haarlemsdagbladFeb 21, 2026, 18:39

Bente Kerkhoff paves the way for Marijke Groenewoud's gold, easing the pain of missed 5,000m: 'Very happy she finished the job'

Marijke Groenewoud won the gold medal in the team pursuit after teammate Bente Kerkhoff executed a strategic lead to facilitate the victory. This win marked the tenth gold medal for the Netherlands at the event and provided Kerkhoff with redemption after she previously missed the five-kilometer race. The performance was hailed as a successful display of teamwork within the Dutch speed skating team.

Haarlem Netherlands World

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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.

Entrepreneurs from Southeast chosen by rapper Cho run pop-up shop

Rapper Cho has selected a group of aspiring entrepreneurs from Amsterdam-Zuidoost to run a pop-up store in the Amsterdamse Poort. The initiative, supported by MBO College Zuidoost, allows participants to gain practical experience in retail, sales, and business management. Cho visited the shop on Saturday to show his support and highlight the work of the local entrepreneurs.

After 11 viewings, 9 bids and 8 rejections, Daan (28) lands his dream home in Haarlem: 'Below asking price'

Daan Geuke, a 28-year-old first-time buyer, successfully purchased a home on Houtplein in Haarlem after participating in eleven viewings and making nine bids. Despite a challenging housing market, he managed to secure the property for less than the asking price and is scheduled to move in by December 2025.

Who will benefit most from cheaper public transport this summer?

The Dutch government plans to introduce a 49-euro monthly public transport pass this summer as part of a relief package for high energy costs. While specific details of the 'Netherlands ticket' are still being finalized, the initiative aims to make travel more affordable for residents across the country.

'Pa Tokkie' Gerrie Ruijmgaart (73) dies

Gerrie Ruijmgaart, the patriarch of the well-known 'Tokkie' family, has passed away at the age of 73. The family rose to national fame in the Netherlands following a 2003 neighborhood dispute in Amsterdam-Slotermeer that led to various reality television programs.