Religion & Presidential Politics: Past Present and Future

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 at 6:00 PM

It's not your imagination, politics in America has gotten MUCH more godly in the last couple of decades. So much so that scholars are writing serious books about the subject and traveling around the US talking about it. Our own UCCS Center for Religious Diversity and Public Life has arranged for just such a scholar to speak here on March 8 at from 6:00-7:15. Mark you calendar and round up a couple of "Fox news" watching friends to join us.

Who : Dr. Randall Balmer, John Phillips Professor in Religion, Dartmouth College; Author of over a dozen books including Redeemer: The Life of Jimmy Carter and God in the White House
When: Wednesday, March 9th, 6:00-7:15 pm
Where: Centennial Hall Auditorium, UCCS campus—
Free parking in Lots 222 and 224
Free and open to the public
The free parking is in the lot just to the left of the Meadow Lane and Austin Bluffs interception, and thru the traffic circle. The Centennial Hall Auditorium is at the west end of the building adjoining the parking lot.

Please join us on Saturday, February 13th
for a Potluck Social and a
Birthday Celebration for Charles Darwin

Come and enjoy good food and great conversation with other
Freethinkers! Bring a dish to share, bring your spouse and/or
friend, and bring a bottle of beer or wine or whatever you’d like
to drink; coffee and tea are provided by the host(s). Socials usually
begin at 6:00 pm and break up around 9:00 pm. Remember to
mark your calendar; socials are on the second Saturday of the
month.
February’s social will be held on Saturday the 13th at 6:00 pm in
the home of Becky Hale and Gary Betchan. Their address is
6158 Briarcliff Road in Colorado Springs. From North Academy
Boulevard, turn west on Dublin; there is a shopping center on the
northwest corner of that intersection, in which you’ll see Discount
Tire and Sprouts Market. Shortly after you pass the shopping
center, turn left onto Lemonwood Drive, which will take
you up a hill. As you descend that hill, turn left onto Fairoak
Drive. Briarcliff Road will be the first right, and Gary and
Becky’s home is the first one on the right.
Call 719.548.0882 if you get lost or need assistance, and don’t
forget to bring a dish to share and something you’d like to drink!

THIS SOCIAL WILL ALSO BE
A BIRTHDAY PARTY!
Since the day before the social, February 12th, is
Charles Darwin’s 207th birthday, we will have a
celebration for the great British naturalist.
THERE WILL BE BIRTHDAY CAKE!

Children are welcome at this home, but please call or email Gary@BrightHorizon.net with the ages and genders of the kids. This helps other parents determine if they want to bring their own kids, or find a sitter. Also, the toy box is a little empty at the Hale house, so consider bringing some favorite play things, and collecting them at the end of the evening for your return trip home. There will be at least one teenager. A delightful 16 year old.

Secular Sunday Brunch Feb 14, 2016

PEER REVUE – where scientists become comedians

Our friend Kyle is branching out from his Super Science Mashup events and developing science comedy shows. Here is his announcement. ------------------------- Join us at the PEER REVUE – where scientists become comedians for just one night. Thursday, January 7th – 7pm at The Loft in Old Colorado City. 2506 West Colorado Ave #C. At The Loft, our first class of scientist-comedians will be performing 5-10 minutes about their research in an evening of stand-up supported by professional comedians. This is the first US event adapted from the UK’s Bright Club where these events are held in over 18 cities and hailed as “the thinking person’s comedy night.” Our local scientists have recently graduated from a crash course in “Not Tripping Over The Night Stand 101” and are now ready to present their findings live on stage. If you have attended local events like Science on Tap or Super Science Mashup – or if you’ve ever binged on TED Talks at 2am – this event is for you. Tickets are $10. We’re working on liquor, but feel free to BYOB. Buy tickets on TicketLeap. RSVP on Facebook! You can read more about this endeavor at http://peer-revue.com/

Past Events

Colorado Springs Science Center

Science Mashup- Stars Wars science, free to all

December 13, 7:00-9:00 PM

Join us for the next SUPER SCIENCE MASHUP on Tuesday, December 15th, at the Ivywild School Gymnasium (Bristol Brewery) in Colorado Springs. Prepare for the biggest movie premier in the galaxy with your fellow science nerds!

If you've never been to a Mashup, you've been hanging out in Alderaan places. You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy than at Ivywild School on Tuesday, December 15th. Blast doors open at 7pm, programming starts at 7:30pm.

This event is all about the physics of STAR WARS! Learn about lightsabers ("Not as clumsy or random as a blaster; an elegant weapon, for a more civilized age") as well as forcefields, levitation, and lasers with university physics professors. You can even get your picture taken with Star Wars Stormtroopers from the 501st Mountain Garrison!

Han shot first, and we can prove it.

