.

80 Years of Freedom

Nationwide, 2025 was marked by the 80th anniversary of freedom. And what a variety of activities we enjoyed here in Voorschoten! From the unveiling of the White Carnation Garden and the veterans’ memorial to the Liberation Concert by Exultate Deo; to the laying of the first Stolpersteine, the launch of the podcast series featuring personal stories, and the Freedom Lunch on Voorstraat. The highlight was the lighting of the Liberation Fire by runners from the Voorschoten ’97 track and field club.

Thank you to Hoogvliet Supermarket, Van der Valk, the Oranjevereniging, the Wapen van Voorschoten, The British School in the Netherlands, cultural organizations, sports clubs, Scouting, schools, and everyone who helped in any way to celebrate 80 years of freedom together and keep the stories alive.

Sports

For the most part, 2025 was also the year when plans that had been discussed for a very long time were finally put into action and brought to fruition. I can’t think of a more concrete example than the new track at Voorschoten ’97. The very first lap was run there in September.

And we’re moving forward with sports! Just look at the plans for the swimming pool and the sports hall. Or consider the multi-purpose track, where we’ll soon be able to skate in the summer and ice skate in the winter, surrounded by a climate-adaptive park.

Public Space

A lot of work has also been done in public spaces. For example, major maintenance projects in Adegeest and in the city center near Raadhuislaan and Oranjeboomstraat. Or a little further away, with the renovation of Rosenburgh Memorial Park.

From maintenance, it’s—at least on paper—just a small step to new-construction homes. The new homes on Professor Einsteinlaan are nearing completion, the first homes in Bijdorp are almost ready for occupancy, and construction in Park Beresteyn has been completed.

The council also made a decision regarding the Jan Evertsenlaan and Jan Wagtendonkstraat projects. Building for all demographic groups is important to ensure that our village remains a livable place in the future.

Finally, building permits have been issued for Starrenburg III, and applications for building permits have been submitted for Segaar-Arsenaal and Raadhuislaan.

When thinking about public spaces, of course, also consider the development vision for the city center and the redevelopment of Treubplein. Change and investment are needed to keep our city center attractive to visitors and business owners.

Culture

Next up: culture. Once again this year, we enjoyed a fantastic Weekend of Voorschoten. As is tradition, it kicked off with the Voorschoten Awards ceremony—an evening when many volunteers are rightfully honored. Where would we be without all those volunteers in our community?

The grand finale came the next morning. Together, we sang our brand-new village song, “Parel aan de Vliet.” Huge kudos to Ine Duijnkerke for the lyrics and Rob Balfoort for the music!

The awards ceremony and the song’s premiere took place at the Kruispuntkerk. We’re working so hard to turn that place into our cultural center.

You’re used to me saying a few words here about the bandstand as well. Fortunately, this year we were able to purchase a beautiful green-and-yellow bandstand, which will allow us to continue in style for years to come. Thanks to the Friends of Voorschoten, the Oranjevereniging, the Horse Days Committee, and the downtown business owners of Voorschoten who worked so hard to make this happen!

Youth

It’s just a small step from the Voorschoten Weekend to the youth in our village. Imagine being 15 or 16 these days and having nowhere to go on a Friday or Saturday night. We’re seeing more kids hanging out on the streets, even though we all seem to be less and less willing to accept that. That makes it all the more exciting that the Youth Council is brainstorming activities, such as an annual Voorschoten Festival. I hope we can work together to make that a reality next year.

During the Voorschoten Weekend, I spent two nights patrolling with the police. There were lots of young people out on the streets getting together. Yes, it was crowded both evenings, but the atmosphere was really friendly.

As I stood there and walked around, I asked myself: Did I really do things that much differently at that age? The honest answer is “no.” And I think that if we’re completely honest, that’s true for many of us. So why are we so critical of today’s youth, I wonder.

Street Safety

What really shocked me that weekend, though, were the mostly young girls lying passed out on the street from alcohol abuse. Where have the days gone when groups of friends used to look out for one another? When you used to make sure everyone was safe on the street?

This is an issue that is more relevant than ever today. Three out of four women have been harassed on the street at some point. The fact that this conversation is now taking place everywhere is perhaps the most important development of all. And the realization that is sinking in for many people. After all, it’s not normal for women to walk around with pepper spray in their coat pockets, take detours to avoid certain locations, or use their keychain as a makeshift weapon.

We can't prevent all the trouble in the world. And there will always be people on the street who are up to no good. As my father used to say to me: “I trust you, but I don't trust others.”

We can certainly be a little more mindful of one another and ensure that there are fewer places where women feel socially unsafe. Next year, we’ll make it even easier to report unsafe places. To that end, we’ll add a reporting feature to our BuitenBeter app. It’s a first step! In addition, we need to learn to “read” public spaces, so to speak, through the eyes of women. We need to understand why one place is perceived as socially unsafe while another isn’t, and take that into account when designing these spaces.

Police

Unfortunately, there’s plenty going on in Voorschoten, too. There’s no fence around our village, and criminals simply don’t respect municipal boundaries. But I dare say that we’re fortunate to live, work, and enjoy our leisure time in a municipality that we can call safe.

We’re all working hard on this together, just as we stand here today, every single day. The police are an indispensable partner in this effort. But above all, they are a partner we, as a society, can always count on. They’re there for us day and night. We must not take that for granted. The pressure on our police officers is simply too high.

Thank you, Sam and Dennis, and your entire team, for everything over the past year!

Fire Department

Next, a note about those other heroes: our firefighters. Although they do this work on a volunteer basis, they can find themselves in the same situations as their professional counterparts.

That is why I am grateful that, as of February 1, a PTSD regulation for the fire department will take effect that makes no distinction between professional and volunteer firefighters. The recognition of PTSD as an occupational disease among firefighters is a major step forward.

We would like to thank the safety region, as well as our own city council, which has been a strong advocate for this.

How exciting: the new WTS-500 fire truck officially entered service this year! The Voorschoten Fire Department is ready to go.

Regional Cooperation

We also collaborate in other areas within the region. After all, we can’t do everything on our own, and for you—as residents and business owners—municipal boundaries often don’t even exist.

It is important that we continue to seek out such collaboration, for example within the Key Region Leiden. Voorschoten believes in this. We may not have the key sectors within our municipal boundaries ourselves, but it is our residents who are studying, working, and driving innovations there that are relevant to the entire Netherlands.

As far as I’m concerned, this collaboration can only succeed if it’s not non-binding. I’ve said before that working together can’t be like a cafeteria model—where you look at the daily menu and choose whatever you feel like or whatever suits you best. So in 2026, we’ll get back to work to take the next necessary steps in our collaboration in the Leiden region—which, as far as I’m concerned, is not a non-committal one.

Elections

Finally, the House of Representatives elections. We went to the polls on October 29. Thanks to the many volunteers in our village and our municipal administration, the elections went very smoothly. Together, they counted more than 16,000 votes.

With a turnout of no less than 85%, I dare say that politics and democracy are alive and well in Voorschoten. This makes the contrast with the various attacks on democracy across the country all the more striking. We’re seeing that even city council meetings can no longer take place without disruption, and elected officials are being threatened.

Whatever your opinion may be, wherever you stand on the political spectrum, and whichever party you vote for, we must work together as a society. Democracy must never bow to a small group of people who think they can disrupt our democracy through intimidation, aggression, threats, and violence. We will never go along with that.

The tone and substance of the political debate matter. The behavior of political leaders influences our society. I am so proud that we continue to treat one another with respect in our council chamber on Thursday evenings.

Outlook for 2026

You can also view the House of Representatives elections as a dress rehearsal. Because on March 18, we’ll be heading to the polls again, this time to elect a new city council. That makes 2026 a year of change.

The first change has already been announced: Councilman Paul de Bruijn will be leaving us on February 1 to take on an exciting new position in Leiden. Paul, we’ll say goodbye at a later date, but I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your collegiality and all your dedication to Voorschoten.

Missed

What haven't I mentioned yet? Way too much!

We worked from home because there was a NATO summit. We appointed both a new municipal secretary and a new town clerk. We opened the first partially smoke-free patio and the first smoke-free playground. We adopted the word “freggelgrot” as a synonym for city hall. And we participated in the preliminary round of the Dutch Marbles Championship.

And do you remember? The NL-Alert in May, when there was a biogas leak at the wastewater treatment plant and we had to keep our windows and doors closed? Fortunately, more than 3,500 residents have already received our brochure about an emergency kit and an emergency plan. Thanks to the supermarkets and the library for their help in distributing it.

Conclusion

I'll wrap things up. After all, you want to continue enjoying drinks and then head home.

Whether you have a Christmas wreath on your front door, a decorated artificial Christmas tree, a real tree from here on the estate, or perhaps a nativity scene complete with the Three Wise Men and a camel—I wish you a wonderful holiday season with family and friends. And please be sure to keep an eye out for those who would appreciate a little extra help and warmth during this time of year.

I, too, will be seeking out that warmth and coziness. In keeping with tradition, I’ll have two Christmas trees, because I still put up an extra one decorated with my mother’s Christmas ornaments.

Let’s work together to make 2026 another wonderful year, with the 800th anniversary of this magnificent Duivenvoorde Castle as its special highlight. Thank you very much. Cheers!

Dear residents, business owners, representatives of associations and organizations, emergency services, fellow administrators, and all other stakeholders,

A warm welcome to this New Year’s Eve gathering. Once again this year, we’ve gathered together in the unique Christmas atmosphere of Duivenvoorde Castle, with all its lights and candles, to look back on 2024. It was a year of extremes, in which sorrow and joy were very close together.

Astrid and Luca

First and foremost, at a time like this, our thoughts go out to the loved ones we have lost this year. For some, it is a great loss in their immediate circle, someone close to them. For others, it is a loss that is a little further removed.

But sometimes a loss affects us all. That’s when I think of Astrid and Luca. Seventeen-year-old Astrid was the victim of a traffic accident. Twenty-two-year-old Luca was killed in a stabbing. Two young people, both of whom still had their whole lives ahead of them.

It was heartwarming to see how, as a community, we rallied around these families and groups of friends, hoping that everyone involved would find support there—that they wouldn’t have to face this alone. At moments like these, I realize once again just how special Voorschoten is.

Natural Ice Rink

It’s always a complicated transition from such sad memories to the present day. Looking back on this year, what other memories will stay with us?

The first thing that comes to mind—partly because of the fairy-tale atmosphere in this castle—is the hour we spent on our own natural ice rink in mid-January. What a gift it was to be able to stand on the ice as the sun rose so beautifully. Thanks to ice master Adri Hendriks and all the volunteers, who always manage to organize this for us in the blink of an eye. Let’s hope we can enjoy our own Olympic-sized natural ice rink again this winter!

Housing Construction

It’s a short step from the natural ice rink to the flexible housing units. We put a lot of energy into it, but in the end, democracy prevailed here as well. Because there wasn’t enough support, we decided together not to build the flexible housing units.

But of course, we do need to build homes! Fortunately, we’ve all worked hard on this together—the city council, the executive board, and the city administration. The new Het Fortuyn neighborhood in Voorschoten has been completed. At Park Beresteyn, the highest point has been reached. Construction has begun on Professor Einsteinlaan. And at Churchillplein and Oude Stationslaantje, we’ve launched social housing projects. And I haven’t even mentioned everything yet. Whether this is enough, I won’t comment on that… That’s a political judgment. In any case, plans are being taken up and carried out, and together we’re building for the future!

Culture

A highlight this year was the city council’s unanimous decision to finally make Het Kruispunt THE cultural center. This marks a huge step forward after 25 years of talking, researching, talking, producing paperwork, and even more talking. It felt like the extension of the A4 highway… During the council meeting, I said, “Congratulations, Voorschoten.” Those words came from the heart. Because what a huge step we’ve taken together for culture in our village! Kudos to everyone who contributed to this, both in front of and behind the scenes.

Even today, that church plays an important role in our village. Just think of the Voorschoten Awards or the musical “The Price of Freedom.” What an incredible experience that was, as the highlight of the celebration marking the 450th anniversary of the Relief of Leiden. Although we now know that there was nothing to celebrate in Voorschoten at the time… And of course, don’t forget the exhibition at Museum Voorschoten, the “Freedom Beer,” and the bike tour through the region—a great tip for the Christmas break.

Sports

I’d like to stay on the topic of sports and physical activity for a moment. For example, with its new sports facilities policy, the council has given a broad boost to sports. For the first time in Voorschoten’s history, we have a sports facilities policy. It includes, for example, a very important investment in the track and field facility. In addition, we’ve launched “Samen Gezond Voorschoten.” It’s incredibly important for the municipality to continue investing in sports. It’s one of the pillars of our society.

At the intersection of sports and culture, we celebrated 100 years of the Voorschoten Short-Track Trotting Race. Once again, the Paardenmarkt Voorschoten Committee and the board of the Voorschoten Short-Track Trotting Race, together with all the volunteers, put on a fantastic celebration. I recently had the honor of presenting the Royal Medal of Honor for this unique anniversary of the Kortebaandraverij. Voorschoten and horses are inextricably linked. Let’s work together to ensure that this weekend remains a tradition for years to come! 

Public Space and Sustainability

Now, about the roundabout. Last year, standing right here, I promised you that the roundabout would be renovated in 2024. Fortunately, Councilor Schokker has made this happen! It took some patience, especially for local residents. But now we have a roundabout that is, above all, safer—and also greener. After the New Year, we’ll continue with major maintenance on Raadhuislaan, Oranjeboomstraat, and the surrounding area.

One of the largest projects Voorschoten has ever seen is the Adegeest project. You’ve probably heard about the hassle with the permits. We’re assuming that’s all behind us now, and that we’ll receive the necessary permits from the Rijnland Water Board in January so we can really get started. 

Of course, we can’t fail to mention Voorschoten’s group victory at the Dutch Tile-Flipping Championship in the Regio071 group. The bag the alderman received as a prize, bearing the inscription, “A day without flipping is a day not lived,” is definitely a keepsake!

And then there was the opening of the Corbulo Tunnel, a tremendous achievement by our local citizens’ initiative, Team Compromis RijnlandRoute. It just goes to show what a small village can accomplish!

Economy

That brings me to the economy. Where would we be without our local entrepreneurs? Every day, they devote themselves heart and soul to our community—not only through their local businesses, of course, but also by organizing events.

With the “Downtown Development Vision,” there will soon be some great plans to make downtown Voorschoten even more attractive and vibrant, starting with Treubplein. It’s great that we’re all putting so much energy into this together!

It’s just a short walk from Treubplein to the Ambachts- en Baljuwhuis, a historic site in Voorschoten. There has been a lot of discussion this year about the building’s future. This matter, too, has been successfully resolved this year—a milestone for Voorschoten. Pieter van den Berg and Mariette Mol of Het Wapen will be operating the building. How wonderful that two entrepreneurs who care so deeply about Voorschoten have dared to take this step. Many thanks to them! It marks the start of a new era. And I look forward to stopping by soon! 

Another thing I’m happy about is the now-traditional entrepreneurs’ breakfast on Entrepreneurs’ Day. Once again this year, many entrepreneurs were in attendance. What a boost of energy a morning like that gives!

Safety

A topic that’s been getting a lot of attention these days is security, particularly digital security. It became clear last April that this is not just some distant concern. That’s when a serious attempt was made to hack the Voorschoten municipal system.

Perhaps you also saw the television program *Blackout*. It was about a power outage in three provinces caused by a cyberattack on the grid operator Stedin. It was a fictional scenario, but the likelihood of something like this actually happening is greater than ever. What should every resident and every family do to prepare for this and to be able to fend for themselves for two or three days without utilities and without government assistance? You’ll be hearing more about this next year.

Fortunately, I can say at this moment that Voorschoten is a safe municipality. Yes, the nationwide trend of bicycle thefts, home burglaries, and even the theft of car parts unfortunately affects us as well. But we really have a lot to be grateful for, thanks to the dedication of the police officers from the Leiden-Zuid team, the criminal investigation department, and our own special enforcement officers. It’s a shame that, due to the sensitivity of investigations, we can’t always show just how much effort is being put in. But I know what all of you are doing. As mayor, I’m very happy about that and proud of it. And as a daughter, niece, and friend with a heart that’s all blue, I have nothing but gratitude for everything. 

Region

During the celebration of the 450th anniversary of the Relief of Leiden, I said that if we had had regional cooperation back then, history would have taken a different course. Fortunately, the “every man for himself” mentality that still prevailed during that period is now behind us. After all, we cannot tackle many of society’s challenges without regional cooperation. For Voorschoten, this primarily involves cooperation within the Leiden Region, focused on Leiden and Hollands Midden, where we are working together more and more effectively. But borders are just borders. I’m also thinking of my fellow administrators from Haaglanden, Leidschendam-Voorburg, and Wassenaar, which border Voorschoten. Only by working together can we tackle the challenges we face.

Other Topics

What else did we do in 2024? Since you want to head to the get-together, I’ll just quickly mention a few more recent activities.

In June, we celebrated Keti Koti for the first time in Voorschoten. At Buitenplaats Berbice, we enjoyed an impressive gathering where we shared stories, danced, and had a delicious meal.

That same month, we were also busy with elections again, this time for the European Parliament. That’s always quite an undertaking, what with setting up polling stations and counting all the ballots.

When you say “elections,” you’re talking about volunteers. We’re so lucky to have them! From family caregivers and volunteer firefighters to volunteers at events like King’s Day and the arrival of Sinterklaas. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I also think of the ribbons and pearls I had the honor of presenting this year. The unveiling of the White Carnation Garden, a tribute to our veterans. The commemorative plaque for Ton van der Pol. And the 40th anniversary of the Mauritsgroep Scouting Group. At moments like these, it’s a joy to serve as mayor.

It’s also a real pleasure for me to chair the city council—a council where personal relationships are good and where discussions are lively, but always focused on the issues. These days, that’s truly a rarity. I’d like to say to The Hague: Come take a look at Voorschoten and see how it can be done!

And then there was the farewell to the bandstand. That was certainly no celebration. It made many of you sad. I understand that. But it really wasn’t safe anymore. I always say that wood needs to move, but when I see jumping “Pieten” almost breaking through the floor, I have no choice but to take responsibility for everyone’s safety. After all, that’s what I’m here for.

Conclusion

I’m wrapping up now. My father always used to say at this time of year, “The year is drawing to a close.” And that’s exactly how it is. 2024 is almost behind us, and 2025 is just around the corner. No one knows what next year will bring. What I do know is that it will be a special year, as we commemorate and celebrate the 80th anniversary of the liberation. Behind the scenes, preparations are already in full swing. You’ll definitely be hearing more about this!

For now, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and joyful New Year’s celebration with family and friends. Let’s also be there for those who need a little help during this time. Thank you. Cheers!

Dear residents, business owners, organizations, associations, fellow board members, and so on. A warm welcome to this end-of-year gathering. It’s wonderful to welcome so many of you here at the beautiful Duivenvoorde Castle, surrounded by the lovely Christmas atmosphere with all the lights and candles. For Voorschoten, this may also mark the start of a new tradition: an end-of-year gathering instead of a New Year’s reception.

We still have two weeks to go until New Year's Eve. But enough has happened for us to look back together on what we've done and experienced.

Train Accident

For Voorschoten, 2023 was the year of the train accident. On April 4, around 3:30 in the morning, residents living near the Voorschoten station were awakened by a loud crash, followed two minutes later by an even louder one. I don’t need to tell you what had happened. You all remember the chaos of that day, the week and weeks that followed, and for some, even the months that followed. After all, there was a great deal to repair and arrange. On a day like today, our thoughts are also with crane operator Martin, his family, and those injured in the accident.

I could tell you so many stories about everything I went through during that time—how I experienced it all, including survival tips for a train conductor. These are intimate moments, hilarious experiences, and events that I still look back on today with a sense of wonder and, at times, bewilderment. I learned a lot, such as that I, too, am just a human being and that I, too, had to process everything. I was able to do that thanks to the kind men at ProRail, who took the time to show me the train cars again and talk to me about them. That’s all part of being mayor.

What I definitely want to share today is how proud I am of the local residents, the emergency services—the police, fire department, ambulances, emergency dispatch center, and so on—who, working together, provided a level of assistance that defies description. Our Voorschoten Fire Department was the first on the scene of the accident. Close behind them was the first police car from Leiden-Zuid. Together with the emergency dispatch center, they laid out the initial response plan, which ensured that everything went so smoothly and put Voorschoten in a positive light in the news. When it comes down to it, we’re there for each other. That was clearly evident. Everywhere in the media, you read and heard about farmer Freek and the family doctor. Who, by the way—though we only found out later—isn’t actually a family doctor, but a geriatric specialist.

Elections

There’s so much more I’m proud of this year. For example, last month’s House of Representatives elections are still fresh in our minds. The voter turnout of over 85 percent was truly wonderful. But that high turnout also meant crowded polling places and enormous stacks of ballots to count. For the first time, residents were also able to vote at our own town hall. It’s great that we managed to organize that.

To be honest, I would have been fine with those elections being held two years later. After all, we already had the Provincial Council and Water Board elections in February. And organizing an event like that requires a tremendous amount of effort from volunteers and our staff. Thank you so much! Especially since there’s so much other work to be done.

Housing Construction

Take housing development, for example. Projects are underway all over our village, from the new construction at Intratuin to the wonderful plans at Huize Bijdorp. This year, we also discussed potential locations for flexible housing and our housing vision. Those were substantive and meaningful debates in the municipal council, during which difficult trade-offs had to be made.

In my monthly columns in the Voorschotense Krant, I often write about my group of friends. We’re a reflection of society in every way. Recently, we had a conversation about the major concerns people have regarding whether their sons and daughters will even have a chance, in the next 5 to 10 years, to find an affordable starter home within a reasonable timeframe. They can’t provide their children with a dowry to help finance a mortgage, just as so many other people can’t either. For that very large group of young people—the current and future first-time homebuyers—there is only one solution: build, build, and build some more.

It was great that this year, for the first time, we had a citizens’ initiative to build courtyard homes, also known as Knarrenhof. These are future-proof homes where older adults can enjoy living together. This citizens’ initiative was unanimously approved by the council.

Climate

It’s a short step from housing to climate, energy, sustainability, and green initiatives. We installed the final solar panel on the Boschbloem. Residents received free energy advice.

And next year, we’ll begin major maintenance work in Adegeest. We’ll be focusing heavily on green spaces, as well as on safety and stormwater drainage (sewer system). In the run-up to this, residents have actively contributed their ideas; a successful example of participation in which residents and the municipality have worked together to develop a better plan and gain new insights. It’s not about who’s right. It’s about working together to make decisions that prioritize the common good.

Work will also be done on the sewer system on Raadhuislaan. And yes, it’s really going to happen—the roundabout near City Hall is finally being made safer for traffic.

It’s nice to mention the new trees we’ve planted: a linden tree on Voorstraat and 28 other special trees in Burgemeester Berkhout Park. That brings me back to NLdoet. This year, our municipal council had the opportunity to help the students at Nutsbasisschool prune branches—in the rain, snow, and wind. It was so much fun talking with those kids about what they think and what they want to be when they grow up.

Volunteers

And I haven’t even mentioned our volunteers yet. Because where would we be without them? I think I know the answer, and that is: absolutely nowhere. Many have been dedicated to helping others for years. I’m thinking of the informal caregivers who are ready day and night to step in where professional care falls short due to a shortage of staff. Or all the volunteers at sports and cultural organizations and Scouting clubs, who are always ready to roll up their sleeves. No request is too much.

Don’t forget the social welfare and senior citizen organizations that are indispensable in a municipality where life is apparently so pleasant and good that we’re one of the municipalities with the highest proportion of retirees in the country. Then there are the volunteers who, year after year, organize wonderful festivals and events in our village—from King’s Day, the Voorschoten Weekend, and the arrival of Sinterklaas, to the Horse Days and Open Monument Day. And finally, let’s not forget the volunteers at our fire department! Volunteers are indispensable.

Entrepreneurs

I’m also proud of our entrepreneurs. They are the beating heart of our community. They create jobs, including for those in our community who need a little extra help. For example, in partnership with the Meraki Foundation, these entrepreneurs provide opportunities for people receiving benefits or who have a refugee background—people who want to start their own businesses, become accountants, or work for a local business owner.

Entrepreneurship—that’s what Voorschoten is all about! We can see that in the high level of involvement entrepreneurs show in our events. The first entrepreneurs’ breakfast on Entrepreneurs’ Day, which we held this year, was a success and definitely worth repeating. Of course, I hope to see even more entrepreneurs next year! Among them, as we always see at every event in our village, will be members of the press.

Remembrance Day

This year, for the first time, the Scouts played an important role in the Remembrance Day ceremony. The two Scout troops lined up to present the wreaths. I got goosebumps when I saw how committed these young people were. Together, we must ensure that these stories continue to be passed down to future generations. Thank you, Scouts, for doing this!

At the Remembrance Day ceremony, our veterans always form a guard of honor. Voorschoten is home to just over 100 veterans who served in various missions abroad, often under difficult conditions. This has left its mark on many veterans. I’m glad that this year, for the first time, so many veterans attended the local Veterans’ Day event. That took place right here in this hall. What a special day that was—sharing memories together.

