BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Michigan Humanists - ECPv6.3.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Michigan Humanists
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Michigan Humanists
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Detroit
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20230312T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20231105T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230630T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230630T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20230107T164717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230601T204244Z
UID:143768-1688151600-1688158800@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Sci-Fi Book Club (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:Science Fiction has long been a genre which has explored Humanist values. Join us as we read and discuss everything from classic sci-fi to newly published works. This month’s book is Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanist table signs. \nSci-fi Book club (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the fourth Friday – but for June 2023 we will meet on June 30th\n \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sci-fi-book-club-grand-rapids-2023-06-23/
LOCATION:Wealthy Street Bakery\, 610 Wealthy St SE\, Grand Rapids\, 49503
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Scifi-Book-Club.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230625T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230625T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230612T152129Z
UID:135479-1687690800-1687696200@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - Dying to Death
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nSteve Andersen leads this discussion on the topic of death/dying – something that many people avoid discussing for a variety of reasons. This subject is mostly taboo and reserved for one on one intimate conversations with loved ones. But mostly not even with them. Perhaps we in the West appear to have a skewed take on mortality/death which may be due to our Abrahamic trappings. Other cultures have different perspectives and rituals regarding death/dying.  We in the atheist/humanist community tend not to believe in an afterlife. We regard this life to be fleeting and have an almost zero chance of ever seeing our loved ones ever again. No heaven\, no hell\, no purgatory\, no consciousness\, only nothing. What better conversation to have and share our thoughts about death and dying with a group of like-minded people! Here are a few snippets to help jump start our conversation – a short Sam Harris video about death\, a video titled “Dying – A Guided Experience”\, and a video of Michael Sheen performing the Dylan Thomas poem\, “Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night”. \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-06-25/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230623T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230623T213000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T210351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230623T130612Z
UID:135095-1687545000-1687555800@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Flint)
DESCRIPTION:***This month’s event will be held at 6390 Coconut Ct.\, Grand Blanc\, MI 48439…it is a private residence\, BYOB!*** \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Flint) meets each month on the fourth Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-fl-2023-01-27-2023-06-23/
LOCATION:6390 Coconut Ct. Grand Blanc\, MI 48439\, 6390 Coconut Ct.\, Grand Blanc\, MI\, 49439\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-Flint_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Dean Tersigni":MAILTO:skeptics-flint@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230620T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230620T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20221217T182713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230601T205830Z
UID:143498-1687284000-1687294800@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics in the Pub (Holland) - CANCELED
DESCRIPTION:Skeptics in the Pub Holland is CANCELED permanently. Please watch the Michigan Humanists events calendar\, Facebook page\, and Meetup for other great opportunities to socialize with fellow freethinkers!  \n \n* This event is co-hosted with Secular and Social * \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Holland) meets each month on the third Tuesday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/skeptics-in-the-pub-holland-97-2023-06-20/
LOCATION:Big Lake Brewing\, 13 W 7th St\, Holland\, MI\, 49423\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/sitp-holland.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Postma":MAILTO:timpostma123@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230617T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230617T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20230415T184709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230520T164212Z
UID:144492-1686996000-1687032000@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:MI Humanists at Pride (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:Please RSVP to Cindy at volunteers@michiganhumanists.org if you are able to join us as a volunteer at Grand Rapids Pride! \nJoin us as we show our humanism! We will be welcoming people and spreading the word about Michigan Humanists. Set-up shifts begin at 10:00am and tear down will happen around 8:00pm or later. Pride is from noon until 10pm\, so feel free to hang around before or after volunteering! \nTo sign up for a shift\, please contact Cindy at volunteers@michiganhumanists.org. She will contact you to determine which time slot(s) or timeframe work best for you and the schedule.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/mi-humanists-at-pride-grand-rapids/
LOCATION:Calder Plaza\, 351 Ottawa Ave NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230616T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230616T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20180307T190225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230602T134149Z
UID:134434-1686938400-1686949200@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:*This month’s Skeptics in the Pub will be held at City Built Brewing. \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the third Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violat
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-gr-2023-01-20-2023-06-16/
LOCATION:City Built Brewing Company\, 820 Monroe Ave NW #155\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-GR_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230611T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230611T150000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20180307T190546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220812T210048Z
UID:134076-1686488400-1686495600@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Living Without Religion Support Group (Online)
