BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//NYC Atheists - ECPv6.15.10//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:NYC Atheists X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://nycatheists.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for NYC Atheists REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20160313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20161106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20170312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20171105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20180311T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20181104T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20190310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20191103T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20181009T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20181009T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20181003T170430Z LAST-MODIFIED:20181003T170712Z UID:38054-1539111600-1539118800@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:October Podcast Meetup DESCRIPTION:HOST: Jessica Bauch \n \n\nTOPIC: WHAT IS FAKE NEWS? HOW TO SPOT IT AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO STOP IT. \n\nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-sept-oct/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180927T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180927T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180831T225907Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180831T231139Z UID:37940-1538073000-1538082000@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:September Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:HOST: Ken Bronstein \n\nSPEAKER: CHRIS CARLSON \n\nTOPIC: CULTS IN SOCIETY AND DEPROGRAMMING \nThe presentation will address: \n\nCult involvement\, brainwashing\, coercive persuasion\, traumatic narcissism\nMisconceptions which include the idea that people “join” cults\, that cults are a religious phenomenon and that those involved can just “leave.”\nThe process of deprogramming or exit counseling\nThose born into a cult environment vs. initial involvement in later life\n\n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-sept/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180918T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180918T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180831T230425Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180918T170315Z UID:37943-1537297200-1537304400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:September Podcast Meetup DESCRIPTION:HOST: Jessica Bauch \n \n\nTOPIC: NOVEMBER 2018 ELECTION – FLIPPING 4-6  REPUBLICAN TO DEMOCRATIC \n\nNYC ATHEISTS ANNOUNCES THAT AT OUR SEPTEMBER 18TH (TUESDAY) MEETUP\, WE WILL INTRODUCE THE NYC ATHEISTS PODCAST: “IMAGINE OUR PLANET. ” FUTURE MEETUPS WILL BE PODCASTED. NECESSARY EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN PURCHASED BY NYC ATHEISTS. JOHN LENNON’S “IMAGINE” WILL BE OUR THEME MUSIC. \nJESSICA BAUCH IS OUR PODCASTER HOST. SHE WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL ASPECTS OF SETTING UP EQUIPMENT\, WEB\, PLATFORM\, GUESTS AND MEETUP TOPICS. \nTHE PODCAST IS IN SUPPORT OUR “ WE CARE” AGENDA TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE ON THIS PLANET. \nTHE  NEW YORK STATE SENATE REPUBLICANS ARE OBSTRUCTING PROGRESSIVE LEGISLATION SUCH A STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR SEX ABUSERS\, ABORTION RIGHTS\, GUN SAFETY\, SCHOOL TRAFFIC CAMERAS\, EDUCATION COMPETENCY\, ETC. AS THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION AND THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT RESCINDS/ REVISES/OVERRULES OBAMA‘S REGULATIONS\, IT UP TO STATE GOVERNMENT TO RESCUE THEM. \nHOW CAN I GET  INVOLVED IN THE 2018 NY STATE SENATE ELECTION? – WHAT SKILLS\, FINANCIAL DONATIONS\, ACTIVITIES. \n\nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-sept/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180909T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180909T143000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180831T225319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180901T060018Z UID:37936-1536492600-1536503400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:September Lunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SPEAKER: RICKY SILVER\n\n\nTOPIC: EMPIRE STATE INDIVISIBLE IN ACTION\, INCREASING CONSTITUENT ENGAGEMENT AND AWARENESS OF THEIR DEMOCRATIC POWER\n\n\nDEFENDING NEW YORK AGAINST THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION\, AND THOSE IN OUR STATE GOVERNMENT THAT ENABLE ITS HARMFUL POLICIES.\n\n \nThis event is free but guests are expected to purchase frood or drink from the menu to compensate Stone Creek for their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2018-sept/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180908T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180908T180000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20150819T150032Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180928T163706Z UID:36755-1536404400-1536429600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:Street Tabling DESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\n\nOn Saturdays during the summer months\, we set up our cozy tent-covered table on the sidewalk on Columbus Circle (in front of the Time Warner Building) and chat with interested with passers-by. We don’t accost people\, but simply make ourselves available to provide information and answer questions about what we do as an organization and about atheism in general. We are always well-received and a very nice time is had by all. The people who approach us are almost always quite friendly and sincerely interested. \nWe always need volunteers. Come and join us for as much or as little time as you can! \nFirst Shift: 10:55 AM to 2 PM (extra assistance needed during setup)\nSecond Shift: 1 PM to 4 PM\nThird Shift: 2 PM to 6 PM \nIf you plan on helping out\, please drop a quick email to nycatheists@gmail.org to let us know your availability so we can schedule our staffing accordingly. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/street-tabling-2017-07-15/ LOCATION:Columbus Circle\, 10 Columbus Circle\, New York\, NY\, 10019\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Other END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180726T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180726T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180704T204423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180724T185009Z UID:37750-1532629800-1532638800@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:July Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: THE VATICAN – CODES AND CONSPIRACIES \nSEE THE SECRETS OF THE VATICAN WHICH ARE SOME OF THE MOST SHOCKING CHAPTERS IN HUMAN HISTORY.\nA FANTASTIC VIDEO FROM THE AHC TELEVISION NETWORK\nThe Vatican is a secretive\, watchful institution that protects its reputation and the members of its ranks with fierce\, often reckless abandon. But the secrets and scandals throughout its history are some of the darkest in all of history. \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-july/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180710T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180710T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180704T204109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180704T204350Z UID:37746-1531249200-1531256400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:July Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Community Building\nLetting people know they’re not alone\, and that it’s not wrong to question? How can we use the internet (social media\, website\, etc.) to build our community? \nHost:  Jessica Bauch (atheist running for political office) \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-july/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180628T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180628T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180606T170535Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180606T170918Z UID:37654-1530210600-1530219600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:June Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: Caring for those with Alzheimer and Dementia \nPRESENTLY A MEMBER OF NYC ATHEISTS IS COPING WITH THIS PROBLEM. I INVITED A SPEAKER FROM THE CIRCLE OF CARE TO SPEAK TO OUR GROUP BECAUSE MANY OF US MAY BE CONFRONTING THIS PROBLEM IN THE FUTURE. \nCircle of Care provides FREE\, confidential professional support to NYC family members caring for an adult with Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementia or for a chronically ill or frail loved one. They are here to help you manage stress – emotional\, physical and financial. Because they are funded by both State and City government\, their services are all free of charge. All clients are served\, regardless of income level. \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-june/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180619T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180619T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180606T170255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180606T170425Z UID:37651-1529434800-1529442000@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:June Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: TBA \nHost:  LARRY SHAW \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-june/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180531T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180531T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180503T214820Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180521T011642Z UID:37529-1527791400-1527800400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:May Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: HOW TO CONVERT A BELIEVER – STREET EPISTEMOLOGY \nI met Anthony Magnabosco\, at the recent 2018 American Atheists convention in Oklahoma City\, where he was a speaker. His presentation was one of the most important and interesting. \nMagnabosco is a worldwide promoter and practitioner of Street Epistemology \, which is a conversational method for respectfully challenging claims by asking probing questions to uncover the reliability of one’s belief formation process. \nWe will be watching a Magabosco video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic8O-m1lAZo) interviewing a believer. \nThroughout the video; he explains and analyzes his strategy. \n———————————————————————————————\nSUBJECT: What is Street Epistemology? \nEpistemology from Greek ἐπιστήμη\, epistēmē\, meaning ‘knowledge’\, and λόγος\, logos\, meaning ‘logical discourse’) is the branch of philosophy concerned with the theory of knowledge. \nEpistemology addresses such questions as “What makes justified beliefs justified?”\, “What does it mean to say that we know something?” and fundamentally “How do we know that we know?” \nStreet Epistemology is the process of identifying\, understanding\, and challenging belief claims by asking questions.