Monthly Archives: November 2009

The Second Annual Texas Freethought Convention

For the second year in a row, atheists in Texas are organizing a Texas Freethought Convention. This year, it’ll take place on November 14th in San Antonio. Speakers include Victor Stenger and Dan Barker. Also noteworthy: the South Texas Blood … Continue reading

Posted in General | 7 Comments

Jails for Jesus?

A privately-run prison that will only hire Christian staffers is getting a lot of support from Wakita, Oklahoma officials. It could be up and running in 16 months. “The staff, being all born-again believers, will see this as a mission,” … Continue reading

Posted in General | 29 Comments

No Crucifixes in Italian Public Schools Anymore

After decades in which Christian crosses were placed in public school classrooms in Italy, it looks like they’ll finally be taken down. The decision was handed down by a panel of seven judges at the court in Strasbourg. They said … Continue reading

Posted in General, Lawsuits, Politics | 13 Comments

Atheists Helping the Homeless

This Sunday, Joe Zamecki and other atheists in the Austin, TX area are conducting a wonderful service project: they’re giving away free toiletries to homeless people. We’ve received donations of money and items to give away from all over the … Continue reading

Posted in Atheist Generosity, General | 12 Comments

Atheist Billboard Goes Up in Lakeland, Florida

A billboard reading, “Don’t believe in God? You are not alone” has gone up in Lakeland, Florida (near Tampa), courtesy of the Atheists of Florida: A local news channel ran a piece on the story. About 1:10 into it, they … Continue reading

Posted in Atheist Advertising, General | 25 Comments

Asheville City Council Election Update

I know there are more important elections happening out there right now (you did vote No on 1 if you live in Maine, right?), but there’s an update on the City Council race in Asheville, NC. This was the race … Continue reading

Posted in General, Politics | 6 Comments

Free Expression Essay Contest for College Students: Winner Gets $2,000

The Campaign for Free Expression (a part of the Center For Inquiry, and along with the Council for Secular Humanism) is holding an essay contest to promote it’s beliefs on “the right of individuals to express their viewpoints, opinions, and … Continue reading

Posted in General, Secular Student Alliance | 2 Comments

What Is Evolution? Just Ask the Children…

In anticipation of the 150th anniversary of the publication of Charles Darwin‘s most famous book, Charlie’s Playhouse is putting together a really interesting project. We’re asking parents to pose a simple question to their kids: “What is evolution?” and let … Continue reading

Posted in General, Science | 10 Comments

Yes, Virginia… There Is No God

Since they won’t be putting up Nativity scenes or atheist plaques in the Washington state Capitol Building this year, the Freedom From Religion Foundation decided to buy adspace for a few hundred of these ads on Seattle buses. Provocative? Of … Continue reading

Posted in Atheist Advertising, FFRF, General, War on Christmas | 86 Comments

Ask Richard: Should an Atheist Try to Change His Church from the Inside, Or Get Out?

Bill wrote a long letter that I have edited for space reasons. My paraphrasing is indicated by parentheses. For privacy, I have given him a different name. Dear Richard, I’m in a bit of a bind, and I have come … Continue reading

Posted in Advice, Churches, Coming Out, General, Richard Wade | 26 Comments