SUPER SCIENCE MASHUP is a program of the Colorado Springs Science Center, a public outreach series discussing science in popular culture. Each “Mashup” combines video clips, live demonstrations, expert panelists, and a cash bar. Before the event, you can mingle with a friendly crowd of fellow science enthusiasts. Doors and the cash bar open at 7pm, with programming beginning promptly at 7:30pm. This event is free and open to the public! All content is rated PG-13.
This event draws about 100 folks, A dozen or so Freethinkers usually attend, and gather in the front right side of the room. See ya there..
Ivywild School Gym, 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO

Details

Location: Ivywild School Gym, 1604 S Cascade Ave

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact Gary at 719-659-5075 or write to Freethinkers@FreethinkersCS.com.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Free Thoughts-Free Kids - Parent's Committee

February 3, 2008, 1:00-3:00 PM

Parent Meeting/Library Event

Details

Location: Pikes Peak Briargate Library, Colorado Springs, CO 80918

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact Stefanie at: (719) 210-9332 or stefaniesanden@msn.com.

Would you like to become more involved and active in the reason-based community?

Do you long for a social activity to fill those formerly hectic Sunday mornings?

Sponsor a secular United States Air Force Academy Cadet!

Details

Being fresh out of high school is tough enough. Being away from home and family can be hard as well. Add a demanding academic schedule and throw in a healthy dose of military discipline and you can begin to understand how challenging life can be for USAFA Cadets. Among the few opportunities for unregimented activities for first year cadets is to leave the academy grounds with a sponsor, and sponsor families and individuals have supported cadets by just being there since the 1960's.

While there are numerous prospective sponsors throughout the spectrum of religious faith willing to sponsor cadets, precious few sponsorship opportunities exist for cadets who have no religious beliefs. Both male and female cadets seeking "non-believer" sponsors are available.

Please consider becoming a sponsor for a United States Air Force Academy Cadet.

Most families and individuals are eligible, and you need only read (and carefully follow) a 23 page handbook and fill out a single form to apply. If you circle your Religious Affiliation as "Agnostic/Atheist" and indicate Religious Affiliation as "most important" in the Preferences section, you are virtually guaranteed to get an Agnostic/Atheist cadet. Once accepted as a sponsor family or individual, you may also work with the sponsor program staff to make sure you get an Agnostic/Atheist cadet.

Please call 594-4506 for more information.

PAST EVENTS

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Free Thoughts-Free Kids - Parent's Committee

January 6, 2008, 1:00-3:00 PM

Science Matters: Chemistry "Magic" Party

Details

Test your scientific observation skills and your five senses as Science Matters performs chemical feats before your eyes! What's the difference between an endothermic and exothermic reaction? You'll know before the party is over. Kids will even get to make their own oozy gooey slime to take home.

Location: Allison and Bob’s House

For directions call: (719) 638-4389.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Skeptics

Movie Night

Life of Brian

January 6, 2008, 6:00 PM

Details

There will be a combined Freethinkers of Colorado Springs and Colorado Springs Skeptics "Movie Night" on Sunday evening January 6th. There will be a potluck dinner before the movie. The event starts at 6 PM at the home of John Schuermann, 429 Coyote Willow Drive, Colorado Springs. Seating is limited to 20 people, so RSVPs are required. Contact John at jsmusicsound@comcast.net or 380-9364 (e-mail is the preferred contact method).

Our movie: Monty Python's The Life of Brian (1979, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman, John Cleese et.al.)

Two boys in first century Judea, each born in a manger. Three wise men. Confusion. The boys are now men. Rival factions think they have the "Truth." The major power in the world thinks it controls the situation. More confusion. Popularity for both men, one accepts adoration, the other rejects it. Yet more confusion. Tale concludes as everyone has a look on the bright side of life.

Location: 429 Coyote Willow Drive, Colorado Springs

To RSVP, email or call: jsmusicsound@comcast.net or 380-9364 (e-mail is the preferred contact method).

For directions, email or call: jsmusicsound@comcast.net or 380-9364 (e-mail is the preferred contact method).

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board of Directors Meeting

January 16 , 2007, 3:00-5:30 PM

East Library Conference Room

Everyone is welcome!

Please attend if you would like to learn more about The Freethinkers of Colorado Springs.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

HumanLight 2007

December 22 , 2008, 6:00 PM to Midnight

Details

Please join us for a secular celebration of Humanist ideals on the winter solstice for pot luck, white elephants and a seasonal sing along (devoid of lyrics referencing magical beings, etc.).

Location: Gill Foundation Building, 315 E. Costilla, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

For information call: (719) 594-4506.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Free Thoughts-Free Kids - Parent's Committee

December 2, 2007, 1:00-3:00 PM

Dinosaur Resource Center Field Trip

Details

During the September event the kids voted to go to the Dinosaur Resource Center in Woodland Park. This field trip will be the December 2, 2007 event (from 1-3pm) and details will be announced at the November meeting.

Location:Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, 201 S. Fairview St., Woodland Park, Colorado U.S Phone: (719) 686-1820.

Note: If you are interested in attending, carpooling or have any questions please contact Stefanie at: (719) 210-9332 or stefaniesanden@msn.com.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board Meeting

November 21 , 2007, 3:00-5:30 PM

East Library Conference Room

Details

In early 2006, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs gained tax exempt status under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service code, which requires that board meetings occur in public places and be open to the public. FTCS Board meetings have always been at least nominally open to the public (formerly meeting in the EvolveFish Office), and FTCS members and nonmembers are welcome to attend and speak at FTCS board meetings.

