Landsmeer is buzzing with local events this March, catering to various interests and community needs. The highlight of the month is the series of themed gatherings at SamenMeer, where participants can learn about technological tips, e-commerce knowledge, and mobile security updates.
During these meetings, volunteers from SamenMeer provide coffee and tea, creating a community atmosphere for attendees to engage and share thoughts about tech-related topics. This month's sessions include topics like "Find My Phone," dropshipping essentials, changes to iDeal for 2025, the necessity of antivirus on mobile devices, using WhatsApp on computers, and important security updates for Apple users. Managing to stay updated is especially beneficial for seniors who are often seen as vulnerable to technology changes.
Participation costs €25 per year, which includes access to the regular walk-in hours on Tuesday mornings for individual assistance. These sessions offer individuals the chance to deepen their knowledge and skills, ensuring they remain connected and informed in our rapidly changing digital world.
On another community service front, the Protestant Gemeente Landsmeer organizes food drives for Amsterdam-Noord's Food Bank this spring. Donors can drop off non-perishable goods at the church on March 8, 15, 22, and 29 between 11:00 AM and noon. Items like oil, canned vegetables, soup, rice, pasta, milk, canned fish, coffee, and tea will be greatly appreciated. This initiative aims to support needy families and provide them with essentials.
The church's location at Calkoenstraat 12A serves as another hub of community activity, showing solidarity and compassion through collective charitable efforts. Volunteers play an important role here, facilitating both the donations and distribution of goods to those most in need.
Another significant development for the municipality is the recent transfer of road management responsibilities, effective March 1. The Hoogheemraadschap Hollands Noorderkwartier (HHNK) has handed over the governance of 28 kilometers of roadways, which include 11 kilometers dedicated to bike paths. This move means Landsmeer has exclusive control over the maintenance and development of local roads, where the residents can now resolve issues directly with the municipality.
Mayor Niels Bonenkamp emphasized how this change will provide clarity for residents and create opportunities for more efficient management of local infrastructure. The integration was not without preparatory work; all roads and bike paths were thoroughly inspected to meet established criteria before the transfer. With this transfer, Landsmeer also becomes responsible for 21 permanent bridges and the unique Kamelenbrug connecting the village with the Twiske.
The community will see reductions in taxes as from 2026, residents will no longer pay road maintenance fees to the HHNK, bringing financial relief as these costs will shift to municipal taxes. This shift signifies the beginning of self-governance over local transport routes and infrastructure, making Landsmeer more independent.
To round off the month, the winter sports festivities culminated with the Twiskemolenloop, which was celebrated with the sun shining. Notably, this year also marked the end of the jubilee season, propelling excitement for the upcoming 250th run to take place on October 5, 2025.
The events showcased the impressive athletic talent of the participants. Remyo Tielsema set the record for the 10-kilometer run, finishing with a staggering 29:21, which shaved off over three minutes from the previous record dating back to 2016. He shared his earlier experiences of starting running with 15 more kilos than he currently weighs, illustrating how dedication can yield astounding results.
Overall, the Twiskemolenloop celebrated its tradition by awarding participants with flowers and recognition of their achievements. Members of the organizing committee passed the baton to new coordinators, highlighting the community's spirit and commitment to sport, togetherness, and nature.
The activities of these events highlight the vibrant, motivated, and interconnected nature of Landsmeer, where residents come together for communal learning, support for the needy, infrastructure improvements, and athletic pursuits. For those interested, detailed results, photos, and videos can be found online, ensuring everyone can share and relive the experience.