Civil Service Organization

A huge compliment to our civil service, which has essentially been working nonstop for three years now. The COVID-19 pandemic, complex issues surrounding housing, energy, quality of life, safety, the reception of displaced persons from Ukraine and status holders, and the handling of the train accident have demanded—and continue to demand—the utmost from our small but highly agile and loyal organization. I am proud of what we in Voorschoten have accomplished.

But Voorschoten cannot do this alone. Collaboration within the Leiden Region is essential to improve, bring closer to residents, and ensure the continuity of services—such as healthcare. In the coming years, this collaboration with the municipalities in the Leiden Region will be further intensified.

Peace

From Voorschoten, a step toward the world. Sadly, world peace is still a long way off—and perhaps even further away than it was at the start of the year. The war in Ukraine is still raging. Here in Voorschoten, we are now hosting more than 100 displaced people from Ukraine. They are truly part of our community; they are working, playing sports, going to school, and the kids are singing and dancing wherever they can. We continue to hope for a swift end to the war, so that families can be reunited in their homeland.

Peace is also further away than ever in the Gaza Strip. Everyone has watched with horror the images of Hamas’s terrorist attack. A conflict so deeply rooted among Israelis and Palestinians, with so many layers, and one in which so many innocent civilian casualties have been claimed over the years—even during those times when the media paid it no attention. The fear among our Jewish residents is beyond description. I cannot take away their fear. All I can do is listen to them—to their stories and feelings.

There is no peace in other countries either. People are still forced to flee because of their beliefs, sexual orientation, and so on. In Voorschoten, we have been taking in status holders for a year and a half now, as they wait for housing in the municipality to which they have been assigned. It’s a drop in the bucket, because the conditions at the registration center are no longer tenable for those who check in there. Moreover, the fact that the registration center is overcrowded has implications for the residents living near the center in Ter Apel. The situation has become unsustainable.

No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, everyone agrees that the asylum system has been gridlocked for quite some time and that continuing this way is not an option. Whatever government is formed—and please, no more elections—clear answers are needed. The time for vague and unworkable compromises is over. As a decent country, we have an obligation to provide humane shelter to those fleeing war.

Peace—it would be so wonderful to live in a world where there is peace. I always wonder what we’re doing to ourselves in this world. War leads nowhere. We must continue to engage in dialogue with one another, and making peace sooner rather than later is the only solution. Based on that conviction, and to pause together in remembrance of the innocent victims of all that violence, the city council has raised the peace flag at City Hall.

Closing

I’m going to wrap things up now, because you’ve had to listen to me long enough. We’re here at the beautiful Duivenvoorde Castle, surrounded by countless candles and lights—a symbol of hope and remembrance. Along with the joy we share with one another, the holidays also bring with them the loss of loved ones. Many of you have already lit a candle during the Evening of Lights for those who will forever remain in our hearts. I will certainly do the same during the Christmas holidays.

We also wonder what the new year will bring. No one knows. Last year’s New Year’s Eve comedy special was hosted by Claudia de Breij: “Things aren’t going well, but we’re going to make it right,” were the words with which she concluded her powerful performance.

Words that turned out to be prophetic. Our ability to cope with uncertainty has been put to the test, and we cannot rule out that this will continue to be the case in the coming year. But when I see how we in Voorschoten look out for one another in difficult circumstances, I am fully confident that we will continue to care for one another, even in 2024. We’ll make next year a good one together, too.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year’s Eve—and, for the emergency services, a peaceful one.

For now, thank you and cheers!

Dear Residents of Voorschoten,

First and foremost, on behalf of the City Council and the City Executive, I would like to wish you a healthy, joyful, and hopeful 2023. It’s so nice to have you here tonight! It’s great that we’re gathered here again in the council chamber in Voorschoten to wish each other a Happy New Year—just as we always have. Once again, we were able to celebrate the holidays just as we always have. We enjoyed Christmas dinners with family, friends, and neighbors, and toasted the New Year together at midnight.

New Year's Eve

Preparations for New Year’s Eve went very well again this year. The police and fire department worked literally day and night alongside our staff from Public Order and Safety, Field Services, and Communications to ensure that New Year’s Eve in Voorschoten went smoothly and festively. Together with the residents, we more than succeeded. It was just like always: plenty of fun and, fortunately, a quiet evening for the emergency services. That night, too, the police, fire department, special enforcement officers, and ambulance crews were on standby to ensure our safety. Thank you for that! We take it for granted. But it isn’t. They leave their families at home. We must never forget that.

Unfortunately, another familiar sight was the newspaper reports on the consequences of setting off fireworks. Doctors at eye hospitals called it a night of horror. The lives of young people were permanently changed this New Year’s Eve. There were reports of police officers who were injured when illegal fireworks were thrown at them while they were on duty. I wonder how much longer we, as a society, will continue to find this acceptable and prioritize tradition over safety. New Year’s Eve has long since ceased to be a celebration for everyone.

The next morning, the Street Maintenance crew was out on the streets early again to clean up all the trash left behind after the fireworks. Thanks to you, too!

A Look Back at 2022

Climate crisis, nitrogen crisis, housing crisis, purchasing power crisis, asylum crisis, crisis of confidence. I’ve never before experienced a year in which the word “crisis” was used so often. The year 2022 was full of them. It was also the year that brought our vulnerabilities to the surface and made us realize that things that had seemed self-evident for years were no longer so. Peace in Europe came under pressure overnight. Paying the energy bill, healthcare costs, and the question of whether there will be any money left at the end of the month for groceries—which have become much more expensive—are concerns for an increasing number of households.

The unimaginable consequences of the benefits scandal, which continues to hit families with unprecedented severity every day because they still haven’t received financial compensation. And that’s not even mentioning the children who were wrongfully removed from their homes. They, too, are victims of the benefits scandal. For the first time in its history, Doctors Without Borders has taken action in our own country due to the conditions in asylum shelters.

Outlook for 2023

So there’s work to be done! As the people of Rotterdam say: “Don’t …, just get to work!” We’re facing a new year in which major decisions must be made in many areas. These are issues that affect everyone every day. And we’re doing this at a time when we need to work hard to regain trust in the government. In my view, that’s the foundation for emerging from the crisis of 2022: trust.

Elections

A new city council was elected in March 2022, and a new city administration was formed in July. There are many new and young faces on the city council, and since the end of 2022, for the first time, there have been more women than men on the council. This is a first for Voorschoten.

The declining voter turnout in municipal elections is a cause for concern. The reasons for this are varied and not always easy to pinpoint. One theme does come up time and again, however: residents say they feel that the government is no longer there for them. I think we can all understand that feeling. The positive aspect is that, together, we in Voorschoten can do our part to restore trust. This presents opportunities to go the extra mile in the coming year to show that we, as the municipal government, are indeed there for our residents—by listening and staying informed about what’s happening in our community.

Participation

This does not mean that, as the municipal government, we make decisions that everyone agrees with. Nor does it mean that we listen most closely to those who shout the loudest. Listening to the silent majority is just as important. The point is that, as the municipal government, we need to more clearly define the parameters within which people can have a say. And that we can explain the decision that is ultimately made. What’s important is that we make decisions. That we ensure Voorschoten continues to develop. After all, standing still means falling behind.

Housing

Making choices and decisions means that there will be friction. It can’t be any other way. Take, for example, the shortage of affordable housing for various groups in Voorschoten. What first-time homebuyer—especially if you’re young—can actually buy or rent an affordable home in our municipality? For far too long, they’ve been sidelined in this regard, and people born and raised in Voorschoten have been forced to move to another municipality just to find a place to live. That’s why we need to find sites to build on.

I am well aware that construction sites spark debate in our community. In my view, we owe it to the next generation to ensure that they, too, have a real opportunity to enjoy living in Voorschoten.

Climate, Energy, and Purchasing Power

The energy crisis we are currently facing is being felt by all of us—residents and business owners alike. The likelihood that energy prices will stabilize again in the foreseeable future seems slim. This means that we must work together to find ways to reduce our energy consumption on the one hand and generate energy in different ways on the other. Commitment, creativity, and new ways of thinking are needed in the area of sustainability. This will also help restore purchasing power and reduce uncertainty. To achieve this, we need all societal partners, such as housing authorities, to make social housing more sustainable.

Resilience

Many challenges, many changes, and the need to make decisions. That calls for flexibility and resilience. We’ve shown that Voorschoten has what it takes. Thanks to the efforts of many, the reception of Ukrainians who had to flee the war got off the ground very quickly. And this year as well, Voorschoten is providing a temporary emergency shelter for asylum seekers who have been granted refugee status, so that we can do our part to resolve the asylum crisis created by the national government. I am proud that we, too, are committed to helping people.

I’ve also seen resilience among our business owners. The past few years—and I’m putting this mildly—have not been the easiest. Business owners went from dealing with COVID-19 restrictions to facing all the consequences of the war in Ukraine. I admire your resilience and positivity. Because despite everything that has happened and is still happening, entrepreneurs are still standing strong and have resumed the activities they had before 2020—including all the events that wouldn’t be possible in our village without them. That’s a mindset we can all learn from.

Let’s work together to make 2023 a wonderful and heartwarming year—a year in which we continue to care for those who need it.

Thank you for your attention.

Dear Residents,

On behalf of the municipal government, I wish you a wonderful, happy, and above all, healthy 2022. This is the second year in a row that we are unable to meet in person and toast the New Year. That is a major disappointment. Like you, I had hoped that the measures to control the coronavirus would no longer be necessary.

The past year has once again demanded a lot from us; our resilience, ingenuity, and optimism have been put to the test. We all have our own stories to tell. What has stayed with me is that I’ve seen firsthand what the coronavirus can do to people and what it means to be affected by long COVID. I’ve also seen how the restrictions have affected—and continue to affect—people whose home situations are less than ideal. The despondency among business owners when stores and restaurants had to close their doors again.

But I’ve also felt the resilience of our village. In Voorschoten, we’ve looked out for one another and stood by each other. As mayor, I’m proud of that. Business owners who’ve managed to turn setbacks into opportunities. And the indispensable dedication of the many volunteers at, for example, sports clubs, cultural organizations, and social service organizations who were there for us.

Fortunately, New Year’s Eve passed quietly in Voorschoten. On New Year’s Eve and into the night, I was out on the streets with our enforcement officers and the police. I experienced this special shift for the emergency services firsthand and saw what they have to deal with. Fortunately, in the vast majority of situations, we encountered cheerful residents who were making the best of it together and celebrating in small groups.

We are at the start of a new year. With cautious optimism, we look forward to what we hope will be a year in which the coronavirus is brought under control. Politically, 2022 will be a special year; you will have the opportunity to vote for a new city council. Once again this year, the polling stations will be open for three days: on March 14, 15, and 16. I sincerely hope that many of you will make your voices heard. With your vote, you can influence the decisions made in Voorschoten on issues such as healthcare, housing, sustainability, and more. Ultimately, we do it all for you, the residents.

For me personally, 2022 will be a year of change. This spring, I’m moving to Voorschoten. I’m incredibly excited about it and look forward to truly becoming a part of our community.

I hope we’ll be able to meet in person a little more often this year—in the village, during work visits, or at an outdoor café. Wishing you a wonderful New Year! 

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

Understanding history. That is the theme for this year set by the National Committee for May 4 and 5. To truly understand history, we must answer questions that are still relevant today.

How do exclusion and hatred arise? What can we, as a democratic society, do about them? You only have to turn on the news or one of the many talk shows—or talk about this with friends and family—to realize just how complex these questions and their answers are.

Today, we come together to reflect on what the war meant for eyewitnesses and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We’re doing this with veterans from various generations, Scouts from the Kimball O’Hara and Maurits groups, students from the VOS, and people of all ages from every neighborhood in Voorschoten.

Understanding history, of course, begins with knowing the stories. That is precisely why it is so important that we continue to pass on the stories of World War II to future generations. Today, this is more urgent than ever, because the generation that can tell us about that period is growing smaller as time goes by.

But what do today’s great-grandchildren actually know about World War II? How do they view it from today’s perspective? What does that mean for their actions or their view of our society? Who better to tell us that than today’s children!

Culture Factory

One of the most important lessons the children are learning in the lead-up to May 4 is “Voorschoten: A Village in Wartime,” an interactive project by the Cultuurfabriek.

During the lesson, the children are introduced to six fictional students from Mr. Verrips’s class. They all attend the Oranjeschool—which now houses the library—and are in the sixth grade, which we now call Group 8.

By actively engaging with this topic and asking themselves, “What if this happened to me?”, the children learn what life was like during wartime. They also begin to reflect on today’s wars, which continue to affect people in other parts of the world.

The VOS

Among others, the eighth-grade students from VOS participated in the educational project this year. During a visit to the Cultural Center, Ms. Mandy’s class learned, for example, that some villagers had passed on the addresses of people in hiding to the occupying forces. The boys and girls agreed on how terrible that was, though they also understood how afraid people must have been during those years.

The class also learned about those who dared to resist, risking their own lives—for example, by forging passports. They also heard how children their own age sometimes had to take care of the household. They certainly won’t soon forget tasting raw flower bulbs with honey and sugar on a cracker—even though they came out of the microwave.

This school year, the students at VOS are also helping to polish the Stolpersteine—the yellow-copper “stumbling stones” placed in front of the homes of Jewish villagers who were deported and murdered. As they clean the stones, they also share the stories behind them.

Taken together, the students already know quite a lot about World War II. Some children heard from their great-grandparents about the war cemeteries for American soldiers. Others still have items at home that remind them of the war, such as a beret and a tablespoon. One of the students is even related to the girl next door who donated a marbles box to the Anne Frank House. Before Anne had to go into hiding, she had given that marbles box to her neighbor.

Not all families feel comfortable talking about the war. That’s perfectly understandable, of course. For example, one student’s great-grandmother was traumatized by horses because the police and soldiers rode them when she was 7 years old. One great-grandfather returned from a Nazi labor camp but had to make his way back to the Netherlands on foot. Yet another survivor of a roundup had to hide for three days afterward.

On rare occasions, the occupiers made a friendly gesture. For example, they gave a stack of firewood to a great-grandmother who was 11 years old at the time. Although, to be fair, they had taken that stack from someone else.

The most moving story came from a student who had to flee the civil war in Syria after several family members were killed there. After a harrowing journey, the student, along with other refugees, arrived safely in our country via Greece.

The Compass

Even in 8th grade at Kompas, the students already know a lot about World War II and the liberation. Teacher Jordy taught a lesson on the topic, and Lebanon War veteran Frank Kroon even visited the class.

For example, one student talks about the TV series “13 in the War.” Furthermore, most of them have heard of NSB members: those who abandoned their fellow countrymen and instead helped the occupying forces. The children can hardly imagine that, although they, too, understand that people at the time must have been very afraid.

The class also knows that residents had to pay with food stamps, but that Jewish villagers were no longer allowed to visit supermarkets and produce stores and were required to wear a Star of David. And that it wasn’t just they who were persecuted, but also, among others, Roma, Sinti, and people with disabilities.

The class also heard about the train transports to concentration camps. Some were forced to work hard there, while others thought they would finally be able to take a shower, only to meet their deaths in a gas chamber.

Still other children know that the Netherlands was forced to surrender in May 1940 after four days of fighting, and that the dikes were breached toward the end of the war. And that Wilhelmina was queen at the time. That may seem like a simple fact, but with Juliana, Beatrix, and Willem-Alexander, today’s children have already moved on to quite a few monarchs since then.

In this class, too, the war isn’t talked about much at home. Especially for a great-grandfather who was a soldier, the memories were too horrific. One grandmother did, however, tell the story of how her mother took refuge in a farmhouse a little ways down the road. Other great-grandparents had to walk a long way to get food from a farmer and be back in time for the curfew.

One of the children had a Jewish great-grandfather who was a butcher and was therefore able to share food—for as long as he could. In addition, a student heard from an elderly resident on the street that the man had a small table with games that people in hiding used to play.

In all our conversations, we heard that many children watch the May 4 commemoration or attend it in person. Those traveling with their parents pull over to the side of the road, where there are sometimes already many other cars parked. That’s important, because it’s this generation that will be responsible for shaping and organizing the May 4 commemoration in the future. It starts with learning as a child just how important it is that we continue to experience this moment together.

The children also ask thoughtful questions. For example, why do we observe not one, but two minutes of silence? Perhaps you know the answer: during the first minute, we commemorate those who lost their lives. During the second minute, we remember the people who returned from the battlefield, but whose lives have been affected by the war for generations now.

The Online World

You’ve probably noticed. Thanks to their lessons at school and the stories they hear at home, the eighth-graders already know a lot about World War II. They don’t need to know everything just yet, because they’ll learn much more about it in high school. By then, they’ll naturally become curious about the meaning of the stumbling stones and the local resistance heroes whose names appear on the street signs in the village.

That curiosity is so important. The stories of great-grandparents, a street sign, a box of marbles—they’re all very tangible. But these days, we’re also dealing with a digital, online world. That really worries me.

On social media, we’re seeing more and more how even young children are liking and sharing the most appalling anti-Semitic posts. And this isn’t happening in hidden corners, but right out in the open, without any shame. Without realizing what those posts mean to other children, what they do to other children. And perhaps without even realizing what they’re saying.

How is it possible that, on the one hand, our young people know so much about World War II, but on the other hand, they laugh at so-called jokes about that period—which, of course, aren’t jokes at all? Perhaps there’s more work to be done for all of us than just telling stories.

I’d like to take this opportunity to urge all children to think about this. What exactly are you laughing at when you see a post like that on TikTok, Instagram, or WhatsApp? Why are you laughing, anyway? Is it really right to laugh along? Aren’t you actually stronger if you choose not to laugh along?

The Physical World

There is another reason why it has never been so clear that we must continue to think critically. After nearly eighty years of peace, a war has been raging on the European continent for several years now. Children are also concerned about this—and especially about the potential consequences for the Netherlands. It is for good reason that we are campaigning for emergency kits and the development of an emergency plan.

Our country already faces frequent power outages, unreliable drinking water, and cyberattacks. It’s not a question of whether we’ll face these issues again, but when they’ll happen again. Preparations remain essential.

People in other parts of the world face danger and suffering on a daily basis that is many times greater. Just think of the drone attacks on Ukraine or those terrible wars in Africa and the Middle East. Intolerance lies at the root of this—just as it did here 80 or 85 years ago.

Anti-Semitism is once again the order of the day. Yet 80 years ago, we said, “Never again!” When did we forget that?

Understanding History

Understanding history. That’s how I began my story. But will we ever truly understand history? Or have such improbable things happened that they will always remain beyond human comprehension?

As we saw in the 8th-grade classes at VOS and Kompas, the children fortunately already know a lot about World War II and the liberation.

What else can you and I do—besides continuing to tell stories—to ensure that today’s children grow up to be independent, critical, and, above all, tolerant adults? I wish I had the answer …

In conclusion

Today, we remember the victims and survivors from our own community. But today, we also remember all those who are suffering from the hardships of other wars.

Let’s make sure to incorporate the lessons we’ve learned—and, sadly, are still learning from current events—into our judgment and our daily actions. Let’s be there for one another. Let’s keep the conversation going. Today, tomorrow, and even in difficult times.

As they say at the Cultuurfabriek: we’re postwar kids, and we’d like to keep it that way!

Thank you very much.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

Food airdrops over Valkenburg Airport. If you ask older residents about the end of World War II, that’s the first thing they’ll mention. They’ll tell you how, as children, they ran to Wijngaardenlaan to watch the British and American planes flying by in the distance. And they’ll tell you that back home, there was Swedish white bread on the kitchen table—as delicious as cake, whiter than white.

Shortly thereafter, on May 5, 1945, the Netherlands truly began to celebrate. That’s because the German occupiers had surrendered in Wageningen. But fighting was still ongoing in the western part of our country. In Voorschoten, too, we still had to be patient for a few more days. Fortunately, on May 8, the day finally arrived when Voorschoten was also liberated.

Canadian soldiers and the Princess Irene Brigade ride into our village. At the beginning of Bijdorpstraat, there’s even a decorated triumphal arch waiting for them. It’s a celebration everywhere. Overjoyed residents are eating gum and chocolate. A girl catches a cigarette and brings it to her father. A little boy drinks Coca-Cola for the first time in his life. And he thinks it’s really gross.

80 Years of Freedom

We’re fast-forwarding the clock 80 years. 80 years of freedom. Across the country, we’re reflecting on how World War II ended—and how the Netherlands was liberated thanks to the efforts of brave soldiers and resistance heroes. Every year, we gather here to commemorate the victims who gave their lives for us.

We come together with people of all ages—veterans, students from the Fortgens School, and scouts from Impeesa and the Maurits Group, as well as young people and their parents, family, neighbors, and friends. It’s truly special to me that so many of us gather here in Voorschoten time and time again. Although I do understand why…

Because even today, the consequences of World War II are still felt. The news we hear these days on the radio and TV brings to mind the horrific events of that time. But they are also still felt by families who have lost loved ones.

Today, I’d like to talk to you about a very special group of loved ones: our local resistance heroes.

Your neighbor, a great-aunt, the shopkeeper down the street. All fellow villagers who dared to rise up. Who put all of our lives—our future—above their own.

Alexander Adamski, Bram Limburg, Jan Wagtendonk

On March 12, students from the Fortgens School, together with our veterans, planted a “Resistance Heroes Tree” on Verzetsstrijderspad in the Starrenburg neighborhood: a linden tree, known for its fragrant white-and-yellow flowers. A tree dedicated to all local Resistance heroes, both known and unknown. The students and veterans talked about three resistance heroes from Voorschoten: Alexander Adamski, Bram Limburg, and Jan Wagtendonk.

Alexander was a Polish student who joined the Dutch resistance. Like Bram, he spied for the Packard intelligence service. There, they gathered information about the occupying forces’ activities, which they relayed to British intelligence using secret transmitters.

Bram was also one of the people who, one evening, removed the entire population registry of Voorschoten from the town hall. With that courageous act, he saved a large number of his fellow villagers from deportation.

Jan was a medical student. He, too, was an active member of the resistance. On March 12, 1945—just a short time before the end of the war—he, along with Alexander, Bram, and 17 others, was lined up against a wall on Hofplein in Rotterdam and riddled with bullets. This was in retaliation for attacks they had nothing to do with.

The bodies had to remain on the street for 24 hours. Only then were the next of kin allowed to remove them.

Alexander was 25, Bram was 20, and Jan was 23.

Bertus van Aken, Teun de Groot, Frans Kusters

You’re surely familiar with Alexander, Bram, and Jan from the street names. You might also think of Bertus van Aken and Teun de Groot.

Bertus was a well-known painter who owned a paint and wallpaper store. He was also the founder of the resistance group “Rond de Laurentiuskerk.” There, for example, they arranged for shelter, money, and ration coupons for people in hiding.

On September 3, 1944, Bertus was shot four times in the doorway of his home on Voorstraat. The assassins thought their attempt had succeeded, but thanks to the family doctor’s quick intervention, Bertus survived the attack.

When he took over his paint and wallpaper store again after the war, he predicted that people would stop hiring painters and start painting themselves. Nothing beats a professional house painter, of course, but given the lines outside the home improvement stores on Saturday afternoons, he sure was right!

Teun was a bicycle dealer. As a staunch anti-Nazi, he made no secret of his love for his country. The story goes that he once even refused to patch a tire for a member of the Landwacht.

Just like Bertus, Teun was shot in his own home. But he didn't survive. Teun left behind five children.

That same day, the occupiers also showed up at the door of office clerk Frans Kusters. Their intention was to shoot him at home, but because his wife stayed by his side the whole time, they took Frans with them, ostensibly to check his ID at the police station.

In Wassenaar, the kidnappers pretended their car had broken down. Frans was forced to get out of the car and was allegedly shot “while trying to escape.”

The three resistance heroes, Bertus, Teun, and Frans, were victims of the so-called Silbertanne operations. These were secret reprisal operations in which the victims were killed by anonymous assassins—Dutch SS members.

Frans Everstijn, Cor van Osnabrugge, Martinus van der Stoel

I’d also like to mention Frans Everstijn, Cor van Osnabrugge, and Martinus van der Stoel. They, too, are local resistance heroes whom you know from the Starrenburg neighborhood.

Frans was the local leader of the National Support Fund, an organization that provided money and false documents to people in hiding. After he helped a person in hiding obtain a false identity card, he was betrayed. He died in the German concentration camp at Neuengamme.

Cor, a contractor, worked for the National Organization for Assistance to People in Hiding. In that capacity, he maintained contact with other regions regarding hiding places. He survived the war.

General practitioner Martinus also survived the war. He was particularly dedicated to helping Jewish children. In addition, he was active in the doctors’ resistance, a successful underground resistance movement. Israel awarded him the special Yad Vashem honor, a medal given to non-Jews who helped Jews.

Leo van der Bijl

We know all this because much of it has been recorded in writing. Also, because various villagers have collected all those facts and stories for us.

Leo van der Bijl was the one who championed the street names in Starrenburg. He was also very active in the resistance himself. Perhaps you’ve read one of the books he wrote on the subject: *Dorp in oorlog* and *Zand over acht*.