\nStreet Epistemology is dialectically-based\, grounded in the Socratic method\, and enhanced by recent evidence-based advances from a wide spectrum of disciplines\, such as motivational interviewing\, applied philosophy\, and cognitive behavioral therapy. \nStreetEpistemology.com \nThis website is your single\, best source for everything related to Street Epistemology\, including general information\, videos\, social media platforms\, SE community resources\, blogs\, podcasts\, books\, and more! \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-may/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180513T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180513T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180503T214834Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180503T215724Z UID:37531-1526212800-1526223600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:May Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SUBJECT: YOU’RE FIRED ATHEIST!!! WHAT ARE YOUR RIGHTS?\n\nSPEAKER: DARYL COCHRANE\, Director of the Manhattan Community Service Center & LGBTQ Communities Lead Advisor with the Community Relations Bureau of the New York City Commission on Human Rights\n\n\n\nThe cost of this event is $25 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2018-may/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180508T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180508T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180503T214827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180503T215329Z UID:37530-1525806000-1525813200@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:May Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: IS OUR POLARIZED MEDIA UNDERMINING AMERICA’S DEMOCRACY? \nThere used to be an FCC regulation called “The Fairness Doctrine\,” that forced broadcast media to provide audiences different points of view. Liberal opinions were to be balanced by conservative ones. In 1987\, President Ronald Reagan had the FCC discontinue this\, his rational being that with in addition to AM radio\, there was FM\, television\, and cable. (The internet was in the near future)\, no one ideology could dominate. There have been unforeseen consequences in that we now have outlets  that provide just one point of view. Via such huge broadcasters as Sinclair and Fox\, the right wing  has come to dominate much of the media. While there are left wing stations\, they are less successful. Audiences listen to stations that support their prejudices\, which is largely responsible for our current political polarization. We will discuss whether our democracy is threatened\, and why right wing outlets have wider audiences than left wing ones. \nHost:  LARRY SHAW \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-may/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180426T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180426T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180329T164858Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180329T165719Z UID:37421-1524767400-1524776400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:April Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: The Ten Biggest Beasts Ever \nOUTSTANDING NATIONAL GEOGRAPHICS VIDEO – BEFORE MAN RULED THE WORLD\, EARTH WAS A LAND OF GIANTS. COUNT DOWN THE BIGGEST BEASTS OF THEIR KIND TO EVER ROAM THE PLANET IN THIS EYE-OPENING SPECIAL\, AND UNCOVER THE SECRET LIVES OF THESE SUPERSIZED SPECIES. \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-apr/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180410T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180410T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180329T164840Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180329T165053Z UID:37419-1523386800-1523394000@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:April Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Should Trump be Impeached? \n  \nHost:  Eric Stunzi \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-apr/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180408T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180408T170000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180404T170524Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180404T170900Z UID:37456-1523199600-1523206800@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:Board of Directors Working Meeting DESCRIPTION:SUBJECT: Board of Directors Working Meeting\n\n\nIF YOU ARE A PAID (2018) NYC ATHEISTS MEMBER;  YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND. \nFOR NYC ATHEISTS TO CONTINUE AND TO BE SUCCESSFUL\, WE NEED:\n1)  PAID MEMBERSHIP\, 2) ATTEND EVENTS / MEETING AND 3) SERVE (VOLUNTEER) \n1) OBJECTIVE OF MEETING\nGET MEMBERS TO BECOME BOARD MEMBERS (BASIC REQUIREMENT – PAID\n2018 MEMBERSHIP) \n2) NEED VOLUNTEERS TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY / MANAGEMENT FOR\nSPECIFIC FUNCTIONS SUCH AS: \n——  ACTIVISM\nBe involved in developing and managing activism activities / events\nSelect\, develop & execute actions \n——  AUDIO / VISUAL\nResponsible: Setup / operation / of audio / visual equipment \n——  EVENTS\nResponsible: to select and manage special events: July 4th / Blood Donation\, / Demonstrations\, etc. \n___   GRAPHICS\nComputer\, Cartoons\, Demonstration / Protest Signs \n___   LEGAL\nAdvice\, Letters\, Suits\, etc\, \n——  LOCATIONS\nResponsibility: Find new meeting / event locations \n——  MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS\nDevelop\, distribute &  meeting announcements \n——  MEMBERSHIP\nResponsibility includes expanded NYC Atheists membership \n——  NEWS LETTER\nNeed editor / graphics / Layout ………… \n——  PRESS / PUBLIC RELATIONS\nwork with press\, media\, etc. ….. \n——  SOCIAL MEDIA\nFacebook\, Twitter\, ….. monitor & respond\, post NYC Atheists