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nLiving Without Religion is a support group for those who are recovering or have recovered from religion. These people know your struggles\, and can offer support. We will share experiences\, resources\, and solidarity to help deal with all the problems related to leaving religion and moving onward in your life. \nIf you have left your religion\, are thinking of leaving\, or would like to support others in similar situations — this is the space for you. You are not alone in your search for a secular lifestyle. Questions and stories will be shared\, friends will be made\, and discussions will be had. \nLiving Without Religion is always free and open to anyone who meets the above criteria. \nLiving Without Religion (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Any person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated. \nContact: Randy Kuipers\, livingwithoutreligion-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org \n\n 
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/lwr-gr-2023-06-11/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsLiving-without-religion-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Randy Kuipers":MAILTO:livingwithoutreligion-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230611T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230611T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230604T174430Z
UID:135457-1686481200-1686486600@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - A Fresh Look at Adoption
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nMany people who want to restrict access to abortion support the idea that unwanted children can simply be adopted. But is this a benign solution to the issue of unwanted pregnancies?  It has been recognized that there are a number of problems that can arise in people who have been adopted\, and the cause of these problems is not entirely clear. At the next Café Inquiry\, we will discuss issues around the practice of adoption\, looking at the experiences of adopters\, adoptees\, and the biological parents. If you’d like to explore this topic ahead of our meeting\, here are some suggested readings and a video. This 13 minute “Flip the Script” video has adoptees talking about their own experiences of being adopted. You can explore the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Child Welfare Gateway page on adoption where there are links to a number of interesting articles. This very brief article discusses suicide risk in adoptees. This article discusses some reasons for the decline in international adoptions. This lengthy (25 pages) but fascinating New Yorker article provides a great exploration of the topic. If you can’t access the article\, here is a PDF. Join us as we discuss this timely topic! \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-06-11/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230608T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230608T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20210101T190145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230603T175623Z
UID:144186-1686247200-1686254400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry Muskegon - Humanism and Its Aspirations
DESCRIPTION:  \nLake Effect Bistro and Lounge\, 750 Terrace Point Drive\, Inside the Shoreline Inn \nThe American Humanist Association published its third version of the Humanist Manifesto in 2003. Titled Humanism and Its Aspirations\, it was a successor document to Humanist Manifesto(s) I and II\, and lists six primary themes (see below). Join us at the next Café Inquiry as we discuss these themes and what they mean to us as humanists\, or as individuals\, or to society at large. As always\, we’ll follow the discussion wherever it takes us\, in our new (as of last month) venue overlooking Muskegon Lake! \n\nKnowledge of the world is derived by observation\, experimentation\, and rational analysis. (See empiricism.)\nHumans are an integral part of nature\, the result of evolutionarychange\, an unguided process.\nEthicalvalues are derived from human need and interest as tested by experience. (See ethical naturalism.)\nLife’s fulfillment emerges from individual participation in the service of humane ideals.\nHumans are social by nature and find meaning in relationships.\nWorking to benefit society maximizes individual happiness.\n\nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Muskegon) meets each month on the second Thursday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-msk-3-2023-02-09-2023-06-08/
LOCATION:Lake Effect Bistro and Lounge – Shoreline Inn\, 750 Terrace Point Dr.\, Muskegon
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Muskegon_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Hamlin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-muskegon@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230528T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230528T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T145238Z
UID:135456-1685271600-1685277000@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - Prescription Drug Advertising
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nThe Prescription Drug Marketing Act of 1987 authorized direct-to-consumer prescription drug ads for the first time. President Ronald Reagan signed this legislation into law on April 22\, 1988. Since then\, prescription drug ads have proliferated in all sorts of media. But is this a good thing\, or a not-so-good thing? It may be telling that only the United States and New Zealand allow such advertising. This Consumer Reports article looks at the increase in prescription drug ad spending and gives strategies for responding to these commercials.  This brief piece gives some insight as to how European countries regulate prescription advertising. This article from Northwestern University looks at some of the potential benefits of direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising. This USA Today article makes the case that the prescription drugs you see advertised are often not as useful or effective as the drugs they compete against. This Vox video looks at the effect on public health that results from this advertising. Here is an example of a typical prescription drug commercial. And here is an example of a prescription drug ad that falls outside the jurisdiction of the FDA\, for reasons we’ll touch on in our discussion. Join us at the next Café Inquiry Online as we look at some of the history of prescription drug marketing\, regulations related to this practice \, and what effect – if any – direct to consumer advertising has on healthcare spending and public health! \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-05-28/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230526T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230526T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20230107T164716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230429T175202Z
UID:143767-1685127600-1685134800@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Sci-Fi Book Club (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:Science Fiction has long been a genre which has explored Humanist values. Join us as we read and discuss everything from classic sci-fi to newly published works. This month’s book is Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanist table signs. \nSci-fi Book club (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the fourth Friday.\n \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sci-fi-book-club-grand-rapids-2023-05-26/
LOCATION:Wealthy Street Bakery\, 610 Wealthy St SE\, Grand Rapids\, 49503
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Scifi-Book-Club.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230526T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230526T213000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T210351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230620T224127Z
UID:135094-1685125800-1685136600@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Flint) New Venue!!
