Dear Ruhrgebiet Datamonsters,

our Horde was hibernating for a while, and we used the time to review the past two years. As the conclusion was not too positive we thought about what we can change and this is what we came up with:

• We are happy to welcome Margarita Neumüller as the new member of the Ruhrgebiet Monsterkeepers. Thanks so much for joining Klaus and me and help us kick start our user group into a new time.
• Our approach of hybrid meetings didn't prove to be as positive as we hoped, and we are missing the amazing in-person vibe. Therefore, we will return to in-person only events from now on.
• One of the reasons for the low number of you joining our events might have been the timing of the information provided, which we mostly sent out two weeks before the event. We will work on sending out the information earlier, which means 4-6 weeks before the event.
• Another potential reason might have been the topics. Although we didn't receive much feedback on missing topics, but we will be trying to provide you with a broader choice of topics and speakers.
• In addition, we decided to switch to a bi-monthly rhythm.
• We will move the start time to 6pm, with the first 30 minutes for a relaxed arrival and community time. The presentations will start at 6:30pm.
• The language will be English by default. But we are fully aware that this is not comfortable for everybody and we want to both respect the wishes of our members and especially the wishes of (new) speakers. So, if you want to present a session in German or if you'd like us to present a certain topic in German, please don't hesitate to reach out. We will inform with every invite about the language of the session.

We hope to hear from you if you have any feedback regarding our changes. But we even more hope to welcome you to one or many of our future events!

The first event of the new season will be a very common topic though. In regard to the European Fabric Community Conference happening in Vienna from 15th to 18th of September, we will provide you with some first-hand impressions from the conference. Klaus and I will attend in person and together with special guests we will share our impressions and the most important features and announcements from the conference.

The event is taking place in the ALDI Süd office (thanks to Margarita).

The more, the marrier, so join us. :-)

Best regards,
Margarita, Klaus and Gabi 

ALDI Sued International

Mintarder Str 36-40

45481 Mülheim an der Ruhr

Parking is possible in front of the building. We will meet you at the main entrance.