The November 21, 2007 Freethinkers of Colorado Springs Board of Directors meeting may have resolved several obstacles to HumanLight 2007. FTCS member Stefanie Sanden was elected to the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs Board of Directors.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Monthly Social

**NOTE: the November 2007 social is a cooperative event with the Colorado Springs Skeptics**

Second Saturday of Each Month

November 10 , 2007 6:00PM

Please visit the Socials page for location information...

Details

On the second Saturday of each month at 6:00PM, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs host a pot luck social, inviting members, prospective members and others to share a meal, a beverage and casual conversation.

Socials often occur in member's homes, or in other locations when the host's home is not suitable for hosting a large group.

Please join us at our next social on the second Saturday of the month!

For more information, please call 719-594-4506.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Parent's Committee

November 4 , 2007, 1:00-3:00 PM

Pinnacle Apartments Community Room

Details

There has been a consistent interest among both new and long-term members of the Freethinkers to have an additional group that focuses on the kids. The main purpose of the Parents’ Committee will be to provide developmentally appropriate humanist/freethought educational activities for our children, give them an opportunity to make friends, and for parents to get to know other freethought families.

The first meeting will be Sunday, August 5th at the Pinnacle Apartments Community Room (Austin Bluffs and Rangewood) from 1:00pm-3:00pm. Parents and others who are interested will work together to decide on goals for the group. Recent ideas include coordinating activities for the kids at the socials, developing monthly Sunday meetings with ethics and science-based activities for the kids, and volunteer community efforts.

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact Stefanie at: (719) 210-9332 or stefaniesanden@msn.com.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

* Special Events *

Presents

Lynne Kelly

Educator and Writer

Author of The Skeptic's Guide to the Paranormal

November 3, 2007, 3:00 to 6:00 PM

Please consider joining us for dinner with Lynne Kelly from 6:00 to 8:00 PM

Carnegie Reading Room

Penrose Public Library

20 North Cascade Avenue

Details

The Freethinkers of Colorado Springs is proud to present a special event featuring Lynne Kelly, author of The Skeptic's Guide to the Paranormal.

Despite informing her clients in advance of the non-supernatural aspects of her tauromancy readings, Lynne Kelly has inadvertently convinced numerous individuals that she was indeed a psychic - despite her protestations to the contrary.

Please join us on Saturday afternoon for a few hours with Lynne Kelly. You never know what kind of "magic" will occur!

Schedule For Lynne Kelly Visit

November 3, 2007: Penrose Library Carnegie Room at 20 North Cascade Ave.

2-4 PM: Informal meet and greet with Lynne in the Carnegie Room of Penrose Library including refreshments, book purchases and“tauromancy” readings by Lynne Kelly.

4-6 PM: Lynne Kelly'sPresentation to Colorado Springs Freethinkers.

6-8 PM: Dinner with Lynne Kelly at Giuseppe’s Restaurant 10 S. Sierra Madre.

Report: The Lynne Kelly FTCS Special Event was a great success with more than 50 in attendance and a fun and exciting afternoon and evening. Lynne repeatedly employed simple magic tricks and her own carefully developed "tauromancy" readings to create the appearance of a gifted psychic as she systematically debunked paranormal events and abilities. Thanks to all who participated and helped to make this event a reality!

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Present

Philip A. Stahl

Researcher and Author

Author of Atheism: a Beginner's Handbook: all you ever wanted to know about atheism and why, and The Atheist's Handbook to Modern Materialism

October 24, 2007, 7:00-9:00 PM

Gay and Lesbian Fund Office of the Gill Foundation

315 E. Costilla

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Details

Dr. Phillip Stahl is a contributor to the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs Freethought Views column in the Colorado Springs Independent, holds a Master of Philosophy in Physics and has written two books on atheism.

For more information, please call (719) 594-4506.

Colorado Springs Skeptics

October 25, 2007, 5:30 PM

Sonterra Grill

29B South Tejon

Colorado Springs

Details

Had enough of astrologers, psychics, homeopaths, and spirit channelers? Yearning to talk with someone rational for awhile? Meetup with other local skeptics for some refreshing and sane conversation.

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact John at: (719) 380-9364.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board Meeting

October 17, 2007, 3:00-5:30 PM

East Library Conference Room

Brief Report on the Meeting

Items on the October 2007 Freethinkers of Colorado Springs Board of Directors Meeting Agenda include ongoing attempts to become an American Humanist Association "Charter Chapter," and a brainstroming session to identify ideas to get the membership more involved and engaged in FTCS activities, especially the HumanLight event.

A prospective member attended almost the complete board meeting and was gleefully welcomed by the board.