DESCRIPTION:Skeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nIn order to have a venue where we can hear people better\, we’re going to try and have a Skeptics in the Pub gathering at someone’s house. Here are the details:\n\nAddress TBA\n\nFood & Drink:\nBring your own drinks\nPotluck food\, or\, bring your own\n\nTopic: Is fascism growing in the USA\, or is it media hype?\n\nSkeptics in the Pub (Flint) meets each month on the fourth Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-fl-2023-01-27-2023-05-26/
LOCATION:Home Venue\, 11280 East Holly Rd.\, Davisburg\, 48350
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-Flint_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Dean Tersigni":MAILTO:skeptics-flint@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230523T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230523T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20221217T182713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230414T173445Z
UID:143497-1684864800-1684875600@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics in the Pub (Holland)
DESCRIPTION:* This event is co-hosted with Secular and Social * \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Holland) meets each month on the third Tuesday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/skeptics-in-the-pub-holland-97-2023-05-16/
LOCATION:Big Lake Brewing\, 13 W 7th St\, Holland\, MI\, 49423\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/sitp-holland.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Postma":MAILTO:timpostma123@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230519T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230519T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20180307T190225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221222T013138Z
UID:134433-1684519200-1684530000@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:*This month’s Skeptics in the Pub will be held at Founders Brewing (outdoors if weather permits).* \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the third Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-gr-2023-01-20-2023-05-19/
LOCATION:Founders Brewing Co.\, 235 Grandville Ave SW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-GR_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230514T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230514T150000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20180307T190546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220812T210043Z
UID:134027-1684069200-1684076400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Living Without Religion Support Group (Online)
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nLiving Without Religion is a support group for those who are recovering or have recovered from religion. These people know your struggles\, and can offer support. We will share experiences\, resources\, and solidarity to help deal with all the problems related to leaving religion and moving onward in your life. \nIf you have left your religion\, are thinking of leaving\, or would like to support others in similar situations — this is the space for you. You are not alone in your search for a secular lifestyle. Questions and stories will be shared\, friends will be made\, and discussions will be had. \nLiving Without Religion is always free and open to anyone who meets the above criteria. \nLiving Without Religion (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Any person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated. \nContact: Randy Kuipers\, livingwithoutreligion-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org \n\n 
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/lwr-gr-2023-05-14/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsLiving-without-religion-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Randy Kuipers":MAILTO:livingwithoutreligion-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230514T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230514T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230510T145209Z
UID:135455-1684062000-1684067400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - Complementary and Alternative Medicine
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nThere is widespread interest in and use of complementary and alternative medicine. A 2012 survey reported that more than 30% of American adults used these approaches within the previous 12 months. While alternative medicine has historically conflicted with usual or conventional Western medical practice\, there has been a growth in the integration of these treatments into Western medicine. “Complementary medicine” centers – many  associated with well-known medical centers – are proliferating. What are these alternative medical practices? Do they work? Are they safe? How do we determine the answers to these questions? This NIH website provides a brief introduction to the concept of complementary medicine and is a good place to start exploring the topic. If you want to delve more deeply into the topic\, the New England Skeptical Society maintains the excellent Science-Based Medicine blog. You can also watch this free video lecture series on science-based medicine by the late Harriet Hall\, M.D. For those of you who would like a crash course on statistics\, you can check out this entertaining (really!) series of YouTube videos. Join us at the next Café Inquiry as we explore this fascinating topic! \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-05-14/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230511T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230511T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20210101T190145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230504T212658Z
UID:144185-1683828000-1683835200@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry Muskegon - Satisfying Our Intellectual Curiosity
DESCRIPTION:New Venue – Lake Effect Bistro and Lounge\, Shoreline Inn\, 750 Terrace Point Dr.\, Muskegon \nHumans are naturally curious. Furthermore\, many of us in the right circumstances are intellectually curious – seeking a wide range of knowledge relating to various fields of study. But how do we satisfy this thirst for learning? We’d love to hear about your areas of interest\, and by what means you satisfy your intellectual curiosity. Podcasts? Documentaries? Online courses or videos? Books? Specialized magazines or journals? This could be a good opportunity to learn about new sources of information from your fellow seekers of knowledge! On a related note\, suppose there were an AI system we could easily tap into that could not only provide the answer to any question we asked\, but could also perform tasks for us. Kind of like Siri or Alexa on steroids. What might be the challenges of all or most people having access to this system\, and how might it be regulated? Join us as we discuss these topics and whatever else happens to arise in the course of the evening! \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Muskegon) meets each month on the second Thursday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-msk-3-2023-02-09-2023-05-11/