Shortly after Leo’s death in 2000, Mayor Peter Cannegieter also unveiled a plaque in his honor. It became “Leo van der Bijl Park.”

Even more names on the monument

I mentioned a number of our local resistance heroes whose names we know. These are stories of ordinary people, just like you and me. It sends shivers down my spine because I simply cannot imagine how much courage these people must have had to do the right thing. I always ask myself: Would I be that brave? I hope I never have to answer that question.

The stories I’ve shared with you can never be complete. Here on the monument, you’ll see even more names. Please take a moment to read them and discover their stories. Some names may sound familiar to you, while others may not. But all of these residents had the courage to stand up—to risk their own lives to do what was right and help others.

Lewise Judith Polak, Mauritz Heiman van Someren

Before I conclude, there are two more names I’d like to mention. On March 20, we laid the first Stolpersteine in the sidewalk in front of the last home of Lewise Judith Polak and Mauritz Heiman van Someren—two Jewish residents who were both murdered in Auschwitz.

Lewise and Mauritz, fellow villagers we must never forget.

Keep Telling Stories

Keep talking. Keep passing on the stories. Keep mentioning names. If you visit the “80 Years of Freedom” exhibition at the Voorschoten Museum, you’ll see and read those stories and understand why freedom is so special.

Thanks to our veterans and resistance heroes, we regained our freedom in 1945—the freedom to be who you are, to live and work in freedom. It seems so obvious to us, but it isn’t.

You and I just observed two minutes of silence. Two minutes… We all had our own thoughts during those two minutes. Personally, I always think of my grandfather, who returned from the war suffering from severe war trauma. I also reflect on the suffering—which is unimaginable to me—that so many have endured. And for what? Two minutes. A moment that recurs every year. A tradition we must cherish, without letting it become routine. For me, the question is: what are we going to do after these two minutes of silence? What are we going to do with the thoughts we had? What are we going to do with the many stories—including those of our resistance heroes? What lessons have we learned that we will put into practice starting tomorrow?

Let’s continue to remind one another that 80 years ago, we made a promise to ourselves—and to all future generations—that this would never happen again.

Thank you very much.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

Freedom Speaks: A Prelude to 80 Years of Freedom. That is the theme under which we commemorate this year the men and women to whom we owe the fact that we can gather here today in freedom. We gather to reflect. To be still. But above all, to share memories and tell stories.

We’re gathering here with people of all ages—our veterans, students from Gevers Deynoot Elementary School, Scouts from the Leif Erikson and Maurits groups, and many more young people, along with their parents, family, neighbors, and friends. As mayor, I’m so proud that so many of us are here together—especially at a time like this. 

A prelude to 80 years of freedom. What does that mean? Among other things, it means that the children born back then are now nearly 80 years old. Those children grew up during years of scarcity and reconstruction. This also includes children whose parents lived through the war firsthand. In many cases, they witnessed their parents’ grief—grief over what they had endured, what they saw happening around them, and the loved ones they had lost.

For those children of the past—who are now the elderly—that sorrow is part of daily life. They coped with it in their own ways, but they all agreed on one thing: no more war, no more sowing hatred, no more excluding any group of people. 

And yet that is exactly what we are seeing happen again today. Anti-Semitism is not an isolated incident, but a centuries-old form of racism that, if we do nothing, will be passed down from generation to generation. Since October 7, the number of antisemitic incidents has increased even further. This is evident not only from statistics but also from my interactions with our Jewish residents. I wonder: Have we truly forgotten what we agreed upon together 79 years ago with the utmost conviction? What we promised each other? Never again!

Conversation with René

I recently had a conversation with René, a true native of Voorschot who grew up in Rotterdam. Many of you know him from his volunteer work: behind the counter at Heymans IJzerwaren, at the fire museum, as a firefighter for 17 years, as a traffic director for the Avondvierdaagse for 45 years, and much more.

René came up with the idea to install Stolpersteine here in Voorschoten. These are yellow-copper “stumbling stones”—memorial stones—that we use to commemorate the victims of National Socialism around and during World War II. They are placed in the sidewalk in front of the victims’ last (freely chosen) homes. Such stones are already in place at more than 1,200 locations throughout Europe. Thanks to René’s thorough research, we will be able to install the first Stolpersteine in our village next year as well. René will do this together with his grandson Ruben.

Aside from that wonderful initiative, I was curious to hear where René’s vast knowledge of and interest in our history came from. He then told me his story—an emotional account of the impact the war still has on him—and we both had to take a sip of water every now and then.

René's father

May 10, 1940. The first day of the war. René’s father, Hans, is sent as a soldier to the Peel-Raamstelling, a defensive line in North Brabant and Limburg. There is particularly fierce fighting between Mook and Mill, but the enemy’s superiority is too great. Slowly but surely, the Dutch troops are pushed back to Zeeland. On May 27, when Zeeland surrenders, Hans is taken prisoner of war.

When the Dutch soldiers were released in 1940 and Hans returned to Rotterdam, he learned that married men were not being drafted into the labor service—forced labor in Germany. So he quickly decided to marry his girlfriend at the time. But after a while, he was arrested after all and had to go to Germany to work.

He ends up in the caves of Peenemünde. It’s a secret place where forced-laborers are made to manufacture parts for fighter jets and missiles. Naturally, they’re tempted to secretly sabotage the process by deviating by a few tenths of a millimeter here and there. Eventually, a French soldier helps Hans escape from the dreadful caves.

In 1945, when the war was finally over, Hans—scarred by those grueling years—returned to his wife. But it turned out that she had sided with the NSB and the Landwacht during the war. They subsequently divorced.

René's mother

Fortunately, Hans doesn't stay alone for long. Because on the street where his parents have temporary housing, he meets a nice girl, Jo, who turns out to be René's mother.

She, too, experienced the war firsthand in Rotterdam during its very first days. During the bombing raid of May 14, 1940, Jo had to flee her burning house—wearing slippers and clutching her glasses.

Jo becomes a courier between Gelderland and the west. She transports all sorts of things by bike. For example, by hiding ration coupons inside a loaf of bread, she ensures that people in hiding can also get food.

René was born in 1947. His parents named him that because it was the name of the soldier who had saved Hans from the caves of Peenemünde. Much to the displeasure of one of his grandfathers, since it’s customary to name your son after his grandfather… Grandpa makes that very clear to the little boy—an incredibly sad feeling that still affects René when he thinks back on it.

Sadness

1947 marked the beginning of the reconstruction effort. There were no homes, food was scarce, and rubble lay everywhere. 

At home, they don’t talk much about the war. Every Sunday, the whole family visits Grandma and Grandpa. There, too, there is sadness—for example, because an uncle boarded a ship bound for America just before mobilization, which is considered desertion. Three aunts also live with sadness and anger over the war. That is the environment in which René grows up.

René also has fond memories. For example, how his grandfather, who is a sculptor, set aside a glass box to turn it into a beautiful crib. Or think of the little goat he was given when he was about five years old—even though it was ultimately meant to be eaten, just like the pigeons and rabbits that roamed the community garden.

Concept

When René was about thirteen, his father Hans had a good job, and they were even able to go on vacation to Italy. While Hans helped out at the restaurant, René stood behind the bar. Those were good times. 

Hans strikes up a conversation with some German tourists. Hans overhears their discussion and gains an important insight: by no means did all Germans support the ideas behind the war. That realization helps him come to terms with his immense grief a little more. Hans even ends up making a good German friend as a result. Though he has to swallow hard again when René comes home with his current wife, Gerdy, from Twente, who’s a fan of Schlager music.

Keep spreading the word

This story, filled with suffering but also with moments of joy, is extraordinary. René gave me a glimpse into the impact the war had on his parents’ lives. He also showed me the impact it had on his own life—how he still struggles, still gets emotional when recalling those memories.

There are hundreds, even thousands, of other stories like this. We must continue to pass those stories on as well. Because even though we’ll be celebrating 80 years of freedom next year, we must not forget them.

Fortunately, we are indeed passing these stories on. At the end of March, I had the opportunity to spend an hour in front of a class of eighth graders at Gevers Deynoot Elementary School. The children asked questions and shared the impressive stories they had heard from their grandparents and neighbors. I was so impressed by their engagement with the events of the war.

We stand here today in freedom. Let us take a moment to reflect on just how extraordinary that is—knowing that war on the European continent is close at hand. Knowing that divisions in society are becoming ever more pronounced. Talk to one another. Listen to one another. Let’s hold each other to the promise we made 79 years ago. Let’s work together to ensure that we’re still standing here together in peace next year. So that next year, too, we can say to one another: Never again!

Thank you very much.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

We commemorate together—young and old, no matter where you’re from. Commemorating means continuing to tell and pass on these stories. Today, our veterans are once again standing in the guard of honor at our war memorial. These are the men and women who help ensure that future generations, too, will know our history. Many of their colleagues made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. It is our past that makes us who we are and to which we owe the fact that we can stand here together today. 

We continue to share stories and remain curious about one another. That is why I am proud that so many children and young people are here for this Remembrance Day ceremony as well. Students from De Regenboog Elementary School with their beautiful, self-written poems. The Scouts—this year, members of the Kimball O’Hara Scout Troop and the Maurits Group, which is participating in the Remembrance Day ceremony here in Voorschoten for the first time. It’s wonderful to see so many of you here. And many other young people are here tonight with their parents, family, and friends. 

Film: Village in Wartime

It was my recent visit to De Regenboog Elementary School that prompted me to watch the film *Dorp in Oorlogstijd* again, which Museum Voorschoten produced three years ago. In the film, three schoolchildren—who are now six years old—interview six villagers who were only 6 to 15 years old at the time of the liberation. 

The children from back then describe just how small Voorschoten still was during the war years. On your way to school, you’d see livestock from the farms. You’d pass dairy farmers and bakers. And the schools were still small, too—with, for example, only four classrooms.

The children from back then share their memories. There were no cars, so they could play safely in the street. They also have exciting stories—from a goat in the back of the garage to people in hiding—though as a child, you didn’t know they were people in hiding. They were just people who came over for a friendly visit.

In the film, we hear about the soup kitchen, hunger marches, and eating tulip bulbs. “Flowers were coming out of my ears,” laughs one of the children from that time. We also hear of unimaginable grief—think of family members and acquaintances who lost their lives, were taken away, and the constant fear of traitors.

On the evening of May 4, 1945, news of the liberation arrived. Reverend Houtzagers and Dr. Kuipers rode their bicycles through the village wearing orange ribbons. A bandstand was set up, the national anthem “Wilhelmus” rang out, and food airdrops could be seen over Valkenburg. One villager even produced a bottle of jenever that he had managed to smuggle in throughout the entire war.

"Village in Wartime" is a remarkable film, especially if you're curious about others and about stories from that time.

Annual Theme of the National Committee for May 4 and 5

Curiosity about others is the theme that the National Committee for May 4 and 5 chose for this year’s commemoration. Journalist, filmmaker, and author Natascha van Weezel wrote an inspiring story about living through the war for this commemoration. All four of her Jewish grandparents survived the Holocaust, the murder of nearly 6 million Jews in Europe. While fleeing to Switzerland, her mother’s parents were betrayed. Thanks to her grandfather’s sheer boldness and nerve, as well as help from the Swiss consul, they eventually reached Switzerland and spent the war there. 

After the war, they returned to The Hague, where they learned that their parents and sisters had been murdered at the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland.

Natascha thinks it’s incredibly brave that her grandfather dared to bluff. She realizes that, in a sense, she owes her life to the courage of a complete stranger: the consul, who acted out of compassion.

If there’s one thing the schoolchildren from Voorschoten and Natascha agree on, it’s that we must continue to commemorate history. The crimes of the war must never happen to anyone again. To make that happen, we must keep sharing our stories and remain curious about each other’s histories. We shouldn’t judge or condemn. Instead, we should first listen to the story and try to understand the circumstances. 

Central Archive for Special Judicial Proceedings

Last year, I told you a bit of the story of my grandfather on my father’s side—my grandfather, who suffered from the trauma he had experienced during the war right up until his last day. My family, on both my mother’s and father’s sides, comes from the Achterhoek region. When I visited De Regenboog Elementary School, I explained that the situation in the eastern part of the Netherlands was very different from here in the west. My father always summed it up aptly: during the war, we ate butter on bread, and after the war, margarine again. I told the elementary school students that my grandparents on both sides lived on farms—where, incidentally, my mother was born in January 1945. They were able to provide for themselves. The tulip bulbs from the ears shown in the film *Dorp in Oorlogstijd* were much less of an issue there. 

Back then, in class, we didn’t discuss the other side of the Achterhoek during wartime. Because it borders Germany, the region has traditionally had strong ties to Germany, with all the consequences that entailed at the time. 

That thought crossed my mind when I heard about the imminent release of files on fellow countrymen who were suspected of collaborating with the occupying forces. And what that release will mean for society. Here in Voorschoten, too. How will we treat one another if you suddenly read in a file who, for example, betrayed your family? Are today’s children and grandchildren responsible for the choices made back then? How will this affect our relationships with one another?

I myself am a living example of how these questions still resonate with the current generation. During a recent visit to Winterswijk, I took the same route I always used to take with my parents. This also included stops at various local businesses—but only those where my grandparents said we were allowed to shop, because they had been on the “right side.” Upon reflecting on myself, it’s quite remarkable that I still faithfully carry out these traditions to this very day. 

Where does condemnation end, and where does forgiveness begin? It’s a difficult question—even for me—and one we will undoubtedly discuss at length together in the coming days. 

Ukraine, Syria, and other countries

The children from Voorschoten back then—Natascha, your young Scouts, the schoolchildren, you, and I—are all living safe and good lives. But war is still raging in other countries, such as Ukraine. It’s wonderful that we here in Voorschoten can help those who have been displaced. Today, we’re thinking of these new or temporary fellow villagers even more than usual. But above all, we’re also thinking of their families and friends. To those who had to stay behind to fight for freedom. 

Let’s take good care of one another, in the hope that those terrible wars will end soon. Talk to one another, listen to one another, seek connection, and bridge our differences. Don’t be too quick to judge; try to understand the other person. Let’s honor everyone by cherishing our freedom and realizing that freedom is never a given. Thank you.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

Welcome to this special commemoration. After two years of being unable to commemorate together due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s wonderful to be here together tonight in freedom. To feel that sense of connection and to be able to express it together.

Freedom and solidarity. Two words that are easy to say, but not to be taken for granted. The past two years have demanded a great deal from many of you. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought conflicts to the surface in our personal lives, within families, and among groups of friends, resulting in rifts in personal relationships. Personal autonomy over our own lives and the collective interest in public health measures did not always seem compatible. Society tended to focus more on differences than on common ground. Fortunately, we’re also seeing many examples where new connections have been forged. Neighbors who’ve gotten to know one another, look out for one another more, and have supported one another during the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope we continue to maintain this sense of connection with one another in our neighborhoods and communities.

For two years, we saw each other much less in person—only through a screen. During that time, opinions also became more digital. Views were presented as facts, and the room for nuance grew ever smaller. A low point was the comparison between the implementation of COVID-19 measures and the regime during World War II. Any comparison made to World War II is sickening and completely out of place. The horrors that took place back then are beyond the comprehension of any right-thinking person and cannot be described in words. The Holocaust must never, ever be downplayed. And the ultimate sacrifice made by so many for our freedom must never, ever be forgotten. Thanks to them, we are here today and live in freedom.

That freedom and freedom of speech are among the most important fundamental rights of our democratic constitutional state. The sign that we live in freedom is that, for the past 77 years, we have had the freedom to share our opinions with one another every day and to be allowed to disagree. This freedom does, however, go hand in hand with an awareness of responsibility—that not just anything can be said. Freedom does not mean living without rules, or living under as few rules as possible. Rather, it is about the way in which the rules are established. The laws and rules we have established together make us freer, because the democratic rule of law provides legal certainty and equality before the law for everyone. We must work together to safeguard and protect the boundaries of our rule of law, day after day. Only then can we continue to live together in freedom.

The fact that freedom is not a given in all European countries is painfully evident from the presence of Ukrainian refugees throughout the Netherlands, including in Voorschoten. For weeks now, private households have been taking in Ukrainian refugees into their own homes, entirely selflessly. This is also true of the sisters at Huize Bijdorp, who were ready to help when we asked them for assistance. And as of this week, refugees are also being housed at the town hall. With a great deal of support and assistance from the community, part of the town hall has been converted into temporary housing. What a sense of solidarity there is in the community of Voorschoten that we are doing this together. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of people fleeing a war in their homeland.

Zlata has beautifully and vividly depicted the connection between Voorschoten and Ukraine in a painting featuring an angel wearing a dress in the colors of the Dutch flag, with the coat of arms of Voorschoten incorporated into the balloon. The background is entirely in the colors of the Ukrainian flag.

Zlata and Emilia will be here tonight. They will lay a floral arrangement in the colors of the Ukrainian flag at our war memorial—a memorial that also offers these children comfort and support at this moment in their lives, during the dark times they are facing.

The sense of community in our society is palpable and evident at this May 4 commemoration. Many of you are here tonight. Over the past few weeks, schools have been discussing World War II, including in the 8th-grade class at the Nutsschool. Two weeks ago, I gave a guest lecture during which we spoke openly with one another about many aspects of life. Lauren Croes and Pascal Hendriksen recited their impressive poem, and together with Yuna Feitsma and Valin Veenhof, I laid the first wreath. Sam van der Mark and Maila L’Abee will lay flowers on behalf of the Nutsschool in a moment. I want to thank you all for this.

We are gathered here together in the presence of our veterans, who are forming the honor guard. The veterans in full dress uniform symbolize our commitment to international peace, freedom, and security. You know better than anyone that freedom cannot be taken for granted. It was won through struggle, and lives were lost in the process. Thank you for all your dedication and for being here tonight.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

During the two minutes of silence, I always think of my grandfather—just as I did a moment ago. Like many men of his generation, my grandfather fought against the Germans in World War II. He didn’t come out of it unscathed, mentally speaking. During these May days, his war trauma would always resurface. I remember one time when my grandparents were staying with us; my grandfather burst into my bedroom in the middle of the night and warned me that the Germans were coming. He imagined himself back in the midst of World War II. In the foxhole where he’d spent days, and when he emerged, he saw his comrades lying on the ground and hanging from trees. That night, my father literally had to beat him awake and put him under a very cold shower to pull him out of that war mindset.

I’m realizing more and more that war always leaves a mark on people, and that this is passed down from generation to generation. It’s important that we continue to tell and share these stories with one another, so that we never forget our history.

With a new war in Europe, we realize once again how fortunate we are to be able to live in a free and safe country. Freedom and solidarity cannot be taken for granted; we must work to uphold them every day and pass them on to future generations. Let’s cherish that and celebrate it together tomorrow.

Thank you for your attention.

Colors. What do they mean in our lives? How do colors make us feel? We are commemorating a pitch-black period in our shared history—a period without color. But today, the power of colors is more present than ever. We are celebrating the fact that we are here together. At Buitenplaats Berbice. In freedom. We commemorate and celebrate together. Through and in color. Because there is so much to be grateful for.

Welcome to the second year that Keti Koti is taking center stage in Voorschoten as well. How special is that? An afternoon all about storytelling, getting to know different cultures, and learning more about our shared history. And yes, it’s also about enjoying good food, of course! Because heri heri is a must—it simply can’t be left out.

July 1, 1873

Keti Koti, broken chains. When you think about the meaning of those words, you can’t help but fall silent.

Keti Koti takes us back to July 1, 1863, when King William III formally abolished slavery in Suriname and the Caribbean islands. In reality, however, this did not happen until ten years later, on July 1, 1873. That is therefore the day that is being commemorated and celebrated in more and more places.

Leiden 2023

Two years ago, when I experienced my first Keti Koti in Leiden, I was deeply impressed. That was because of what I saw and heard during the commemoration and celebration. My mind was racing. Yes, I knew about that period in our history, but to really reflect on it… No, not really.

Voorschoten 2024

On my bike ride back from Leiden, two things happened: in my head, I was writing the August 2023 column, and I realized that I held the key to bringing about change here in Voorschoten. The rest is history, because that visit to Leiden—where I met Ringold and Joan, who was the first to respond to my column—led to where we are today.

That’s how I got to talk with residents of Surinamese and Antillean descent. I felt such warmth during those conversations. They shared so many stories with me. As I mentioned here last year, sometimes you only have to go back two generations to reach a history of slavery. I know this from my own personal circle. I am deeply grateful to be part of that very loving family.

These remarkable residents not only shared their personal stories; they also rolled up their sleeves to work together to put on a memorable first edition of Keti Koti. And memorable it certainly was. I still vividly remember the moving speeches, the beautiful music, the delicious food, and the dance group’s colorful costumes.

I am so proud that we now have the beginnings of a tradition of organizing Keti Koti in Voorschoten as well. It took us 150 years to take this step together.

Workshop and Exhibition 2025

This year, we’re also hosting two additional activities as part of Keti Koti. Last Wednesday afternoon, artist Wonny Stuger led a workshop at the library for children ages 8 to 12, complete with festive treats such as cornstarch cookies, coconut macaroons, and Surinamese syrup. The children each created their own painting inspired by the themes of freedom, joy, living together, and human rights.

What a wonderful initiative! The kids created some amazing paintings. The children knew so much about this period—it really surprised me. I realized that we’re doing exactly what’s needed: telling stories and passing on knowledge to the next generation. In 20 or 30 years, it will be up to them to ensure that this annual commemoration and celebration continues.

On Wednesday evening, I had the honor of opening the exhibition “Freedom Through Color,” also at the library. In addition to Wonny’s paintings, the exhibition features works by visual artist Djon Louis Seedorf and jewelry designer Nathalie Noslin. It really struck a chord with me. I saw colorful works that, to me, radiate courage, hope, fear, and resilience. It’s intense and remarkable what color can do.

Thank you

I’m going to wrap things up, because you still have an impressive program ahead of you. I’d like to conclude by thanking the team at Buitenplaats Berbice. Thank you very much for once again opening your doors—or rather, your cast-iron gates—to us. A huge thank you also goes to the Keti Koti Voorschoten committee. Ana, Gracia, Joan, Ringold, Stan, and Sylvana, you’ve once again put so much effort into organizing this gathering. Thanks to your dedication and energy, we’re enjoying a colorful afternoon together here, in freedom, that we’ll always remember.

Thank you very much.

Ladies and gentlemen. Members of the Keti Koti Voorschoten Committee. Welcome to Buitenplaats Berbice. Welcome to the very first Keti Koti commemoration and celebration in Voorschoten. The fact that so many of you are here speaks volumes.

Keti Koti, “Chains Broken.” On July 1, 1863, a dark period in Dutch history officially came to an end. Slavery was abolished by law in Suriname and the Caribbean islands, which were then still colonies of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. But even after abolition, those who had been enslaved were forced to continue working on the plantations for another ten years. This was done to limit the financial impact of this measure on the plantation owners. Just saying this out loud gives me goosebumps. How is that even possible? On July 1, 1873, slavery finally ceased to exist.

In more and more places across the Netherlands, we are coming together to reflect on our history of slavery—our shared past. Commemorating, celebrating, and building connections are of great importance. In doing so, we acknowledge our shared history.

Keti Koti in Voorschoten

Last year I was in Leiden. My first Keti Koti. That gathering left a deep impression on me. And for me, it was perhaps the first time I truly became aware of our history of slavery—of the unimaginable suffering inflicted over the course of 200 years. What baffles me more and more every day is the long silence surrounding this period of our history. In school, the history of slavery was nothing more than a footnote in the history books. As if it had nothing to do with us. It has long been said that slavery is a sensitive topic. How can a topic be sensitive if everyone agrees that slavery is an evil that must be eradicated? The more I read about our history of slavery and speak with descendants, the more questions I have. The more I wonder just how deaf and blind we must have been at the same time by systematically ignoring this part of our history.

As I was biking from Leiden to Voorschoten after the Keti Koti gathering, a sense of shame came over me. But I also felt a calling—a calling for our generation to ensure that these stories are told. My column on this topic prompted residents to reach out to me about it. They shared their stories with me—stories of history and how it resonates among residents with Surinamese and/or Antillean backgrounds. They also told me that sometimes you only have to go back two generations to encounter the legacy of slavery. During these conversations, which I found inspiring, we collectively arrived at the theme of this gathering: connection—sharing stories with one another and getting to know and understand our history better.

This recognition can only make us stronger as a society.

Berbice and Its History of Slavery

The location we’re at today wasn’t chosen by chance. Here in Voorschoten as well—including here at Berbice—the history of slavery plays a role in our local history.

The Berbice country estate has been known as Allemansgeest for centuries. Since the^17th century, Allemansgeest has been owned by merchant families from Leiden and Amsterdam. At that time, a great deal of money was spent on country estates of this kind.

In the^18th century, Allemansgeest came into the hands of various colonial entrepreneurs and administrators. Among other things, they owned coffee and sugar plantations. They were therefore also involved in the buying and selling of enslaved people.

The Atlantic colonies continued to grow throughout the^18th century. Take Suriname and present-day Guyana, for example. The colony of Berbice was also located there. And the colony of Berbice, too, developed during that period into a center of sugar production—but also of the slave trade and exploitation.