American Humanist Association Debate

The American Humanist Association requires that "Charter Chapter" status apply only to groups with the word "humanist" in their titles. Some members of the board thought the word humanist was much broader than the word freethinker and would expand the groups identity to those whose beliefs are not strictly rational unless the word "secular" proceeded the word humanist in the new FTCS title (if any). Changing the title of a 501(c)3 is not as difficult as it first appeared, however, it will require the completion of several bureaucratic steps. Other board members were concerned about the loss of the group's identity - The Freethinkers of Colorado Springs are known nationwide - no one has ever heard of The Freethinkers and Humanists of Colorado Springs. The issue was tabled until more information could be obtained about the benefits of being a Charter Chapter of the American Humanist Association and the membership could be informed and consulted.

HumanLight

We are still seeking a suitable venue and volunteers for HumanLight 2007. The FTCS Board of Directors has conducted this event for three years without assistance from the membership (significantly draining their reserves of time and energy) and several serious obstacles threaten the event and increase the effort required to launch the event (such as the need to find a suitable venue).

While several possible venues have been identified, none meet all of our needs or can be rented for a fee the FTCS can afford. Please contact a member of the board if you know of a suitable venue or would like to volunteer for HumanLight.

Socials

The November 2007 social will be a cooperative event between the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs and the Colorado Springs Skeptics and will occur at board member Rich Breidenbach's home. It was decided that unless an insistent volunteer appeared there will be no social in December which will free us a small amount of board member time to work on HumanLight.

Special Events

The board noted the exceptional and excellent hard work done by member Jerry Newsom in setting up the FTCS Special Event featuring author Lynne Kelly on November 3rd.

While other items and issues were discussed at the meeting, this report presents meeting highlights and information thought to be of interest to the membership. If you would like to learn more about your group and see the board in action, please attend a meeting.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Hiking Group

The Front Range Trail

Rescheduled due to weather

NEW DATE: Sunday, October 13, 2007

Details

Please call 594-4506 for more information.

If there is sufficient interest, the FTCS Hiking Group will hold a hike on the Front Range Trail on Sunday, Oct. 14th. The Front Range Trail is one of the flattest trails anywhere in the area and is recommended for all ability levels. There is very little elevation gain and the distance hiked can be determined by each individual hiker. The entire trail goes between Fountain and Greenland (North of Monument). The hike will start on the northern end of Colorado Springs and head north towards the Air Force Academy.

Please contact Rich at 594-4506 if you are interested in participating in this hike.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Free Thoughts for Free Kids

Parent's Committee

October 7, 2007, 1:00-6:00 PM

6592 Barrel Race Drive

Details

Join the ‘Tent City’and learn to set up tents and enjoy outdoor food and activities!

Please bring the kids to the Free Thoughts for Free Kids event located at Bruce and Cila’s home on October 7 from 1:00pm to 6:00pm at: 6592 Barrel Race Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80923, (719) 532-0802.

Do not forget your outdoor gear!

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact Stefanie at: (719) 210-9332 or stefaniesanden@msn.com.

Cruisin' the Fossil Freeway

Ray Troll and Kirk Johnson

Denver Museum of Nature and Science

October 3, 2007, 7:00PM

Details

Hear about the zany adventures of Troll and Johnson as they drove across the American West in search of fossils. Much of their travels were spent in remote places few people visit, where they discovered small-town museums packed with paleontological treasures, rock quarries that have yielded hundreds of fossilized bones, and the remains of ancient seashores tracked with the footprints of dinosaurs.

There are fossils everywhere, but it takes knowing what to look for to find them—especially at 65 miles per hour. Troll and Johnson are the illustrator and author, respectively, of the new book, Cruisin’ the Fossil Freeway: An Epoch Tale of a Scientist and an Artist on the Ultimate 8,000-Mile Paleo Road Trip from Fulcrum Publishing.

Ricketson Auditorium; use the Ricketson/Evening Entrance, $12 member, $15 nonmember Book sale + signing.

Reservations: 303.322.7009 or 1.800.925.2250.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Hiking Group

The Crags

Saturday, September 29, 2007

Details

Please call 594-4506 for more information.

If there is sufficient interest, I will lead a hike to the Crags on Saturday, Sept. 29th. The Crags trail is one of the easiest mountain hikes in the area. It is about 3 to 4 miles round trip with a relatively easy elevation gain. The aspens should be at about peak color change. This hike is recommended for almost all hiking ability levels. Please let me know if you are interested in attending.

Please contact Rich at 594-4506 if you are interested in participating in this hike.

Colorado Springs Skeptics

September 29 , 2007, 3:00 PM

429 Coyote Willow Dr.

Colorado Springs

Details

Had enough of astrologers, psychics, homeopaths, and spirit channelers? Yearning to talk with someone rational for awhile? Meetup with other local skeptics for some refreshing and sane conversation.

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact John at: (719) 380-9364.

Pikes Peak Peace and Justice Commission

Give Peace a Dance

In Celebration of an International Day of Peace

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Paragon Ballroom

3125 Sinton Road

Details

The Pikes Peak Justice and Peace Commission is inviting all of our friends and all of their friends to come out to share a fun-filled evening of great music, great people, and dancing.

For more information, visit www.givepeaceadance.org or call 719-594-4506.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board Meeting

September 19, 2007, 3:00-5:30 PM

East Library Conference Room

Details

In early 2006, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs gained tax exempt status under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service code, which requires that board meetings occur in public places and be open to the public. FTCS Board meetings have always been at least nominally open to the public (formerly meeting in the EvolveFish Office), and FTCS members and nonmembers are welcome to attend and speak at FTCS board meetings.