LOCATION:Lake Effect Bistro and Lounge – Shoreline Inn\, 750 Terrace Point Dr.\, Muskegon
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Muskegon_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Hamlin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-muskegon@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230506T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230506T170000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20230218T152420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230218T152420Z
UID:144350-1683365400-1683392400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Long Lake Work Day
DESCRIPTION:Please RSVP to Cindy at volunteers@michiganhumanists.org if you are able to help at our annual Long Lake Workday on Saturday\, May 6. Michigan Humanists members will be at the Long Lake Outdoor Center from 9:30am-5pm\, or until projects are completed. When you RSVP to Cindy let her know when you might arrive\, and how long you think you may be able to stay. This helps us plan the projects we can get finished\, and utilizes everyone’s time wisely.\n\nWe will spruce up the campground for summer use\, including by us for our Secular Summer Retreat in July! Rick\, the manager of the LLOC will let us know as the date gets closer what our specific tasks will be. It could be staining buildings\, moving leaves into the woods\, and/or other projects deemed necessary. Sometimes winter throws him a curve\, and priorities change\, but the need for our help does not!
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/long-lake-work-day/
LOCATION:Long Lake Outdoor Center\, 10370 Gun Lake Rd\, Middleville\, MI\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Michigan Humanists":MAILTO:info@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230428T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230428T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20230107T164716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230401T034550Z
UID:143766-1682708400-1682715600@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Sci-Fi Book Club (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:Science Fiction has long been a genre which has explored Humanist values. Join us as we read and discuss everything from classic sci-fi to newly published works. This month’s book is All Systems Red by Martha Wells. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanist table signs. \nSci-fi Book club (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the fourth Friday.\n \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sci-fi-book-club-grand-rapids-2023-04-28/
LOCATION:Wealthy Street Bakery\, 610 Wealthy St SE\, Grand Rapids\, 49503
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Scifi-Book-Club.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230428T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230428T213000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T210351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221222T013337Z
UID:135093-1682706600-1682717400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Flint)
DESCRIPTION:Skeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Flint) meets each month on the fourth Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-fl-2023-01-27-2023-04-28/
LOCATION:White Horse Tavern\, 321 W Court St\, Flint\, MI\, 48503\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-Flint_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Dean Tersigni":MAILTO:skeptics-flint@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230425T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230425T193000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20221217T182713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230422T162959Z
UID:143496-1682443800-1682451000@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Cherry Blossoms with Secular and Social
DESCRIPTION:* This event is co-hosted with Secular and Social * \nJoin the  Michigan Humanists and the Secular and Social group to see the cherry blossoms at Frederick Meijer Gardens! Meet in Cafe between 5:30pm-6:00pm. \nMeijer Gardens has an amazing Japanese Garden with many beautiful cherry blossom trees which typically bloom from late April to mid-May.  Tuesday evening is a great time to go\, the gardens have later hours and you can avoid the weekend rush. \nMeijer Gardens I Japanese Flowering Cherries  \n(If the forecast for Tuesday is heavy rain\, the event will be moved to May.) \nSee the Secular and Social Meetup page here: https://www.meetup.com/secular-and-social/events/292770734 \n————————————————————————————————————————— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/skeptics-in-the-pub-holland-97-2023-04-18/
LOCATION:Frederick Meijer Gardens\, 1000 East Beltline NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49525\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Spring-Event.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Postma":MAILTO:timpostma123@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230423T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230423T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230418T202421Z
UID:135478-1682247600-1682253000@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - Public Education Under Siege
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nPublic education in the United States is threatened on multiple fronts. Attempts to ban the teaching of certain concepts are becoming more and more widespread. Vital funding may vanish due to attempts to divert public money to pay for private schools\, sometimes private religious schools. There is a shortage of qualified teachers brought on by low pay and sometimes untenable working conditions. Join us at the next Café Inquiry as we explore the history of public education in the United States and look at the purpose for having a public education system as well as how much influence parents should have over curriculum. We’ll also examine some of the threats to the system mentioned above. This paper from George Washington University gives a broad overview of the history of public education in the United States. This blog post from Public School Review highlights some advantages of public education. This Time article looks at parental rights in education and how they can get out of hand. We think this topic will provide some thought-provoking discourse.  Hope to see you there! \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-04-23/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230421T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230421T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20180307T190225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221222T013137Z