In 1822, Catharina Kip and plantation owner Hendrik Staal became the new owners of the Allemansgeest country estate. They met in the Berbice colony. There, they made their fortune—and found love. They chose to replace the centuries-old name Allemansgeest with Berbice. And that is how this country estate came to have its current name—a name inextricably linked to the history of slavery in the Netherlands.

Echoes

The echoes of our history of slavery resonate in our present day in every possible way. The sound and color of these echoes are, of course, different for everyone. In my personal life, those echoes are there, too. I am in the fortunate position of having been welcomed by the dearest people in my life into a true Antillean family—with all the customs, traditions, and stories that go along with it. The stories are told—how could it be otherwise?—while we eat (and cook) together. Heri heri, the dish that will be served here shortly, is more than familiar to me. But plantains and cassava are also prepared frequently. Echoes of my family, where the history of slavery was just two generations ago. A family where life is celebrated every day.

Connection

Connection and a shared history—that is what brings us together here today. And also learning from one another. I, too, am still learning every day. I recently read the impressive book by Janice Deul, who is also here today. I’d like to quote a short passage from her book:

“To bring about big change, you often have to start small. That means focusing on our immediate surroundings—on the people in our own village or city, with whom we have to live side by side 365 days a year.”

How proud a mayor can be that we have taken this step today in Voorschoten, together. Thank you to Buitenplaats Berbice for making it possible for us to be here today. For ensuring that Berbice’s story is told. I would like to thank the members of the Keti Koti Voorschoten committee from the bottom of my heart for their tireless dedication. Without their input, their explanations, and their energy, this gathering would not have been possible.

Today we reflect on our past and look together toward our shared future. What a special day it is today.

Thank you for your attention.

Dear attendees,

A warm welcome to the opening of the “Definitely Not Today” action day. As mayor of Voorschoten and cyber mayor of the Hague region, I’m delighted that we’re gathered here today.

Cybercrime is everywhere

We live in an age in which an ever-increasing part of our daily lives takes place online. We do our banking digitally, we use social media, and we shop online. I do that myself, too, because, after all, it’s fun and incredibly convenient. But it also comes with certain risks.

Today’s message is clear: cybercrime is everywhere and affects us all. It’s no longer just someone else’s problem. People fall victim to it every day. That’s why we can no longer ignore this issue. It’s more relevant than ever, and taking action now is crucial.

Collaboration

What makes this day of action so powerful is the collaboration. Municipalities, the police, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, libraries, educational institutions, businesses, and numerous other organizations involved. Each plays its own role, but all share a common goal: to make people more digitally resilient and prevent online crime.

Young People

When we talk about urgency, we need to focus, for example, on young people. For them, the digital world isn’t just an addition—it’s a natural part of their daily lives. They learn there, meet friends there, and develop their identities there.

But that is precisely where the risks lie—such as fake news, cyberbullying, and online abuse. This entails a significant responsibility—for parents, but certainly also for us as the government and our partners. It is up to us to support young people and their parents so that they are not only active online but also safe online.

People with lower digital literacy and small and medium-sized enterprises

In addition to the risks faced by young people, we see the vulnerability of residents with limited digital skills. They fall victim to, for example, fake police officers or online scammers. But consider small and medium-sized businesses as well: a target group that can sometimes be difficult to reach, yet remains an attractive target for ransomware groups and criminals.

A Day of Action

Young people, those with limited digital skills, and small and medium-sized businesses. These are all groups that, in their own way, face an increased risk of becoming victims of online crime. This makes it all the more important that we work together on this today.

This requires action on our part as a government and as partners—to support people, share knowledge, and strengthen digital skills—so that everyone, young and old, individuals and business owners, can better protect themselves.

This day of action is therefore not just a day for talking, but above all a day for taking action—a day for raising awareness, taking concrete steps, and supporting one another. Every contribution counts.

Closing

Let’s send a clear message together today. That we do not tolerate online crime. That we’re working together. And that we’re taking action.

I wish you all an inspiring and wonderful day of action. Thank you in advance for your dedication and commitment. Because when it comes to online crime, we all say together:

No way, not today!

Thank you very much.

Introduction

This [the mayor shows a childhood photo in PowerPoint] is what I looked like when I was about your age. In this photo, I’m seventeen and have just received my high school diploma. My mother was a hairdresser and my father was a police officer. They were both used to rolling up their sleeves and getting things done. So to them, it was obvious that I would work just as hard.

The most important lesson my mother taught me was to never let anything or anyone hold me back—especially not my speech impediment. I stutter.

I struggled with it whenever I had to give a presentation in class. Even buying a loaf of bread felt terrifying to me. That’s why my mother sent me to the bakery every day to buy a “half gesneden bruin”—words that started with letters that were particularly difficult for me.

At home, I always had to answer the phone. That was almost as unpleasant as ordering bread. But it taught me to be strong and to build confidence. And over time, I became convinced that I could become anything I wanted.

Talking about politics

Throughout my working life, my father was my greatest role model. In addition to his job as a police officer, he also served as a council member in Voorburg and was a member of the Provincial Council.

I also have an uncle, Bram—the one on the right with the cigar—who once served as Minister of Defense. So at home, we were always talking about politics.

Talking about politics—isn't that boring?

No, because the more you learn about it, the more interesting it becomes. And it’s not just something that happens in The Hague, or in your own hometown, or in your country’s capital. Politics belongs to all of us. It’s about your school, your home, your job, the safety net you rely on if you’re out of work, the environment—and so on. Of course you’d want a say in those matters!

So it didn’t surprise anyone that I went to study Public Administration in Leiden and joined a political party while I was still in college.

What did surprise my family and friends was that, four years ago, I ran for mayor. Would I have the patience for such a role? But even to my own surprise, I won the election. The first person I called was my mother. She was so proud, and so happy that she was able to witness it. A little later, I called Uncle Bram. He was completely speechless.

Being a mayor

And that is how I came to be standing here today as Mayor of Voorschoten. It is such a pleasure and a special honor to speak to you. Thank you for having me! And now you understand why I’m nervous about giving a speech in English.

Why did I want to become mayor so much? Because as mayor, you can make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re a refugee from Ukraine, celebrating your 60th wedding anniversary, or visiting City Hall with your classmates to learn about democracy—as mayor, I can give you the attention you deserve.

Of course, I can’t do everything on my own. But I can help put important issues on the agenda and make sure things get done. Take, for example, the upcoming Candlelight Evening next week at Rosenburgh Memorial Park. In a special atmosphere, we gather to remember loved ones who have passed away. Or consider the flowerbed of white carnations behind our town hall, created to honor all military veterans living in Voorschoten.

Another topic that comes up often these days is participation. Residents should have the opportunity to contribute their ideas to what we do in Voorschoten—even though it will always be a matter of balancing interests.

We simply cannot grant every request. First, because there isn’t enough money. And second, because there isn’t enough space. Which is more important, for example: building new homes, or preserving green spaces? Politics always comes down to making choices—to give and take.

Village of Volunteers

Give and take… In today’s world, it’s clear that we aren’t treating each other the best we can.

Recently, I had the honor of lighting the fire for our Liberation Day celebrations, marking eighty years of freedom in the Netherlands. Yet we are unable to end the wars raging around us. We provide humanitarian aid and weapons, we hold demonstrations, we summon ambassadors—but nothing seems to work.

We are at a loss, especially in an era when you would think that everything is technically and organizationally possible. An era in which we owe it to future generations to safeguard a stable world—one in which everyone can live, work, study, play sports, and enjoy life.

That is why you chose the theme of this conference so well: “Harnessing humanity’s potential for an ethical future.” In other words: how can we use humanity’s enormous potential to create a future built on justice, inclusiveness, sustainability, and moral responsibility?

Sitting here today, it may seem like an impossible task. The world is far too big, and our individual influence far too small. But that doesn’t mean we can just let things take their course. It means we must do whatever we can. What can I do, what can you do—right here in your own hometown? And above all: what can we do together?

If I had to describe our town in four words, they would be: Voorschoten, a village of volunteers. Whatever we do, whatever we face—we do it together, without immediately asking for money.

Train accident

You may have heard about the train accident that occurred two and a half years ago, just eight hundred meters from here. On April 4, 2023, at 3:30 a.m., a freight train and a passenger train collided with a construction crane. The crane operator died, and thirty people were injured.

More than two hundred professional emergency responders rushed to Voorschoten, but our own volunteer fire department was the first to arrive. And the residents living along the railroad tracks opened their doors in the middle of the night to stranded passengers. The fire department and those neighbors put Voorschoten on the map as a town of volunteers—not just in the Netherlands, but around the world.

Another topic in which volunteers play a key role—and which I’m sure is also important to you—is sustainability. To make our town greener and more climate-resilient, we organize meetings and share initiatives. We even participate in a competition to replace as many garden pavers as possible with plants.

A Life on Our Planet

I recently watched *A Life On Our Planet* on Netflix—the life story of the famous British naturalist David Attenborough. In this beautiful hour-and-a-half-long documentary, he explains why it’s so important to take good care of our world, but also why, fortunately, it’s not too late for us to save our planet together. So if you have Netflix—add *A Life On Our Planet* to your list!

Democracy

Back to Voorschoten, the village of volunteers. Every September, we celebrate the Weekend of Voorschoten. The entire town center is filled with booths run by volunteers, who tell visitors about all the activities in our community—from the petting zoo and the soccer club to Rotary and the public library.

You'll also find booths set up by political parties. You can imagine how important those are to me. Because in addition to all the other wonderful things we do together, there's something else we must do: we must defend our democracy.

There is no better system than democracy. Democracy is the tool we need to change the world we currently live in. And it starts with elections.

In most countries, you can vote for the first time at age eighteen. Many of you are not yet old enough. But this brings me to the most important message I want to share with you today:

If you're eligible to vote — take responsibility and go vote!

The right of everyone to vote

When you turn sixteen or eighteen and your first voter registration card arrives in your mailbox, remember two things:

One — make sure your dog doesn't run off with it!

And second—think back to today. Think about what we discussed. Seize the opportunity to vote with both hands. Even if you have a hundred other things to do, even if it’s pouring rain, or if there’s a long line at the polling station. Because that single mark on the ballot is where democracy—and a better future for all of us—begins.

Remember, too, that people fought hard for everyone’s right to vote. It is not something to be taken for granted. We owe it to them to go to the polls every time and make our voices heard. And we owe it to ourselves to protect democracy with everything we have.

Three Lessons

I’m almost at the end of my speech. What else would I like to leave you with? What does the world need, and what can you contribute? To quote David Attenborough:

“We need more than intelligence—we need wisdom.”

You’re certainly intelligent—otherwise you wouldn’t be here today. My hope for you is that, as you finish school and move on to your next studies, you’ll also develop life wisdom—wisdom that will allow you to make a difference in the lives of others.

The first thing you need for that is a positive mindset. Look ahead. If you keep looking back, you won’t see what lies ahead. Don’t be afraid of being laughed at. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes.

Second: think for yourself. Of course, be wary of fake news. But above all, don’t let yourself be swayed by the noise from others, especially on social media. Trust your own common sense. Question everything you see and hear. Don’t just accept someone else’s opinion.

And third—perhaps the most important of all: find like-minded, wise young people to walk alongside, just as you are doing here today. Debate with one another; discuss the dilemmas we face. Always respect each other’s beliefs and opinions, no matter how strongly they may clash with your own.

Only by working together can you build a better future—for yourself, your family and friends, your neighbors, and our world.

Thank you very much.

This is already the last column before the summer break begins. Just a few more weeks of hard work at the office or at school, and then hopefully you and I will be able to enjoy a well-deserved vacation. Here at City Hall, we’re also looking forward to the summer recess. The elections, the start of the new city council, and the formation of the executive committee have been an intense period for everyone involved. It’s good to take a step back from the day-to-day routine and recharge our batteries. 

There is also sadness, so close to the summer recess. We are shocked by the unexpected passing of former alderman and council member René Zoetemelk. This is a loss for our village. René was Voorschoten. His many stories, photos, and political legacy will always remain with us. I wish Wilma, Dewi, and all the bereaved family members and friends much strength in the days ahead. 

A few weeks ago, the city council made a special decision: City Hall will be moving from Leidseweg 25 to the Zilverfabriek, the iconic and historic building that everyone sees when driving to Leiden or entering Voorschoten. This building carries so much history and is so closely connected to our village. We will not only house the municipal administration there, but also Voorschoten Voor Elkaar and the Center for Youth and Family. We expect to begin renovating and making the building more sustainable by the end of the year, so that we can open the doors of the new town hall after the summer of 2028. 

Over the past few months, I’ve been thinking a lot about my future. I’ve had the privilege of serving as your mayor for five years now. From the very first day, I felt welcome in Voorschoten, and it has increasingly become my home. Being part of our wonderful community, with a dedicated civil service and excellent administrative collaboration, gives me a great deal of energy. 

I am proud of what we have achieved together for Voorschoten over the past few years. Many wonderful things have happened, but we have also experienced sad and profound moments—sometimes on an individual level, sometimes for the municipality as a whole, such as the train accident that remains etched in our memories. Being able to make a difference in people’s lives in any way makes me realize why I ever chose to work in public administration. 

All in all, it’s been five eventful years, for me personally as well. I owe a great deal of gratitude to my family for their unconditional support in every possible way. 

My term of office expires next May. I’m enjoying my time in Voorschoten so much that I’ve informed the King’s Commissioner and the Trust Committee that I’d like to be considered for reappointment. As long as I am allowed and given the opportunity, I will continue to do my best to fulfill the best job I’ve ever had to the best of my ability. 

For now, I wish you a wonderful summer vacation. Although I’m sure we’ll see each other at the Horse Days at the end of July! 

During my many walks, I often listen to podcasts on a wide variety of topics. It depends a bit on my mood which ones I choose to listen to. Lately, the podcasts about the case against Ali B have caught my attention. As soon as new episodes were posted online, I made sure to listen to them first.

No, I’m not going to comment on the case here or express an opinion on the judge’s ruling. That’s not my place. I’ll just say what I always say: once the law has spoken, we must respect it. That is our democratic constitutional state, which we must cherish. Regardless of the personal feelings that always arise in connection with court rulings.

I want to talk to you about the uncomfortable reality I was forced to confront while listening to those podcasts. It’s not an easy topic for me, but I, too, am now taking a step forward. After 11 years, it’s high time. I, too, was the victim of a sexual assault back then. Well, that’s out in the open. Why didn’t I share this sooner? I fear it’s (or was) a profound sense of shame. The question that probably every woman asks herself—“How did I let this happen?”—is one I’ve asked myself perhaps 1,000 times.

It happened to me all of a sudden, without any warning signs, without me seeing it coming. In that moment, I froze. Literally. That also had to do with the setting in which it took place. I reacted then the way many women do: say nothing, to no one. Bottle it up. Stop thinking about it. Pretend it never happened. Only I was very lucky that there were witnesses. Several of them. They took action and brought the case to court. I then took the necessary legal steps and started talking about it. In my case, too, justice was served.

I have such admiration for the women who, despite everything they’ve had to endure, recently dared to step forward and have stood their ground. Right in the face of adversity. That takes an incredible amount of courage and perseverance.

While listening to the podcasts, my thoughts drifted back to that moment of mine a few times. The feeling of gratitude toward those who were there for me at the time is what stands out most.

All I can say to all the young girls and women who go through this is: don’t do what I did! But confide in someone right away. Tell them everything. Make sure you have supporting evidence so that you’re in a strong position in the event of a possible lawsuit. There’s absolutely no reason to feel ashamed—not at that moment, and not even 11 years later.

Have I ever told you how happy I am with our team of special investigative officers? In other words, BOAs/enforcement officers. I don’t think I have. So it’s about time!

There are, in fact, some persistent stereotypes and stories about our special enforcement officers that don’t match the facts. Here’s a small selection of the responses I get when I post something on social media or simply receive emails from people who want to voice their opinions: “We never see them,” “They’re never there when they’re supposed to be,” “All they do is stand around smoking,” “They never get out of their cars,” “They’re not worthy of their uniforms,” “Let them actually do some work for once,” “All they do is talk,” and so on.

Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, no matter how factually incorrect it may be. That’s a good reason to describe the other side of the coin for you in this column—to (try to) explain that, despite all the dedication shown by the special enforcement officers, it’s simply not possible for them to be present 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in every part of Voorschoten.

I think these perceptions arise in part because not everyone realizes just how broad and comprehensive the duties of the special enforcement officers are. Without claiming to be exhaustive, here’s a brief list of what they do: enforcing blue zone regulations, participating in integrated inspections, clearing away abandoned bicycles, supporting the police during incidents, taking part in consultations with (social) partners, addressing disruptive behavior, enforcing no-biking zones, holding walk-in consultation hours in the neighborhood, handling a wide variety of reports (not only factual but also administrative), working with the police to maintain public order during all festivities in our municipality, such as the Weekend of Voorschoten, the Sinterklaas Parade, Horse Days, King’s Day and Night, and so on. And I could go on and on. Oh, and of course, our special enforcement officers also regularly attend training sessions and courses, and just like you and me, they’re entitled to vacation time.

So it’s really nice when I hear that our special enforcement officers are receiving compliments. Thanks to everyone who’s been saying that! As far as I’m concerned, those compliments are well-deserved. It’s great for the team to hear this kind of feedback. Is everything going well, then? No, definitely not. There’s always room for improvement. With you, with me, and therefore with the special enforcement officers as well. And we’re working hard on that. So I certainly hope you’ll continue to bring these issues to my attention.

The deployment of special enforcement officers is, and always will be, a matter of allocating scarce resources. We simply have too many tasks and incidents and not enough people to handle them. That’s true for every municipality, by the way. Within our available capacity, we do what we can and work hard together to keep Voorschoten safe. And when things go well… It’s okay to give a compliment!

The municipal elections are over. The voters have spoken. I hope that all the council candidates were able to relax a bit this past weekend, enjoy the sunshine, and spend some time with their families. It was an intense few weeks, but what a wonderful campaign we’ve all been through together. Weeks filled with debates on all kinds of topics that are so close to our hearts here locally. There was plenty of leafleting in the neighborhoods and lots of laughter among the participating parties. And that’s exactly how it should be.

No matter how significant the differences in policy between the parties may be, the Voorschoten City Council is characterized by good personal relationships and an excellent atmosphere within the council. I hope we can continue that governing culture over the next four years as well. It’s the tone that sets the mood, and the entire municipal administration (city council, aldermen, and mayor) is responsible for setting that tone. After all, there’s always a choice to be made.

As mayor, I am proud of the voter turnout of approximately 66%. Wow! That’s well above the national average and much higher than in most other municipalities. I am grateful to all the volunteers who staffed the 18 polling stations. It’s great that we also had some young new poll workers this year. We hope that they’ll be willing to take on this important role in our democracy again in the next elections.

I’m also proud of the administrative staff. Time and again, I’m amazed by how much work gets done. From setting up and taking down the polling stations and the ushers serving coffee and tea, to placing all the signs in public spaces, organizing the final debate and election night, issuing press releases and creating social media videos, all the way to counting every vote. And let’s not forget the core members of the election team, who—for the second time in five months—have pulled off a major feat by organizing the elections flawlessly. Kudos to all these helping hands!

I, too, took some time last weekend to (as they say) recharge my batteries. For me, that means going for walks, reading a book, chatting with friends, and yes, also cranking up the music and singing along shamelessly (sorry, neighbors …). There’s one song I’ve had on repeat for quite some time now, with these lyrics:

When I wake up by the grace of the morning
With the sun I rise, I fall, and I try again
So I get up when the rain keeps pouring
I keep my head held high and I know that I’ll rise again
By the grace of the morning

Tossing and turning. Watching the minutes tick away on the clock. Thoughts racing through your head that you can’t stop. Reliving events. Recurring dreams. Nightmares. Waking up drenched in sweat.

We’ve all been there—a sleepless night. It can happen to anyone from time to time. Fortunately, most people sleep well again the following night. However, a growing number of people suffer from chronic insomnia. The causes of this are varied. In this column, I want to discuss the sleepless nights experienced by our emergency service personnel (police, fire department, and military). The increase in the number of “ceiling shifts” (where you lie awake all night staring at the ceiling) that they are working.

The consequences of the increasingly violent incidents our emergency responders face are becoming more and more visible. The pressure on them is too great, leaving them with little or no time to process these profound and shocking (traumatic) events. This can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Nightmares and vivid memories of events can make you feel so bad that it becomes almost impossible to carry out everyday activities. Think of doing fun things with the kids, meeting up with friends, going to the supermarket for groceries, spending time with your partner, and so on.

It’s all too much. It’s hard to imagine if you haven’t been confronted with this yourself (in whatever way). The Department of Defense has been addressing this issue for some time now, and fortunately, the police are also increasingly prioritizing the mental health of their officers. The decisions these men and women have to make in a fraction of a second—decisions that are often a matter of life and death—can only be made if you’re mentally healthy.

As of this month, there is finally a PTSD policy in place for our fire department. The policy makes no distinction between career firefighters and volunteers. The recognition of PTSD as an occupational disease within the fire department is a major step forward. It means acknowledging together that they, too—despite all the dedication they show to ensuring our safety—can be affected by PTSD. It is important that this be recognized at an early stage so that those affected can receive the right help. It is just as important to work in parallel on building mental resilience, thereby reducing the risk of PTSD. Thanks to the safety region, but also to our own city council, which has championed this cause!

Mental health has many facets, and I’ve highlighted just one of them here. Working night shifts is devastating, with serious consequences not only for the person involved but also for their family at home. If you see someone from the emergency services, why not ask them how they’re doing? That alone makes a huge difference to the men and women who are there for you and me 24/7.

In this first column of the new year, I’d like to wish you, of course, a wonderful and healthy 2026! May it be a year in which we can create and share many wonderful memories together. 

King Winter has arrived in our country. And we certainly felt it. The weeks of the Christmas break were full of winter surprises. How fun was that! During the last week of 2025, we were all hoping we could go ice skating on our very own Olympic-sized natural ice rink. Unfortunately, the freeze wasn’t quite long enough, and there wasn’t the required eight centimeters of ice. Our ice master did everything he could.

At IJshal de Vliet, our ice skating club let me take part in two trial lessons with the most fun Saturday morning skating group there is. You never really forget how to skate, but I did need to brush up on a few things, so to speak (to put it mildly). Thank you so, so much for letting me join in. I had such a great time! 

During the first week of the new year, we were also treated to a generous layer of snow, which led to lots of fun in the snow. On my walks, I saw many kids sledding, building snowmen, and having snowball fights. How beautiful was that white world—which always feels magical to me—that we got to enjoy for a little while. 

Snow always causes disruptions, such as traffic problems. The streets in the neighborhood, in particular, are difficult to navigate. That’s just the way it is. But something very special happened in Voorschoten. Something we might take for granted, but it’s not. Our field services continued to operate “as usual.” Trash was collected on the scheduled days, the Christmas tree collection campaign went ahead as planned, we ensured there was enough road salt, and in the meantime, all main roads and bike paths were continuously cleared of ice and snow “as needed,” so that you and I—as well as emergency services—could get around reasonably well. This is unique! 

A big round of applause and a deep bow to our winter heroes on the field. Working 17 or 18 hours a day, 7 days a week! They pulled it off and were there for us. I’m so proud of this team! Thanks to all the residents for all the kind messages over the past few weeks in support of these amazing people. 

After all the snow-related fun, we almost forgot… New Year’s Eve. What a celebration it was in Voorschoten! Many of you were out in the open, bundled up and enjoying the company of family, friends, and neighbors, toasting the New Year. I was so glad that New Year’s Eve went relatively smoothly here. Because even that isn’t something to take for granted. And once again, the street maintenance crew was on hand to clean up the fireworks debris. Shall we send these heroes a card to thank them for all their hard work? 

The last month of the year has arrived. We’re getting ready for Christmas and New Year’s. December was always my mother’s and my month. Together, we eagerly looked forward to the holidays, the lights, Christmas shopping, and all the festive cheer. We went to the Christmas show at De Bosrand Garden Center countless times. But the real highlight was definitely Christmas Tree Setting-Up Day. We’d already plan the exact moment we’d put up the Christmas tree back in the summer.

The day had arrived, and as soon as my father left for work, we hopped in the car and headed to the Christmas tree vendor. True to tradition, the tree turned out to be a bit bigger than we’d expected. The car was way too small for the tree, and once we got home, we had to cut off a whole section of the trunk; otherwise, it would never have fit in the room. Of course, we did that with a bread knife—because why would you go out and buy a good saw just for that? … So there was half the tree already sitting with the bulky yard waste, even though Christmas hadn’t even started yet! But by the end of the day, there was always a fantastic tree again, decked out with lots of lights and Christmas ornaments full of sentiment. Like the ornaments that had belonged to my maternal grandmother and the ones my parents had bought together on their vacations.

Of course, we couldn't fool my father (the former police officer), and he always came home earlier than planned. Those hilarious moments from back then remain unforgettable, heartwarming memories to this day.

