paroolFeb 19, 2026, 10:41

Parool journalist Stefan Raatgever (44) focuses on the period after coming out in new book: ‘The doubts don’t stop once you come out’

Journalist Stefan Raatgever has released a sequel to his debut novel, focusing on the protagonist's life and challenges in Amsterdam after coming out. The book, *De jongen die de tijd wilde stopzetten*, draws on Raatgever's own experiences to highlight that self-discovery and uncertainty continue long after the initial coming-out process. It explores themes of queer identity, dating, and the lingering effects of spending formative years in the closet.

Culture Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Delay in asphalt work on Hagelingerweg in Santpoort-Noord; road remains open to car traffic for now

Asphalt work on the Hagelingerweg in Santpoort-Noord has been postponed after the road's foundation was found to be thinner than expected. The road will remain open to traffic until the necessary repairs to the sub-layer are completed.

IJmond municipalities resigned to impact of Wijkertunnel closure: Disruption inevitable regardless of solution

The closure of the Wijkertunnel this summer is expected to cause significant traffic disruption for residents and commuters in the IJmond region, including Heemskerk, Beverwijk, and Velsen. Local municipalities and Rijkswaterstaat are collaborating to manage the impact, though officials acknowledge that significant traffic nuisance is unavoidable regardless of the measures taken.

Haarlem municipality won't pay for restoration of vandalized Houtplein statue: 'We are waiting'

The municipality of Haarlem has declined to fund the repair of the vandalized 'Hirondelle' statue at Houtplein. The restoration costs for the broken artwork must instead be covered by artist Jackie Sleper and the Haarlem Sculpture Gallery.

Healthy rivalry leads to fierce handball duel with Aalsmeer as provisional winner

Aalsmeer secured a 27-32 victory over Volendam in a physical first-leg quarterfinal of the Super Handball League at Sporthal Opperdam. The win provides Aalsmeer with a significant five-point advantage heading into the return match scheduled for May 2nd at De Bloemhof.

Right-back Harrouni fires Olympia Haarlem to near-certain survival with last-minute goal against JVC

Olympia Haarlem defender Noureddine Harrouni scored a last-minute goal to secure a 3-2 victory against JVC. This win almost certainly guarantees the team's stay in the first class with three matches remaining in the season.