Dear All,

Summer has come to Cologne. Some days, some of us don't even realise it, because they are busy checking lists, organising in Pheedloop, registering change requests and answering emails. This week we were finally able to publish the preliminary programme. Please take a look and let us know about any changes that need to be made – preferably and most easily using the form on our website. And be warned: there will certainly be some changes in the next two weeks.

Please also remember to register with Cambridge Core for the conference soon. It really helps us to plan more accurately, and the deadline is 31 May. Please note that all presenters/speakers must register for the conference. We have done everything we can to ensure that the conference fee is as affordable as possible. We know that it is the second payment for attending the conference after the IFTR membership. Meanwhile, our ecological concept promises relief locally and for the world, which is urgently needed. Not only has summer arrived, but the first useful items are also arriving. Today we are delighted to present the bottles you will find in your welcome bag.

Cologne Curiosity: While for many Cologne citizens the local beer (Kölsch) is the drink of choice, tap water stands out as the most affordable, eco-friendly, and easily accessible option. Tap water is (very typically for Germany) strictly regulated and regularly tested, ensuring it is completely safe to drink. 
It is very common to see the university students refilling their reusable water bottles at sinks between lectures. To give you the authentic University of Cologne experience – and to keep you hydrated during the conference – every participant will receive a reusable water bottle in their welcome bag. If you’re still unsure about tap water or find the slightly hard water in Cologne not to your taste, don’t worry! We will also have some water dispensers with bottled water available. (Charlene Fündgens)

Fool of the Week: In 1819, the Trentsensky brothers founded a lithographic print shop in Vienna. Their prints became famous far beyond the city limits – especially the sheets for paper theatres, which brought theatre into people's living rooms in the 19th century. Today, these sheets show us what was re-enacted here. On long days, we sometimes wish we could duplicate ourselves in smaller or larger versions, like Harlequin and his team. The desire grows stronger when the conference begins: There will be so many exciting presentations!

Alaaf – meaning as much as au fou de partout, to fools everywhere, we greet you!

Mathilde Frank
On behalf of the Cologne Team