The first year I celebrated Christmas as a resident of Voorschoten was in 2022. My mother had passed away earlier that year, and suddenly there was no longer a “Christmas Tree Setting-Up Day.” I was so happy when Marjo, one of my dear neighbors, suggested we go pick out the Christmas tree together. I cried tears of gratitude. You see, Marjo is also my former neighbor from Voorburg. She knew my parents very well and instinctively sensed just how important this was to me. That’s how a new tradition was born, and I can’t tell you how happy I am about it. It’s just as Jelmer (her husband) so beautifully put it when I was sitting in their backyard for the first time after moving in: “It can’t be a coincidence that you ended up living here. Someone up above must have pulled some strings.”

Since 2022, I've been getting two Christmas trees. One big Christmas tree decorated with my ornaments, and a small Christmas tree decorated with my mom's ornaments, which I put in her favorite spot in my house.

It’s been a year of extremes for me. I’ve experienced so many wonderful things, but I’ve also lost a dear friend who passed away far too soon. If there’s one thing Onno taught us, it’s that you have to live life to the fullest. I’ve always admired the way he knew how to enjoy life, day after day. This Christmas, we’re raising a special toast to Onno.

A lot has changed for me personally, too. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the kind and wonderful comments I’ve received about my weight loss. Someone called it a transformation. That’s exactly how I experienced it, too. And I’m so happy about it! There are moments in life when the pieces of the puzzle suddenly fall into place. That’s how it was for me, too. I hope to continue enjoying life for a long time to come, in good health, surrounded by all the wonderful people in my life. Without the unconditional support of my family and friends, I wouldn’t have been able to do it.

For now, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Every eight days, a woman is murdered in the Netherlands. By far the majority of these murders are committed by a (former) partner or family member. I could stop writing this column right here. What more can I add to this statistic? What else can I say to emphasize that tackling femicide is essential? I am therefore glad that the first steps have been taken. It’s on the political agenda, funding has been allocated to address the issue, the “Stop Violence Against Women” petition has been signed by many mayors (including myself), and so on. And yet I find myself wondering: what now? How are we going to ensure that these measures aren’t just empty promises?

We talk about this among my group of friends, too. One of my very best friends said to me during a conversation: “If I hadn’t left him, I would have been one of these women.” That sentence really hit home for me. The cold, impersonal statistic suddenly took on a human face. And honestly, I had never consciously thought about it until that moment. At that very moment, the statistic took on another face for me—that of my mother. Her first marriage (before she married my father) had the same elements as my friend’s. Two strong, independent women. Different generations. Each from a different part of the country. Yet with a past that shares similarities. Neither of them filed a police report. What does that say about this statistic? Ultimately, they managed to escape that horrific situation and build a new, happy life. That wasn’t easy and involved a very long journey.

Together (men and women), we hold the key to tackling violence against women. It starts with recognizing the red flags. If your gut tells you that something isn’t right, it almost always is. Violence against women doesn’t start with the first blow. It’s preceded by a long period of control, coercion, psychological abuse, and the severing of family and friendship ties, so that the victim feels they have nowhere else to turn.

On November 25, our country will be lit up in orange for Orange the World. In Voorschoten, too, our town hall will be illuminated in orange, and we’ll raise the flag. Femicide isn’t just an abstract word. It’s about our mothers, daughters, granddaughters, sisters, neighbors, and friends. It can happen to any woman. Let’s work together to let these women know that they’re not alone—that help is always available.

House of Cards, the transfer market, kindergarten… Just a few titles that crossed my mind while writing this column—today is October 21. What will be the focus of this column? It will, of course, be about the House of Representatives elections on October 29.

The optional titles already give you a bit of an idea. Over the past few days, weeks, months—two years, actually—I’ve been watching the political news with some bewilderment. And I don’t mean in terms of the content; it’s more about what was happening on the sidelines. I’ll admit it honestly: as a political news junkie, I really appreciated the remarkable openness about what was going on behind the scenes and the unusual dynamics between the party leaders and cabinet members. At the same time, as a public official, I was often overcome by a sense of vicarious embarrassment. I wondered what on earth we’re doing here. And above all: whether things will ever get back on track.

It came as no surprise that the cabinet wouldn’t make it to the finish line. Still, I had mixed feelings when the first push notifications about the cabinet’s collapse started coming in on my phone in early July. What was I supposed to make of it? Is this really the answer to all the legitimate concerns in society? We’re all longing for elected representatives who, as the term implies, truly represent us. Trust in politics, which was once high, has plummeted to an all-time low. Society needs a cabinet that governs the country stably for four years, tackles societal problems, takes people’s concerns seriously and acts on them, interacts professionally with one another, and makes decisions. That’s not asking for too much, is it? “Just do your job—that’s what you’re paid for,” my parents would say.

As I write this column, one of the many news programs is playing in the background, featuring one of the party leaders discussing yet another midterm poll. We now know from past elections that pollsters are off by an average of about 30 to 40 seats. So it’s still anyone’s guess. Whatever the outcome may be, and whichever parties end up in the cabinet, ultimately everything hinges on people. After all, politics is, first and foremost, a human endeavor. Are the newly elected members of parliament and the new cabinet members willing to truly work together, to step outside their comfort zones, to put the national interest first, and to set their own egos aside? The behavior of our political leaders influences our society. The tone and substance of the political debate matter. I hope for four “boring” years in national politics, where substance takes center stage.

On the evening of the final political debate, I’m watching it with my friends. It promises to be a great evening with lots of (corny) humor, good company, and a table full of delicious (and above all, healthy!) snacks. It’s time to submit our final predictions for the election results. We toast to friendship and to our great-grandmothers! Because thanks to that generation’s struggle, our voices are heard. We gratefully exercise that right to vote every single time.

It can’t have escaped anyone’s notice. The world has changed. As geopolitical tensions rise, uncertainty is growing for all of us. Freedom and security can no longer be taken for granted. It is essential that we keep in mind that electricity, drinking water, and/or the internet could be disrupted, for whatever reason. That is why it is wise to prepare for a situation in which we must be able to fend for ourselves for 72 hours.

In the television program *Black-out* (available to watch on NPO Start), the scenario is that three provinces are without power due to a cyberattack on grid operator Stedin. The program’s creators offer a sobering glimpse into the consequences for society as a whole and for us as individuals. It’s not a question of whether a power outage will occur, but when it will happen. That is precisely why it’s so important for us as a society to be resilient and able to bounce back.

At the national level, significant efforts are already underway to strengthen our national security. For example, the government has stated that during a crisis, there must be an emergency support center within walking distance for everyone. Residents can go there to get the latest information, charge their devices using an emergency generator, report missing persons, or receive first aid. It’s up to local authorities to decide exactly where these emergency support centers will be located, but central locations such as fire stations are being considered. We can already be very happy to have our top-notch firefighters at the fire station!

At the local level, we will develop a business continuity plan in 2026 so that, as a municipality, we can be there for you again as quickly as possible even in the event of a crisis. In addition, we have published a brochure to help you prepare for an emergency. The most important thing is: put together an emergency kit! Make sure you have plenty of non-perishable water and food with a long shelf life. Also consider a battery-powered radio so you can stay informed about government updates via Radio West’s emergency broadcast (on 89.3 FM). A flashlight and cash are also essential. You can find the brochure in all supermarkets, at the library, and at City Hall.

I’m often asked if I’m worried or afraid. My answer is always a firm “no.” On the one hand, because—together with my colleagues, the safety region, and the relevant organizations—I’m doing everything I can at the municipal level to ensure that our community is prepared for a crisis situation. On the other hand, because I’m also personally prepared. I’ve got everything taken care of at home. I have an emergency kit, an emergency plan is in place, and arrangements have been made with my family.

To build a resilient society, we need everyone’s commitment. In addition to the national and local governments, we also need the commitment of you—as a resident, business owner, or community organization. The large-scale power outage in Spain and Portugal this past April underscored this once again. However, living in a village where neighborly solidarity reigns supreme, I have every confidence that we’ll be well prepared, even when things get really tough.

If you’d like to learn more, please visit www.voorschoten.nl/goed-voorbereid. There you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions and links to even more helpful websites, such as www.denkvooruit.nl and. If you have any ideas on how we can work together to further strengthen resilience, please let me know by sending a message to communicatie@voorschoten.nl. Together, we’ll work to strengthen resilience in Voorschoten!

Starting the day with a latte macchiato, enjoying the view of the beach in the sunshine with my loved ones around me, is the ideal way for me to begin a vacation day. No watch on my wrist, no schedule to dictate (and sometimes even restrict) my day, and no idea what the day will bring. I’ll be honest with you—I’m really looking forward to it! As I write this column, I’m just about to start my vacation. I’ve handed over all my duties, responsibilities, and ongoing cases to the deputy mayor for the coming weeks. Of course, I’ll still be available during my vacation for any urgent matters that come up, but it’s good to take a step back and get some distance from my day-to-day work.

The scene from Youp van ’t Hek’s comedy routine, in which he describes the car ride to the vacation destination, always pops into my head when I see footage of traffic jams heading toward Southern Europe. “High on Fruittella in the back seat to fight motion sickness,” as Youp puts it. I think many of us can relate to that image. That element was definitely present during my road trips to Italy with my parents, as was always taking a wrong turn at the same spot in Switzerland. The image of my parents with a map of Europe on the hood, wondering where we were and how we’d get back on the right track, is etched in my memory and would surely make today’s younger generation burst out laughing. Well, Google Maps has certainly made our lives easier in that regard. Incidentally, years later, I drove that same route to Italy with my partner at the time. And yes, we, too, took a wrong turn (okay, I did…) at that exact spot. It’s nice that some wonderful traditions are passed on to the next generation!

By the time this column appears in the newspaper, my vacation will also be coming to an end. And we’ll be back to work! We’re gearing up for a busy fall. Because for one team within the municipal administration, it wasn’t a vacation at all. I’m talking, of course, about the Elections Team. We were already hard at work preparing for the municipal elections in March 2026, but the House of Representatives elections on October 29 have “just” slipped in between. I can assure you that organizing two elections in the span of five months is no easy task. I’d like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to the members of the Elections Team for all their hard work!

And that latte macchiato? Let me be honest—for me, that’s how every day of the week starts. A moment of peace before I hop on my bike to head to the best job I’ve ever had the privilege of holding.

Serving as mayor has been the most rewarding thing I’ve had the privilege of doing so far. Every day, to the best of my ability, I try to do my part for our wonderful village. There are certainly moments when it’s not quite as enjoyable—and even a bit lonely at times. But that’s all part of the job.

When I took office in May 2021, the COVID-19 restrictions were still in full force. It’s a time I sometimes look back on as if it were a completely different life. As my friends and I say: a parallel universe. It was a time when people were sometimes at odds with one another, even leading to rifts within families and groups of friends. As mayor, I received many emails from residents in response to my social media posts about getting vaccinated. I responded by inviting everyone individually. This led to meaningful conversations about the situation in the country, and we shared our perspectives on society. It was never my intention to try to convince the other person during those conversations. Listening, asking follow-up questions, respecting one another, and sincerely trying to understand why the other person views society in a certain way. All conversations ended with a “thank you” in true COVID-19 style. After all, shaking hands wasn’t allowed. Sometimes I still run into one or two of them. Then we wave and greet each other, with mutual respect.

I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. The situation in Gaza seems to be becoming a divisive issue once again. Or perhaps it already is. You’re either on one side or the other. And if you don’t take a stand, you’re automatically out of the picture, because “who doesn’t have an opinion on this?” Similar to the discussions about COVID-19, this time I received requests from various quarters to speak out about the situation in Gaza. I was asked to join demonstrations on behalf of Voorschoten and to make statements about the situation there. “Show some moral leadership,” someone told me.

I had to think about that. So what does moral leadership actually mean? Am I a moral leader if I do what someone else thinks I should do? And if I then act in accordance with their views? Or does moral leadership mean that I take Voorschoten by the hand and steer it in a certain direction based on my personal views and values? In other words, how do I think the world should look? Or am I only a moral leader if, even in this situation, I act as a mayor for everyone?

It’s an issue that deeply concerns me and many of my colleagues. We talk about it without reaching a conclusion, because the dilemma is so great. As a mayor—of any municipality—how can you take a side when things are happening on both sides that cannot stand the light of day and violate every international treaty we can think of? To what extent should a mayor even want to take a stance on an international issue? As mayor, you have a primary role in bringing society together—standing above the parties and also being there for those who don’t speak out loud. How does this relate to making statements, and should we, at the local level, even want to speak out on this? Can we even do that?

Don’t I have any personal feelings about the situation in Gaza? Of course I do. My heart breaks when I see all those images, and my mind races when I see them. The pain this issue has caused for so many years is indescribable.

In any case, I will do my utmost to be your mayor in this situation as well, regardless of your views. To me, that is moral leadership.

It’s almost mid-May, and luckily we’re enjoying some lovely spring sunshine—which on some days already feels like summer. I’m writing this column in one of my favorite spots at home: at the garden table in my backyard. For this afternoon, it’s my “office.” I’m still recovering a bit from the incredibly fun—but also slightly crazy—(work) weeks surrounding the 80th anniversary of commemorating and celebrating the freedom we enjoy. A freedom that is anything but a given—and one we must all work hard for and toward every single day. I want to express my immense gratitude to all the associations, organizations, and business owners, the many volunteers, and the municipal team for their dedication. Words cannot express it. You made it an unforgettable May 5th celebration for our village! 

This is what makes Voorschoten so wonderful. A village where we’re there for one another. I’m very fortunate that, when I moved to Voorschoten, I was welcomed with open arms by my neighbors. They were there for me from the very first moment. In the Achterhoek, we call that “noaberschap.” Literally translated into Dutch: “neighborhood.” The word pretty much says it all. It’s all about neighbors. Looking out for one another, being there for each other with advice and support. Offering a shoulder to cry on, raising a glass together to celebrate the good times. Taking a genuine interest in one another. Lending a helping hand when needed. Keeping an eye out for one another. It doesn’t matter at all what you do; it’s about who you are. This is the neighborhood where I’m lucky enough to live, in every sense of the word. 

Neighborliness can’t exist without neighbors. Sitting here in my garden, having just waved to my neighbor, I suddenly realize how lucky I am to have such kind neighbors in the houses around me. Whether it’s borrowing a ladder, hauling my parents’ heavy antique cabinet, watering the plants while we’re on vacation, using each other’s green and gray bins, running errands when needed, or making soup when I’m under the weather. No request is too much. While the concept of “noaberschap” may have its roots in the agricultural regions of our country, Voorschoten certainly holds its own in that regard. We’re all neighbors here. 

As this edition of the Voorschotense Krant goes to press, I have had the privilege of serving as your mayor for four years now. I look back on yet another fantastic year in the “Pearl on the Vliet.” I am grateful for this opportunity. That, too, is not something to be taken for granted. I realize that every single day.

April has arrived, and so preparations for the royal honors ceremony, King’s Day, and May 4 and 5 are in full swing. I always find this to be a wonderful and impressive time of year. It’s fantastic to know that I’ll once again have the privilege of presenting many royal honors during this year’s ceremony. Residents who have selflessly dedicated themselves to society for years—and who always work behind the scenes—are rightly placed in the spotlight. Our society wouldn’t exist without the dedication of volunteers! Everyone should have appreciation and respect for this large group of people. 

This year is a special year. I’m sure you’ve all read or heard about it somewhere. It has been 80 years since we were liberated from the occupying forces. In Voorschoten, the liberation officially took place on May 8, 1945. This special year is marked by many activities. We kicked off this commemorative year by planting the Resistance Heroes Tree on Verzetsstrijderspad. The kids from the Fortgens School planted this tree together with our veterans to honor all the known and unknown resistance heroes from Voorschoten. Ordinary people like you and me, who had the courage to help and save others at the risk of their own lives and to rise up against the occupying forces. Their stories continue to move me. 

There were also emotional moments during the laying of the first Stolpersteine in Voorschoten. At Oranjekade 61, Stolpersteine were laid by Gunter Demnig, the artist and creator of these stumbling stones. Lewise Judith Polak and Mauritz Heiman van Someren lived there. On February 26, 1943, they were murdered in Auschwitz. According to Jewish tradition, a person lives on as long as their name is mentioned. That is why we must never forget the names of Lewise and Mauritz, and why we continue to talk about them and their fellow victims.

Precisely because we must not forget these stories—and because freedom can never be taken for granted—we are taking extra time this special year to reflect on the fact that we have been living in freedom for 80 years. Thanks to the Oranjevereniging, local businesses, cultural and sports associations, schools, and various organizations, a program has been put together that we can be proud of. They have pulled out all the stops over the past few months. From an impressive exhibition at the Voorschoten Museum, a poetry and drawing contest for kids, the track and field club’s relay of the “Flame of Freedom” from Wageningen to Voorschoten, to the “Veteran in the Classroom” project for elementary schools and a Liberation Day lunch for all residents on Voorstraat. And so much more. Perhaps you already saw the full overview in last month’s newspaper. If not, be sure to check out www.voorschoten.nl

I hope to see many of you at one or more of the events in the village. Let’s raise a toast together during the Liberation Day lunch on May 5 to 80 years of freedom and never forget our shared history. Only then will we have a shared future, in peace.

I used to hear that phrase so often from my dad whenever I was (in his opinion) taking too long in the shower. The tone of my dad’s voice was such that I knew I’d really crossed the line, so I’d turn off the shower within a second. Okay, he probably did have a point, because, well, I did (and still do) love taking long showers.

I was reminded of this earlier this week when I saw an ad for a national drugstore chain with the slogan “Take a step toward sustainability—and reap the benefits.” It struck me just how much our thinking and behavior regarding sustainability have changed in recent years. External circumstances have also made us keenly aware of our own actions and what we can do to help improve the environment and our quality of life. At home, my mother was definitely a pioneer in this regard. From the moment paper recycling was introduced, my mother started doing it. Bottles were also sorted by glass color and placed in the glass recycling bins—which, back then, were all still above ground. And later, of course, PMD waste separation followed. In addition, all the lights were turned off in rooms where no one was present at the time, and we paid close attention to the temperature setting on the heating.

To this day, my mother continues to inspire me to think for myself about how I can do my part for the environment. As a (bittersweet) joke, I always say that I’ve already more than done my part, because unfortunately, I’m not able to have children. But of course, that doesn’t relieve me of the moral obligation to take the steps that are within my power.

When I moved to Voorschoten, the house I had bought was as leaky as a sieve when it came to sustainability. There was no insulation whatsoever, and much of the house still had single-pane windows. This was clearly reflected in the monthly energy bills I had to pay, since those bills are based on the previous residents’ consumption. I can assure you, it gave me quite a shock.

So I immediately got started on the first basic steps to make my home more sustainable. I also sort my trash as much as possible, and at the supermarket I try to choose sustainable products. And I hear the echo of my father’s words whenever I find myself taking a shower that’s a little longer than usual…

Am I doing everything right when it comes to sustainability? Certainly not! After all, I’m only human, with my own shortcomings, just like everyone else. There’s still plenty of room for improvement in my actions in this area as well. Let’s focus on encouraging each other to make sustainable choices—step by step. Lecturing others or passing judgment isn’t just inappropriate—it’s often wrong, too. We don’t have all the information and insight into someone’s personal situation needed to pass judgment. And let’s be honest with ourselves and with each other: let he who is without sin cast the first stone.

“Why don’t you write a column about this?” I look doubtful when Michel says this to me. “This story of yours resonates with many people. Women go through this every day. They talk about it among themselves, but often don’t dare to speak out. I think that you, of all people—as a woman in your position—should take this step.” Somewhat irritated, I try to explain why I don’t think writing a column about this is a good idea. I can already tell from Michel’s expression that I’m not going to convince him. And if I’m completely honest, deep down I know he has a point.

Just before this, I had been talking nonstop, venting my anger about incidents I had inadvertently become involved in over a short period of time. My anger grew as the conversation progressed, because, against my will, I had to admit to Michel that my identity as a woman had played a significant role in those incidents. It’s an admission I find very difficult to make—and one I really didn’t (and still don’t) want to make.

It was a beautiful, cold, clear winter evening, and we were walking the dog outside. A lovely evening walk.

What was I so angry about? The fact that, until recently, I’d actually always felt safe, but that during a few recent incidents I genuinely wondered if I’d make it out unscathed. For example, one evening while walking to the station after a fun movie night with a friend, I was constantly harassed in an intense and unpleasant way by the same group of men. Another time, when I wanted to go watch the sunset on the beach in the evening, I walked back to my car with my heart in my throat, given how threatening the situation felt to me at that moment. And recently, I was boxed in by a group of drivers who were speeding and honking their horns because there was something to celebrate in a faraway homeland. Apparently, I was ruining their party because I didn’t pull over. The only reason I managed to get out of that predicament was that I received help from another driver who witnessed the incident.

To be perfectly clear, these incidents did not take place in Voorschoten! That’s why I was initially hesitant to write a column about this. I’m sharing these experiences with you, not because I have a solution, but because I know Michel is right and I’m not the only woman going through this. Because, yes, I have to honestly admit that the common thread running through these various incidents is the extremely misogynistic treatment (and that’s putting it mildly). I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s better for me not to undertake certain activities on my own anymore. That’s what my anger was really about: the feeling that I’ve given in to a changing society in which the equal status of women and men is apparently not accepted by everyone.

During our evening walk, the dog—named Jimmy, a very sweet German Shepherd—was happily running and playing. He quickly retrieved the many balls we threw onto the large lawn, and if we didn’t throw the next ball fast enough, he’d let us know. You guessed it… my anger melted away like snow in the sun and gave way to a feeling of happiness in that beautiful moment. At the end of the walk, I promised Michel I’d write this column, but only after he approved the text—from the very first word to the very last period.

And the rest is history …

First and foremost, I would of course like to wish you a wonderful and healthy 2025. May it be a wonderful year.

In recent weeks, the news has once again been dominated by New Year’s Eve and all the incidents that took place across the country. Every year, I’m amazed by the lawlessness that seems to sweep over us. As if it’s normal to blow up underground trash containers, destroy bus shelters, set cars on fire, and so on. And that’s not even mentioning the ordeal the emergency services have to endure on the streets. Not to mention the immense personal suffering that has once again resulted from the setting off of mostly illegal fireworks.

On New Year’s Eve, I spent a lot of time in the neighborhoods with our special enforcement officers, and I accompanied the police on their night shift. They were wonderful shifts, with so many cheerful and friendly residents celebrating with neighbors and family and setting off beautiful decorative fireworks. But the police night shift always has another side to it as well. It was a unique insight and very educational. Fortunately, the New Year’s celebrations in Voorschoten went off without a hitch. Yes, some property was vandalized here as well, but we didn’t see any major incidents. The police officers and firefighters all went home at the end of their shifts unscathed. That’s what matters most! The next morning, our heroes from the field service were back at it early to clean up all the leftover fireworks.

Many of you have rightly contacted me with complaints about the powerful fireworks, mostly illegal “cobras,” that were set off, asking if there’s anything I can do about it. It’s a logical question, but the solution isn’t easy. When I was out on patrol with the special enforcement officers and the police, I saw once again how difficult it is to catch the perpetrators setting off illegal fireworks in the act or to get an eyewitness to come forward. Special enforcement officers and the police obviously can’t be everywhere at all times.

If there is a solution to this (now) serious safety issue, it does not lie solely with the police and special enforcement officers. Local fireworks bans don’t work, and a nationwide ban is still a long way off. The key lies with the eyes and ears on the ground in our neighborhoods: you and me. Storing and later setting off illegal fireworks is extremely dangerous. If something goes wrong, the consequences are incalculable. Let’s take responsibility together and no longer accept the storage of illegal fireworks in our neighborhoods, streets, and at our immediate neighbors’ homes. You can always report this anonymously via www.meldmisdaadanoniem.nl. With your efforts, you’re contributing to everyone’s safety—including your own and that of your family.

We literally kicked off the new year with a bang. But the year is still young. There’s more than enough time for us to make it a great year together!

It’s that time of year again when I scour all the weather apps looking for the one that’s most optimistic about a possible white Christmas. I immediately latch onto that hope. I just love snow, and if we have a white Christmas, there’s no stopping me. Ideally, I’d spend the whole day outside in the snow, walking around in my snow boots while snapping hundreds of photos.

That white world is and always will be magical to me. It always takes me back to my childhood, when snow and freezing temperatures were more common than they are now. The countless times my father woke me up to tell me it had snowed (often in the middle of the night or very early in the morning), and I’d quickly pull on a pair of jeans and a sweater over my pajamas so that, together, we’d be the very first ones to walk in the snow. That was such a treat! My mom always told us we were crazy, and under the pretext that “the snow will still be there in a few hours,” she’d turn right back over in her warm bed.

How did my father already know there was a white world outside, even though he was asleep? It’s actually very simple. He was a police officer, and they always sleep very lightly. Even after they retire or if they eventually choose a different career, their light sleep remains. That’s what they’re trained to do. They hear every sound, especially if there are unusual noises. So, for example, the moment my father stopped hearing cars driving by, he knew that the snow (which had been forecast) was falling. “A silent world,” he always said. 

