James Randi Appears at the Magic Castle
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- Written by Michael Blanford
- Category: Swift
- Hits: 7709
A couple days ago Randi appeared at the world-famous Magic Castle for a private standing-room only members' event, an on-stage conversation with the great Max Maven. I'm told the event had the largest attendance of any of them so far. Lasting two hours, Randi talked about his start in magic, his long career as a touring magician and escape artist, his friendships with some of the most significant figures in the history of 20th century conjuring, and his towering role in the worldwide skeptics movement.
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The interview with Randi drew a
standing-room only crowd at the Magic Castle
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He reminisced about how his magic background fueled his early acts of public skepticism. He talked about his exposure of the TV evangelist Peter Popoff on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. He discussed the responsibilities he thinks magicians have in society. And he revealed how his response to paranormal claimants and researchers has changed over the years, detailing episodes in the history of what has become the JREF Million Dollar Challenge, which the Foundation offers to anyone who can demonstrate under mutually agreed upon scientific condition the existence of any paranormal or supernatural ability.
The famous Magic Castle in Hollywood is a Mecca to magicians the world over. Built in 1908, the mansion has has been a regular haunt of Hollywood celebrities with interest in legerdemain and an appreciation for its classy atmosphere.
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James Randi and Max Maven
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A private club and restaurant exclusively for members of the Academy of Magical Arts and their guests, the Magic Castle is also a premiere performance venue for some of the world's leading magical entertainers, with multiple performance spaces for close-up magicians, parlor performers and full stage shows.
We are happy to announce that the JREF plans to make segments of the event available on DVD and online in the weeks ahead.
Is There New Atheism at the JREF?
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- Written by D.J. Grothe
- Category: Swift
- Hits: 33458
The other day, I was sent a thoughtful email from a former supporter of the James Randi Educational Foundation who expressed concern that under my leadership the JREF has taken "on a very pointed role as an atheist organization." It seemed to him as if I appear to insist that "that skepticism *must* lead one to atheism." He stated he would no longer be financially supporting the Foundation, which is troubling, considering the JREF's increased need for support as we continue to expand our programs. I want to publicly address some of his concerns here, in case others share his views.
It is certainly true that I am an outspoken and enthusiastic atheist, and that I often criticize extreme religion in talks and articles for its harmful effects on believers and on society. But have I made the JREF into an atheist organization? (That some have argued I have also somehow turned it into a homosexual organization will remain unaddressed.)
Alan Leipzig Awarded Educator Grant from the James Randi Educational Foundation
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- Written by Michael Blanford
- Category: Latest JREF News
- Hits: 7805
The James Randi Educational Foundation is pleased to announce that it will be providing funding to Alan Leipzig of Seminole Middle School in Plantation, Florida. Leipzig's project, called Retaking the Stars, will be part of his Starfleet Academy, an astrophysics/engineering class for 8th graders.
Students will use the research materials purchased by this grant to systematically investigate the claims and history behind astrology and the science against it. At the same time Leipzig will use a variety of approaches to teach critical thinking concepts such as the Forer Effect, wishful thinking, confirmation bias, logical fallacies, and selective thinking.
The JREF is very excited to support this kind of work and will be awarding additional grants as funding allows. Click here for more information on applying for a grant or to help support this important program.
Skepticism Alive and Well at Dragon*Con
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- Written by Michael Blanford
- Category: Swift
- Hits: 9942
It’s Labor Day weekend and that means hordes of science fiction, fantasy, and comic fans have descended on Atlanta for Dragon*Con. Dragon*Con is the largest popular culture convention in the world with over 35,000 attendees and an incredible array of programming options. The weekend means being packed into elevators full of stormtroopers, vampires, and steampunk enthusiasts, countless themed parties, film festivals, a parade, costume contests, endless entertainment, and perhaps the most fertile ground for people-watching found anywhere in the world. As if that isn’t enough, there is also an entire weekend of lectures, panels, workshops, and live podcasts being presented by some the leading thinkers in the skeptical community. This programming is part of Skeptrack. Skeptrack is in its third year of existence as a fan-track devoted to exploring and advancing science and reason, especially related to paranormal and pseudoscientific claims.
Become a JREF Member!
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- Written by Bart Farkas
- Category: Swift
- Hits: 9473
Through media appearances, public lectures, grassroots organizing, resources for educators, academic scholarships, regional and national events and digital publishing, the JREF is constantly working toward these goals. Won’t you be a part of this worthwhile cause? Become a member today and receive this fantastic laser-engraved metal JREF 2GB Flash drive complete with three handpicked Randi Speaks videos and the online version of The Encyclopedia of Claims, Frauds, and Hoaxes of the Occult and Supernatural.
Membership has its privileges, and in the case of the JREF the privilege is knowing that you are supporting rational thought and skepticism throughout the world.
Click here to join now and get your 2 GB JREF Flash Drive!
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