UID:134432-1682100000-1682110800@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:*This month’s Skeptics in the Pub will be held at Founders Brewing (outdoors if weather permits).* \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the third Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-gr-2023-01-20-2023-04-21/
LOCATION:Founders Brewing Co.\, 235 Grandville Ave SW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-GR_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230413T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230413T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20210101T190145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230406T172856Z
UID:144184-1681408800-1681416000@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry Muskegon - Humanism and Forgiveness
DESCRIPTION:  \nBurl and Sprig – 333 W. Western Ave\, Muskegon \nAlexander Pope wrote\, “To err is human; to forgive\, divine”.  Forgiveness is a central concept in a number of religions\, particularly Christianity. But does that mean forgiveness holds less value for those of us who practice no religion? How do humanists view and practice forgiveness\, and what’s our motivation given that we’re not forgiving just so we can be forgiven by a deity? Join us as we discuss how\, Pope’s words notwithstanding\, forgiveness is a very human practice indeed! As always\, other topics will be discussed as they arise during the meeting. \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Muskegon) meets each month on the second Thursday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-msk-3-2023-02-09-2023-04-13/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Muskegon_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Hamlin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-muskegon@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230409T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230409T150000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20180307T190546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220812T210042Z
UID:133874-1681045200-1681052400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Living Without Religion Support Group (Online)
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nLiving Without Religion is a support group for those who are recovering or have recovered from religion. These people know your struggles\, and can offer support. We will share experiences\, resources\, and solidarity to help deal with all the problems related to leaving religion and moving onward in your life. \nIf you have left your religion\, are thinking of leaving\, or would like to support others in similar situations — this is the space for you. You are not alone in your search for a secular lifestyle. Questions and stories will be shared\, friends will be made\, and discussions will be had. \nLiving Without Religion is always free and open to anyone who meets the above criteria. \nLiving Without Religion (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Any person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated. \nContact: Randy Kuipers\, livingwithoutreligion-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org \n\n 
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/lwr-gr-2023-04-09/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsLiving-without-religion-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Randy Kuipers":MAILTO:livingwithoutreligion-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230409T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230409T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230404T195325Z
UID:135454-1681038000-1681043400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - Artificial Intelligence - Are We Moving Too Fast?
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nA lot has happened in the AI world since we last discussed the topic. Most recently there has\nbeen an open letter signed by more than 1000 people – including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak –\nexpressing concern about the safety of continued AI development and release. “AI systems with\nhuman-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity\,” said the open\nletter titled “Pause Giant AI Experiments”. At the next Café Inquiry\, we will discuss these concerns and the advisability and feasibility of a temporary moratorium on AI development. There is a lot online about this topic.  Following are some suggested readings (and one video). From Science Alert: Tech Giants Call For a Pause in AI Experiments\, Fearing “Profound Risks to Society”. Here is a link to the open letter referenced in the Science Alert article. In this article\, a NYT columnist describes his disturbing encounter with the AI Bing search engine. Here is a PDF of the article. This article describes positive uses of AI. Here is a PDF of that article. Here is a short article about the release of ChatGPT-4. This article from The Atlantic discusses the use of AI by students to create essays and papers for their courses. Finally\, here is a YouTube video that describes a technique for detecting AI generated text. \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-04-09/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230328T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230328T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20221217T182713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230305T222944Z
UID:143495-1680026400-1680037200@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics in the Pub (Holland)
DESCRIPTION:* This event is co-hosted with Secular and Social * \nSkeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Holland) meets each month on the third Tuesday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/skeptics-in-the-pub-holland-97-2023-03-21/
LOCATION:Big Lake Brewing\, 13 W 7th St\, Holland\, MI\, 49423\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/sitp-holland.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Postma":MAILTO:timpostma123@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230326T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230326T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T205252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230325T202744Z
UID:135477-1679828400-1679833800@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Café Inquiry (Online) - Humanity's Biggest Problem Is...Humanity?