The world can be quiet even when there’s no snow on the ground. At this time of year, we look back on the year that’s almost behind us—a year that has been full of ups and downs. Together, we’ve shared wonderful moments in the village, but there have also been times when we didn’t know what to do with our grief and sense of helplessness. The village was quiet. The Christmas season is a time when that sense of loss feels especially heavy. Even now, we’re here for those families who could use an extra shoulder to lean on during this time. Not because we can do anything for them, but because we’re there for one another. That’s Voorschoten.

Personally, I look back on a special year. A year that, for me, was all about the little things that matter in life, spent with those who are close to my heart. I am grateful for everything that 2024 has brought me.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a very festive New Year's Eve!

Isn’t there secretly a tiny little pyromaniac hiding inside all of us? Who hasn’t lit a little fire while playing outside back in the day (back when there were no iPads or iPhones)? Or at camp with the Scouts or sports club, when you’d get so lost during a scavenger hunt that you really had no idea where you were and just had to find a spot to spend at least part of the night? Lighting the fireplace during those long, cold, and dark fall and winter evenings—how cozy is that? And, of course, the barbecue on a beautiful summer evening in the backyard or on the balcony. 

I always think back to that moment—it was years ago now—when my father was barbecuing. We’d already been wondering if the barbecue wasn’t too close to the kitchen door, and eventually the answer became clear. At one point, the kitchen door practically became part of the barbecue, so to speak. I watched in awe as my parents remained completely calm and acted decisively. Back then, it wasn’t yet common practice to have a fire extinguisher on hand. Calmly, yet with a sense of urgency, they grabbed a bucket, filled it with water, and tried to spare the kitchen door as much as possible.

Today, we view what I initially referred to so innocently as “building a fire” in a different light. Back then, we weren’t yet aware of the particulate matter released or its health effects—that people with lung problems suffer serious harm from the particulate matter released into the air. “So are you in favor of banning barbecues and lighting fireplaces?” I hear you thinking. It is, of course, up to policymakers to formulate an answer to that. Though I’ll be honest with you: as mayor, I’m interested in the feasibility of enforcing such a ban and the resources that would be required.

I believe that a lot is possible, as long as we’re considerate of one another and think things through. So, let’s agree to check stookwijzer.nu before lighting a fireplace. And if there’s an orange or red alert—for example, if it’s foggy and there’s no wind—let’s use a different heat source. And in the summer, we can check with our neighbors about where to set up the barbecue and the wind direction, so they aren’t bothered by the smoke. These are all small things that make life more pleasant and healthier for many people, and allow us to preserve the sense of togetherness we experience with each other during those moments.

And what about our kitchen door? The damage wasn’t too bad, but still, we had to get a new one. The barbecue, by the way, went on as if nothing had happened. After all, we’re down-to-earth folks from the Achterhoek—and maybe, deep down, a little bit pyromaniacs too.

If there’s one topic that—aside from the passionate experts in our village—is absolutely not exciting to write about, it’s cybersecurity. It’s a catch-all term that doesn’t really mean much. But at the same time, without even realizing it, we deal with it every day.

Let’s be honest: many of us—myself included—do just about everything on our smartphones. Whether it’s having a package delivered, transferring money, booking a vacation, or even turning on the heat ahead of time so it’s nice and warm when we get home, we install apps almost without thinking and accept the terms and conditions without reading them. All without knowing what happens to our personal data when we use the app.

The rise of the internet has enriched our lives with many conveniences and possibilities we never thought possible. But there is also a downside. And that downside is becoming increasingly pervasive. After all, criminals are always looking for new ways to scam people. Currently, 42% of crime victims in the Netherlands are victims of cybercrime. Since not everyone reports these incidents, the actual percentage is likely much higher.

Everyone has received a fake text message or email at some point. These purport to be from banks, bol.com, or DHL. This is called phishing. As soon as you click on the link, criminals can gain access to your passwords and login credentials. Fortunately, we’re becoming more vigilant, but criminals are evolving as well. Cybercrime is becoming increasingly sophisticated. Fake emails are getting harder and harder to distinguish from real ones. And if you do happen to click on the link in a moment of inattention, the consequences could be dire.

Before we go to sleep, we check to make sure the front door is locked and the windows are closed tightly. We need to make a collective effort to ensure that we also check every day to make sure our digital front door and windows are properly secured. It requires a different mindset, but we have no choice now that cybersecurity has become an integral part of our lives.

That’s why, in October—the month that has been designated “Safety Month” throughout the Netherlands—we’re organizing a number of activities for all residents and business owners in Voorschoten. Through these activities, we’ll show you how to better recognize online criminals and outsmart them.

Starting October 14, you can take the Cybercrime Challenge at home, at school, or at work. This is a half-hour online training course, suitable for both beginners and advanced learners, that covers topics such as phishing (luring you to a fake website) and extortion (online blackmail).

We’re organizing this Challenge in collaboration with all the municipalities in the Leiden region. Would you like to learn more? Visit www.rsiv.nl, the website of the Regional Partnership for Comprehensive Safety. As you’ll see there: we work together to ensure safety!

There are moments when the past and the present come together. One such moment is the celebration of Leidens Ontzet. On October 3, early in the morning, as mayor, I stand on Stadhuisplein in Leiden with many colleagues and residents of Leiden, singing the familiar battle songs. I always take a moment to think back to the years when I stood on that very same square as a student, singing those same songs. For obvious reasons, those memories may not all be equally vivid. But I’m certain it was just as great back then as it is now!

This year, we’re celebrating together in the Leiden region the 450th anniversary of Leiden’s relief. Who doesn’t know the story from 1574! On the night of October 2–3, William of Orange and the Geuzen sailed toward Leiden. After a siege lasting months, the Spanish finally retreated. The starving city—my colleague Pieter van der Werff even offered his own body as food—was liberated. A resident found a pot of stew that had been left behind, and the Geuzen brought herring and white bread. 

It is a story of daring, courage, and tenacity. But it is not just the story of Leiden. It is also the story of the surrounding countryside—and thus, in part, of Voorschoten. Both the Spaniards and the Geuzen marched through our region and used our village as a defensive stronghold. The Spaniards completely demolished houses. The Geuzen burned down farms and churches. And then, to top it all off, there was the water from the breached IJssel River near Capelle. The surrounding countryside was flooded. 

Leiden has been liberated. But here in Voorschoten, not a single house or church remains standing. For years to come, the polders and farmland will yield far too little food. The few residents who survive will likely flee to safer places. How difficult it must have been for our fellow villagers back then.

It’s good that this story is being told, too, and is finding its place in our history. That’s why I think it’s wonderful that so many enthusiastic residents have worked tirelessly on this for months. The result is a beautiful exhibition at Museum Voorschoten, which, for the first time, sheds extensive light on daily life in Voorschoten during the sixteenth century. A farming community with the Dorpskerk, farms, homes, an inn, and even a school. The maps on display clearly show how strategically located Voorschoten was—and how our village served as a stronghold of defensive works and fortifications for both the Spanish and the Geuzen. 

There’s also a bike tour through the entire Leiden region, organized by the 3 October Vereeniging, that takes us past the special sites associated with the Relief of Leiden. In Voorschoten, these include the Dorpskerk, the Ter Wadding fortification, and the Allemansgeest restaurant. What a wonderful way to connect the historical stories—our region’s history—with one another.

In October, there will also be a musical performance: “The Price of Freedom.” The story takes place on the grounds of a farm in Voorschoten. The musical will be performed by about seventy amateur actors from our own village. I’m really looking forward to seeing the musical!

There’s no doubt that herring, hutspot, and white bread will be on the menu during these festivities. Corn wine will also flow freely here and there. 

While preparing for these festivities, I realized once again just how important regional cooperation is—something that was unheard of in 1574. Back then, the city of Leiden and the village of Voorschoten were primarily focused on themselves.

How different things are now. 450 years later, we’re working together to provide quality healthcare. We share knowledge about sustainability and district heating networks. We’re joining forces on traffic and transportation, housing, and public order and safety. Our entrepreneurs connect with one another through Economie071. Only through collaboration can we tackle the major challenges of our time. 

So if the Spanish—or anyone else, for that matter—were to get any more ideas… Fortunately, these days we take a very different approach to that through regional cooperation.

I wish you a wonderful and festive Leidens Ontzet!

The suitcases are unpacked, the washer and dryer have been running nonstop, the stack of books has shrunk considerably, and I’ve listened to many podcasts. As I write this column, the end of my wonderful vacation is truly coming into view. I’m looking forward to getting back to work!

As you know, I regularly visit residents who have reached the age of 100 or older. It always strikes me how spry and lively these centenarians are. Last July, I had the opportunity to visit a very special centenarian: our very own short-track trotter. What a celebration that was! To mark this milestone, the Dutch Championship was held in Voorschoten. We enjoyed an exciting race, and it was truly special that we could celebrate this together. I’m always amazed at how Van Beethovenlaan is transformed into a professional race track.

The kortebaan has a long history dating back to the mid-16th century. These trotting races were held in the streets of municipalities in North and South Holland. It is a unique tradition, and the kortebaan in Voorschoten is now recognized as part of the Netherlands’ intangible cultural heritage.

There are also other voices in society regarding short-track horse racing. Naturally, in close consultation with the applicant, every opportunity has been provided for these views to be expressed. Fortunately, almost everyone in our beautiful village agrees that the right to protest is a valuable asset in our society that we must cherish.

A 100th birthday naturally calls for cake and a special visit. King’s Commissioner Jaap Smit and his wife clearly enjoyed attending the Dutch National Short-Track Trotting Championships. A highlight was the presentation of a royal honor by the Commissioner to Jan Berg, who has volunteered for 50 years, including for the short-track races. It’s incredible—what selfless dedication to the community. Jan, thank you for everything you’ve done! And many thanks also to your family, who have always supported you in this.

Without volunteers, there would be no events. The current board has indicated that, after taking on this demanding task for decades, it is now truly time for a new board to take over. We need help! So please sign up if you want to help ensure the future of the short-track trotting races. You can read all about it at www.voorschotensepaardendagen.nl.

We’ve barely recovered from the party at the end of July, and already we’re getting ready for the next festivities: the Voorschoten Weekend and Open Monument Day. This weekend, we’ll literally showcase just how rich Voorschoten is, with all those organizations and associations that have meant so much to our community for years. And we’ll also have the chance to take a look inside historic buildings that we wouldn’t normally get to visit. The weekend will wrap up with the traditional classic car parade through the village. For me, it’ll be the first time I’ve ever ridden in such a beautiful classic car. I’m really looking forward to it!

The comic books by Uderzo and Goscinny—who didn’t grow up reading them! They’re about the little village in Gaul, from which the comic book heroes Asterix and Obelix fight tooth and nail (and, above all, with plenty of magic potion) against Caesar’s legions. Heroic tales in which we’ve all secretly lost ourselves at one time or another, dreaming of playing the hero in an adventure.

For some of our residents, this heroic role may actually have come true. The plan from a few years ago to build the Rijnland Route above ground through Voorschoten—right through sports fields, businesses, and homes—was, to put it mildly, remarkable. At the time, a few residents stepped up and, through a citizens’ initiative, pulled out all the stops to demonstrate that there was another way—namely, an underground route. These heroes were fully supported by many other heroes who lobbied various government agencies and spoke until they were hoarse. The whole town then drank plenty of magic potion, because we turned out to be invincible!

After seven years of planning, drilling, construction, and testing, it will finally happen early in the morning on July 5. The long-awaited Corbulo Tunnel, which runs beneath Voorschoten, will then open to traffic. That this is happening is thanks to the heroes who joined forces back then and refused to accept the explanations as to why an underground tunnel simply couldn’t be built. Saying they showed “great tenacity” until a plan that worked for Voorschoten was in place doesn’t begin to cover all the effort that went into this. I take a deep bow to these residents and say: thank you for everything you’ve done and meant to all of us. Your dedication will go down in the history books and will certainly not be forgotten in our “Asterix village” of Voorschoten.

Meanwhile, the summer recess is fast approaching. It’s been a long half-year, during which a great deal has happened—wonderful things, but also very sad events that have deeply affected a number of families in our village. A grief that is beyond comprehension and can only be described as inhuman. I was overcome by a feeling of helplessness, because there’s nothing we can do except be there for them. It’s heartwarming to see how, as a community, we’ve rallied around these families, in the hope that everyone involved will find support here. At moments like these, I realize once again just how special Voorschoten is.

I hope to see you all again in September, safe and sound.

Sometimes you have those weeks when you don’t know where the time has gone. I think that’s a good way to describe the past month. These weeks were filled with dignified commemorations and wonderful celebrations. The preparations this year were more intensive than ever. After all, the social consequences of the tensions and polarization in society affect every municipality.

This council cycle was also intense, with many major issues on the agenda, such as future-proof burial practices, sites for (flexible) housing, and the next step toward providing adequate housing for our municipal employees.

Of course, the evaluation of the sales process for the Ambachts- en Baljuwhuis was also on the agenda. It is an important building for our community, with so much history. A building that we all so dearly want to see restored to its former glory. It is incredibly unfortunate that this has not (yet) been achieved. The Citizens & Government Committee discussed this at length and reviewed the situation. I also reported to that committee on my involvement in my role as mayor.

When granting permits and in real estate transactions, we normally conduct a Bibob investigation. This is an investigation in which the government checks the background of the companies and individuals with whom it does business. We also initiated such an investigation in connection with the proposed sale of the Ambachts- en Baljuwhuis. However, due to an error in the sales process that only came to light later, I halted the investigation. At the time, I failed to clearly inform the council about this. I have apologized for that.

I received many different reactions to my apology. Let me be clear. As long as I am privileged to serve in public administration, I will always take responsibility for the matters for which I am accountable. I will always honestly admit my mistakes. After all, public officials are only human and, as such, certainly not infallible.

How wonderful it was this weekend, after such a busy period, to be able to immerse myself for a while in a special Antillean celebration, together with those who hold a place in my heart—those I’m lucky enough to call family. A brief escape from the daily grind—don’t get me wrong, I love my work—and a chance to sing, dance, laugh, enjoy good food, and have wonderful conversations together. The Ponche Kuba (cream liqueur) flowed freely, sometimes mixed with Antillean rum, sometimes on its own.

As you can imagine, the atmosphere got even cozier as the hours went by. At such a special occasion, the bolo pretu (black cake) is a must. If you’re allowed to eat it, you know you’re part of the family. To me, these are the things that really matter in life.

Unsettling. Impressive. Confrontational. Rarely has a TV series gotten under my skin quite like the one about the Jewish Council. Every Sunday evening, I’d sit on the couch, feeling slightly disillusioned. I’d have a knot in my stomach after watching each episode, and yet I didn’t want to miss a single one. I knew about the controversies surrounding this body, but I never realized just how poignant the story is. Nor did I realize that the other side of the story—about how the Jewish Council actually functioned—is unknown to the general public. I didn’t know it either. Until now. 

You were either right or wrong. That’s how we used to look back on the period of World War II in our family. And I think that was the case in many families. The realization that there were shades of gray during that period didn’t surface in society until many years later. The series about the Jewish Council got me thinking. The question that, I think, everyone has after watching the series is: How could the members ever have thought it was possible to collaborate with the occupiers while at the same time protecting their fellow Jews?

I don’t think I can or should pass judgment on those actions and the choices that were made. I don’t have the necessary historical background for that. And I am fortunate enough not to know what it’s like to have to make impossible choices in wartime. That doesn’t mean I don’t feel a knot in my stomach and a range of emotions after watching this series, and that I’m left with so many unanswered questions. Perhaps one of the most unimaginable moments for me is the scene in which someone reports to the Jewish Council to explain what is really happening in Auschwitz. That person is not received or heard, because there is no time. Why, as chairman, would you not want to take in all the information to understand what atrocities are taking place elsewhere? 

As I write this column, we are on the eve of the^79th commemoration of World War II and the celebration of our freedom. We do so against the backdrop of a changing society, growing polarization, and a rise in anti-Semitism. We could never have imagined years ago what happened at the opening of the National Holocaust Museum and during Lenny Kuhr’s performance. These are no longer isolated incidents. We must continue to learn from our history together; the stories must be passed on. Only then can we fulfill the promise we made to one another 79 years ago: never again. 

You’ve probably experienced this yourself: set routines for those moments when you’re looking for a little support and happiness. Back when I still played volleyball, I had a specific order in which I’d put on my sports gear. If I didn’t stick to it, I’d step onto the court feeling different. Nonsense? I don’t know, but it gave me a sense of security, and isn’t that what we’re all looking for, to some extent? Although I have to admit that recently, during a fun and enjoyable visit to our volleyball club, Gemini Kangeroes, I stepped onto the court for just a moment—for the first time in over 18 years. Without any preparation whatsoever. The fact that not everything went smoothly this time certainly wasn’t due to a lack of set routines…

A well-known superstition is that Friday the^13th is considered an unlucky day. Coincidence or not, Friday, March 13, 2020, is a day I will certainly never forget. It was the day after the first major press conference in which measures were announced to stop the spread of the coronavirus—measures that took effect on Friday the^13th. It was the first day of what, as it turned out, would be a long and uncertain period.

Everyone experienced that period differently. I, too, felt uncertainty and worried about my dear, fragile mom. But I also experienced some truly beautiful things happening during that time. It created time and space in my hectic life as a city councilmember. That’s how a close friendship with a very dear friend began—a friendship about which we now say: without the pandemic, we would never have grown so close to each other. Some of you may have seen us sitting at the bar at the Wapen, heard us laughing in my garden, or know us from our visits to City Hall for our booster shots.

Why am I sharing this with you? That dear friend turned out to be quite susceptible to the coronavirus and has had every variant. The sad result is that, to this day, she is one of the tens of thousands who have to cope with the serious consequences of long COVID. Day in and day out. Swimming with the kids, holding down a job, spending an afternoon with her partner at a certain soccer club in Rotterdam—which shall remain unnamed—or having drinks with me on the beach one evening; nothing comes easily to her anymore. Everything is a struggle because of the immense fatigue, pain, memory loss, and lack of stamina.

It’s been exactly four years since we entered that uncertain time together. Today, life is back in full swing, and COVID-19 seems like an eternity ago. For the group of long-COVID patients, however, COVID-19 is still a part of their daily lives. I can only hope that a treatment will soon be available to give these (often young) people their lives back.

Since the House of Representatives elections, I’ve often been asked what I think of the results. I’m very reluctant to answer that question publicly. As mayor, you stand above the political parties and are there for all residents. That conviction is deeply ingrained in me, especially as a person. Judging someone based on, for example, how they voted is simply not in my nature. What matters to me is who a person is.

There have been many conversations at home about these election results. Recently, I was given a clear wake-up call. I’ve come to realize that, precisely because, as mayor, I am here for all residents, I have a responsibility to contribute to mutual understanding—even now. As a result, I’ve decided to say a few words about the election results after all.

Let me be honest: I was anything but surprised by the election results. In recent years, concerns in society have grown steadily. Will my child be able to find an affordable home someday? How can we stop global warming? Can the Netherlands even handle this level of immigration? What will become of our farmers’ future? And so on. Clear answers to these legitimate questions were nowhere to be found. Politicians in The Hague seemed primarily preoccupied with each other, turning a deaf ear and a blind eye to the very people they’re supposed to be serving.

The voters have sent a message that, in my view, cannot be ignored. I am therefore somewhat surprised by the way political parties treat voters whose views do not align with their own. Let me just call out the big—I love pink—elephant in the room. I sincerely wonder why there are political parties that dismiss a group of over 1.5 million PVV voters, while accusing that party of doing the very same thing.

This group of voters also includes some of the people I love most. And no, they are not racists. They are deeply disappointed voters who have their feet firmly on the ground every day. They see and experience things that you and I cannot even imagine. They have watched their neighborhoods change in recent years and have felt for years that their voices aren’t being heard. Above all, they are the ones I love the most. That will never change, no matter what choice they make in the voting booth.

So what’s my advice? Engage in open conversation with one another without jumping to conclusions. Look for what connects us, for the story behind the person. Listen, ask follow-up questions, reflect. Just give it a try. It might just lead to surprising insights and mutual understanding, without you having to agree on the substance of the matter. I know from personal experience how enriching that can be.

And what do I think of the election results? The voters are always right. This time, too.

The Christmas tree has been taken down, the New Year’s gatherings are over, and we’re back in full swing at work. 2024 has begun. And how! We were treated to a day of ice skating at our beautiful rink. Because let’s be honest, our rink really is the most beautiful. The ice was in fantastic condition! The volunteers put in so much work to organize everything, led by the ice master who has been taking care of our Olympic-quality ice for nearly 25 years. I was allowed to step onto the ice first thing in the morning, before the rink opened to the public. What a treat that was. It was an unforgettable moment to stand on the ice at sunrise.

It was also a festive New Year’s Eve in Voorschoten. Despite the inclement weather, there was plenty of merriment in the streets and neighborhoods, with people enjoying oliebollen and toasting the New Year at midnight. Fortunately, there was little damage, less litter on the streets, and the fireworks-free zones were well respected. Still, I feel a knot in my stomach when I read all the reports from many other municipalities about the violence against police officers that night and the serious injuries that resulted from setting off fireworks. Personal tragedies for which there are no words. I wonder when we’ll reach the point where we all say to one another, “Enough is enough.” I’ll be honest with you: I don’t have an answer to this question, but it’s something I keep thinking about.

I just can't get over the fact that a small group of idiots would even think of throwing fireworks at police officers. Let alone fireworks that are so powerful they pose a danger to the officers on the scene. I was there too when I was working the night shift. No, it wasn't exactly pleasant (to put it mildly).

As is traditional, in the first few days of January, all the political parties fall over themselves to express their horror at everything that happened on New Year’s Eve. And then, just as is traditional, silence follows from The Hague. Only to play the same old tune again a year later. And then we all find it strange that the police officers who are on the front lines every day feel abandoned by politicians. As I write this column in the third week of January, all voices from The Hague have already fallen silent once more… When will we reach the breaking point?

I still have butterflies in my stomach, but I'm happy about the wonderful start to the new year in Voorschoten. I wish you all the very best for 2024!

The shopping malls are festively lit with Christmas lights, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” blares from the radio speakers pretty much all day long, and the Christmas tree here at home is once again all decked out with lots of lights. Two Christmas trees, actually! One little Christmas tree is just for my mom, decorated with her Christmas ornaments.

New Year’s Eve is fast approaching. It’s time to look back and reflect. What a year it has been. The train accident that occurred in the early morning of April 4 is an event none of us will ever forget. The local residents who were ready in the middle of the night to take in the injured and shaken train passengers. And the emergency services that came from all corners of the region, the province, and the country to provide textbook-perfect assistance. How remarkable this is.

I look back fondly on the special and wonderful encounters I’ve been fortunate enough to have. With one of the veterans who, during the Veterans’ Gathering, held up a mirror to me regarding a column I wrote earlier this year. A visit from the kids at an after-school program who asked me all sorts of questions. The conversation at the market (the day after the Hamas attack) with a resident of Voorschoten of Jewish descent. She told me her story and shared her feelings. The students participating in Democracity. For one day, they get to decide what’s important for Voorschoten. The impressive Eucharistic celebration at the Laurentius Church for residents from Ukraine. The pleasant conversations I have with the members of the polling stations who are “just” back at their posts for the March and November elections. And the special election night in November, when a small group of us at City Hall experienced unforgettable and hilarious moments. There are many more moments and conversations like these that have shaped the year for me.

While writing this column, I received the sad news that one of my mother’s very best friends has passed away. Right up until the moment my mother passed away, they had shared nearly 50 years of joy and sorrow together. As her daughter told me, the friends are together again. And we both burst out laughing, because we know our mothers love a good party! Just imagine how much fun it must be there now. I therefore dedicate this column to Aunt Willy, as a thank you for everything she has done and meant to me. I’m heading into the holidays with warm memories of Aunt Willy.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas, a wonderful New Year's Eve, and a healthy 2024!

Listening to podcasts, following TV and radio debates, reading newspaper apps, watching current affairs programs, browsing social media, and so on. No poll escapes my attention. For a news junkie like me, these are golden times. I’m talking, of course, about the November 22 House of Representatives elections. I’m writing this column on the morning of Saturday, November 18, with the election still ahead of us. Sitting at my kitchen table, laptop by my side, with a latte macchiato. The World Cup speed skating broadcast is playing in the background, and the rain is once again pouring down in buckets. I find myself wondering if it’s ever going to dry up this fall…

This morning feels to me like the proverbial calm before the storm—in this case, before the upcoming election week. The team within the organization responsible for preparing the elections has once again worked so hard over the past few months. Preparations began the moment the cabinet fell. With the summer vacation in between, there’s very little time to organize another election. I’m confident it will all work out! That’s thanks to the dedication of many volunteers from our village who will staff the polling stations, as well as nearly the entire municipal administration, which will be deployed to count all the votes. The council and committee members, aldermen, and the municipal clerk are also pitching in.

If these elections have one advantage, it’s that they feel like we’re all taking part in a big team-building event together. Although I’m really fed up that these early elections are necessary. We have too many major issues in this country that can’t wait for a solution: the housing shortage, the affordability of healthcare, and so on. We simply cannot afford not to have a stable cabinet that tackles these issues and actually reaches decisions. In my view, the time for talking and striking impractical and unworkable compromises is truly over.

