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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260303T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260303T191500
DTSTAMP:20260430T224504
CREATED:20260105T211530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T195205Z
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SUMMARY:Fostering a Fourth Democratic Wave: Countering the Authoritarian Threat with Hardy Merriman
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Hardy Merriman\,  former President of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict (ICNC) \n  \nA powerful autocratic wave is sweeping the globe. According to various measures\, authoritarian governments have risen and democracies have declined worldwide over the past two decades. To ensure long-term peace\, security\, and human rights for billions of people\, it is critical that this trend be reversed. But what will it take to foster a new democratic wave? \nCutting edge research and historical analysis find that one of the most powerful forces driving democratic transitions are populations living under authoritarian rule. Engaging with those populations—whether through foreign policy or independently as members of civil society—and supporting their struggles for human rights and democracy is a major opportunity to turn the tide. Join us as we welcome Hardy Merriman\, former president of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict (ICNC)\, to lead our conversation on strengthening democratic resiliency. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center Special thanks to the City of Holland \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/fostering-a-fourth-democratic-wave-countering-the-authoritarian-threat-with-hardy-merriman/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIX_AC119733-AB05-4853-94BB-AEB5C934EEBE.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260310T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260310T191500
DTSTAMP:20260430T224504
CREATED:20260114T193422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T195453Z
UID:10000082-1773165600-1773170100@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:The U.S. in a Changing Global Order with Ambassador (ret.) Michael McKinley
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Ambassador (ret.) Michael McKinley\, senior counselor\, the Cohen Group  \n  \nWhat does it mean for the United States to navigate a world of intensifying conflicts\, shifting alliances\, and renewed great-power competition? From ongoing wars to economic and technological rivalry\, U.S. foreign policy is being reshaped in real time. This program explores the current state of U.S. foreign policy and the country’s evolving diplomatic approaches that influence America’s relationships with allies and adversaries alike. Ambassador Michael McKinley draws on decades of senior diplomatic service\, including serving as U.S. Ambassador to Peru\, Afghanistan\, Brazil\, and Colombia\, to assess how U.S. foreign policy is responding to today’s most urgent global challenges. Join us for this timely and relevant conversation. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center Special thanks to Topic sponsor Amway \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/the-u-s-in-a-changing-global-order-with-michael-mckinley/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIX_13FB21F4-95E5-4340-965A-396D3BE16FCC.jpeg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260313T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260313T133000
DTSTAMP:20260430T224504
CREATED:20260128T151233Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T130017Z
UID:10000086-1773403200-1773408600@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Great Decisions Lunch and Learn: U.S. Foreign Policy
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for informal Lunch & Learn sessions tied to the World Affairs Council’s Great Decisions global discussion series\, co-hosted with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and Museum. \n  \nEach session includes lunch\, a 30-minute Foreign Policy Association video on the week’s topic\, and a guided discussion led by World Affairs Council and Foundation staff. It’s a convenient daytime option for those who want to dive into world affairs but can’t attend evening programs. \n  \nFree to attend; registration required. Free parking at the Ford Museum. Discussions take place in the DeVos Learning Center within the Ford Museum. \n  \nWith thanks to the Foreign Policy Association for the development of their Great Decisions program\, America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum for their partnership. \nAs we approach America’s 250th anniversary in 2026\, this year’s series invites us to reflect on our nation’s global role—past\, present\, and future. Learn more about America250 initiatives at america250.org. \n  \nProgram Details \nFriday\, March 13: U.S. Foreign Policy \n  \nTrump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership\, embracing an “America First” approach. This program explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy. \nThis program is in supplement of the March 10 evening eventThe U.S. in a Changing Global Order with Ambassador (ret.) Michael McKinley with Ambassador (ret.) Michael McKinley\, who will be presenting “The U.S. In a Changing Global Order.”
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/great-decisions-lunch-and-learn-us-foreign-policy/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/lunchandlearn3313.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260317T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260317T191500
DTSTAMP:20260430T224504
CREATED:20260114T194233Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T150453Z
UID:10000083-1773770400-1773774900@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:POSTPONED: Nuclear Risk in a Changing World with Page Stoutland
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: THIS EVENT IS POSTPONED\, RESCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY\, MAY 12. \nWe welcome Page Stoutland\, former consultant\, NTI  \n  \nThe risk of nuclear weapon use is widely viewed as higher today than at any point since the Cold War. Long-standing security alliances appear to be weakening\, prompting additional states to consider developing their own nuclear capabilities. Weapons-usable nuclear materials remain in many countries\, presenting proliferation and security risks. Emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence and increasingly digital command-and-control systems—are being integrated into nuclear systems\, introducing new vulnerabilities including cyber threats and system manipulation. These converging pressures raise a critical question: are we approaching a “perfect storm” that increases the likelihood of catastrophic nuclear weapons use? \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/nuclear-risk-in-a-changing-world-with-page-stoutland/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PageStoutland.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260324T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260324T191500
DTSTAMP:20260430T224504
CREATED:20260316T151637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T173751Z
UID:10000090-1774375200-1774379700@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:From West Michigan to the World: The Global Economy at Home with Randy Thelen and Bradley T. French
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Randy Thelen\, President & CEO of The Right Place and Bradley T. French\, Member and Chief Strategy Officer\, Bodman PLC. \n  \n  \nFrom manufacturing exports and international investment to supply chains and trade policy\, global forces play a powerful role in shaping regional economic futures. How do the current global economic trends affect our current and future prosperity in West Michigan? In this conversation\, Randy Thelen\, President & CEO of The Right Place\, and Bradley T. French\, Member and Chief Strategy Officer at Bodman PLC\, explore the relationship between international markets and local opportunities. Drawing on their work with companies expanding and investing in the region\, they will discuss how global economic trends influence job creation\, innovation\, and long-term prosperity for businesses and residents alike. Join us for an engaging discussion on why West Michigan’s place in the global economy matters—and how a vibrant regional economy can benefit the entire community. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/from-west-michigan-to-the-world-the-global-economy-at-home-with-randy-thelen-and-bradley-t-french/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SIX_95A5F3EA-143A-4D0C-A243-5A694041B457.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260325T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260325T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T224504
CREATED:20260227T155850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T130505Z
UID:10000088-1774461600-1774468800@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:A Taste of Munich - March Global Mixer
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our next Global Mixer\, ‘A Taste of Munich’ at the Küsterer Brauhaus on Wednesday\, March 25 at 6pm.  Guests will enjoy a selection of German charcuterie skewers\, Kraut Knödel (balls) with dressing\, Pretzel Bites with Bierkäse (cheese) and three 5oz Bier tastings with a little history presentation and tour.  The Küsterer Brauhaus is a Bavarian-style beer hall offering a taste of Bavaria with a local twist.  Tickets are $37 per person and registration is required by March 20.  Street parking on Bridge Street.
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/a-taste-of-munich-march-global-mixer/
LOCATION:Küsterer Brauhaus\, 642 Bridge St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/munichimg.jpeg
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