Posted: 2002-08-09, 22:37

PRESS RELEASE      
Contact: 
Godless Geeks
P.O. Box 1516
Morgan Hill, CA 95038
(408) 278-7878

F O R    I M M E D I A T E    R E L E A S E
August 7, 2002    

Dr. Michael Newdow Joins Atheists, Believers in San Jose Round Table

Atheists of Silicon Valley hosts an evening of inter-community dialogue
featuring an introduction by Dr. Michael Newdow, the atheist whose suit
aroused national interest last June when the 9th Circuit Court ruled
"under God" unconstitutional. Following Newdow&'s insights, a panel
representing the diversity of opinion in our community will discuss their
reaction to the pledge decision, separation of state and church and the
proper role of religion in public life.The community panel includes a
blend of activists, theologians, and practical thinkers.

The panel's atheist representative will be Dave Kong, the California
State Director for American Atheists and a co-plaintiff in the Mt
Davidson cross lawsuit in San Francisco. The two Christian
representatives include Mark Porter, the founder of Valley Bible Church
in Pleasanton, CA, who started life as a chemical engineer, and Bruce
Hahne, a Palo Alto resident and producer of New Visions. Asha Praver, the
spiritual minister of the Ananda Sangha, a community based on the
teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda, and using both the Bible and the
Bhagavad Gita as guides, will represent Hindu viewpoints. Fred Capp from
the Baha'i, the second most widespread faith in the world, will bring yet
another viewpoint to the panel.

According to panel moderator, Chris Lindstrom, "The court decision was
probably the first time many people seriously thought about separation of
state and church. It gives us the opportunity to begin a needed
conversation." 

Where:        Le Petite Trianon Concert Hall
              72 North 5th Street San Jose, CA

When:         August 22, 2002, 7:30 PM

Sponsors:     Atheists of Silicon Valley & The Humanist Community

Admission is free. A $5.00 donation is suggested to help defray costs.