I told you earlier that my close-knit group of friends is just like society at large. We recently discovered that there are also undecided voters within this group. As you can imagine, the non-undecided members are really stepping up the pressure to convince the undecided to vote for the party they think is best. On Tuesday evening, we’re all going to watch the final debate together. It’s sure to be another hilarious evening full of humor. It’s also the last chance to place our final bets for our election pool. This year, we’re not just betting on how many seats we think each party will win. We’re also betting on how many preferential votes a very dear friend of ours will receive. We’d love for him to land his dream job as a member of the House of Representatives! No matter how different our political views may be, our friendship always comes first.

I enjoy writing these columns every month. First and foremost, because I really love writing. Also, because it’s a great way to give you a glimpse into what I do in this special role, what I experience, and what’s on my mind. That’s why my group of friends and my family often make an appearance in these columns—because they’re the most important people in my life.

Last week, a friend jokingly asked what story I was going to tell this time and whether they’d still be able to show their faces in Voorschoten after everything I’ve written about them. I answered honestly that, for the first time, I was actually a little reluctant to write the column. Because I feel that this month’s column should be about the war in the Gaza Strip. About how I, like anyone with a conscience, watched the images of Hamas’s terrorist attack with horror. About the fear among our Jewish residents. And about the growing polarization caused by this war.

But how am I going to do that? How can I write about a conflict that has been going on for more than 100 years and escalated definitively over 70 years ago—a conflict that is so deeply rooted among Israelis and Palestinians and has so many layers? About all the innocent civilian casualties that have occurred over all those years. Even during those moments when the media paid no attention to them. And I haven’t even mentioned the positions that other countries in the Middle East are currently taking, which doesn’t make the situation any clearer. How can I write about this and do justice to everyone who never wanted this war, regardless of their background? I honestly have no idea. The situation in the Gaza Strip is simply too complicated for that.

The emotions this war is stirring up are unprecedented. And that’s understandable. Jewish residents of our community are deeply concerned about the safety of their family and friends in Israel, but also about their own safety here in our country. The same is true for Palestinian residents. The fear of what lies ahead is making everyone very anxious.

What can I say about this? What can I do? Perhaps I can help just a little by sharing my thoughts with you. As mayor, I will always remain committed to the safety of all residents. Staying in dialogue and making peace sooner rather than later is the only solution. Based on that conviction—and to honor together the innocent victims of all this violence—we have raised the peace flag at City Hall.

“Look, Nadine, do you see those two men walking over there? Thanks in part to them, you have the freedom to believe what you believe and to be who you are.” I was about 15 years old, and on a very hot day during summer vacation, I was walking with my father through the American cemetery in Margraten when he said these words to me. These men were American veterans who were part of the large group of soldiers who landed in Europe on D-Day. I have never forgotten their story or my father’s words, and as I’ve grown older, they’ve taken on ever greater meaning and value for me.

We must not forget that for many years now, there have been men and women willing to fight day in and day out for our freedom and that of others. The many (peacekeeping) missions carried out in recent years are proof of that. The Netherlands has well over 100,000 veterans, a quarter of whom are still employed by the Ministry of Defense.

Just over 100 veterans live in Voorschoten—young and old, each with their own stories and memories. At the recent local Veterans’ Day event, I realized how important it is for veterans to come together to share their stories. They have seen and experienced things that are beyond our comprehension. This was evident in the talk given this year at the Veterans’ Gathering by First Lieutenant Maaike Hoogewoning. She served twice as a surgical assistant at a military hospital in Afghanistan: “Losing three young colleagues in a single day. That was the moment my proverbial cup ran over.” It was a feeling all the veterans present could relate to. The emotions were palpable.

Veterans Day is full of traditions and symbols, such as wearing the White Carnation and sharing the so-called “blue snack.” In Voorschoten, we’ll be starting a new tradition next year: a White Carnation bed will be planted near our War Memorial. It will bloom in the days and weeks leading up to National Veterans Day in June. This is a new step we can take to make our recognition and appreciation for our veterans more visible.

The ordinary man or woman you might encounter on the street doesn’t wear a uniform, medals, or insignia. But it is precisely that seemingly ordinary man or woman who, last week, last year, ten years ago, or a generation ago, was willing to sacrifice themselves for complete strangers, like me. No matter how different their pasts and stories may be, veterans have one special thing in common: they are ordinary people who have done extraordinary things.

“The first thing I saw when I arrived at the coast was the sea, with a slave ship anchored there, waiting to be loaded. This filled me with astonishment, which soon turned to horror when I was taken on board. I was immediately grabbed by a couple of crew members and shaken back and forth to see if I was healthy, and I was convinced that I had ended up in a world of evil spirits who would kill me.” So said Olaudah Equiano.

Few enslaved people were able to tell their own stories about what it was like to make the crossing aboard a slave ship and be sold as merchandise. But Olaudah did. In 1756, at the age of eleven, he sailed as an enslaved person on a slave ship from Nigeria to North America. Ten years later, he was able to buy his freedom, after which he dedicated his life to the fight against slavery. He wrote down his experiences as an enslaved person.

Reading passages from his book gives me goosebumps. The suffering inflicted over the course of 200 years is beyond comprehension. What baffles me more and more every day is the long silence surrounding this period of our history. In school, the history of slavery was nothing more than a footnote in the history books. As if it had nothing to do with us. In contrast, our VOC mentality was always touted as something we should be proud of. It has long been said that slavery is a sensitive topic. How can a topic be sensitive if everyone agrees that slavery is an evil that must be eradicated? How is it possible that on May 4 we tell each other that we must learn from the past and ensure that this never happens again, yet we don’t say this to one another on July 1? The more I read about our history of slavery and speak with descendants, the more questions I have. The more I wonder just how deaf and blind we must have been at the same time by systematically ignoring this part of our history.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery. Commemorations and celebrations are being held in an increasing number of municipalities. Starting next year, Keti Koti (Broken Chains) will also take place in Voorschoten. We can only look toward our shared future if we also commemorate our past together. It is a past for which I feel a deep sense of shame, but those stories must also be told and are part of our history. That acknowledgment can only make us stronger as a society.

In our lovely little country, we’ve designated almost every day of the year as a National … Day. Well-known examples, of course, include Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Outdoor Play Day, and so on. Then there are the days that, to me at least, seem a bit outlandish, such as Watermelon Day, Ice Cream for Breakfast Day, Naked Gardening Day, and World Hug Day. I hope I don’t offend anyone when I honestly say that when I read this, I had a hard time holding back my laughter. I’ve wondered how people come up with these ideas and who decides which dates they should fall on. Although I can imagine that, for obvious reasons, Naked Gardening Day probably falls in the summer.

But there are also days set aside to draw extra attention to serious and important issues, such as ALS, cancer, or asthma. On those days, the focus is on raising awareness that funding is still needed for things like research into medications and new treatments.

There’s one day I’d like to highlight today, and that’s National Volunteer Day. It’s on December 7, but in my opinion, every day is Volunteer Day. Because where would we be in our society without volunteers? I think I know the answer, and that is: absolutely nowhere. Many, many people have been dedicating themselves to helping others for years. I’m thinking of the informal caregivers who are ready day and night to step in where professional care falls short due to a lack of staff. Or all the volunteers at sports and cultural organizations and Scouting clubs who are always ready to roll up their sleeves. No request is too much. Think also of the social welfare and senior citizen organizations that are indispensable in a municipality where life is apparently so pleasant and good that we’re one of the municipalities with the highest proportion of retirees in the country. Then there are the volunteers who, year after year, organize wonderful festivals and events in our village, from King’s Day and the Voorschoten Weekend to the Horse Days and Open Monument Day. And finally, let’s not forget the volunteers with the fire department. I hope I’ve done justice to everyone who is so dedicated to Voorschoten.

We should never take volunteers for granted. They are dedicated—and often modest—residents who sacrifice a great deal for themselves because they want to do so much for others. It is also thanks to the support of their families that these residents are able to accomplish so much.

Invisible forces, yet indispensable. That’s why I’d like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who dedicate themselves to the community of Voorschoten day in and day out. Without you, our village would be a lot less fun.

Time really does fly when you’re having fun! On May 17, it had already been two years since I had the honor of becoming your mayor. How different society was during my inauguration. COVID-19 restrictions were still in full force, so I was sworn in outdoors in a tent at Duivenvoorde Castle in the presence of a small group. Fortunately, the video wall set up there provided a solution, allowing many people to still watch the event live. Once the livestream ended, those in attendance had congratulated me from a distance and gone home, and I was left behind with a small group of friends. We sat in the castle and looked at one another. It was a special and emotional moment, because suddenly we realized that it had all really happened. The excitement had subsided, and I could finally get to work for Voorschoten!

People often ask me what I think of being mayor. I can only say that I’m really enjoying it—both the work and living in Voorschoten. Every day on the job is different. Just when I think I know what my day will look like, things turn out differently. It’s just as my highly esteemed colleague from Alphen aan den Rijn, Liesbeth Spies, recently put it so aptly: mayors have become a sort of Swiss Army knife.

Mayors are expected to be close to their residents while also remaining above party politics. We must be unifiers, able to bridge differences, but logically, we’re also expected to make firm decisions regarding public order and safety. But when those firm decisions directly affect residents, we suddenly find it very difficult. A mayor as a crime fighter? Our toolkit for public order and safety is already quite well-stocked. Where do we draw the line? And how does that relate to the traditional role of mayors—namely, serving as a mother or father figure to residents? They are there in good times, but also in difficult times when a comforting arm around the shoulder is needed. I think that the ability to walk a tightrope is perhaps the most essential skill for a mayor during this fascinating and turbulent period in our society.

To this day, I am grateful that the city council gave me this opportunity. Making a difference in someone’s life is the reason I entered public service in the first place. As mayor, I strive to put this into practice every day. And I’m more than happy to be your go-to person for anything and everything!

It’s Tuesday night, April 4, and I glance at my alarm clock. It’s almost a quarter to four, and I can’t quite figure out what woke me up. Then, a few minutes later, at 3:48 a.m., my phone rings. Hans Zuidijk, General Director/Regional Commander of the Hollands Midden Safety Region, calls: “A major train accident at Voorschoten station involving a freight train and a passenger train. The situation is still unclear, with many injured and possibly worse.” Reports and information come in rapidly over the next few minutes and hours. From that moment on, the phone doesn’t stop ringing.

Shortly after 4:00 p.m., it became clear that the incident was so serious that I had to decide to escalate it to a GRIP 3 situation. That meant the mayor would take charge. So I took a shower, packed my things, and headed to City Hall that night, where the ushers had already prepared coffee for me. Emergency services rushed to city hall, as did the communications team, the security advisor, and others, to enable me to make the necessary decisions. Meanwhile, at the scene of the incident, nearly 200 police officers and firefighters were hard at work, and ambulances were coming and going. The crisis response team was rock-solid, and I take my hat off to all the emergency services. 

The immediate neighbors opened their doors to help take in and care for those with minor injuries, make a cup of coffee or tea, listen to the shaken victims, and offer them a comforting embrace. We consider this normal in Voorschoten, but what happened here is truly extraordinary. 

A little after six that evening, I drive home to grab a bite to eat. I sit on my couch and try to make sense of everything that has actually happened. My thoughts go out to the victims and their loved ones—family and friends—for whom this day is pitch black. 

Then my doorbell rings. My neighbor Liesbeth is at the door with a plate of food. For a moment, I don’t know what to say. This is so incredibly sweet. After I close the door, I break down for just a moment. 

That Tuesday was followed by many long days filled with harrowing accounts from emergency responders. Our team of employees worked around the clock, in close collaboration with ProRail, NS, BAM, and Mammoet, to remove the train cars from the tracks and the field and to ensure effective communication. We’re proud of this team.

As I write this column, it is now Friday, April 14—eleven days after the serious train accident. The train cars have been removed, and the thank-you gathering for the emergency services has taken place. 

Words cannot express how much I appreciate everyone’s dedication to Voorschoten.

Wednesday, March 15, was another election day. This time, we got to vote for the Provincial Council and the Rijnland Water Board. I don’t think I’m saying anything out of the ordinary when I note that these elections usually don’t attract much attention. How different it was this time. The elections had us all talking—each for our own reasons. And history was made! Never before has a single party emerged as the largest in every province. My respect and admiration go out to the BoerBurgerBeweging for achieving this result. 

The fact that we all felt there was a real choice to be made was also clearly evident at the polling places in Voorschoten. The polling stations were busy all day long, and there were regularly lines of voters waiting to cast their ballots. With a voter turnout of nearly 69%, we did very well!

Thanks to the efforts of many people, the elections went very smoothly. On Election Day, 138 volunteers staffed the 15 polling places from 7:30 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Immediately afterward, everyone was back on hand to work with the team of additional vote counters to tally all the votes cast in both elections until the early hours of the morning.

The Elections team worked around the clock in the days leading up to and following March 15 to enter all the results into the national system. And it paid off! Just how great was it to see Voorschoten appear as the second municipality in South Holland in the preliminary final results of the Provincial Council elections during the NL Kiest television broadcast?

That night was literally a race against the clock. Now that we can catch our breath for a moment and look back, there’s one thing I just have to get off my chest. How is it possible that, in 2023, we’re still (or rather, once again) voting with red pencils? The process of counting votes and entering all the data has become so complicated and time-consuming that we can hardly ask volunteers to be available late into the night anymore.

In Voorschoten, we were able to pack up our things around 3:30 that night. I was in bed a little after 4:00. A friend texted me to ask how things were going in Voorschoten with the “celebration of democracy.” I texted back that, despite my concerns about the process, I had once again thoroughly enjoyed Election Day—but that it was really time for me to go to sleep.

Thank you to all the volunteers for your incredible dedication!

My group of friends is quite diverse: in terms of work, education, family structure, income, personal views, political leanings (from left to right and everything in between), and beliefs. The vast majority do not work in public administration and have their own opinions about what “The Hague” does. In short: we are a cross-section of society. 

Last week we had one of those friends’ nights. We call and text each other to grab a cup of coffee, and everyone drags themselves off the couch (with or without protest) or comes straight over from work. So there we are, one in orange sweatpants and Uggs, another dressed as if she’d just come from a gala, in her work uniform, or in an indefinable combination of clothes that suggests she was already in bed. 

These unplanned evenings are the most enjoyable. They’re also the evenings when we don’t shy away from current events. Our discussions always get pretty heated. Sometimes, “in the heat of the moment,” someone might resort to name-calling, but in the end, we always respect each other’s different perspectives on society. That’s what makes us so close-knit.

That evening, the focusis onthe Extinction Rebelliondemonstration on the A12. Our opinions are diametrically opposed. Do concerns about the climate justify this kind of action, versus: is everything justified in the name of concern for our planet? How far can a group go to express its opinion? Are you staging a demonstration, or is the action aimed at disrupting society? When can an action still be considered playful, and when does it constitute civil disobedience—and when are the boundaries of the rule of law being knowingly and willfully pushed?

No matter how differently we may feel about this, there are a few points on which we are in complete agreement. For example, that—fortunately—all groups in our country have ample opportunity to make their voices heard, no matter the topic. Or that a demonstration must never be, or become, a license to commit criminal offenses. Whatever your opinion may be at that moment, demonstrators must follow the instructions of the police and riot police. They are acting on the mayor’s orders to maintain order. Finally, we agree that, in our democratic constitutional state, it is ultimately always the independent judge who has the final say. That must not be compromised.

It was a lovely evening. It gave us all something to think about. 

For those who really want to know… That night, I was the one wearing orange sweatpants, Uggs, and my (to some, all-too-familiar) black hoodie. 

New Year’s has come and gone, the Christmas trees have been taken down, the girls in my neighborhood helped with the Christmas tree collection, and all the New Year’s parties are over. In other words: life is back to normal. After the busy month of December, I’m always happy to get back to a routine and a sense of structure. 

We got off to a great start to the year in Voorschoten with a festive New Year’s celebration. Together with family, friends, and neighbors, we raised a toast to a wonderful, healthy, and hopeful 2023. No one knows what the new year will bring, but as Claudia de Breij said in her poignant New Year’s Eve comedy special: “Things won’t just get better on their own—we’re going to make them better.” And that’s exactly right! 

There were few calls to emergency services on New Year’s Eve, and fortunately, little damage as well. The top members of the Field Service were back on the job on January 1 to clean up all the leftover debris from the fireworks on the streets of our village. 

That night, the firefighting heroes were also on standby. What not everyone knows is that our firefighters are volunteers. They balance this with jobs as, for example, teachers, IT professionals, or executives. With 23 volunteers and 4 firefighters in training, we have a top-notch team that’s ready to help us 24/7. Whether it’s a fire, a cat stuck in a tree, a carbon monoxide alert, flooding, a lockout, rescuing a patient from their home, a person in the water, storm damage, and so on—our fire department is there. And how! The average response time for a Priority 1 call (i.e., highly urgent) in 2022 was 03:26 minutes. That’s even faster than the previous year. Moreover, our operations aren’t limited to our municipality. Our fire department also regularly responds to calls in neighboring municipalities. 

The impact on their personal lives is significant. When I attended a training session one evening, one of the firefighters told me that when he and his partner go grocery shopping in town or out to eat, for example, he always brings his bike along and keeps it within reach. Because you can be paged at any moment, and then you have to get to the fire station as quickly as possible. I think we can all imagine that their partners aren’t always thrilled about that. It really brought home to me just how committed our fellow villagers (because that’s what these volunteer firefighters are) are to our safety. They are an anchor in our community. That’s why it’s incredibly important to always have a steady stream of new volunteers. If you’re interested, don’t hesitate to call or email the fire department for more information. 

At the end of the day, we all have a bit of a soft spot for Voorschoten.

One Wednesday afternoon in November, I walk into the Zij aan Zij studio on De Schoolstraat unannounced. I’ve set aside half an hour in my schedule to take a look at the Christmas gifts being made there. It’s a surprise for the city council—they’ll receive these at the next council meeting. Upon entering, I’m recognized by one of the volunteers. She also helped us count the votes during the municipal elections.

Everyone is telling me what they’re working on. There are a few great tasks! Packing pepernoten into bags, printing on the pepernot bags, and making sure everything goes into the right bags. Meanwhile, I get to see the 37 crocheted little Santas and Mrs. Clauses they made for the city council. I’m speechless, and I feel tears welling up in my eyes. I didn’t expect this. It looks incredibly cute, and I can feel the love that went into making this Christmas gift. The little Santas and Mrs. Clauses are perched on very familiar jam jars. They tell me at length that a lot of jam has been eaten!

I’m about to leave, because my schedule is packed with appointments and I’m actually already late. Then suddenly I hear my name. Another star employee asks if I’d help her transfer the bags of peppernuts from one bag to another. At that moment, I think of my parents and what they’ve taught me. I put my bag back on the floor and text my administrative assistant to let her know I have more important things to do that afternoon and that my schedule needs to be cleared. For the next hour and a half, I sit comfortably at the table with that top performer, helping her out.

After finishing up the pepernoten, I bike home, feeling satisfied. It’s a cloudy, gray, chilly afternoon. My thoughts drift to Christmas, which will be different for me this year than in other years. I’m with my (you know them by now) group of friends who have been there for me nonstop over the past year. This is my family, and I’m deeply grateful for that.

When I get home, I’ll grab my calendar and set aside a day in December to put up the Christmas tree. For 44 years, I’ve always done that together with my mother. I promised my mother that I’d put up a little Christmas tree in the sunroom just for her, decorated with her Christmas ornaments. One thing is certain: there will be lots and lots of lights on the Christmas trees. Each light represents all the special moments and warm memories.

I wish you and all the wonderful people around you a very merry and joyful Christmas!

Democracy—it seems so self-evident. The reality is different. Every day we see political parties and movements undermining democracy from their seats by failing to comply with—and/or flouting—the rules we’ve agreed upon together (in a democracy!). I find that astonishing in and of itself, because it’s that very same democracy that has ensured those very people can sit in those seats.

What’s going on in our little country? We are (or rather, were) known as the country where all political parties tried to work things out together. Constantly seeking consensus, the middle ground. Respecting and understanding each other’s viewpoints and looking for common ground. Give and take. Allowing each other to save face. Not governing based solely on having a majority, but also keeping in mind the interests represented by the minority—which are certainly no less important or significant. That’s not horse-trading or renouncing your own political views. It’s the realization that we’re all responsible for one another, but we also desperately need each other to ensure good public governance.

I hear our democracy crying out for protection. But the answers and the necessary action are not coming. Instead, politicians are preoccupied with themselves. Preoccupied with figuring out how to score political points as quickly as possible. Preoccupied with taking colleagues to task and tearing them down during meetings. Preoccupied with devising actions that undermine our democracy, because the rules of the game suddenly no longer suit them.

I’ve been biking home from town hall meetings for quite a few years now (over 20 years). Sometimes alone, sometimes in good company with colleagues. The bike ride always does me good. The silence of the evening (and sometimes the early hours of the night) gives me the mental space to ask myself whether, during the meeting, I did the things that benefit residents, associations, and organizations. And another important thing for me: can I explain it when I get home? Through trial and error, I’ve learned one thing: the rules of democracy must never be compromised. It’s precisely when things get tough that we need to be able to fall back on them.

The demos (the people) krateo (rule/govern). Residents have elected representatives to advocate for their interests. That is the finest and highest office there is: serving as a representative of the people. It also comes with the responsibility that, as a representative of the people, you must always be mindful of why you are in that position: on behalf of and for the residents.

The leaves on the trees are changing color, raincoats have already been getting plenty of use, temperatures are dropping, peppernuts are back on store shelves, and winter clothes are being pulled out. Everything points to the fact that fall has arrived and winter is approaching. Normally, I—perhaps just like you—look forward to these seasons. The (Christmas) lights and candles always make the house feel extra cozy on those long evenings.

This year feels different. We’re living in a time of great uncertainty that’s hitting us very hard in many ways. The nitrogen crisis, the asylum reception crisis, the war in Ukraine, the fallout from the benefits scandal, sky-high inflation, groceries becoming unaffordable, period poverty, and energy poverty are affecting us in ways we never thought possible. These crises are unfolding in rapid succession, yet there are insufficient responses from The Hague to these major issues.

I share the sense of helplessness that you undoubtedly feel. If only, as your mayor, I could tackle and solve these problems. I’ve recently come to realize that, as a (local) government, we need to return to our roots—the very purpose for which we were founded: to be there for those who need help in life and to ensure that every household’s basic needs, such as healthcare and energy, are met. Focusing on substance rather than processes, bridging divides in society, and, as a government, working to build connections—that should be our task. The Netherlands is not a for-profit company that should be run like a corporation. And when the “profit” falls short, the bill is passed on to those we’re here to serve as a government—namely, the residents,

I simply cannot fathom that, in 2022, we accept that children go to school without breakfast, walk around in worn-out shoes, have empty lunchboxes at school, that young girls stay home from school during their periods because their families cannot afford sanitary pads, and that they can no longer shower every day.

The answers to these questions are still pending, but as a community in Voorschoten, there is a great deal we can do for and with one another. I saw and felt that during the COVID-19 crisis. Ask your neighbors, acquaintances, family, friends, and other parents in the schoolyard how they’re doing and if they might need any help. Let’s start looking out for one another a little more again. 

Poverty is among us; it’s closer than we all realize, and it can happen to any of us. Together, we can ensure that this fall and winter aren’t too bleak, but—despite all the great uncertainties—feel warm.

“The government either has integrity or it doesn’t. There’s no such thing as ‘a little’ integrity. And the integrity of the government is the very foundation of governance; any erosion of the government’s integrity means nothing less than the government losing the trust of its citizens. And without that trust from the citizens, democracy doesn’t work. Then there is no longer any democracy. That is a distressing prospect.” These were the closing remarks of then-Minister of the Interior Ien Dales from her speech to the Association of Dutch Municipalities in June 1992.

This speech brought the topic of integrity to the forefront, and it has become an indispensable part of any discussion about the functioning of and within public administration. September 28–29 marks Integrity Night and Day. On this day, we in Voorschoten—as the City Council and the Executive Board—will also be addressing this theme. What are the dilemmas local politicians face? How do we deal with potential conflicts of interest? How do emotions influence our ability to weigh options? How can we recognize blind spots? These are just a few of the questions we need to discuss together. This is precisely to ensure that decision-making continues to take place in a transparent and ethical manner, with the public interest as the starting point. Only then will residents’ trust in the government be restored.

Working in public administration means that your actions—not only in a professional capacity but also in your private life—are under a microscope. A recent example is the Finnish prime minister, whose footage was leaked showing her dancing and singing at a private party. Let me be honest: this could have happened to me, too. Whenever I have a private party, I hand over my duties to the deputy mayor and make sure that my work doesn’t suffer as a result. Is singing and dancing inappropriate behavior for public officials? Does it say something about our integrity? That’s also a good topic to discuss together.