announcements\, etc. \n——  SPEAKERS\nFind speakers for NYC Atheists meetings: Brunch /\nMonthly / Other \n——  TABLING\nCommitment to participate for a set period of\ntime each tabling \n___  OTHER:  ___________________________________________ \n\n\n\nThe cost of this event is $25 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/boardmeeting-2018-apr/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180408T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180408T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180329T164846Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180329T165430Z UID:37420-1523188800-1523199600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:April Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SUBJECT: Children’s Victim Act\n\nSPEAKER: Robert Hoatson\, Ex-priest advocate to extend statute of limitations\n\nTHE PRIMARY LEGISLATION OPPONENTS ARE: THE CATHOLIC CHURCH\, THE HASDIC / ORTHORDOX JEWISH COMMUNITY AND THE BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA. THEY OPPOSE THE EXTENSION OF THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS OF SEXUAL ABUSE CLAIMS BEYOND ONE’S\, 23RD  YEAR; BECAUSE IT WOULD BANKRUPT THEM.\n\n\nThe cost of this event is $25 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2018-apr/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180313T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180313T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180306T191819Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180306T192047Z UID:37341-1520967600-1520974800@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:March Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: RELIGION AND RACISM \nHow religion creates tribal ethnic divides… If your religion is the one true one… and your messiah is the son of God… Then all the others religions have to be untrue and false… What to do with people who are preaching a false religion? \nPeople do terrible things during war… But we know that people will do really awful things in the name of religion … \nHost:  Eric Stunzi \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-mar/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180311T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180311T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180301T180258Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180301T180627Z UID:37333-1520769600-1520780400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:March Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SUBJECT: It Felt Like Rape: A Hasidic Woman’s Journey Out of an Arranged Marriage – and the Closet\n\nSPEAKER: CHAVIE WEISBERGER\n\nChavie Weisberger married a man she’d barely met and suffered for\nyears until she realized she was a lesbian. But her greatest battle\nwas yet to come. \nChavie Weisberger\, Community Engagement Coordinator\nChavie is a Footsteps member since 2012\, and a long-time supporter of\nthe OTD (ultra-Orthodox Jewish) community. In her capacity as\nCommunity Engagement Associate\, Chavie plays a key role in building a\nnetwork of those who have already made the transition out of\nultra-Orthodoxy and are looking to be connected with Footsteps. She\nworks closely with peer mentors\, nurturing Footsteps’ online presence\,\nand assists in implementing leadership development programs. \n\nFOOTSTEPS \nFootsteps provides educational\, vocational\, professional\, social\, and\nlegal support to those seeking to enter or explore the world beyond\nthe insular ultra-religious communities in which they were raised.\nSome people from the ultra-orthodox and Chasidic communities who\nchoose to enter mainstream America may feel like cultural immigrants.\nThey may face cultural disorientation and isolation coupled with a\nlack of practical and marketable skills. \nEvery year\, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men and women attempt to\nexplore the world beyond their insular communities. These courageous\nindividuals struggle to redefine their lives despite punitive\nreactions from family and friends\, little if any secular education\, a\nlack of experience with modern gender roles\, and\, in some cases\, a\nlimited command of English.\nFootsteps is the only organization in North America assisting people\non this journey. Based in New York\, Footsteps provides a range of\nservices\, including social and emotional support\, educational and\nvocational guidance\, workshops and social activities\, and access to\nresources. Thanks to Footsteps\, former ultra-Orthodox Jews have a\nsafe\, supportive\, and flourishing community to turn to as they work to\ndefine their own identities\, build new connections\, and lead\nproductive lives on their own terms.\nFootsteps has served over 1\,300 people since its founding in 2003.\nDemand for Footsteps’ services continues to grow exponentially. \n\n  \n\n\n\nThe cost of this event is $25 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2018-mar/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180222T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180222T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180205T203007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180205T203229Z UID:37271-1519324200-1519333200@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:February Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSPEAKER: GEOFFREY R. STONE (Edward H. Levi Distinguished Service Professor of Law) Geoffrey R. Stone is the Edward H. Levi Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Chicago. Mr. Stone joined the faculty in 1973\, after serving as a law clerk to Supreme Court Justice William J. Brennan\, Jr. He later served as Dean