Please attend!

We welcome your input!

For more information, please call 719-594-4506.

Becoming a Love and Logic Parent

September 10, 17, 24; October 1, 8, 15, 23, 30 and November 6, 2007 at 6:30PM

Details

Parenting with Love and Logic is an excellent secular program for parents "...based on the experience of a combined total of over 75 years working with and raising kids."

From the Colorado College website...

"This "Becoming a Love and Logic Parent"® parenting course uses material developed by Jim Fay, Charlie Fay and Foster Cline, M.D., at the Love and Logic Institute in Golden. The course is designed to provide easy and practical parenting tools. This approach puts teachers and parents in control, teaches children to be responsible and prepares them for the real world. The dates for the nine-session course are Sept. 10, 17, 24; Oct 1, 8, 15, 23, 30; and Nov. 6. Cost is $70 per family for the course; $80 if paying at the door or after the class starts. The class will be held in Room 213 in the Worner Campus Center. Space is limited, so register early. Sponsored by the Colorado College Children's Center.

Location: Worner Campus Center, 902 N. Cascade Ave. (NW corner of Cascade Ave. and Cache La Poudre St.).

For more information on a specific event, call [Colorado College’s] Events and Entertainment Line, (719) 389-6606, or (719) 389-6607 for directions or disability accommodation."

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Hiking Group

Bear Creek Trail to Jones Park

**

~ RESCHEDULING IN PROGRESS ~

**

Details

Please call 594-4506 for more information.

Bear creek trail up to Jones Park is a far more strenuous hike. Unless hiking Waldo Canyon is an easy hike for you, this is not a hike you should consider.

Please contact Rich at 594-4506 if you are interested in participating in this hike.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Hiking Group

Palmer Trail

August 25, 2007

Details

Palmer loop trail, also known as Section 16, is a relatively easy hike. At least on the way to the top. However, it is very steep on the way down. So, if you have bad knees, it is not recommended for you.

Please contact Rich at 594-4506 if you are interested in participating in this hike.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Hiking Group

Waldo Canyon

August 12, 2007

Details

Colorado is a great place to live if you like to hike! If you would enjoy hiking with fellow Freethinkers, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs have a Hiking Group which does a variety of different hikes.

On August 12, Rich hopes to join other members of the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs on a hike up Waldo Canyon.

Please contact Rich at 594-4506 if you are interested in participating in this hike.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Parent's Committee

August 5 , 2007, 1:00-3:00 PM

Pinnacle Apartments Community Room

Details

There has been a consistent interest among both new and long-term members of the Freethinkers to have an additional group that focuses on the kids. The main purpose of the Parents’ Committee will be to provide developmentally appropriate humanist/freethought educational activities for our children, give them an opportunity to make friends, and for parents to get to know other freethought families.

The first meeting will be Sunday, August 5th at the Pinnacle Apartments Community Room (Austin Bluffs and Rangewood) from 1:00pm-3:00pm. Parents and others who are interested will work together to decide on goals for the group. Recent ideas include coordinating activities for the kids at the socials, developing monthly Sunday meetings with ethics and science-based activities for the kids, and volunteer community efforts.

If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact Stefanie at: (719) 210-9332 or stefaniesanden@msn.com.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Hiking Group

Seven Bridges Trail

July 21st, 2007

9:00 AM

at the Park & Ride between Tejon and Nevada

Details

Colorado is a great place to live if you like to hike! If you would enjoy hiking with fellow Freethinkers, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs have a Hiking Group which does a variety of different hikes.

On July 21st, Rich hopes to join other members of the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs on a hike up Seven Bridges Trail.

Meet at 9:00 AM at the Park and Ride under Interstate 25 between Tejon and Nevada.

Please contact Rich at 594-4506 if you are interested in participating in this hike.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board Meeting

July 18, 2007, 3:00-5:30 PM

East Library Conference Room

Details

In early 2006, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs gained tax exempt status under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service code, which requires that board meetings occur in public places and be open to the public. FTCS Board meetings have always been at least nominally open to the public (formerly meeting in the EvolveFish Office), and FTCS members and nonmembers are welcome to attend and speak at the meetings.

The agenda for the next meeting includes reports from the FTCS Secretary, FTCS Treasurer, Newsletter Editor, the Freethought Views Editor, website editor and the SPIRE project coordinator.

In addition, the board will discuss (approved) a request from the Military Association of Atheists and Freethinkers to become "Charter Signatories" of the following statement: "Nontheistic service members, including atheists, agnostics, humanists, freethinkers, and those holding other nontheistic designations, serve honorably within our nation's military. I pledge to support nontheistic service members as strongly as I support theistic service members. I further pledge not to use my position to influence individuals or the chain of command to adopt the principles or practices of my own personal religion. I concur that these statements are minimum standards of conduct to which all service members, especially chaplains and commanders, should adhere."

