The Special Olympics Flame of Hope arrived in Haarlem on Thursday morning, marking the start of the tournament for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The flame was carried into the city by Lotte, the mayor of the Olympic village, accompanied by a police officer.
A court has ordered the organization De Zorgspecialist to pay damages to a resident who was forced out of his assisted living home in Aerdenhout without warning in early 2024. The resident, who has autism and a mild intellectual disability, had lived at the Samen ThuiZ Alverna facility for only ten weeks before his care and housing were terminated.
The Amsterdam City Council is debating a new procurement policy that aims to prevent municipal funds from going to companies involved in human rights violations, specifically targeting ties with Israel. Although a proposed referendum for a full boycott was rejected, coalition parties have introduced a 13-point alternative plan focused on ethical spending. Opposition parties criticize the move, arguing that the municipality is overstepping its authority by attempting to conduct foreign policy.
Residents in Haarlem’s Kleverparkbuurt are challenging the municipality's findings on a long-standing rat infestation after technical reports revealed 79 urgent sewer repairs are necessary. While the city claims the main sewer system is not responsible, residents argue that defects allow rats to move between homes and the sewage system. A local committee will discuss the conflicting interpretations of the sewer inspection results this evening.
The Museum van de Geest in Haarlem is hosting the exhibition 'Nieuw Oud! De Kunst van het ouder worden' to highlight the positive aspects of aging. Curated by Professor Tineke Abma, the display features photography and art that celebrate life experience, wisdom, and creativity in later years.