of the Law School (1987-1994) and Provost of the University of Chicago (1994-2002). \nSUBJECT: SEX AND THE CONSTITUTION: SEX\, RELIGION AND LAW FROM AMERICA’S ORIGINS TO THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY (2017)\nWe will be listening to a podcast (The Brian Lehrer Show – WNYC – March 24\, 2017; followed by our group’s lively discussion. \nOverview\nThere has never been a book like Sex and the Constitution\, a one-volume history that chapter after chapter overturns popular shibboleths\, while dramatically narrating the epic story of how sex came to be legislated in America. \nBeginning his volume in the ancient and medieval worlds\, Geoffrey R. Stone demonstrates how the Founding Fathers\, deeply influenced by their philosophical forebears\, saw traditional Christianity as an impediment to the pursuit of happiness and to the quest for human progress. Acutely aware of the need to separate politics from the divisive forces of religion\, the Founding Fathers crafted a constitution that expressed the fundamental values of the Enlightenment. \nAlthough the Second Great Awakening later came to define America through the lens of evangelical Christianity\, nineteenth-century Americans continued to view sex as a matter of private concern\, so much so that sexual expression and information about contraception circulated freely\, abortions before “quickening” remained legal\, and prosecutions for sodomy were almost nonexistent. \nThe late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries reversed such tolerance\, however\, as charismatic spiritual leaders and barnstorming politicians rejected the values of our nation’s founders. Spurred on by Anthony Comstock\, America’s most feared enforcer of morality\, new laws were enacted banning pornography\, contraception\, and abortion\, with Comstock proposing that the word “unclean” be branded on the foreheads of homosexuals. Women increasingly lost control of their bodies\, and birth control advocates\, like Margaret Sanger\, were imprisoned for advocating their beliefs. In this new world\, abortions were for the first time relegated to dank and dangerous back rooms. \nThe twentieth century gradually saw the emergence of bitter divisions over issues of sexual “morality” and sexual freedom. Fiercely determined organizations and individuals on both the right and the left wrestled in the domains of politics\, religion\, public opinion\, and the courts to win over the soul of the nation. With its stirring portrayals of Supreme Court justices\, Sex and the Constitution reads like a dramatic gazette of the critical cases they decided\, ranging from Griswold v. Connecticut (contraception)\, to Roe v. Wade (abortion)\, to Obergefell v. Hodges (gay marriage)\, with Stone providing vivid historical context to the decisions that have come to define who we are as a nation. \nNow\, though\, after the 2016 presidential election\, we seem to have taken a huge step backward\, with the progress of the last half century suddenly imperiled. No one can predict the extent to which constitutional decisions safeguarding our personal freedoms might soon be eroded\, but Sex and the Constitution is more vital now than ever before. \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-feb/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180213T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180213T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180205T022144Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180205T022402Z UID:37266-1518548400-1518555600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:February Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:Topic: ARE AGNOSTICS REALLY COWARDS SITTING ON THE FENCE INSTEAD OF COMING OUT AS ATHEISTS? \nJulia Sweeney calls herself a Rationalist\, Christopher Hitchens called himself an Anti-theist\, the folks at CFI call themselves Secular Humanists…. Other people identify as Freethinkers or Skeptics. What do you call yourself?… Is it important for us all to abandon divisive labels an come out as atheists? What do you think? \nHost:  Eric Stunzi \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-feb/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180211T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180211T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180203T053656Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180203T054243Z UID:37258-1518350400-1518361200@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:February Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SUBJECT: Does Religion Have the Right to Deprive a Child of a Basic  Education? – My Fight Against the Hasidic Yeshivas\n\nSPEAKER: Naftuli Moster\, Executive Director of Young Advocates for Fair Education\n\n\nYou’ve heard the rumors\, read the articles in the newspapers and probably wondered:  Could this be true? Is it possible that a religious sect would deprive its children of a modern education\, including science and mathematics\, in order to more strongly imbue its ancient religion? \nNYCA’s February Brunch speaker says yes. He is Naftuli Moster\, executive director of Young Advocates for Fair Education (YAFFED)\, an advocacy group committed to getting Hasidic children a fair and equitable education that will help them survive in a modern world. \nSects Focus on Religious Education \nAn investigation in 2015 by the New York City Department of Education found “shockingly sub-standard education at the 39 Hasidic yeshivas in the city\,” according to a report by City Council member Daniel Dromm\, chairman of the City Council’s education committee. \n“The schools have been accused of spending relatively