The board also discussed the need for nonbeliever sponsors for United States Air Force Academy cadets and possible grant opportunities.

Other Business:

The board voted unanimously to become a "Charter Organization" of the American Humanist Association in a move which provides access to numerous AHA resources such as publications and requires that the American Humanist Association logo appear on Freethinkers of Colorado Springs publications.

Please attend!

We welcome your input!

For more information, please call 719-594-4506.

National Citizens' Week of Action to Restore Law and Justice

June 26-July 3, 2007

Sponsored by: the American Civil Liberties Union, Amnesty International, Bill of Right Defense Committee, Center for Constitutional Rights, Code Pink, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Human Rights Watch and others

Details

June 26 has historically been the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. This year, many organizations are honoring the day by joining together to rally in Washington, DC, calling for the restoration of habeas corpus, the end of U.S. involvement in torture and extraordinary rendition, shut down of Guantánamo Bay, and near complete dismantle of the Military Commissions Act.

A large coalition of human and civil rights groups urges concerned citizens to contact their representatives during the week of June 26 through July 3, 2007 to request that habeas corpus rights be restored in the United States.

Please visit http://www.bordc.org/involved/junejuly2007.php for more information.

THE FOREST FOR THE TREES

Judi Bari vs. the FBI

A Film by Bernadine Mellis

June 28, 2007, 7:00 PM

All Souls Unitarian Church

730 North Tejon

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Details

The Freethinkers of Colorado Springs joins the Bill of Rights Defense Committee, the Colorado Springs Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, the Pikes Peak Peace and Justice Commission, Citizens for Peace in Space and the All Souls Unitarian Church in cosponsoring the local screening of THE FOREST FOR THE TREES.

THE FOREST FOR THE TREES is an intimate, behind-the scenes look at an unlikely team of young activists and old lefties who come together to battle the U.S. government.

Filmmaker Bernadine Mellis is the daughter of civil rights lawyer Dennis Cunningham, who started out his career representing the Black Panthers and the Weathermen.

Judi Bari was an Earth First! leader who was one of the first to place as much importance on the legacy and future of the trees as she did on timber workers' lives and families. But that strategic relationship was too much of a threat. Her car was bombed in 1990, and three hours later, she was arrested as a terrorist--charges that were later dropped. Convinced it was a ploy by the FBI to discredit her and Earth First!, Judi decided to sue.

Cunningham took on Judi's case and after 12 years, Judi Bari v. the FBI finally gets a court date. Knowing this is one of her father's most important cases, Mellis is there at strategy meetings, at breakfast, driving to and from the court, documenting her morally driven, very tired dad. Not your typical “Take your daughter to work day,” THE FOREST FOR THE TREES offers access to a piece of U.S. history that everyday grows increasingly resonant.

June 28, 2007, 7:00 PM

All Souls Unitarian Church

730 North Tejon Street

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Although there is no charge to view the film, participants will have the opportunity to make a donation in support of the filmmaker, Bernadine Mellis.

For more information, please call Jeff Briggs at the Pikes Peak Peace and Justice Commission, 719-632-6189.

Liberty Run, Walk and Festival of Rights

Denver Chapter of the

American Civil Liberties Union

July 4, 2007

8:00 AM

Washington Park

Denver, Colorado

Details

Lace 'em Up For Liberty!

4-Mile Run & 1-Mile Walk Wednesday, July 4, 8:00 a.m. Washington Park, Denver

REGISTRATION INFORMATION (Children 12 and under are free!)

Pre-Registration through July 2 - $25; Race Day - $30

Register Online- click below Register in person from June 18 to July 2 at Runners Roost: 1685 S. Colorado Blvd; 6554 S. Parker Rd; 437 S. Wadsworth Blvd. #B, Lakewood, at Running Wild, 1970 E. County Line Rd., Littleton, and at the ACLU office, 400 Corona St, in Denver.

Register on event day at the southeast corner of Washington Park (S. Gilpin St. & E Louisiana Ave.) beginning at 7 a.m. Bib, timing chip, and T-shirt will be available there as well REGISTER ....COLLECT PLEDGES

Colorado Secular Picnic

Sponsored by Denver Atheists

June 23 , 2007, 1:00-7:00 PM

Bear Creek Lake Park

15600 W. Morrison Road

Morrison, Colorado

Details

Secular humanists,skeptics,atheists,agnostics,and freethinkers,please join us in Denver for a day of fun,feasting,and making connections with individuals and organizations from across the Front Range. This event I intended to bring together like minded secular groups and individuals for a day of fun, sharing, and communication.

Please bring your own food and drinks. Alcohol is permitted,but canned beer only (park rules). Any other gear you may want to use in the park,such as bikes,canoes,or tents if you plan to camp. Anything that you would like to have with the group. $4 per car to enter the park. Children welcome. Park opens to the event at 6:00 AM.

For more information, e-mail Geoff Price at gp@rationalrevolution.net.

For a pdf flyer, visit: http://www.rationalrevolution.net/picnic/picnic.pdf.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board Meeting

June 20 , 2007, 3:00-5:00 PM

Gill Foundation

315 E. Costilla

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Details

The board of directors of the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs meets monthly in a public location, usually in a conference room at the East Library.