The standards and values that a changing society uses to determine whether something is done with integrity or not are dynamic. Together, we must regard the focus on integrity in local government as logical and self-evident. It is not about passing judgment or condemning others. Rather, it is about working together to create an open dialogue about the dilemmas we encounter, recognizing warning signs, remaining open to them, and making room to learn from mistakes. Integrity is not personal; it is about the integrity of one’s actions. Making mistakes is human, and often happens unconsciously. Politicians, just like you, are sometimes just ordinary people.

In early July, my creative, tough, and indomitable mom tied the knot. My parents are together again. For both of them, this marriage was a second chance, and they seized it with both hands. I am deeply grateful that I was able to witness this and share my life with them.

My mom was just a tough woman. She wasn’t afraid at all to hop into a hot air balloon or a glider. She was always up to something. I can still picture her in a pleated skirt and high heels, walking across the meadow near the Lieftocht farm (where she was born) in Geiseln to help a sheep give birth. My father and I are getting older, but we’re leaving behind a legacy full of joy.

Her creativity knew no bounds. She was a master at sewing and knitting. Later, she joined a professional tapestry club that organized exhibitions known throughout the region. Making balls, decorating dolls, flower arranging, jewelry making, card making, and so much more. Give Mom some scissors, felt, fabric, and paper, and something beautiful would come out of it! As a hairdresser, she could really let her creativity run wild, and I’m really going to miss her cooking skills, too.

She was incredibly proud when she became a council member and, last year, was elected mayor. We still say to each other, “Let’s keep doing this together.”

Unfortunately, I’ve been missing my dad for quite a few years now. He was a kind and honest man who was always there for everyone. Above all, he was a police officer through and through. His blue heart lives on in me, too. We traveled all over the country together to watch the Dutch men’s volleyball team play. Every vacation, we had fun and

Special things. Like trips to museums—Margraten and Wenters were, of course, always on the list. Unforgettable conversations on the train and in the car. Hours spent playing cards, during which we got creative with the rules.

Thanks to my father’s tremendous help, I was able to finish high school and later college. We did it together. My father was so proud when I followed in his footsteps and joined the city council.

Having Oppa and Omma was the best thing that ever happened to my parents. The role they played in their lives was written in the stars.

I saw my parents sitting there together somewhere up there, laughing with all the other living people who are already there. My father with a beer and a cigar and his dry sense of humor. My mother with a glass of red wine, her ever-present cigarettes, and her characteristic hearty and infectious laugh. That last trait must have been passed down genetically.

Not a single day goes by that I don’t think about my parents and miss them terribly. My parents have given me such beautiful and cherished memories that I will carry with me in my heart forever. They will never be forgotten. That’s why these two living treasures are so important in the lives of so many people.

The sun is shining, summer is on its way, and community life is buzzing again! We’re all enjoying lots of activities and celebrations together. It’s fantastic to see that the Four-Day Evening Walk could finally be held again. The kids’ enthusiasm was contagious. For many, it was probably also a chance to reconnect with each other. That evening, I unexpectedly ran into a former classmate from Leiden who recently moved to Voorschoten as well. We’ll definitely catch up soon!

Under the warm summer sun, the Fire Department held its Corps Evening with their families. It was wonderful to feel their dedication and hear their stories. These are the men and women who are there for us 24/7—whether it’s a fire, a storm, a CPR situation, or, for example, when a cat needs to be rescued from a tree. Nothing is too much for them. That also means a lot to those back home. I’m incredibly proud of our Fire Department!

At the Beats and Bites festival, we enjoyed music, food, good company, and toasting. Together, we made it a wonderful weekend. The Reindeer Run is coming up soon, too! That’s right—Santa has called on his summer reindeer to make up for the December edition. Of course, the town hall is on the flight path for this edition as well. And well, every now and then, parties get canceled unexpectedly… #RollingStones #let’snotgetintoit

Meanwhile, preparations for the Horse Days are in full swing. We’re looking forward to the festival that has united Voorschoten for centuries and for which many people even put their vacations on hold.

Summer vacation is just around the corner. We’ve already had a taste of summer weather. For all of us, this is the familiar final stretch. The staff at the Civil Affairs Department are pulling out all the stops to ensure that everyone who needs a valid travel document before vacation can get one. An extra service window will be opened, and hours will be extended. However, we also need your help! Don’t wait too long to apply—make an appointment right away! For the City Council, the final full council meetings—including the discussion of the Framework Memorandum—are on the agenda. And the political parties involved in the coalition-building process are working hard to reach an agreement with one another.

I’m looking forward to the vacation, too. It’s been a busy first half of the year with a lot going on. For me, vacation means being where my loved ones are. And of course, I can’t go without my stack of books!

I wish you a pleasant and peaceful summer.

After two years, we were finally able to celebrate King’s Day as usual again. The festivities began the day before, when I had the honor of presenting six residents with Royal Decorations as a token of gratitude for their many years of volunteer service to the community. The presentation of the decorations gave way to a good-old-fashioned, festive King’s Day with the children’s flea market, the parade, the fair, and the many other activities that took place that day. In the evening, there was a big party on Voorstraat, featuring three stages. What a fantastic “Orange” atmosphere there was all day long! Many thanks to the Orange Association, local businesses, the police, special enforcement officers, and all the celebrating residents who contributed to this!

Many of you attended the Remembrance Day ceremony on May 4, where we reflected together on the fact that freedom and solidarity cannot be taken for granted. I shared the personal story of my grandfather and the war-related trauma he carried with him until the very end—a burden that affected the people he loved most in life: my grandmother and his three sons. I am now realizing more and more that war always leaves a mark on a person and that this is passed down from generation to generation.

With a new war in Europe, we realize once again how fortunate we are to be able to live in a free and safe country. Zlata and Emilia fled Ukraine with their mother and are staying temporarily in Voorschoten. Zlata has beautifully captured the connection between Voorschoten and Ukraine in a painting. It was a moving moment when these two girls laid a floral arrangement in the colors of the Ukrainian flag at the war memorial during the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Let’s cherish our freedom by continuing to commemorate it every year, continuing to share these stories, and celebrating our freedom.

In the meantime, the shelter for Ukrainian refugees at City Hall has opened. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of the community and the municipal administration, we are able to offer these refugees a temporary safe home. In addition, for weeks now, private households have been taking in Ukrainian refugees into their own homes, entirely without seeking anything in return. This also applies to the sisters at Huize Bijdorp, who were ready to help when we asked them for assistance. What a sense of solidarity there is in the community of Voorschoten that we are doing this together.

The year during which I had the privilege of serving as your mayor has flown by. I look back on a truly wonderful year! Thank you for making this year unforgettable for me. Many thanks also to the loved ones in my personal life who always support me. They are (mostly) invisible to you, but to me they are the most important thing in my life, day in and day out.

“Mess, mess, everything’s gone—we haven’t cleaned up in a while…” For those who don’t recognize this, it’s from the Bert & Ernie Christmas record. It’s a good description of the situation I’m in right now. With my laptop on the kitchen table—which is no longer visible because of all the clutter—moving boxes literally piled up all around me, and movers who are currently loading all my household goods into the moving truck. One of my very best friends just called me and wondered if she could still reach me these days; my friends have put together a schedule of who can come by when over the next few days to help with cleaning and unpacking boxes. And the guys are being rounded up to hang light fixtures and such. Because, well, some things really are men’s work…. In short, anyone who’s ever moved knows I’m in the middle of a minor nightmare. “Let It Go” by Elsa from *Frozen* is my motto these days, and I’ve been playing it nonstop on Spotify. There have also been plenty of hilarious moments over the past few weeks. Like spending half a day picking out flooring, only to find out two weeks ago that it couldn’t be delivered. I ended up picking out the new flooring in two minutes.

Without the help of so many people, I could never have pulled this off. Words cannot express my gratitude to everyone for their dedication and integrity from the very start of my search for a home, for their help in the months that followed, for their efforts in selling my house in Voorburg, and to the contractor who worked his tail off for weeks on end to make my home absolutely beautiful. And then there are all the lovely people around me who have put up with my increasingly eccentric moods over the past few weeks and were there for me—no matter what. I am so blessed to have these sweethearts in my life. 

As I publish this column, I’m happily settled into my new little home, and I’m really looking forward to it. It’ll be great to bike to work and into downtown to run errands. King’s Day is in two weeks. After two years, we can finally celebrate it together again. Let’s make it a wonderful celebration! On May 4 and 5, we commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and celebrate that we’ve been able to live in freedom for 77 years. With a war situation so close by, I realize once again just how special freedom is and how important it is to reflect on this.

As I write this column, I have just announced, in my capacity as chair of the Central Election Commission, the official results of the municipal elections held on March 16, 2022. These elections went incredibly smoothly from an organizational standpoint. My sincere thanks go to all the volunteers at the polling stations, the vote counters who got right to work after the polls closed, and the election team that was on standby that evening (and night!) to enter the results. Thanks to them, I was able to announce the provisional final results on election night—just two hours after the polls closed—including the voter turnout and the provisional seat allocation. 

With a voter turnout of 59.9%, voters in Voorschoten turned out to the polls at a rate well above the national average. It is clear, however, that we in the Netherlands face a common challenge: “How can we restore trust in politics? How are we going to work together to ensure that voters feel their vote matters?” I don’t have the answers yet, but I am committed to working hard on this issue in the coming years, together with the council, the municipal executive, and the residents.

It became clear that the elections belong to all of us when, for the first time in Voorschoten, volunteer pairs helped with the organization. On Wednesday morning, Lars worked the morning shift at the polling station in the Kruispuntkerk. Jonna and Yvonne helped count the votes from early voters that morning. As they told me themselves: “We’re part of this, too, and we can do our part for the elections in our own way.” It was a goosebumps moment for me, because I realized that we were able to make a difference. That’s why I entered public service in the first place. 

This beautiful celebration of democracy was overshadowed by the dark cloud of the war in Ukraine—a war we all watch with horror. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine. What they are currently enduring is beyond our comprehension. It is heartwarming to see the support from the community, which is collecting supplies and food and standing ready to welcome refugees into their homes. Here in Voorschoten, we are working closely with the region to make it possible to accommodate the refugees. At the moment, we are still waiting for clarity from the government regarding funding. Like you, I feel it is taking far too long. The need is simply too great. I hope that by the time this column is published, we will finally have clarity and be able to get to work. 

As I write this column, Storm Eunice is just behind us. The storm caused a great deal of damage, such as fallen trees, branches on the road, roof tiles and solar panels that were blown off, and so on. Our firefighters have been hard at work since Friday morning. What an incredible task that has been—more than 30 calls on Friday alone. Saturday was also a very busy day, with nearly as many calls as the day before. We received additional reports of storm damage, as well as reports of flooding in the evening during the rain—often as a result of damage caused during the storm. Our field staff have also been working nonstop these past few days to clear bike paths, remove branches, and so on.

We’re not out of the woods yet! Storm Franklin is set to hit us Sunday evening. Over the next few days, our firefighters will once again be there for us. They’re all volunteers who, in addition to their regular jobs (and family lives!), remain on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The dedication and loyalty of our fire department gives me goosebumps; there are no words to describe it. If you have time, please stop by the fire station to thank our heroes! They deserve it!

Another “storm” that will be sweeping through our municipality in the coming weeks is the election storm. We get to vote again! The municipal elections are on March 16. You can see and feel in every way that the political parties’ campaigns have begun. The last council meeting has taken place, election signs are popping up everywhere, posters are being put up, and the parties are busy handing out flyers throughout the village. 

Behind the scenes at City Hall, the organizational work is in full swing. The candidate lists of the participating political parties have been approved, the polling place locations have been announced, and poll workers and vote counters are ready to announce the results as quickly as possible on March 16. This year, we have a very special extra pair of hands at polling station number 1! A “prokkel duo” will be there—volunteers consisting of one person without a mild intellectual disability and one person with one. The elections belong to all of us, and I’m so happy to have this extra pair of hands! I wish all political parties the best of luck and hope they enjoy the coming weeks. 

The storm that seems to be subsiding is the COVID-19 pandemic. After almost exactly two years, society is reopening. Like you, I am incredibly happy that we’ve reached this point. Our local business owners can finally get back to running their businesses, go to festivals and sing along at the top of their lungs, and cheer at sports games—we’ve missed this so much. I’m looking forward to the festivities in our village, such as King’s Day and May 5. And to being able to commemorate May 4 together. Back to normal.

First and foremost, I’d like to wish you all a wonderful, healthy, and happy 2022! We all hope that 2022 will be the year when we can go to concerts, visit the theater and the movies, cheer from the sidelines again on Saturday mornings, and enjoy going out to dinner together, sitting on a patio, and heading to the bar. It seems like an eternity ago, and we’re so ready for it! In recent weeks, mayors across the country have been lobbying the government intensively to reopen stores, restaurants, and cultural venues. Voorschoten, together with fellow municipalities, has also sent two letters to the government. COVID-19 will remain among us to a greater or lesser extent, and it’s time to fundamentally revise our COVID-19 policy. Until then, as mayor, I’ll do what I can for you—of course, within the measures in effect at that time.

Fortunately, New Year’s Eve in Voorschoten went relatively smoothly. Thank you for that! We got together and had a cozy little celebration with a small group of people. On New Year’s Eve, I visited a local resident with the community police officer—she hadn’t had any visitors over the holidays. Her gratitude for having someone visit her for a moment was beyond words. As we walked away, feeling somewhat moved, I realized that in that moment, we had made a difference in her life. For me, that’s the reason I ever entered public service in the first place.

Politically speaking, 2022 is going to be a special year! You’ll have the opportunity to vote for a new city council. Once again this year, polling places will be open for three days: March 14, 15, and 16. I sincerely hope that many of you will turn out to vote. Because with your vote, you help determine the decisions made in Voorschoten. In the coming weeks, you’ll undoubtedly hear much more about the elections. Behind the scenes, the election team has been working very hard for several months now to, for example, organize the polling stations, verify the candidate lists of the participating parties, and so on. In early February, it will be formally announced which parties, with which candidate lists, will be participating in the municipal elections.

The year 2022 will also be marked by Leiden European City of Science—a 365-day science festival brimming with knowledge, art, and expertise. Each day has a different theme. The region—including Voorschoten—is participating! 365 days of curiosity in the Leiden region. Be sure to check out the program via the linkhttps://leiden2022.nl/. It’s definitely worth it!

For me, December is one of the coziest months of the year. It’s nice and cozy and warm at home on the couch by the Christmas tree (it’s really just some lights with a bit of a tree), with Christmas lights in the windows and in the garden, and the whole house is filled with candles and tea lights. It’s time for friends who, as is tradition, show up unannounced on my doorstep with sushi and a bottle of wine. We laugh a lot together, though this year there’s a tear because we’re missing a dear friend. We raise an extra toast to her—and to life! For me, the holidays are also all about cooking together or enjoying the delicious cuisine of a local restaurant owner, which really makes you feel like you’re dining out at home. Finally, some time to tackle that stack of books. Sky Radio’s The Christmas Station has been playing through the speakers for several weeks now, and starting on Christmas Day, we’ll switch over to the Top 2000, which plays day and night. For some songs, we turn the volume up a bit for a few minutes. And we keep dreaming of a white Christmas…

This atmosphere gives me a nostalgic feeling that the end of the year is truly approaching. It reminds me of the words my father used to say at this time of year: “The year is starting to get old.” Being able to share these moments of joy with the people I love most in my life makes me the happiest person on this planet. I’m well aware that not everyone is so fortunate. December is also a time when many people feel a bit lonelier. Let’s make a special effort to look out for one another during this season.

Here at City Hall, too, we’re getting ready for the Christmas break. The final council and executive committee meetings have taken place, and now the organization is also heading into a well-deserved vacation period. Setting up the new organizational structure while work continued “as usual” has been a massive undertaking. Everyone worked incredibly hard. A big compliment to our staff! A small number of employees will continue working during this period. I’m thinking of the staff at City Management, the Customer Contact Center, and the Civil Affairs team, who are fully engaged in preparing for the municipal elections, as well as the Public Order and Safety staff, who are working hard alongside the special investigating officers, the police, and the fire department to ensure a safe New Year’s Eve.

We’re leaving 2021 behind. I wish you a New Year filled with lots of lights. Happy holidays and a wonderful, healthy 2022.

Sinterklaas songs, dancing and singing Pieten, the Pieten Band, the historic fire truck Spuit41, smiling and cheerful children, and of course Sinterklaas himself! What a festive arrival it was last Saturday morning. This year, Sinterklaas took a tour through Schoolstraat and Voorstraat in a vintage car. It’s a fantastic children’s celebration, and it’s so nice that we were able to celebrate it—even if just a little bit.

Many children will have put out their shoes, only to find a gift from Sinterklaas in them the next day. The Sinterklaas News reported an alarming shortage of gifts because the Gift Room is closed. Fortunately for the kids in Voorschoten, there’s no problem. I’m sure Sinterklaas buys locally, and we have lots of great stores in our shopping centers. So everything should be fine!

December 5 is traditionally “Pakjesavond” (Gift-Opening Night). It’s the evening when many families gather together and unwrap a bag full of gifts. This isn’t a given for every family. Together with the Sintvoorieder1 Foundation and the library, we’re making sure that more than 100 children also have an unforgettable “Pakjesavond.” Thank you to everyone for your efforts! Together, we’re making a difference in these children’s lives.

From a festive Saturday morning to a somber Thursday. This week, on November 25, is Orange the World. It’s a time to draw extra attention to the fight against violence against women. Every day, women and girls are abused. Without a safe haven, this is especially difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we can do something about this. That’s why this year’s theme is prevention. See what you can do to help, for example, a neighbor who is in a very difficult situation. You can make a difference in her life. Starting November 25 and through December 10, the town hall will be lit up in orange.

As I write this column, many police officers have just endured some extremely intense days. What happened in Rotterdam and The Hague can no longer be called a demonstration. This affects all officers, as well as their families. Not knowing whether you’ll make it home safely after a shift has a major impact. Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics work every day to keep us safe. In those moments, they step up where others cannot. Now more than ever, it’s important that we show the emergency services that we stand behind them and support them. A small effort, a small gesture that means a great deal to them and makes all the difference.

Social media has become an integral part of our lives—WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, and so on. We’re constantly on it all day long. Me, too! I enjoy chatting with my friends about the latest news and topics that only women can talk about for hours on end; whenever a news site posts an alert, I quickly check to see what’s going on in the world; and I regularly post updates on Facebook and Twitter. Mostly about what I’m working on, and sometimes a personal update in between. In a way, social media has brought us closer together. For example, during the lockdown, we video-chatted constantly with parents and grandparents, and we’ve seen that social media can also offer comfort.

The downside is that there seem to be few inhibitions when it comes to voicing opinions and sending messages with certain content. Since I took office as mayor and my Facebook account became public, I’ve received countless marriage proposals and declarations of love via Messenger, as well as some rather unusual photos. If I’d saved them all, I could have made a calendar out of them. Of course, the gentlemen in question asked me if I could send a photo of myself in return. In case you’re wondering what I did: I didn’t send any photos back, and after they had their laugh (admittedly, that can sometimes take a while), I deleted, blocked, and reported everything.

What worries me more is the trend that an ever-growing group of people believes they can and are allowed to say anything on social media—all under the guise of freedom of speech. Yes, we do have this freedom, and let’s be grateful for it. As far as I’m concerned, this freedom goes hand in hand with a responsibility for what we say and the impact it has. Over the past year, this trend has become more pronounced. Of course, you’re entitled to disagree with the COVID-19 measures, but comparing them to the persecution of the Jews during World War II and all the horrors that took place then is so utterly misplaced that I’m at a loss for words. The same applies when police officers, special enforcement officers, civil servants, or public officials are compared to Nazis. Please realize that these people are also simply someone’s father or mother, daughter or son, who are doing their jobs to the best of their ability. Just like you.

The dual nature of social media will always be with us, but together we can ensure that social media helps make our society a little better and more beautiful. Let’s keep the discussions focused on the issues rather than on the person, look out for those who need support, and share positive messages with one another.

Starting September 25, the time has finally come; after 1.5 years of having to maintain a 1.5-meter distance from one another, this requirement will be lifted. It’s a major step toward a society where we can truly live together again, give a hug to the people we love, or put an arm around someone when it’s needed most.

I fully realize that the requirement to use the COVID-19 access pass in certain places—such as indoors at restaurants or theaters—is disappointing. It places yet another burden on sectors that have been struggling for quite some time. I’ve come to know Voorschoten as a close-knit community that has pulled together during the COVID-19 pandemic. We must get through this final stretch together as well. Let’s hope for a beautiful late summer so that the outdoor seating areas in the town center can be enjoyed to the fullest. 

We’ve achieved this freedom together because so many people were—and still are—willing to get vaccinated. That’s true in Voorschoten, too! 76% of residents in Voorschoten aged 12 and older are fully vaccinated. It’s great to see that so many have made this important choice. However, we must continue to exercise this freedom responsibly together. Give people the leeway they ask for, and respect that.

Thanks to the newfound freedom, I can once again visit couples celebrating their wedding anniversaries and centenarians. The visits that couldn’t take place last year will also be made now, provided the residents in question would appreciate them. I’ve already had such lovely reactions and conversations with happy couples celebrating their anniversaries. Looking back on how they met and the key to their long-lasting happiness: give and take, and letting each other do their own thing. There will undoubtedly be many more wonderful visits to come in the near future!

On August 24, I had the pleasure of celebrating, in a small way, the fact that I had been your mayor for 100 days as of that day. Looking back on these wonderful months with a smile and gratitude, and looking forward to the years ahead with great enthusiasm.

That day took a sudden turn when I received a phone call informing me that a friend had passed away unexpectedly. For a moment, time stood still for me. It hit me that you have to live each day to the fullest, because without warning, it can all come to an end. She was so proud when I was nominated and sworn in as your mayor. I dedicate this column to her, because she will always be in our hearts.

The vacation gear is back in the closet, the calendar is full, I’m almost done with the last book on the pile, and I’m enjoying the last rays of vacation sunshine. It’s time to get back to work!

Council members, executive committee members, and civil servants are about to enter a new political season—the final one before the municipal elections. And… this political season begins with a milestone. On September 1, Voorschoten’s new municipal administration will launch. It’s an independent organization that works closely with residents, organizations, associations, and businesses. We’re committed to providing excellent service. That means we, as the government, are here for you—whether that means shorter wait times at service counters or ensuring that when you call the municipality or reach out via social media with a substantive question, you receive a prompt response. The Municipalities Act requires us to respond to a letter within 8 weeks. This no longer fits the digital age. At any online store with good customer service, after asking a substantive question, we immediately receive a confirmation of receipt and often a response within a few days.

Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

This may sound like stating the obvious, but everyday experience shows that there is plenty of room for improvement. It doesn’t mean that anything goes. The answer to your question might also be “no.” It’s our responsibility to be able to explain why something isn’t possible. It’s also important that we learn from each other when things don’t go well. Wherever people work, mistakes are bound to happen. That goes for us, too.

As the municipality of Voorschoten, we’re about to make a crucial shift in how we operate—from a bureaucratic organization that simply follows the law to a service-oriented organization that acts in response to the needs of our residents. This won’t happen overnight. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day. We’re building it, starting from the ground up. Our goal is to get a little better every day. To do that, we need your help. Please keep sharing your tips and suggestions with us!

At its core, it’s about the government being a reliable partner. This is precisely where the problem lies these days. People are viewing the government with increasing distrust. I understand that. For example, the benefits scandal has left deep scars on many people, including residents of Voorschoten. Lives have been ruined by the government’s actions. As a government, we must work hard every day to regain that trust and continue to earn it.

I have every confidence in our new organization. Starting September 1, we’ll be working with you on this!

As I write this first column, I’ve been your mayor for exactly one month. I’d like to sincerely thank everyone for all the emails, letters, flowers, and cards I received on the occasion of my inauguration on May 17. What a warm welcome!

After the wonderful evening of my inauguration, I was happy to roll up my sleeves right away and get to work for Voorschoten. The past few weeks have mainly been devoted to initial introductory meetings with business owners, associations, and organizations. I went on walks and bike rides with council members who showed me the beautiful spots in Voorschoten. I visited the fire station and the Leiden-Zuid police station, where our community police officers are based. Where would we be without our emergency services, which are there for all of us day and night? Of course, I also got to know the staff of the municipal administration. 

There were also some special moments. Conversations with residents that touched me. The gratitude you see in someone’s eyes when a Royal Honor is presented. And the joy on Connor’s face (who doesn’t know him by now?) when I presented him with the first “Compliment of Voorschoten,” an award the municipality gives to people who have achieved something exceptional. Despite his dyslexia, he graduated from high school with eight perfect scores. He’s someone who has shown that you should never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.

The past year has been a difficult one. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected us all. We are on the path back to an open society. Step by step, we’re able to do more and more, such as exercising together, visiting stores, grabbing a bite to eat, and going to museums, theaters, and movie theaters. We’ve achieved this together! By following the basic rules and getting vaccinated in large numbers over the past few months. We still need to be careful and pull together for the final stretch, which is always the hardest. Like you, I hope that things will soon truly return to the “new normal” and that we can finally give our loved ones a big hug again. The end of the restrictions also makes it easier for me to get to know Voorschoten and its residents even better in the coming months. I’m looking forward to it.