little time on basic education in favor of religious studies–to the point that they have produced graduates who cannot read or write English or do basic math\,” says Councilman Dromm. \nNew York state law requires private and parochial schools to provide instruction \nthat is “substantially equivalent” to what is offered in the public schools. \nHowever\, graduates of Hasidic yeshivas have told investigators that boys get just six hours of secular education a week. When they become 13\, all secular education ends and they only attend religious instruction. \nBroader Implications for Atheists \nOur February Brunch speaker Moster says his group\, YAFFED\, believes that “every child is entitled to a fair and equitable education that is in compliance with the law.” \nImpatient with the snails-pace of reform led by elected officials\, YAFFED has produced its own 90-page report titled “Non-Equivalent: The State of Education in New York City’s Hasidic Yeshivas.” The group’s goal\, Moster says\, is to get the ultra-Orthodox world to “act responsibly in preparing their youth for economic sufficiency and for broad access to the resources of the modern world.” \nFor Atheists\, this controversy goes beyond its New York locale. If  the Hasidic Jews are required by law to bring modern education into their classrooms\, what about Catholic parochial schools? What about the home-schooled children? \nIs this case the precursor to the opening up of children’s education all over our nation? Is this\, as one educator put it\, “the beginning of the end of teaching fairy tales in school?” \nCome on February 11th to hear this brave proponent for Hasidic children as you enjoy our Brunch buffet with friendly fellow non-believers. \n\n\n\nThe cost of this event is $25 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2018-feb/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180125T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180125T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180122T190926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180122T191115Z UID:37242-1516905000-1516914000@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:January Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: NYC Atheists Future\, Succession\, and Delegation Plans \n  \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2018-jan/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180116T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180116T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180106T015839Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180107T232714Z UID:37212-1516129200-1516136400@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:January Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:Topic: Trump \nWhat can and should we do as atheists? \nHost:  Lee Moore \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2018-jan/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20180114T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20180114T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20180101T181919Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180101T182140Z UID:37196-1515931200-1515942000@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:January Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SPEAKER: MIKE REISS\nMike Reiss has won four Emmys and a Peabody Award during his twenty-eight years writing for “The Simpsons”. He ran the show in Season 4\, which Entertainment Weekly called “the greatest season of the greatest show in history.” In 2006\, Reiss received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Animation Writers Caucus. “Springfield Confidential”\, Mike’s memoir of three decades at “The Simpsons”\, will be released by Harper Collins in June 2018. Reiss has written jokes for such comedy legends as Johnny Carson\, Joan Rivers\, Garry Shandling… and Pope Francis! For his comedic contributions to the charitable group Joke with the Pope\, in 2015 Pope Francis declared Reiss “A Missionary of Joy”. Reiss co-created the animated series “The Critic” and created Showtime’s hit cartoon “Queer Duck” (about a gay duck). “Queer Duck” was named one of “The 100 Greatest Cartoons of All Time” by the BBC. Mike Reiss has been a contributing writer to more than two dozen animated films — including four ICE AGEs\, two DESPICABLE MEs\, THE LORAX\, RIO\, KUNG FU PANDA 3\, and THE SIMPSONS MOVIE – with a worldwide gross of $14 billion. \nMike and his wife\, Denise are members of NYC Atheists. \n\n\n\nSUBJECT: WRITING JOKES FOR “THE SIMPSONS”… AND THE POPE!\nMike Reiss has won four Emmys during his three decades writing for “The Simpsons”. Born Jewish\, an atheist since age eight\, has also written seven Christmas books. \nHe was also named “A Missionary of Joy” by Pope Francis for his work with the charity “Joke with the Pope”. Reiss will discuss the uses of religion in The Simpsons\, illustrating it with rare animated clips. Hear his hilarious and amazing story. \nThe cost of this event is $20 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2018-jan/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20171210T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20171210T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20171205T052505Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171205T054003Z UID:37093-1512907200-1512918000@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:December Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:SPEAKER: SUSANA MARINEZ CONDE\nSusana Martinez-Conde is a neuroscientist and science writer. She is a professor of ophthalmology\, neurology\, and physiology & pharmacology at the State University of New York\, Downstate Medical Center.\n\n\n\nBOOK: CHAMPIONS OF ILLUSIONS\nA full-color celebration of stunning visual illusions and the science behind them.
