Join us for another unique Nerd Nite Orlando as we host the first ever nerdy speed dating event in Orlando followed by two talks on the realities of online relationships and the science of sexual subcultures. Saint Valentine would be proud…ok, maybe not.
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. Speakers present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT INFO:
Thursday, February 13th
Nerdy Speed Dating 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Talks 8:00pm – 9:30pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
NERDY SPEED DATING ($10): SOLD OUT!
Nerd Nite Orlando: Presents Nerdy Speed Dating!
Join us as we host the first ever speed dating event in Orlando targeted exclusively to nerdy singles looking for love! Come and meet new people, have spirited conversations, and maybe start something special 🙂
Details:
Who: Single fans of Nerd Nite. Interesting, curious, thoughtful and intelligent people!
When: Doors at 6:00, Half an hour for pre-mingling/liquid courage, and then the event begins at 6:30. Please be prompt!
What: Well, it’s speed dating. Couples will be paired off for short and sweet conversations. The whole dating event is expected to take an hour to an hour and 15 minutes. You’ll keep a list of who you’re into, and turn those lists into your hosts at the end of the evening. If someone you’re interested in also expressed interest in you, we’ll give you each other’s email addresses. The rest is up to you. Go get em!
How: Once you sign-up you will receive an email to buy your ticket for $10. You must buy your ticket to be confirmed! Unlike our normally free Nerd Nites we are charging so that we can send a lucky couple or 2 on a follow-on date as well as raise some much needed funds for future events.
We have limited spots that will be filled on a first come first serve basis so don’t wait!
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PRESENTATIONS (Free!):
“Virtual Virgins: The Realities of Online Relationships” by Pamala Clift
Remember a time before cellphones and the internet were a part of our daily lives? Well, neither do we (that’s our story and we’re sticking to it)! Over the last few decades, human interaction has become increasingly dependent on technology. A shift that has created a new set of uncertainties in our love lives. What is reality in a digitized world? Can love exist online? What are the implications for real life relationships? In this talk, Pamala will answer these questions and more as well as provide methods for establishing and maintaining your own virtual relationships.
Pamala Clift is a well-known expert on human and computer interface psychology. She blogs about and researches social media and gaming to understand how people relate in the digital world. She is the founder of the international organization known as “The Roadside Philosophers” which has been meeting bi-weekly for several years in the virtual world of Second Life. She is the owner of Virtual Handhold, LLC as well as the author of “Virgin’s Handbook on Virtual Relationships.” More information about her company and book can be found online athttp://www.virtualhandhold.com
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“Whips n’ Chains n’ Dirty Names: Algolagnia and the Science of Sexual Subcultures” by Karis Tindell
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but chains and whips excite me!”…Algolagnics (al-guh-lag-nicks), members of the BDsM and Leather Lifestyles subculture, would unabashedly agree! But what is it about this erotic minority that makes other people turn 50 Shades of Flushed? Could atypical sexual exploration be the final psychological frontier? Here a female lifestyle submissive will dispel misconceptions about fetish-based relationships, explain the psychology of “deviant” arousal, give a hot bondage lesson, and use science to redefine what it means to be kinky.
Karis Tindell serves as a liaison for The Woodshed Orlando, Central Florida’s kinky community center, and founder of the Orlando Power Exchange Network or “O.P.E.N.” O.P.E.N. is a youth-oriented group (ages 18-35) that serves as an outlet for the fun, safe, sane, and consensual exploration of alternative, sex/kink-positive lifestyles within the local community. When she is not working she can be found refining her cooking skills, expanding her knowledge base, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.
Why is it impossible to stick to those New Year’s resolutions? How does the art of folding paper apply to satellites? What is M.I.S.T and what does it have to do with ET? Learn the answers to these questions and more at our next Nerd Nite Orlando!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, January 9th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
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“Resolving Resolutions: Habits Are Hard As Hell To Make and Break” by Valerie Cepero
As they say in Texas:”If all you ever do is all you’ve ever done, then all you’ll ever get is all you ever got.” The idea of starting fresh in the New Year inspires many of us to make resolutions about bettering ourselves. If there is something that you don’t like about yourself or is interfering with the pursuit of your goals, well, just change it. Seems simple, doesn’t it? But, as anyone who has ever tried to stick to their resolutions knows, it is far from simple or easy. Change can be slow, frustrating, and painful; it can also be engrossing and inspiring. Whether being a better boss, improving your overall health, or dealing with stress more effectively, change is the most difficult-yet rewarding-thing any of us can ever do…So why is change so difficult? And how can change be fostered?