Agenda items for the next meeting appear below.

The possibility of accepting paid advertisements on the website will be discussed - item tabled.

Costs associated with speaker travel and support as well as providing a small gift such as a book store gift certificate will be considered - complete financial remuneration for speaker expenses supported including a meal before or after the event.

Members are welcome to attend board meetings at any times and are encouraged to contact the board with problem, proposed activities etc.

For more information, please call 719-594-4506.

Military Commissions Act Teach In

Bill of Rights Defense Committee

American Civil Liberties Union

June 11, 2007

5:30-8:30 PM

Colorado College

Gaylord Hall

902 N. Cascade

CS, CO

Details

On June 26, thousands will rally to restore habeas corpus and dismantle the Military Commissions Act in Washington, D.C. You could be one of them, just by attending one of the upcoming teach-ins on the Military Commissions Act in Colorado!

The Bill of Rights Defense Committee is joining with the American Civil Liberties Union and several other civil liberties organizations to put on a series of teach-ins on the Military Commissions Act in Colorado. Don't miss the one that's in your area! And sign up at one of these teach-ins to win a free trip to the rally in DC! If you can't make it to one of these sessions, please let me know and I'll send you some materials you can read, and even pass around in your community

"It is critical that we raise public awareness about the farce that passes for justice at Guantánamo Bay and all around the world, where the United States practices torture and rendition! Please join us as we stand up to these powers holding the Bill of Rights in our hands, and with our abiding sense of liberty and justice for all!"

Colorado Springs, Colorado - June 11.

When: June 11 Time: 5:30-8:30 pm.

Where: Colorado College Gaylord Hall, 902 N. Cascade.

Denver, Colorado - June 12.

Teach-in on Military Commissions Act.

When: June 12 Time: 5:30-8:30 PM

Where: Tivoli Student Union Auraria Campus, 900 Auraria Parkway.

Fort Collins, Colorado - June 14.

When: June 14 Time: 5:30-8:30 PM

Where: Lincoln Center 417 W. Magnolia St.

Register for one of these teach-ins and get more information here:

www.aclu-co.org/support/June26DOA_reg_form.htm.

Military Commissions Act Teach-In Agenda: http://www.aclu-co.org/support/June26DOA_agenda.htm

Contact:

Hope Marston Bill of Rights Defense Committee

Western Region Organizer

PO Box 51434 Eugene, OR 97405 541 683-1604

hmarston@bordc.org http://bordc.org

Does God Exist?

A Scientific Examination of Religion

Center for Inquiry

June 1-3, 2007

Colorado Springs Marriott

Details

"Colorado Springs hosts the headquarters of more Religious Right organizations than any other city in America, large or small. Where better to convene a seminar on the biggest of all questions: Does God Exist?

Your guides to the debate will include R. Joseph Hoffmann, director of the Committee for the Scientific Examination of Religion and chair of The Jesus Project, a new inquiry into whether the historical Jesus existed; Eddie Tabash, the quick-witted attorney-activist who has debated God’s existence against the foremost debaters of the Christian world; Tom Flynn, editor of the new standard reference work on unbelief; and others." (1)

The fees associated with the seminar total $139.00 per person including a $69 basic seminar fee and a $50 fee for the keynote banquet.

Visit

http://www.centerforinquiry.net/events/cfi_focus_seminar/

or call 716-636-4869 for more information.

1. Center for Inquiry Focus Seminars 2007 Announcement, http://www.centerforinquiry.net/seminar_brochure.pdf, accessed April 15, 2007.

An Evening with Michelle Goldberg and Damon Linker

Boulder International Humanist Institute

May 22, 2007 6:00 PM

Glen Miller Ballroom

University Memorial Center

University of Colorado Boulder

Details

Tuesday evening, May 22nd, Registration at 6:00 PM, Discussion and Book-signing 7:00-9:00 PM The Glenn Miller Ballroom at the University Memorial Center (UMC). Located on the corner of Broadway and Euclid in Boulder on the CU campus. Parking next door in the Euclid lot.

$7.00 in advance online, $10 at door with cash/check only. Students and faculty FREE with valid ID. Visit http://www.bihi.info to buy online and for more information.

Two best selling authors/journalists will discuss their experience reporting on the political aspirations of fundamentalist Christians and their quest to erode the separation of church and state.

Boulder International Humanist Institute (BIHI) and the American Humanist Association (AHA) present an evening with Michelle Goldberg and Damon Linker. This includes a Discussion and Book-signing. Goldberg will discuss her best selling book, Kingdom Coming - The Rise of Christian Nationalism, and Linker will discuss his book, The Theocons - Secular America under Siege. Goldberg will be receiving a Humanist Pioneer Award from the AHA at the event.

