On December 10, our Koffie Kletz will feature the story of a local Dutchman with an interesting story – Klaas de Boer. Klaas was born in the Netherlands in 1942 and immigrated to the United States in 1956. A soccer coach by profession, he has a long career as a collegiate and professional coach. Through visits and many contacts in the Netherlands, Klaas has kept a pulse on life in the ‘old country.’ In 2015, he wrote ‘Rough Seas: An Immigrant’s Journey from Holland to Holland’ which places his personal story within the broader context of Dutch and American culture over the last several decades. During the Kletz, Klaas will be discussing his immigration experience, soccer career and cultural differences between his homeland and the US.

Koffie Kletz at Windmill Island Gardens is a series of casual Saturday morning gatherings where community members learn about topics relevant to Dutch culture, Holland culture and Windmill Island Gardens. Each Kletz will feature a presentation and discussion time over coffee. These events are free to Friends of Windmill Island Gardens with a suggested donation of $5 for non-members.

Please let us know you’re coming by signing up at Eventbrite or by calling 616-355-1030.