Valerie Cepero is currently pursuing her second B.A. from UCF, this time in Biochemistry, after changing her mind about law school. As a lifetime lover of learning, she’s also one of the organizers of Nerd Nite Orlando! She’s been naturally inquisitive for as long as she can remember and enjoys sharing her love of knowledge with others. In her spare time, she likes to volunteer for the Adult Literacy League of Central Florida, skydive, and have discussions about philosophy, psychology, and history.
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“Origami Spaceflight: The Art of Folding Satellite Sails” by Skyler Kleinschmidt
Paper cranes in space! Well not exactly, but the same principles that underlie origami design can be applied to the shape of drag sails for satellites! The Japanese artform used to fold a piece of paper into a marsh-dwelling bird can also help engineers solve crucial design dilemmas, such as how to fit a large sail into the tiny payload bay of a nanosatellite, or how to efficiently deploy and retract the sail over the course of a mission. After this intriguing talk, you’ll never look at origami or space travel the same way again
Skyler Kleinschmidt is a design engineer for NASA on the Space Launch System (SLS), which will be America’s new heavy lift rocket. He recently received a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. In addition to folding paper, he has a love of world travel and works on homemade drones as a hobby.
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“The ET Files: Move over M.I.B! ” by Derek “Agent D” Demeter
You may have heard of the Men In Black (M.I.B) before, but I bet you have never heard of the
super-top-secret Men In Silver Ties (M.I.S.T)! Join M.I.S.T.’s very own Agent D on a truly scientific exploration of extraterrestrial life in the universe. He will help us understand the implications of ET for the human race as well as how we can and do search for signs of other intelligent beings!
Derek Demeter has been Planetarium Director at Seminole State College of Florida since 2007, where he writes and produces new shows that explore the astronomy and history of numerous cultures from around the world. Derek also promotes science beyond the planetarium with his appearances at many other venues such as the Harmony Dark Sky Festival, Cafe Science of Orlando, local libraries, serving as Vice President of the Central Florida Astronomical Society, or simply setting up a telescope at local shopping centers to give the public a truly “out-of-this world” experience.
Nerd Nite Orlando XI Slides (Jan 2013)
Survey
Go on a wild ride of self exploration, take a clandestine vacation to the CIA, and redefine your relationship to technology at our December Nerd Nite Orlando event!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, December 12th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
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“Ayahuasca: Out of My Mind” by Eddie Selover
“Aya-hoo-a-what-now?” Also called “yage” (yaw-geh) by the indigenous peoples of the Amazon, Ayahuasca is an ancient and very potent brew of shrubs and vines which unleashes the mind-bending hallucinogen DMT (dimethyltryptamine if you’re so inclined), believed by many to induce a spiritual awakening. When Eddie Selover drank this concoction, he felt as though he’d gone out of his mind—in a good way! It was the final step in an existential journey into the deepest realms of consciousness. Along the way there, he met superheroes, Peruvian shamans, some guy named Ted, YouTube celebrities, and a man who looked vaguely familiar. Let Eddie take you on a wild ride of self exploration, complete with a beguiling spirit goddess, dune buggies, and barbed wire!
Eddie Selover is a marketing professional based in Orlando. Several times a year, he brings an eclectic mix of the city’s most interesting people together, as the organizer and host of PechaKucha Orlando. Eddie is also an award-winning public speaker who has spoken at such events as TEDxOrlando. A lifelong film buff and scholar, he also writes about film for publications such as Bright Lights Film Journal and Edward Copeland on Film as well as his own blog, eddieselover.com.
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“Cold War Coronas: A Clandestine Vacation” by Philip Chien
Are you a fan of Corona? No, not the beer! We mean Cold War era Corona spy satellites, of course! The ones that compelled the CIA to create some of the most secretive security orders in U.S. history (at least that we know of!). Join us for a trip with Philip Chien, who will guide us through a behind the scenes look at CIA Headquarters and the famous “Corona Project.”
Philip Chien is an engineer by training and space writer by profession. He has been writing about geek topics professionally since 1982, including the 1996 Popular Mechanics article “How We Spy on the World.” As a true geek, Philip is the proud owner of an original Apple II computer built in Steve Job’s garage (serial number 1041).
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“Google Glass: Redefining Our Relationship to Technology” by Jen Vargas
Ever seen a group of friends staring at their phones instead of interacting? Or tried to get someone’s attention while they’re checking their email? Google Glass is an attempt to merge the outside world with our addiction to technology. As a Heads-Up device, it keeps people connected to the information and recording functionality they crave, while still allowing for social interaction. What does it actually do, though? What about privacy concerns? And what the heck are #GlassExplorers and #Glass4good? Get the answers to these questions and more during this exciting talk! You’ve heard the hype, now come discover the facts! (Personal, one on one demonstrations to follow talk.)
Jen Vargas is a film and tv producer as well a social media expert. Currently, she co-produces “Indie Cinema Showcase,” a tv program about the filmmaking community in Florida, alongside Emmy Winner® Gerald Godbout. In her spare time, Jen lovingly produces and edits video for an award winning local events blog called “Central Florida Top 5.” She also spearheads “#Glass4good,” a movement designed to highlight the positive qualities of the Central Florida community through the use of Google Glass.
Let your nerd flag fly, get real about artificial life, and experience learning in a hyper-visual culture at our November Nerd Nite Orlando event!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, November 14th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
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“Vexillophilia: Let Your Nerd Flag Fly” by Amy Selikoff
Have you ever wondered why there’s a rooster on the Ugandan flag? Or what the symbols on various flags actually represent? Or who thinks about this stuff, anyway? Vexillophiles, a.k.a. lovers of all things flag-related, do! Now’s your chance to learn about the hidden language woven into the fabric of a nation’s primary symbol. Let Amy open your eyes to the stories told through a flag’s colors and shapes. You’ll never look at a flag the same way again!
Amy Selikoff is a lifelong geography nerd with a B.A. in History and Journalism from the U. F. After discovering a passion for teaching during a summer internship, she pursued a Masters in Secondary Education. These days she works as a 7th grade Social Sciences teacher and loves every minute of it. Amy and her husband, Nathan, love traveling the world, playing music, and pursuing social justice together. Never one to turn down a good adventure, Amy is a member of the Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls. Her derby name is Pirate-i-tude.
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“Beyond Biology: Real Talk About Artificial Life” by Lisa Soros
What exactly is the definition of “alive”? Could intelligent “life” exist inside your computer? You bet! Artificial Life researchers use virtual worlds to explore AI, evolution, and the origins of order. By studying artificial worlds, we can learn about life not only as it is, but also as it might have been millions of years ago.
Lisa Soros is 100% human (though she’d totally give a robot a sincere high five). She has a degree in computer science and a penchant for philosophy of mind. Her work has spanned a variety of AI fields, from natural language processing to developmental robotics. Nowadays Lisa’s with the Evolutionary Complexity research group at UCF, where she codes up tiny universes and marvels at their underlying mechanics.
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“Teaching Tesla: Learning In a Hyper-Visual Culture” by Rave Mehta
“Isn’t Tesla a car?” Nope! Nikola Tesla was a mystic inventor who lived during a time when inventors were seen as wizards and science was still magic. “Then why have I never heard of him?” Thomas Edison didn’t want you to, that’s why. Come experience the story of one man, who shaped the future, with his beautiful mind, passion, and vision for a better humanity, but was largely forgotten in the annals of history. Author, composer, and producer Ravé Mehta explains how his graphic novel depicting Nikola Tesla’s story will change the way we approach education today.
Ravé Mehta is the author of THE INVENTOR, a graphic novel based on the true story of Nikola Tesla as he battled his mentor-turned-rival Thomas Edison in the AC/DC Wars to invent the 20th century and create the Electrical Era. Ravé is also an engineer, artist, music composer/producer for the electronic-dance/pop group RENAISZANCE, and CEO of Helios Entertainment, an award-winning creative-technology firm that develops socially empowering content to artistically engage kids and adults into learning through graphic novels, music, games, film and digital media. Ravé and his work have been featured in WSJ, Bloomberg, Wired, Washington Post, Huffington Post, Venturebeat and numerous other media outlets
For Nerd Nite Orlando #8 we are going to ♫ zickezacke zickezacke hoi hoi hoi ♫ our way over to Orlando Brewing for Nerd Nite Orlando Oktoberfest! We will eat, drink, think, sing, and dance!
Come learn about different beer styles as well as Reinheitsgebot and other fascinating German customs.
$10 includes a beer tasting event and live accordion drinking music by John Kolbrich of the European folk music and polka band, Europa!
Prost!
EVENT:
Thursday, October 10th, 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Orlando Brewing, 1301 Atlanta Ave Orlando, FL 32806
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
BUY TICKETS HERE! Scroll to bottom of page and click “Add to Cart” under Oktoberfest Nerd Nite
PRESENTATIONS
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“Crazy Ludwig’s Beloved Homeland” by Professor Anna Lohaus
Are you interested in the origins of Oktoberfest, the exploits of a crazy Bavarian King, or the picturesque palace that inspired Disney’s Cinderella castle? This talk is brimming with fun facts about all things German, including a brief look at German stereotypes in the U.S. After this evening, you will chuckle at the irony that Oktoberfest is really a misnomer, since it begins in September and actually ends in early October! Lets make this a night of stereotypes, come dressed in Lederhosen or Dirndl and absorb the alcohol and inticing trivia about Germany’s most renowned traits!
Anna Lohaus completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida, in French Literature and Political Science. She finished her MA studies in 2009 at the University of Florida in German Literature. She taught for a year at the University of Pittsburgh and is now teaching at Rollins College. Her academic interests are centered around the 18th century. She is especially interested in the playwright and intellectual Friedrich Schiller, including the influence of his aesthetic theories, his social studies, his writings and most importantly his plays, that have long been canonized.
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“Zymurgy: The Nerdy Science of Brewing Beer” by Travis Smith
Do you like “Das Bier”? Would you like to know how this gift from the gods is created? This tippling talk will begin with the art of brewing and fermenting beer, from “sparging the wort” to flocculation and krausen. In addition, by learning how to differentiate various styles of brew, you’ll be on your way to becoming a virtual beer connoisseur. Come discover the difference between a Hefeweizen and a Marzen (Oktoberfest) and the importance of the Reinheitsgebot! Do not miss this amazing talk all about beer. Prost!
Travis Smith regularly teaches about brewing and fermenting beer. He is a founding member of the Orlando BrewCrafters, a group of home brewers and friends who meet to discuss home brewing, share tips and recipes (of all sorts) and – most importantly – to enjoy craft-brewed beers.
Nerd Nite Orlando #7 is our traveling nerd special! We will learn about nerdy events worth exploring, go on an exotic excursion with a ham radio operator, and travel the world by Couchsurfing!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, September 12th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
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“DXpeditions: The Road Less Traveled” by William Beyer
Are you burning with curiosity as to what the terms “ham radio” and “DXpeditions” even mean? Never fear, Wild Bill is here to fill you in! DXpeditions are journeys to sparsely populated, remote zones all across the world, which can include an island, a country, or even a particular spot on a geographical grid. They’re like old school quests to the frontiers of civilization! DX is an old Morse Code term for the word “distance,” and a “DXer” is the radio hobbyist who seeks distant radio signals. Find out why many DXers claim that the joy, good friends, travel experiences, and technical satisfaction they get can’t be matched by any other pursuit.
William Beyer is a ham radio operator as well as a seasoned and respected DXpeditioner. He has participated in 39+ DXpeditions to 68 countries and visited all seven continents, yes even Antarctica. As a part of these impressive amateur radio accomplishments, he has operated from what are now National Wildlife Refuges, public lands, and environmentally sensitive locations around the world. If you’d like to reach him, look for call sign “KH9/N2WB” on Phone, RTTY, Low BAND CW, PSK, and a little SSTV. Home QTH is in Ormond Beach, Florida.
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“Couchsurfing: Making Travel a Truly Social Experience”
Act I “Surfing” by James Parsons
Act II “Hosting” by Swami
Have you ever wanted an authentic and meaningful travel experience in lieu of hotels and “tourist traps?” Couchsurfing can revolutionize the way you travel. It’s a global community of 6 million people in more than 100,000 cities who share their life, their world, their journey. With Couchsurfing, you can stay with locals and hosts guests from every country on Earth! Stay in someone else’s home or open up your own home and experience the world in a way money can’t buy. Couchsurfers share their lives with the people they encounter, fostering cultural exchange and mutual respect. Come learn about this exciting way to travel!
James Parsons is an Orlando native who now holds dual citizenship in the both the U.S. and New Zealand. Shortly after graduating with his B.A. in IT from UCF, he set off to explore the world. Through Couchsurfing, he was able to take a 6 month trip around the world in 2009, which included SE Asia, SE Europe, and the US East Coast. He even got his most recent job from a chance encounter with a sailing yacht that he learned about through Couchsurfing. You can find him at https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jamesthecarman/
Swami is a lifelong nerd with a degree in Engineering. He is the host of a weekly gathering for math and philosophy nerds called “Wing Circle.” His passion for travel and culture emerged after a near-fatal auto accident in 2006. With a renewed zeal for life, he embarked on a 5 month trip around the world as well as many other subsequent trips. Couchsurfing through Japan in 2009 inspired Swami to host surfers in his hometown of Orlando, FL… seventy guests in just two years! You can find him at https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/swami_worldtraveler/
Nerd Nite Orlando #6 is our Back To School Special! We will learn how two monks changed the world, be enlightened about the ethics of brain experimentation, and answer the infamous Yahoo! Answers question, “How is Babby Formed?” !
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, August 8th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
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“Cryptic Cyrillic: How Two Monks Changed the World” by Edward Petersen
Have you ever wondered what all those familiar-yet-strange letters were in “The Hunt for Red October” or other films set in Russia? They’re Cyrillic, a unique alphabet developed centuries ago for Slavic people who had no written language. While this writing system has helped Eastern Europe grow by leaps and bounds, it has not been without controversy. In modern times, it has more often served to divide than to unite. Come learn the history of this fascinating system now used by a quarter-billion people throughout the world.
Ed Petersen currently works for the Planning Division in the City of Orlando. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Central Florida. He is an avid traveler, having visited 49 US states and 20 countries, including Russia in 1999. Ed has had a lifelong interest in patterns, language, and alphabets, and can speak a smattering of Spanish, French, Latin, and Russian (though he’ll likely need plenty of help).
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“Brain on a Chip: The Ethics of Brain Experimentation” by Max Jackson
Is it possible to study the brain without incurring the wrath of PETA or hoping for willing human subjects? It is now! Max Jackson is a researcher who grows brain networks in the lab, on demand. The ethical and economic advantages of these techniques are vast. Join us for a discussion about the ethics of brain experimentation as well as the exciting developments in this field.
Max Jackson is a masters student in BioTechnology at the University of Central Florida where he focuses his research on neural-machine interfacing. He is President of the UCF Synthetic Biology Club, and the Graduate President of the Central Florida Society for Neuroscience. Prior to graduate school, Max worked for a mobile-learning application development company. He enjoys reading the classics and philosophy literature in his free time.
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“Fornication Education: All These F**king Questions!” by Daniel Pellito
Young people are exploratory about sex due to their intrinsic curiosity. As a science teacher and sex educator at a lower income public school, Dan Pellito has been asked a myriad of questions by his students, from the naively adorable to the outright strange. Dan asserts that if students don’t learn the basics from trusted adults, they’ll find other means, such as MTV’s “Teen Mom.” Let’s demystify the notion of sex and encourage open conversations with the younger generation.
Daniel Pellito is a science teacher for a low-income school in Orange County, Florida. He studied music and biology at the University of Central Florida. He’s been in the classroom since 2006 and currently teaches biology as well as engineering to 6th – 8th graders. Daniel is an advocate of the “flipped classroom” model and is developing an agriculture/aquaculture program through a school/community garden.
For Nerd Nite #5, we will measure gross national happiness, explore the synchronicity of music and culture, and take the inevitable leap to love and sex with robots!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, July 11th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
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“Smile Currency: Measuring Gross National Happiness” by Christopher Stampar
How should we measure human wellbeing and development? Is a Gross Domestic Product that assesses social welfare in terms of monetary standards really the best way? A small Himalayan Kingdom, known as Bhutan, has been attempting to revolutionize the way the world sees these issues. Let’s explore how we measure happiness and why it’s going to change the world!
Christopher Stampar studies International Relations, Economics, and Geo-Spatial Technology at the University of Miami. Currently, he is the International Director for IDEAS (Intellectual Decisions on Environmental Awareness Solutions) where he develops new chapters and initiatives around the world. He is also an Energy Specialist with Citizen Energy, conducting training, energy audits, efficiency analysis, and customer engagement. In 2012, Chris delivered speeches to both the United Nations High Level Meeting on Happiness and Wellbeing in New York and the Rio +20 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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“Resonating Rhythms: The Synchronicity of Music and Culture” by Stephen Clark
From Little Richard to Lady Gaga, from Beach Blanket Bingo to Justin Beiber, what does pop music say about the society who loves it? Do the tunes we treasure reflect the times we live in? A self-professed “Musicologist” explains the correlation between current events and the music that evolves from them.
Stephen Clark a.k.a. “Stephen the Poet” is an overall music geek whose credits include: singer, songwriter, bandleader, producer, artist manager, music video cameraman and director. At age 14 he co-wrote the title track to his first Billboard charting song, “What about Me”. He has also worked with various other artists such as Santana, U2, Ray Charles, Faith Hill, Hootie & the Blowfish, Steve Winwood, Justin Timberlake, Usher, and many more.
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“Robot Intimacy: The Inevitable Leap to Love and Sex with Robots” by Beth Phillips
Robots are undergoing a transformation in society, from fulfilling roles as dissociative tools to roles as our partners and collaborators. Drawing on what we know about the current direction of robotic design as well as human attachment, it’s easy to predict that one day we will have loving, intimate relationships with our mechanical friends. Join us for a discussion on the future of human-robot relations and why envisioning a world in which people fall in love with artificial beings is not as far-fetched as it may seem.
Beth Phillips is a doctoral candidate in Applied Experimental & Human Factors Psychology at UCF. She studies human interaction with robots to better understand how to foster teamwork between humans and robots of the future. She’s also passionate about saxophone, space, sustainability, people and creating. Check out “about.me/elizabeth.phillips” for more information about Beth and her work.
For Nerd Nite #4, we will look at the evolution of human nature from three perspectives, join the bacterial revolution, and learn how we can all protect the world from evil!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, June 13th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
“A Brainy Threesome: An Evolutionary Perspective on Human Behavior” by Jade Jalali
Are humans really more advanced than other mammals, birds, or even reptiles? Ever wonder why there is sometimes a disconnect between your thoughts and emotions? Or why we all seem to have a dark side? The three brains inside of you hold the answer! Through alcohol-induced anecdotes and exposing our own primal sexual nature we will uncover the origins of human behavior.
Jade Jalali is a pre-med psychology major and biology minor at the University of Central Florida. She intends to specialize in psychiatry with an emphasis on the rehabilitation of prisoners. Working with animals, in addition to her studies, has made her keenly aware of the evolutionary changes of their minds and ours. Jade is also an award winning artist whose works have been sold at auction and in galleries, as well as published in art magazines.
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“What’s In Your Poo Can Save You: The New Bacterial Revolution” by Jeff Trapani
Everything you’ve ever learned about bacteria is probably wrong! From hand-sanitizer-addicted super moms to government officials, most people think bacteria are a threat which should be eliminated with extreme prejudice. However, the latest scientific research reveals that many species of bacteria are actually our friends – not our foes. Killing them may be killing us! Uncover common misconceptions about bacteria as well as how they can improve your health and possibly save your life.
Jeff Trapani is an Orlando-based science educator and curriculum coordinator. As a self-proclaimed “bacteria farmer,” Jeff is well versed in how to use bacteria to produce fermented health foods such as kombucha, kimchi, and sauerkraut. Furthermore, he is currently writing his first book, “Be The Solution”, which aims to empower individuals and their communities with simple, natural, and sustainable solutions to common problems.
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“Real-life Superheroes: Protecting the World from Evil” by Master Legend
“It’s a bird! It’s a plane!” Actually, it’s Orlando’s very own real-life superhero, Master Legend! He has agreed to take a break from his illustrious duties to discuss how you too can be a crime-fighting sidekick! Help save this great city of ours by learning battle strategies for stopping evil and helping victims, such as the homeless!
Master Legend is a real-life superhero and social activist from Winter Park, Florida. He gained national attention in Rolling Stone Magazine and was featured on the HBO series “Superheroes.” Master Legend is a trained fighting machine that will do whatever it takes to protect the innocent. His arsenal includes a high-voltage tazer gun, a Justice Van, body armor, and gifts for the homeless, such as food, water, clothing, and toys.
For Nerd Nite #3 get ready to uncover the hidden secrets of nitrogen, venture into some absurd film genres, and witness the manipulation of physical objects and digital worlds without any direct contact!
Nerd Nite Orlando is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking talks across many disciplines – all while the audience drinks along in a casual bar atmosphere. 3 speakers will present for 20-25 minutes each on a fascinating subject of their choice, often in an uncanny and unconventional way.
It’s like the Discovery Channel – with beer! Come meet up, drink, and learn something new!
EVENT:
Thursday, May 9th, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Stardust Video and Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Rd. Winter Park, FL 32803.
Facebook Event <–be sure to RSVP!
FREE!
PRESENTATIONS:
“The Secret Life of Nitrogen: Hot Air, Massive Explosions and the Parable of How Too Much of a Good Thing Will Kill Us All” by Clayton Louis Ferrara
Nitrogen is an element. It exists all around us and inside of us as one of the most plentiful atoms in the Universe. But little do you know Nitrogen has a secret life. In the Biosphere, Nitrogen transitions in and out of the food web to become both the most plentiful gas on Earth and an unforgiving weapon of mass destruction. Explore the secret life of Nitrogen and learn how Lucky #7 on the Periodic Table has us all by the balls.
Clayton Louis Ferrara is a poet and Biologist. He is a distinguished alumnus of the prestigious Arts & Science College, Rollins where he received degrees in both Biology and Environmental Studies. He has lived in Winter Park since 2004 and currently travels the World educating, engaging and empowering humanity to reconnect with ecology. Clay is National Science Director of IDEAS for Us and founder of the Terra Firma Institute. He recently was bestowed the title of “Darwin Scholar” by the International Field School for his skill as a Naturalist.
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“Horror Porn Romcoms: The Absurdity of Film Genres ” by Ricardo Williams
Have you ever laughed uncontrollably at a movie that was intended to be serious? Is the Dark Knight the most romantic film of all time? There are many ways an artist can categorize and classify their work, but what does that have to do with you? Heck, an explicit sex scene could turn an Oscar contender into pornography! In this talk, Ricardo will discuss the advantages (and disadvantages) of categorizing films by genre and how irrelevant they may be to the audience.
Ricardo Williams is a film artist and musician. Since studying communications at Pace University in New York City, he has appeared in independent films and commercial spots for Subway restaurants and the Golf Channel, among others. He has also guest lectured on film theory and video production at New York’s School of Visual Arts.
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“Technological Telekinesis: Become One with the Force” by Nathan Selikoff
Witness how objects and digital worlds can be manipulated without any direct contact. You never see a Jedi with a keyboard or a touchscreen, do you? Why be tethered when you can freely express yourself? With a low-cost input device, a laptop, and a bit of programming know-how, you can capture a flick of the wrist or an all out dance routine. What you do from there is only limited by your imagination. Kinect yourself and Leap into the future!
Nathan Selikoff’s award-winning artwork has been exhibited in galleries and venues throughout the United States and around the world, including Art Basel in Switzerland; Bridges Conferences in Portugal, Hungary, Canada and the Netherlands; the Maitland Art Center in Florida; AXIOM Gallery in Boston; the Los Angeles Center for Digital Art; the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art in California; and SIGGRAPH Art Galleries in various US cities. Recently, he has participated in contemporary site-specific projects around Orlando, Florida, installing sculptures made from recycled cardboard inspired by some of his digital works. He has also been collaborating with composers and musicians, creating and performing live projected visuals for new music concerts. In 2011 he had his first solo and two-person exhibitions in Central and South Florida. In 2008 Nathan participated in a three week residency at the Atlantic Center for the Arts, studying under master artist John F. Simon, Jr.
MUSIC:
TBD