DESCRIPTION:This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.) \nA recent article from Forbes reported on organized efforts to thwart renewable energy projects in Michigan and Ohio among other states. That triggered a thought process leading to wondering why it is\, exactly\, that we as a species can’t get it together enough to mitigate solvable crises such as global climate change. At the next Café Inquiry we’ll use climate change and other issues to examine why humanity is so resistant to taking actions that are obviously necessary for the long-term well being of humankind and the planet. Here is a link to the Forbes article that inspired this topic. A PDF of the Forbes article is here if you have trouble accessing the link. This Reuters article demonstrates that this is not a phenomenon peculiar to the United States. Nor is insufficient action limited to democratic societies as demonstrated in this assessment from Climate Action Tracker. Join us for what we think will be a free-wheeling and wide-ranging discussion! \nCafé Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic\, followed by casual discussion. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nAttendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism\, agnosticism\, humanism\, secularism\, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities\, such as religion\, philosophy\, social issues\, politics\, evolution\, morality\, ethics\, and psychology. \nCafé Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the second and fourth Sunday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/ci-gr-2023-03-26/
LOCATION:Online Meeting – Link in Event Details
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-event-graphicsCafe-Online_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Crownover and Jessica Wolin":MAILTO:cafeinquiry-grandrapids@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230324T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230324T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20230107T164715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230303T162221Z
UID:143765-1679684400-1679691600@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Sci-Fi Book Club (Grand Rapids)
DESCRIPTION:Science Fiction has long been a genre which has explored Humanist values. Join us as we read and discuss everything from classic sci-fi to newly published works. This month’s book is Machinhood by S.B. Divya. \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanist table signs. \nSci-fi Book club (Grand Rapids) meets each month on the fourth Friday.\n \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sci-fi-book-club-grand-rapids-2023-03-24/
LOCATION:Wealthy Street Bakery\, 610 Wealthy St SE\, Grand Rapids\, 49503
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Scifi-Book-Club.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Jason Pittman":MAILTO:jpittman@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230324T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230324T213000
DTSTAMP:20260412T082259
CREATED:20211129T210351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221222T013336Z
UID:135092-1679682600-1679693400@www.michiganhumanists.org
SUMMARY:Skeptics In The Pub (Flint)
DESCRIPTION:Skeptics in the Pub\, “Critical Thinking with a Pint\,” is an opportunity for nontheists to converse in a casual\, fun atmosphere. \nLearn more about the international Skeptics in the Pub movement at skepticsinthepub.org. (We don’t invite speakers\, but rather follow our conversations wherever they take us. For a more structured discussion\, look for Café Inquiry events on our calendar.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated\, but not expected. \nDon’t drink? That’s okay! Many famous skeptics were teetotalers\, and there is no problem with that. \nDrinking skeptically means drinking responsibly. Science teaches us what alcohol does to the human body. \nYou will find the group at a table with little Michigan Humanists table signs. \nSkeptics in the Pub (Flint) meets each month on the fourth Friday. \n— \nMichigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event. \nMichigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed\, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives. \nAny person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave\, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.
URL:https://www.michiganhumanists.org/event/sitp-fl-2023-01-27-2023-03-24/
LOCATION:White Horse Tavern\, 321 W Court St\, Flint\, MI\, 48503\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://eadn-wc02-6376131.nxedge.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/22-MIHUMAN-0074-Website-and-Email-Website-Event-GraphicsSkeptics-Flint_v2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Dean Tersigni":MAILTO:skeptics-flint@michiganhumanists.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR