Jonathan Alter: Jimmy Carter and Human Rights
2023-11-06 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Free in-person and online! Our fall series celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights continues with an interview of journalist and author Jonathan Alter hosted by Leader Dr. Joe Chuman.
Click Here to RSVP to Join In-Person
Click Here to RSVP to Join Online Via Zoom
About His Very Best
From one of America’s most respected journalists and modern historians comes the highly acclaimed, “splendid” (The Washington Post) biography of Jimmy Carter, the thirty-ninth president of the United States and Nobel Prize-winning humanitarian.
Jonathan Alter tells the epic story of an enigmatic man of faith and his improbable journey from barefoot boy to global icon. Alter paints an intimate and surprising portrait of the only president since Thomas Jefferson who can fairly be called a Renaissance Man, a complex figure–ridiculed and later revered–with a piercing intelligence, prickly intensity, and biting wit beneath the patented smile. Here is a moral exemplar for our times, a flawed but underrated president of decency and vision who was committed to telling the truth to the American people.
Growing up in one of the meanest counties in the Jim Crow South, Carter is the only American president who essentially lived in three centuries: his early life on the farm in the 1920s without electricity or running water might as well have been in the nineteenth; his presidency put him at the center of major events in the twentieth; and his efforts on conflict resolution and global health set him on the cutting edge of the challenges of the twenty-first.
“One of the best in a celebrated genre of presidential biography,” (The Washington Post), His Very Best traces how Carter evolved from a timid, bookish child–raised mostly by a Black woman farmhand–into an ambitious naval nuclear engineer writing passionate, never-before-published love letters from sea to his wife and full partner, Rosalynn; a peanut farmer and civic leader whose guilt over staying silent during the civil rights movement and not confronting the white terrorism around him helped power his quest for racial justice at home and abroad; an obscure, born-again governor whose brilliant 1976 campaign demolished the racist wing of the Democratic Party and took him from zero percent to the presidency; a stubborn outsider who failed politically amid the bad economy of the 1970s and the seizure of American hostages in Iran but succeeded in engineering peace between Israel and Egypt, amassing a historic environmental record, moving the government from tokenism to diversity, setting a new global standard for human rights and normalizing relations with China among other unheralded and far-sighted achievements. After leaving office, Carter eradicated diseases, built houses for the poor, and taught Sunday school into his mid-nineties.
This “important, fair-minded, highly readable contribution” (The New York Times Book Review) will change our understanding of perhaps the most misunderstood president in American history.
Purchase the book here.
About Jonathan Alter
Jonathan Alter is an award-winning author, political analyst, documentary filmmaker, columnist, television producer and radio host.
Alter’s most recent book is “His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life.” (2020), which received uniformly favorable reviews. His earlier books include three New York Times bestsellers: “The Center Holds: Obama and His Enemies” (2013), “The Promise: President Obama, Year One” (2010) and “The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope” (2006), also one of the Times’ “Notable Books” of the year.
A former senior editor and columnist at Newsweek, Alter is a longtime political analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. He co-produced and co-directed the HBO documentary “Breslin and Hamill: Deadline Artists,” which won the 2020 Emmy for Outstanding Historical Documentary. In 2013-2014, he was an executive producer of “Alpha House,“ a comedy on Amazon.
Over the years, Alter has written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Washington Monthly, the New Yorker, Bloomberg, the Daily Beast and other publications. In 2021, he launched a weekly Substack newsletter called “OLD GOATS, Ruminating with Friends,” which includes frequent columns and his conversations with accomplished people of wisdom and experience. Since 2016, he has hosted “Alter Family Politics“ each week on Sirius XM, 102 with his three adult children.
About Leader Dr. Joe Chuman
Joe Chuman started on his road to Ethical Leadership as a leader-in-Training here at the New York Society in 1969 and continued his training at the Bergen Society, after which he became Leader of the Essex County Society before returning to the Bergen Society, where he served as leader for 46 years, retiring in January 2021. Joe has been a leader at the New York Society Since 2008. During his long career, Joe has worked as an academic, a social justice activist, a speaker, and a writer. He has been teaching human rights in the Graduate School at Columbia University for more than 20 years, teaches human rights at Hunter College, and has taught at the U. N. University for Peace in Costa Rica and at other colleges.
As an activist, Joe has advocated for civil liberties, human rights, and other progressive causes and has frequently testified before the New Jersey legislature on such issues as religious freedom, gun violence prevention, death penalty opposition, and immigrant rights. He founded the Northern New Jersey Coalition for Asylum Seekers 20 years ago and still serves as its president. Joe has written numerous book chapters, encyclopedia entrees, scores of Op-eds, and is the author of “Speaking of Ethics,” a compilation of essays on Ethical Culture. Currently, he writes articles on political and socio-political issues on Substack and other social media outlets.
About the Ethical NYC Universal Declaration of Human Rights 75th Anniversary Series
Called humanity’s Magna Carta by our friend Eleanor Roosevelt, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the foundational document of human rights that has inspired over a hundred treaties, conventions, bills, declarations, and constitutional provisions around the world.
Join us for this four-event event series celebrating the institution of fundamental rights that we all share as human beings.
Monday, October 2 at 7:00pm: Ruchira Gupta on Fighting Poverty, Patriarchy, and Human Trafficking
Monday, November 6 at 7:00pm: Jonathan Alter on Jimmy Carter and Human Rights
Sunday, December 10 at 11:00am: Amnesty International USA’s Elise Auerbach on ‘Woman, Life, Freedom: Women’s Rights and the Uprisings in Iran’
Sunday, December 10 at 1:00pm: Letter writing for Amnesty International’s Write for Rights Campaign

Cancelled - Young Ethical Explorers Election Day Camp: UN Declaration of Human Rights and Rights of The Child
2023-11-07 10:00 - 13:00 | NY
Notice: This session has been cancelled.
*****
While parents go vote, children will meet for a creative exploration of the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations’ Declaration of Human Rights and the Rights of the Child ~ followed by pizza & salad for lunch and peace-play.
Pre-registration by Oct. 15th is ESSENTIAL for participation.

Tom Santopietro: 'The Way We Were: The Making of a Romantic Classic'
2023-11-08 19:00 - 20:30 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Author Tom Santopietro joins us to discuss his latest book exploring the making of the classic film The Way We Were:
The most beloved romantic drama of the past fifty years. A haunting title tune that topped charts around the world. Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford at the peaks of their careers – and a film no one thought would succeed.
But succeed it did, breaking box office records around the world with a nostalgia drenched, decade spanning story featuring an awkward, passionate, political activist who falls in love with the campus golden boy. A story of opposites attracting, colliding, marrying, and divorcing, until they meet one last time and…
Now, just in time for the 50th anniversary of the film’s release, The Way We Were- The Making of a Romantic Classic, presents the definitive inside story behind the struggle to make the film, the Academy Awards it won- and didn’t- the fights, the passion- and the knock out power of a film that continues to resonate fifty years later.
Tom Santopietro, author of acclaimed works on Barbra Streisand, Doris Day, and The Sound of Music, gives a full account of this beloved classic, from screenwriter Arthur Laurents’s first treatment to director Sydney Pollock’s wrangling of two superstars with directing ambitions of their own; from a disastrous first preview to a triumphant opening filled with glitter, glamor, and critical controversy.
Laced with humor, passion, and fascinating, behind-the-scenes stories, The Making of a Romantic Classic entertains with a film historian’s keen, insightful analysis while always staying focused on the extraordinary friendship and chemistry between Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford that has fueled talk of a sequel for no less than fifty years.
Featuring new insights from Barbra Streisand, James Woods, Lois Chiles, and Alan Bergman, as well as interviews with fans and film historians alike, here is the ultimate inside story behind the Hollywood romance beloved by anyone who has ever loved with passion, regret- and never ending mem’ries.
Click here to RSVP to attend in-person
Click here to RSVP to join online via Zoom
About Tom Santopietro
Tom Santopietro is the author of eight previous books, including the best-selling The Sound of Music Story, The Importance of Being Barbra, Sinatra in Hollywood, The Godfather Effect, Why To Kill A Mockingbird Matters, and The New York Times Editor’s Choice Considering Doris Day. Over the past thirty years, he has managed three dozen Broadway shows.
About The Way We Were
The Way We Were: a nostalgia drenched, bittersweet romance starring superstars Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford at the peaks of their careers, and a story for everyone who was ever loved with passion, if not wisely. A smash hit around the world whose power echoes to this day—yet a film whose success was so far from assured that one studio executive was heard to exclaim: “Barbra Streisand doesn’t sing and she plays a communist—are you trying to kill me?!” But succeed the film did, propelled by a smash-hit title song and career defining performances from Streisand and Redford. Now, just in time for the 50th anniversary of the film’s release, best-selling author Tom Santopietro provides the definitive inside story behind the challenges, disputes, and creative passions of those who fought to make this landmark film. Charting the path from screenwriter Arthur Laurents’s initial inspiration to the fervent talk of a possible sequel, Santopietro mingles reverence and wry humor to decode the mysterious chemistry between Streisand and Redford that created a romance for the ages. Filled with humorous location anecdotes and fascinating first-hand accounts by actors, film historians, and members of the creative team, The Way We Were: The Making of a Romantic Classic is a witty, thoughtful, and loving book for everyone who cherishes this American classic.
Praise for the Way We Were:
“All of Tom Santopietro’s books are impeccably researched, well-written, highly entertaining, informative, and original in understanding. The Way We Were is no exception. He clearly defines the lasting appeal of this movie, and is particularly perceptive about the importance of Barbra Streisand’s presence in that success.”—Jeanine Basinger, film historian and author of The Movie Musical
“The expert and brilliant film historian Tom Santopietro takes us behind the scenes for the making of the film The Way We Were, a love story that defined a generation. You will be enthralled as Santopietro guides you through the development of the story, the unlikely pairing of the lead actors, and the miracle of the production itself. There will never be another artist of the magnitude, breadth, and magnificence of Barbra Streisand, yet in Santopietro’s hands, Streisand is a working artist who navigates Hollywood despite her gender and insurmountable obstacles. You will be delighted by the cast that sets out to make this movie, especially the easygoing leading man, Robert Redford, a star who possesses as much grace as talent. There are surprises, shocking secrets never before revealed, and at the heart of the production, a determined group of artists who wanted to make an unforgettable film for post-war audiences. Spectacular.”—Adriana Trigiani, film director and author of the best-selling The Good Left Undone

Share and Learn: Arts, Hobbies, and Handiwork with Painter Ken Gans (Online)
2023-11-09 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Join us to learn about a panoply of creative activities brought to you by members, friends, relatives, and neighbors. Guests will share the hour, presenting their pleasurable pastimes. There will be time for Q&A for each. Learn about and enjoy something new! 2nd and 4th Thursdays in July and August.
This week, Member Ken Gans will share and discuss more of his paintings, and his love of art.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 884 1105 5819 | Passcode [REDACTED]

Jazz Cafe with Sue Maskaleris and Trio do Rio
2023-11-10 19:00 - 21:30 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
These dynamic musicians specialize in Brazilian jazz and will also perform original compositions by Sue Maskaleris. Ms Maskaleris reunites with her early band members for this performance: Laura Dreyer on sax and flute, Paul Socolow on bass, and drummer Vanderlei Pereira, who hails from Rio!
Sue’s latest CD, “Love Is the Key” ranked #6 on the Latin Jazz charts of the Roots Radio Report for 2021 and her first 2 CDs, “Unbreakable Heart” and “Bring Nothing But Your Heart” feature jazz legends Eddie Gomez, Lenny White, Mark Murphy, Michal Urbaniak, Mark Egan and Toninho Horta. Sue placed second in the prestigious Thelonious Monk Composition Competition and won the Billboard Song Contest, world category. She was a winner in the JAZZIZ Magazine “Keyboard on Fire!” Talent Search judged by Dave Brubeck and Bob James and has played in NYC for decades and toured the world solo and with groups. Visit her website here.
Laura Dreyer hails from the Bay Area and is an accomplished composer and recording artist. She has played with Brazilian greats Dom Salvador, Antonio Adolfo and many more. Laura has played and arranged with the Diva big band for 30 years.
Native New Yorker Paul Socolow has toured and recorded with Astrud Gilberto, Paquita D’Rivera, Herbie Mann, Tito Puente, David Byrne, Darlene Love, Loudon Wainright III, and even Tiny Tim.
Vanderlei Pereira’s “Blindfold Test” group has played at Dizzy’s and recently at SESC in Sao Paolo, Brazil. His debut CD “Vision for Rhythm” included his own music. He has played with Airto Moreira and Flora Purim, Leny Andrade and many more. He appears on Sue’s first two CDs.
Doors at 6:30. $10 Members, $15 non-members, $20 at the door. Refreshments available (wine, beer, soda).
Click Here to Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite!
About the Ethical NYC Jazz Cafe
“Totally delighted the whole evening! Classic intimate place, delightful people, and energy the whole time!” –W. T., Brentwood, New York, NY
“The venue for the music was wonderful, it was a nightclub atmosphere. The music was excellent and then there was an open mic so I got to see a number of talented neighborhood folks get up and do their thing. Some people even felt moved to dance. I loved it!” -G. Walsh, Fair Lawn NJ

Young Ethical Explorers - Communi-Tree Workshop: Baring Our Branches!
2023-11-12 10:30 - 12:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Join us for our third Communi-Tree Workshop: Baring our Branches! Strengthening our Roots!! A workshop about nature’s communication systems on earth, and our relationship to the trees as nature’s teachers.
10:30-11am ALL AGES MORNING PEACE PLAY ON THE ROOFTOP!
11am: Communi-TREE workshop #3
12:30 Community Lunch and YEE FAMILY MEETING
1:30-2:30 All ages PEACE PLAY on the rooftop, with cooperative parent oversight
Monthly Theme: Natural and Nifty November
Newcomers are always welcome! To join, please RSVP to Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com. For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit www.ethical.nyc/youth.

Young Ethical Explorers is our Humanist Sunday school, designed for youngsters from ages 4 to 13, and takes place concurrent with our Sunday Platform meetings. Sessions raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips.
RSVP is essential to guarantee your place and for planning purposes. If you are enrolled for the season or are members of Ethical NYC your spot is guaranteed. To RSVP as a guest, become a member, or enroll in season, please contact Audrey at YoungEthicalExplorers@gmail.com. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome!

Young Ethical Explorers
2023-11-12 11:00 - 12:30, 2023-11-19 11:00 - 12:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Details TBA.
Newcomers are always welcome! To join, please RSVP to Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com. For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit www.ethical.nyc/youth.

Young Ethical Explorers is our Humanist Sunday school, designed for youngsters from ages 4 to 13, and takes place concurrent with our Sunday Platform meetings. Sessions raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips.
RSVP is essential to guarantee your place and for planning purposes. If you are enrolled for the season or are members of Ethical NYC your spot is guaranteed. To RSVP as a guest, become a member, or enroll in season, please contact Audrey at YoungEthicalExplorers@gmail.com. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome!

Joe Chuman: The Triumphs and Challenges to Human Rights
2023-11-12 11:00 - 12:30 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
In-person and online!
This December 10th marks the 75th anniversary since the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In conjunction with the occasion, the New York Society has put together a series of programs. My talk is a contribution to these events, acknowledging the importance of the Declaration.The concept of human rights is radical and relatively new. The term did not come into wide use until the administration of Franklin Roosevelt.Historically, the rights a personal possessed where tagged to qualifications related to sex, gender, ethnicity, religion and social standing. With the human rights idea, all those qualifiers were swept away. The human rights idea asserts that all people, without exception, possess certain fundamental rights issuing from their humanity alone.Since the end of the Cold War, and the fading of socialism as an ideology, human rights has done the heavy lifting world-wide of people who have struggled against their oppression and injustice.In the decades after World War II, human rights has widened the circles of equality to include, women, minorities, LGBT people, the disabled and other marginalized groups. At the same time, human rights faces many challenges, both conceptually and in terms of implementation. While codified into international law by a growing family of more than 100 treaties, human rights remain primarily aspirational. Their realization ultimately resides in the will of nations and their people to proclaim, uphold and enforce them.
Watch Online: Click to join at start | ID 863 0430 0961 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.
Monthly Collection: SSB Food Pantry
About Sunday Platform
Sunday Platform is our most important and long-standing community event. These gatherings educate, stimulate personal growth, inspire reflection and action, and strengthen our community. Sunday meetings begin with music, followed by greetings and a talk given by a Society Leader, member, or guest. Platforms cover a variety of topics that reflect current events, pressing social issues, and Humanist philosophy. Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.
To watch previous Sunday Platforms, visit our Videos page and YouTube channel.

Ethics in The News: Israel and Palestine (Hybrid)
2023-11-12 13:30 - 14:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
In-person and online!
Join in the lively give-and-take on compelling issues and current events and bring your own ideas. Member Joe Fashing moderates.
Suggested Readings
Israel is About to Make a Terrible Mistake by Thomas Friedman – The New York Times
A Humanitarian Pause in Gaza by The Editorial Board – The New York Times
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.
(Photo by Suzy Hazelwood)

Last Look: WBAI Fundraiser with Malachy McCourt, David Rothenberg, and John McDonagh
2023-11-12 15:00 - 16:30 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Author Malachy McCourt and Broadway Producer and founder of the Fortune Society David Rothenberg will have a fundraiser for WBAI in our Ceremonial Hall on November 12!
LAST LOOK, a farrago of sorts, will feature aged storytellers, radio hosts, and authors Malachy McCourt (the senior at 92) and the kid, David Rothenberg (90) for an afternoon of recollections, commentary and spontaneous outbursts. Playwright John McDonagh will MC the event and bagpiper Al Gonzalez will pipe them in.
To get your $25 tickets please email David at dprfortune@hotmail.com and leave your phone number and he will call you back and get your info.
Society Members: 20 tickets have been set aside for Members, with a deadline of October 25. Please let David know you’re a Member when you contact him.

Practical Ethics: 'Man Plans, God Laughs: Is There Rhyme or Reason to Reality?'
2023-11-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Free in-person and online!
In this program we’ll explore the ethics of living by reading a short story that highlights an ethical dilemma. The stories are generally available, and they can also be obtained from the Society approximately two weeks before the session upon request to mdetermann@nysec.org or rkoral@nysec.org.
The stories we’ll be discussing are:

“God Sees the Truth, But Waits” by Leo Tolstoy
“The Ant and the Grasshopper” by Somerset Maugham

Facilitated by Leader Richard Koral. 2nd Mondays at 2:00pm.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination is required to attend in-person. Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.

Say Yes to Science with Dr. Carol Portlock (Online)
2023-11-13 17:00 - 18:00 | NY
Thanks to vaccines and other medical innovation, COVID-19 is now endemic.
On 1st and 3rd Mondays at 11am, clinical psychologist Frank Corigliano will continue to address your concerns about managing day-to-day during this trying time.
On 2nd and 4th Mondays at 5pm, retired oncologist Carol Portlock will discuss new and intriguing science in multiple areas, including some relevant to COVID.
Recommended Readings
Potentially curative gene therapy for sickle cell anemia presented and near approval by FDA
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/31/health/sickle-cell-fda-cure-crispr.html
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/10/31/1208041252/a-landmark-gene-editing-treatment-for-sickle-cell-disease-moves-closer-to-realit
New infectious diseases emerging with climate change, for humans and animals
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2023/11/01/1209681147/leishmaniasis-sand-flies-tropical-disease-endemic-north-america-united-states
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-67197251
Global droughts affecting water levels and purity
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/01/business/economy/panama-canal-drought-shipping.html
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/27/louisiana-mississippi-river-tap-water-contamination-chemicals
A neutron star collision reveals the formation of rare metals
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/oct/25/creation-of-rare-heavy-elements-witnessed-in-neutron-star-collision
Self-awareness demonstrated in roosters
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/25/science/roosters-mirror-test.html
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

Board of Trustees Meeting
2023-11-13 17:30 - 20:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Any Society Member who wishes to attend in-person or online via Zoom can contact Executive Director Robert Liebeskind for access, at rliebskind@nysec.org.

Lunch with the League of Women Voters: E-Vehicles–Can NYC Make Them Safer?
2023-11-14 12:00 - 14:00 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Electric bikes and scooters are an increasingly popular and convenient way to move around New York City, but with their rapid rise in use there is growing concern about their safety for riders and pedestrians. What are the different classifications of e-vehicles? What laws regulate them? Are these laws being enforced? How can the city make them safer for both the drivers and the pedestrians?
Speakers

State Senator Liz Krueger, represents the 28th Senate District and is the chair of the Senate Finance Committee
Julianne Cuba, reporter for Streetsblog NYC, a daily news source that connects people to information about sustainable transportation in New York City’s five boroughs
Janet Schroeder, co-founder of the E-Vehicle Safety Alliance, an advocacy organization for pedestrian safety from e-vehicles

Lunch and beverages provided
Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door
Click Here to Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite!

Aspects of Aging: If Only I'd Known
2023-11-14 14:00 - 16:00 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Aspects of Aging continues at a new time, led by geriatric care expert and Society President Liz Singer, exploring how to plan for, enjoy, and flourish in one’s later years.
These sessions cover the many issues commonly faced by seniors and the elderly, including the personal, medical, legal, and more.
Upcoming Dates:

Tuesday, November 14
Tuesday, November 21
Tuesday, November 28

All sessions are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served!

All The Court's a Stage: The People Versus Lenny Bruce
2023-11-15 14:00 - 16:00 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Don’t miss this award-winning Broadway cast, followed by a Q&A with the actors, playwright Susan Charlotte, and legendary attorney Marty Garbus, who helped defend Lenny Bruce at his obscenity trial in 1964.
The People Versus Lenny Bruce is the third performance in “All the Court’s A Stage,” Food for Thought Productions’ series of one-act plays based on cases of legendary defense attorney Marty Garbus. Called “one of the world’s finest trial lawyers,” Garbus’ clients have included Philip Roth, Samuel Beckett, Igor Stravinsky, John Cheever, Daniel Ellsberg, Al Pacino, Susan Sontag, and Lenny Bruce.
In April 1964, Lenny Bruce appeared twice at the Cafe Au Go Go in Greenwich Village, with undercover NYPD detectives in the audience. As he left the stage he was arrested for obscenity, along with club owners Howard and Elly Solomon.
Bruce’s widely publicized trial lasted six months, during which was defended by Ephraim London and our special guest Marty Garbus.
Bruce and Howard Solomon were found guilty despite testimony and petitions of support from artists, writers and educators including Bob Dylan, Jules Feiffer, Allen Ginsberg, Norman Mailer, Woody Allen, William Styron, and James Baldwin, along with Manhattan journalist and television personality Dorothy Kilgallen and sociologist Herbert Gans. Bruce was sentenced to four months in a workhouse, dying while on bail awaiting appeal. Solomon later saw Bruce’s conviction overturned.
Written by Susan Charlotte • Directed by Anthony Marsellis • Peformed by Jack Wetherall, Bob Dishy, Penny Fuller, Larry Pine, Michael Citriniti, and Alex Purcell.
$25 – In-Person and Online
Click Here to Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite
About Playwright Susan Charlotte
Susan’s multi-faceted career started with Prism Blues. Based on her work as a prison counselor, the play earned her a place in Columbia’s MFA program and won the prestigious Joseph Kesselring Award. Her 60 full-length & one-act plays have been produced throughout the country. They include: The Shoemaker starring Danny Aiello, directed by Antony Marsellis; She’s Of A Certain Age; The Round Table (w/ Oscar & Tony winner Peter Stone), and When Truth Is Not Enough. Her play, Love Divided By, was produced by the Actors Studio and was made into a film with an original score by Philip Glass. The film reopened MoMA’s Titus II theatre. Her other films include: Something Like That, A Broken Sole, Come On (Hamptons Film Festival.) Her TV credits include; Did You Know My Husband? with Louise Lasser & Carole Shelley (PBS); The Comedy Zone with Patty Duke & Paul Reiser (CBS); Guiding Light and Loving (CBS).
Susan authored the acclaimed books Creativity and Creativity In Film and has written for NY Magazine and Playbill. She was also a professor at Columbia U., NYU, and City College. She is the founding artistic director of Food For Thought Productions and Cause Celebre.
About Food for Thought Productions
Food for Thought Productions was created by award-winning playwright Susan Charlotte to provide a home for the oft-neglected one-act play. FFTP has presented over a thousand shows with Oscar, Tony and Emmy award winning writers, actors and directors including Arthur Miller, August Wilson, Elaine May, Mary Alice, Elaine Stritch, Marian Seldes, Danny Aiello, Kathleen Turner, Tony Roberts, Carole Shelley, Peter Bogdonovich, Judd Hirsch, Marcia Gay Harden, Mary Bond Davis, Eric Stoltz, Kyra Sedgwick, Rosie Perez, Judith Light, Christine Baranski, Earl Hyman, Rita Moreno and so on. Food For Thought keeps going. As the world keeps changing and the unanswered questions continue to grow it is comforting to know that there is still something people can count on.

Speaking of Science with Dr. Arnold Markowitz: What's New in Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention (Online)
2023-11-15 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Join us for Speaking of Science, our monthly series exploring the intersection of science and ethics.
This month we’re joined by Memorial Sloan Kettering gastroenterologist Dr. Arnold Markowitz, who will discuss the latest developments in colon cancer screening and prevention. Q&A follows!
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 889 8668 1869 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.
About Arnold Markowitz, M.D.
Dr. Arnold Markowitz is a gastroenterologist with expertise in colon cancer screening and prevention. He has particular clinical and research interests in the care of people with hereditary colon cancer syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). He has been at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center since 1994, and serves as the Director of the Advanced Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Fellowship Training Program.

Pathways to Ethical Culture: Adler's Philosophy and the New Naturalism of John Dewey
2023-11-15 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Ethical Culture is a humanist community that esteems ethics as its core precept, human worth and dignity as its central value, and community, sustainability and freedom as its principal goals. Where did Ethical Culture come from? What does it say to us today regarding the human condition? What is its unique contribution for our lives and our future?
Join us for an in-depth exploration of the philosophy, history and social action of the Ethical Culture Movement. It is a must for all new members and long-established members alike, as well as anyone curious about Ethical Culture and seeking to learn more.
Pathways is facilitated by the Society’s Leaders, Dr. Joseph Chuman and Dr. Richard Koral, and meets for one hour on the 3rd Wednesday of each month, September through January:
September 20: Philosophical precursors to Ethical Culture; the world that Felix Adler’s ideas grew out of.
October 18: Adler’s Philosophical Dilemma and his response
November 15: Adler’s mature philosophy and the new Naturalism of John Dewey.
December 20: The history of the New York Society and its lore.
January 17: Living Ethical Culture: Ethical Culture in our lives and practices, plus notable members and friends over the years.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 846 0805 9789 | Passcode [REDACTED]

Great Literature Discussion: 'The Magic Mountain' by Thomas Mann (Online)
2023-11-15 19:00 - 21:00 | NY
Literary works will be discussed based on what can be found in the text in order to enrich each other’s interpretation of the novel/novella. All are welcome to join and any edition or translation of the book under discussion can be used. Read the work in advance and be prepared to discuss the aspects of interest to you by referring to specific related text and reading it to the group. Moderated by Ethical NYC member Gunther Tielemans. 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.
Details TBA.
For access information, please contact Gunther.

Free Educational Performance and Demonstration: 'Communi-tree: Dances About Nature'
2023-11-16 09:45 - 10:45 | Adler Hall, 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
The New York Society for Ethical Culture and Jody Sperling/Time Lapse Dance present:
Communi-tree is an educational dance program offering a creative experience of nature for children grades 4-12. The Time Lapse Dance ensemble, directed by choreographer Jody Sperling, is renowned for creating visually-stunning and accessible works exploring ecological themes. The program features highlights from Arbor, a dance cultivating kinship between trees and people, and Plastic Harvest, a romp about plastic pollution that provokes conversations about what—and who—society throws away. Sperling offers enlightening commentary between pieces and, with composer Matthew Burtner, a participatory movement/music-making experience. The hour-long program concludes with a Q&A for the children.
PLEASE SUBMIT THIS RSVP FORM TO MAKE A RESERVATION FOR YOUR STUDENT GROUP
If you are an educator and would like to bring a Communi-tree workshop to your classroom, before or after the event to deepen the student experience, please contact us for more information.
This program is presented as part of Jody Sperling/Time Lapse Dance’s Eco-Artist Residency at the New York Society for Ethical Culture.

Let's Talk About It: Population Decline
2023-11-16 12:30 - 13:45 | Elliott Library (507), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Free and open to the public!
Do you miss our Leader Lunch/Roundtable talks? Good news: we’ve got a replacement! Congenial sessions will again focus on thought-provoking subjects, and as always, there will be links so you can access the readings the preceding week. (And, yes, you can bring your lunch.) There’s so much to talk about…and we will!
This Week’s Questions
What are your thoughts about the expected decline in population? Can and should that trend be reversed and how? Who and how should we control that trajectory?
This Week’s Readings
‘Why U.S. Population Growth Is Collapsing: A Country Grows or Shrinks in Three Ways’ by Derek Thompson – The Atlantic
‘U.S. Population Growth Has Nearly Flatlined. Is That So Bad?’ by Spencer Bokat-Lindell – The New York Times
For help accessing these readings, contact Maggie Determann at mdetermann@nysec.org.
1st and 3rd Thursdays – In-Person Only

'Arbor' World Premiere with Artist in Residence Jody Sperling, Time Lapse Dance, and Matthew Burtner
2023-11-17 19:00 - 20:30 | Adler Hall, 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
The New York Society for Ethical Culture presents an evening of stunning, nature-inspired works by Eco-Artist-in-Residence Jody Sperling and her Time Lapse Dance ensemble. The program features the world premiere of Arbor, a work dwelling on the nature of trees. The work is the latest outgrowth of the long climate-engaged collaboration between Sperling as choreographer and environmental composer Matthew Burtner.
The music will be performed live for this one-night-only event by the composer himself and a string quartet of musicians from The Met Orchestra.
The evening also features performances of other notable Sperling-Burtner collaborations. Wind Rose, which renders changing atmospheric patterns palpable to sight, sound, and touch, has been described as “a stunning, spinning white cloud that both moves and is moved by wind” (Karen Hildebrand, Fjord Review). Plastic Harvest creates a surreal spectacle of plastic proliferation. Collectively, the evening’s performances stir the senses and provoke contemplation about our relationship to the natural world.
The performance will be followed by an artist talkback.
FREE – Click to RSVP
TLD Dancers: Frances Barker, Anika Hunter, Maki Kitahara, Nicole Lemelin, Jody Sperling, Sarah Tracy & Rathi Varma
Arbor is made possible in part by an ongoing eco-artist-residency at The New York Society for Ethical Culture and with the generous support of the Peck Stacpoole Foundation.

Young Ethical Explorers: Learning from Indigenous Youth in the Fight for Environmental Justice
2023-11-19 10:30 - 12:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Join us to explore what we can all learn from Indigenous youth who are leading climate justice awareness.
Monthly Theme: Natural and Nifty November
10am-12:30 ~ COMING OF AGE: to be confirmed
10:30-11am ALL AGES MORNING PEACE PLAY ON THE ROOFTOP!
11am – Learning from Indigenous youth.
12:30 Community Lunch and YEE FAMILY MEETING
1:30-2:30 All ages PEACE PLAY on the rooftop, with cooperative parent oversight
Newcomers are always welcome! To join, please RSVP to Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com. For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit ethical.nyc/youth.

Young Ethical Explorers is our Humanist Sunday school, designed for youngsters from ages 4 to 13, and takes place concurrent with our Sunday Platform meetings. Sessions raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips.
RSVP is essential to guarantee your place and for planning purposes. If you are enrolled for the season or are members of Ethical NYC your spot is guaranteed. To RSVP as a guest, become a member, or enroll in season, please contact Audrey at YoungEthicalExplorers@gmail.com. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome!

Fair Share Giving Luncheon and Community Day (Members Only)
2023-11-19 11:00 - 12:30 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Notice: This week’s Platform is in-person only.
Join us for our annual Fair Share Giving Luncheon and Community Day. Leaders will give a platform talk about the Society and will celebrate the activism and participation of its members and friends. Lunch will be accompanied by music and reflections by your fellow Society members on their connection to the Society, followed by discussions about our various committees that Members can join. We will remember and celebrate our members for their long-standing commitments and look toward the coming year.
Presider: Leader Dr. Nori Rost
Monthly Collection: SSB Food Pantry
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination is required. Masks are optional but encouraged.
About Sunday Platform
Sunday Platform is our most important and long-standing community event. These gatherings educate, stimulate personal growth, inspire reflection and action, and strengthen our community. Sunday meetings begin with music, followed by greetings and a talk given by a Society Leader, member, or guest. Platforms cover a variety of topics that reflect current events, pressing social issues, and Humanist philosophy. Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.
To watch previous Sunday Platforms, visit our Videos page and YouTube channel.

Say Yes to Science with Dr. Frank Corigliano
2023-11-20 11:00 - 12:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Thanks to vaccines and other medical innovation, COVID-19 is now endemic.
On 1st and 3rd Mondays at 11am, clinical psychologist Frank Corigliano will continue to address your concerns about managing day-to-day during this trying time.
On 2nd and 4th Mondays at 5pm, retired oncologist Carol Portlock will discuss new and intriguing science in multiple areas, including some relevant to COVID.
Suggested readings TBA.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

Aspects of Aging: I'm 90, Now What?
2023-11-21 14:00 - 16:00 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States

Camaraderie and Good Conversation with Leader Joe Chuman: The Decolonization Narrative Is Dangerous and False (Online)
2023-11-21 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Leader Dr. Joe Chuman leads this monthly discussion group focusing on contemporary issues and occasionally classical writings relating to Ethical Culture and Humanism. We will primarily make use of articles from journals of opinion and book chapters when relevant. Rather than taking a merely journalistic approach, the discussions will aim to illuminate the philosophical concepts and values which underlie the issues being discussed. 3rd Tuesdays.
Suggested readings:
‘The Decolonization Narrative Is Dangerous and False’ by Simon Sebeg Montefiore – The Atlantic
Click here to join at start time | Zoom ID 853 3773 6864 | Passcode [REDACTED]

Thanksgiving - Building Closed
2023-11-23 | NY

Cancelled - Fourth Fridays Humanist Happy Hour
2023-11-24 19:30 - 21:00 | Elliott Library (507), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Notice: This month’s happy hour has been cancelled. We’ll see you in December!
Our Humanist Happy Hour is back! Every fourth Friday of the month (third Friday this month!) we’re hosting an evening gathering with drinks, snacks, and great conversation.
Looking for Humanist community? Passionate about social justice? Curious about Humanism and the Society? Stop by and say hello–we hope to see you there!
FREE and Open to the Public. Donations warmly encouraged.
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination is required to attend.
