Author: Jim Lyttle, PhD

The Other Virus: Fake News

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We are challenged daily with news reports and social media that make it difficult to determine the accuracy and intent of that information. This presentation will define fake news, briefly describe its history, explain its effects on democracy and our institutions, what drives it, how to distinguish real and fake news, and have an open discussion on its effects on ourselves.
 

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David X. Swenson PhD LP is Professor and former Director of the MBA in Rural Health at the College of St. Scholastica and a forensic psychologist in private practice. He has been in the field for 50 years and is a consultant to health and human service agencies, law enforcement, and emergency services with an emphasis on crisis management and leadership.

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On Sunday, December 4, 2022, we will gather in person at Somers Lounge within the campus of the College of St. Scholastica. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will begin at 10:00 with some announcements and a Five-Minute Reflection from one of our members. After the main presentation, we will move downstairs for brunch and further discussion. We’ll save you a seat!

HAPPY HOURS
THIS Thursday
December 1st
4:00-6:00 pm
Mexico Lindo

Today’s dusting of snow is over! Starting at 5:30 pm, we will be celebrating the dual birthdays of Our Flounder Bill van Druten and our Social Director Sue Anderson, each of whom will be somewhat over 21 years of age (in fact, if they were eight people, their average age would still be over 21). For 25 years, Lake Superior Freethinkers have been thwarting efforts to characterize this as a Christian society. From removing the Ten Commandments from their perch at City Hall to removing Jesus, I Trust In You from the top of a city bus, the organization has worked to protect us from proselytizing. Now is our chance to thank the folks whose fortitude and perseverance have kept the group alive all this time. Bellisio’s is in Canal Park at 405 Lake Avenue South, Duluth MN 55802. (218) 727-4921. See you there!

“A small window on life in the St. Louis County Jail“

Jackie Falk attended seminary later in life than is traditional. Upon graduating from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities–an ecumenical seminary–she served as pastor of faith formation at Peace United Church of Christ before taking the chaplaincy at the St. Louis County Jail (SLCJ). She will share some of her experiences, observations, and insights.

“The Chaplain at the SLCJ serves approximately 180 incarcerated women and men and an almost equal number of women and men who serve them as officers and counselors. Most of those who are incarcerated are in a kind of ‘limbo,’ having lost personal agency due to several possible judicial decisions or due to their economic circumstances. The opportunity to listen to the concerns and stories individuals shared with me have given me a particular window on negative forces that diminish the quality of life for all of us.”

On Sunday, November 6, 2022, we will gather in person at Somers Lounge within the campus of the College of St. Scholastica. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and the festivities begin at 10:00. The presentation starts with some announcements and a Five-Minute Reflection from one of our members. After the presentation, some of us will head downstairs for brunch and conversation in the student cafeteria (all you can eat for less than $10). We’ll save you a seat!

Wednesday, October 19th at 5:30 pm, Sue Anderson and the rest of your freethinking friends will take over a section of this fine restaurant to indulge in a scrumptious dinner and loads of free conversation. (The food and beverages are not free; bring your wallet!) There’s a lovely menu with a wide variety of choices that you can study HERE, so you’re ready to get started when we arrive. There’s lots of room and many great thinkers and plenty to discuss, so please be sure to mark you calendars.