Michelle Goldberg takes us on a journey of religious radicalism, from classroom to megachurch to federal court. She demonstrates how “dominionism” – a doctrine that Christians have the right to rule nonbelievers – is threatening the foundation of democracy. Her work has appeared in Rolling Stone, The New York Observer, The Guardian, Newsday and elsewhere. Damon Linker’s exposé reveals how for the past three decades a few determined men have worked to inject their radical religious ideas into the nation’s politics and how they succeeded. His work has appeared in The New Republic, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Commentary, National Review, The Weekly Standard, Policy Review, The Public Interest and other publications. He has taught political philosophy at Brigham Young University and served as a speechwriter for New York Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani.

Goldberg is senior political reporter for Salon and has been covering the intersection of politics and ideology for years. Linker has intimate experience working in the theocon world as an editor of its flagship journal, First Things.

Boulder International Humanist Institute seeks to build a more humane society through ethics based on human capabilities and values in a spirit of reason and free inquiry. BIHI challenges other world views that suggest that ideology and faith-based decisions should trump the effect that their consequences have on the human community. The organization’s Web site can be found at http://www.bihi.info. The American Humanist Association is the oldest and largest Humanist organization in the nation. The AHA is dedicated to ensuring a voice for nontheistic Americans and advancing a positive outlook, based on reason and experience, that embraces all of humanity.

For further information, visit http://www.americanhumanist.org.

Freethinkers of Colorado Springs

Board Meeting

May 16, 2007, 3:00-5:00 PM

East Library Conference Room 2

Details

In early 2006, the Freethinkers of Colorado Springs gained tax exempt status under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service code, which requires that board meetings occur in public places and be open to the public. FTCS Board meetings have always been at least nominally open to the public (formerly meeting in the EvolveFish Office), and FTCS members are welcome to speak at the meetings.

The agenda for the May 2007 meeting includes consideration of a proposed special event and a discussion of changing IRS 501(c)3 reporting requirements for 2008.

For more information, please call 719-594-4506.

National Day of Reason

National Blood Drive

May 3, 2007

Details

"Many who value the separation of religion and government have sought an appropriate response to the federally-supported National Day of Prayer, an annual abuse of the constitution. Nontheistic Americans (including freethinkers, humanists, atheists, agnostics, and deists), along with many traditionally religious allies, view such government-sanctioned sectarianism as unduly exclusionary.

A consortium of leaders from within the community of reason endorsed the idea of a National Day of Reason. This observance is held in parallel with the National Day of Prayer, on the first Thursday in May (3 May 2007). The goal of this effort is to celebrate reason - a concept all Americans can support - and to raise public awareness about the persistent threat to religious liberty posed by government intrusion into the private sphere of worship.

The Day of Reason also exists to inspire the secular community to be visible and active on this day to set the right example for how to effect positive change. Local organizations might use "Day of Reason" to label their events, or they might choose labels such as Day of Action, Day of Service, or Rational Day of Care. The important message is to provide an positive, useful, constitutional alternative to the exclusionary National Day of Prayer." (1)

Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs is the primary local site for those wishing to participate in the National Day of Reason Blood Drive.

We hope to see you there!

1. National Day of Reason Website, http://www.nationaldayofreason.org/, accessed April 15, 2007.

What is the Appropriate Balance between Religious Freedom and Official Neutrality in the Military?

A Debate between Jay A. Sekulow of the American Center for Law and Justice and Michael A. Weinstein of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation

Presented by the

U.S. Air Force Academy Faculty Forum

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Arnold Hall

United States Air Force Academy

Details

          4:00 PM: Seating for general public*
          5:00-6:30 PM: Presentations, rebuttals, audience questions
          6:30 PM: Reception, Arnold Hall Ballroom

* Transportation for the general public will be available from the Cadet Field House

AAI's 2004 CONVENTION WAS A GREAT SUCCESS!

Dr. Ed Buckner

Bobbie Kirkhard, President AAI

Margaret Downey (accepting for Ann Druyan)

Julia Sweeney and friends (want a smart, good, woman!)

Friday, September 13, 2002 - Dr. Michael Newdow
7:00 p.m. at Coronado High School Auditorium, Colorado Springs, Colorado
(1590 East Fillmore Street, just east of Mesa Rd.)

On June 26, 2002, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court said that the words “under God”, when recited in school as part of the pledge, suggest that the government is supporting a religious belief. The count determined that this violates the intent of the Constitution that prevents the government from making laws "respecting an establishment of religion" and is, therefore, unconstitutional.

The person who initiated that suit was Dr. Michael Newdow, a Sacramento, California emergency room physician who also holds a degree in law. Dr. Newdow's daughter attended Sacramento's Elk Grove Unified School District at the time that the suit was filed.

Have you wondered how a US court could rule "under god" in the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional? Come hear for yourself as the Universal Life Church minister who brought the case explains his principles and motives. Michael Newdow will be speaking and discussing his constitutionally based judgment concerning the addition to the traditional pledge.

There is no admission charge for this event, but donations will be accepted, and you're encouraged to bring your questions for Dr. Newdow!

Click here to go to Michael Newdow's web site for more information.

Jerome Davis, Moderator

Dr. Gerald Trigg, Theistic Advocate

Dr. Keith Parsons, Humanistic Advocate

Parsons, Mahone (Coordinator), Davis, Trigg - Thanks to all!

Thanks to Kemper Studios for the great pictures!