In Champions of Illusion\, Susana Martinez-Conde and Stephen Macknik present a smorgasbord of mystifying images\, many selected from their Best Illusion of the Year Contest. Whether it’s false motion\, tricks of perspective\, or shifting colors\, Champions of Illusion is packed with adventures in visual perception. If you have ever found yourself face-to-face with an utterly bewildering illusion\, you know the powerful effect such images have on the mind. The question we often ask ourselves is\, how is that possible? \nMartinez-Conde and Macknik\, who study the intersection of neuroscience\, illusions\, and stage magic\, explain just why we think we see the things we see. Featuring the most bizarre effects and unbelievable mind tricks\, along with classic illusions and illuminating descriptions of what is actually going on in your brain when you are deceived by visuals. Champions of Illusion is an electrifying mix of science and magic that you will not soon forget. \nThe cost of this event is $20 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2017-dec/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20171130T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20171130T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20171030T165225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171030T170459Z UID:37017-1512066600-1512075600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:November Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: Religion News Service \nSPEAKER: Kimberly Winston \nKimberly Winston covers atheism and freethought for the Religion News Service which delivers an unbiased viewpoint on breaking news from around the world\, reporting on faith\, spirituality and religion. \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2017-nov/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20171114T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20171114T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20171030T165232Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171030T165917Z UID:37018-1510686000-1510693200@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:November Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:Topic: Dangerous Religious Convictions \nDangerous religious convictions are rampant amongst disadvantaged communities in our city\, acting only to compound their troubles and leading to very real\, very tangible tragedies. Why is this and can we do anything about it? \nHost:  Lee Moore \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2017-nov/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20171112T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20171112T150000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20171030T165242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171030T165638Z UID:37019-1510488000-1510498800@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:November Brunch & Speaker DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Recovering From Religion\nSPEAKER: Gayle Jordan – Executive Director\, Recovering From Religion \nDoubt Your Beliefs? Have Questions About Changing Or Leaving Your Faith? You Are Not Alone\, And We Are Here To Help. Learning how to live after questions\, doubts\, and changing beliefs is a journey. We at Recovering from Religion are intimately familiar with this path\, and we are here to help you to cross that bridge. Our passion is connecting others with support\, resources\, community\, and most of all\, hope. We have two forms of support available below: peer support and professional support. \nThe cost of this event is $20 which includes a wonderful all-you-can-eat brunch followed by our guest speaker. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/brunch-2017-nov/ LOCATION:The Press Box\, 932 2nd Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10022\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Sunday Brunch and Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20171026T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20171026T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20171002T165406Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171002T165532Z UID:36951-1509042600-1509051600@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:October Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Host: Ken Bronstein \n\nSUBJECT: BLACK NON-BELIEVERS \nSPEAKER: MANDISA THOMAS – PRESIDENT\, BLACK ATHEISTS \n\nA $10 charge for this event is used to help cover the cost of the venue. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/monthly-meeting-2017-oct/ LOCATION:SLC Conference Center\, 15 West 39th Street – 3rd Floor\, New York\, NY\, 10018\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Thursday Monthly Meeting END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20171010T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20171010T210000 DTSTAMP:20260419T163511 CREATED:20171002T165210Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171002T165343Z UID:36948-1507662000-1507669200@nycatheists.org SUMMARY:October Discussion Night DESCRIPTION:Topic: Immigration \nWHY IS MAYOR DEBLASIO SURRENDERING TO THE HASIDICS? \nHost:  Lee Moore \nThe event is free\, but please purchase food or drink to compensate Stone Creek for the use of their space. URL:https://nycatheists.org/event/discussion-night-2017-oct/ LOCATION:Stone Creek Bar and Lounge\, 140 East 27th St.\, New York\, NY\, 10016\, United States CATEGORIES:ALL,Tuesday Discussion Night END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR